Not to forget the hundreds of fjord-like sea lochs. Which means we are spoiled for choice – or stumped – when it comes to picking a favourite.

While the five largest (Awe, Lomond, Morar, Ness and Shiel) have graced many a calendar page and souvenir shortbread tin, here we shine a spotlight on some other joyfully scenic, wildlife-rich and history-packed lochs well worth a visit.

Loch Coruisk and the Cuillins of Skye (Image: free)

Loch Coruisk, Skye

The rocky peaks and spires of the Black Cuillin mountains form a horseshoe around this stunning freshwater gem. Loch Coruisk, which means “cauldron of waters”, has an otherworldly feel to it – something Sir Walter Scott and Alfred, Lord Tennyson have both mentioned in their writing.

With no road access, you have two options: travel by foot or by boat. Hike from Sligachan (eight miles/13km) or from Kilmarie (six miles/10km). The latter, although shorter, is via the infamous ledge of rock dubbed the “bad step”. Both routes have hilly and boggy terrain to navigate.

The slightly less arduous alternative is to travel by boat from Elgol with plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities en route, including a colony of harbour seals. As for Loch Coruisk itself? It is reputed to be home to a kelpie, a mythical shape-shifting creature able to assume horse and human form.

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Linlithgow Loch, West Lothian

The largest natural freshwater loch…