Best lakes around Mallaig are found in a picturesque port town on Scotland's west coast, surrounded by diverse lochs. This region is characterized by dramatic landscapes, shaped by glacial action, and holds significant natural and historical importance. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails Mallaig to wildlife watching. Visitors can explore both deep freshwater lochs and expansive sea lochs, each with unique features.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Amazing view - and despite the warning, it's safe to go there.
0
0
Lovely little viewpoint with benches. Only accessible when you are visiting the castle these days...
0
0
Definitely need waterproof shoes to get there, lots of boggy parts and jumping over streams - but so worth it!
0
0
Secluded gravel road following the Strath of Arisaig village walk. A part of four local walks starting at the Visitor Centre. Shaded by Oak trees, as you follow the track you will also pass Loch nan Eala.
0
0
Colourful views across Loch nan Ceall towards the sea. This is the hub of Arisaig where you can top up on groceries and visit the cafe.
1
0
For stunning scenery, consider Loch Nevis, known as the 'Loch of Heaven' for its dramatic landscapes and unspoiled beauty. Loch Morar offers magnificent views, especially on clear days when you can see Ben Nevis and the Hebrides. For a uniquely shaped inland loch with pine-studded islands, visit Loch an Nostarie.
Yes, Loch nan Uamh is historically significant as the traditional landing and departure point for Bonnie Prince Charlie during the Jacobite Rising. You can also see the impressive Loch nan Uamh Viaduct overlooking the loch, and explore caves along its shores, including 'Prince Charlie's Cave'.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat trips on Loch Nevis. Anglers are drawn to Loch Morar for salmon and trout fishing. For walking, explore the hiking trails around Mallaig, including a circular walk around Loch an Nostarie.
For colorful views across Loch nan Ceall towards the sea, visit the viewpoint near Arisaig Seafront. There's also a lovely little viewpoint with benches for Loch Moidart. The trails around Loch an Nostarie also offer spectacular views of its islands and surrounding hills.
Yes, the Strath of Arisaig Pathway is a family-friendly forest trail that follows a secluded gravel road, shaded by oak trees, and passes Loch nan Eala. Many of the hiking routes around Mallaig also offer easier options suitable for families.
The lochs and their surroundings are rich in wildlife. Around Loch Morar, you might spot otters, sea eagles, and red deer. Loch Nevis is teeming with seals, dolphins, porpoises, seabirds, and red deer in the surrounding hills. Loch an Nostarie is an excellent spot for birdwatching, including divers, ducks, and raptors like buzzards and golden eagles.
Loch Morar is the deepest freshwater loch in the British Isles, plunging to 310 meters (1,017 ft). Its immense depth and glacial origin make it a geological marvel. It's also rumored to be home to its own mythical creature, 'Morag,' and offers a unique sense of tranquility as one of Scotland's least visited lochs.
Yes, Loch Nevis serves as a crucial access point to the remote Knoydart Peninsula, often called 'Britain's Last Wilderness.' It's primarily accessible by boat or on foot, with ferry services from Mallaig linking to Inverie and Tarbet on Knoydart.
While many walks are accessible, some areas around the lochs, such as the path to Lochan a’ Mhaim, can be boggy and require waterproof shoes. The remote nature of areas like Knoydart, accessed via Loch Nevis, also offers more challenging hiking opportunities. You can find various difficulty levels among the hiking routes around Mallaig.
Visitors appreciate the dramatic landscapes, the sense of tranquility, and the diverse outdoor activities available. The unique natural features, from the depth of Loch Morar to the historical significance of Loch nan Uamh, are highly valued. The komoot community has shared over 8 photos and given more than 30 upvotes for the lakes around Mallaig.
Yes, there are several options for running and cycling. You can find various running trails around Mallaig, including routes that pass by lochs. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes around Mallaig that offer scenic views of the lochs and surrounding areas.


Still not found your perfect lake around Mallaig? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.