It’s estimated that there are over 30,000 lochs in Scotland – from vast bodies of water to tiny lochans.
Their evocative names are known around the world, whether it’s the monster residing in Loch Ness or the famous oysters of Loch Fyne.
From attracting tourists in their droves, to providing a place to enjoy a range of recreational activities for generations of Scots, the country’s lochs are a key part of its magical geography.
Here are the 10 deepest lochs in Scotland – and how low they go.
From attracting tourists in their droves, to providing a place to enjoy a range of recreational activities for generations of Scots, the country’s lochs are a key part of its magical geography.
5. Loch Ericht
Squeezing into the top five with a maximum depth of 156 metres is Loch Ericht, located in the far south of the Highlands. The loch is dammed at both ends as part of a hydro-electric scheme. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Loch Katrine
A key source of water for the people of Glasgow, Loch Katrine is 151 metres deep at its lowest point. It's located in the Trossachs, east of Loch Lomond, and was the setting for Sir Walter Scott's poem 'The Lady of the Lake'. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Loch Tay
Spanning both the Perth and Kinross Council and the Stirling Council areas, Loch Tay reaches a depth of 150 metres. Archaeologists have found evidence of people living on the banks of the loch dating back to the 8th and 7th millennia BC. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Loch Rannoch
Located in Perth and Kinross, Loch Rannoch reaches a depth of 134 metres. The wild expanse of Rannoch Moor stretches out from the western banks of the loch. Photo: Canva/Getty Images