The Lochs of Arran
When you think of a Scottish loch, the chances are that your first thoughts are Loch Ness and its mythical creature lurking in the depths, or the expansive shores of Loch Lomond. But the Isle of Arran isn’t to be left behind — among its many attractions are its stunning lochs, each with their own unique character and allure. If you are looking to explore the waters of our island, here is a guide to our favourite Arran lochs.
Where your journey begins
Lochranza sits at the northern tip of the island, overlooked by the iconic ruins of Lochranza Castle and is home to our distillery. The shores of Lochranza are a haven for wildlife, with otters and seals often spotted in the waters and golden eagles soaring in the sky - if you’re lucky, you might even spot the two that frequent our distillery. Lochranza is also a popular spot for fishing and sailing, offering tranquil waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Loch Tanna
Located in the southeast of Arran, Loch Tanna is both the largest and most remote loch on the island. Start at the car park on the bridge's south side at the southern tip of Catacol Bay. Cross the bridge, then turn right onto a footpath marked for Gleann Diomhan and Loch Tanna. It provides a serene setting for leisurely walks and picnics, with opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and fishing.
Urie Loch
Situated on the island's east side, near Lamlash, Urie Loch sits beneath the brow of a hill called The Urie. It’s a beautifully tranquil spot, although you’ll need to exert some physical effort to reach it. The most popular route is a 2-mile uphill hike through the woodland trails of Dyemill Wood and then a short trek across the open moorland, until you reach the loch’s pristine waters. To get to Dyemill Wood from Brodick, where the ferry berths from Ardrossan or Troon on the mainland, follow the A841 south for 4 miles (6.4 km) to Lamlash. Continue for one mile (1.6 km), then turn right at Monamore Bridge towards Kilmory. The entrance to the car park is on the left.
Loch Garbad
Tucked away in the southwest corner of Arran, Loch Garbad is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. On foot, this secluded freshwater hill loch can be reached by climbing the trail to the dramatic waterfall of Eas Mor. You can reach the breathtaking Eas Mor Waterfall via a challenging yet rewarding forest hike. The trail passes several picturesque viewpoints from the A841 Road towards Kildonan. The final stop on the walk provides a spectacular view of the waterfall's single, long plume cascading down the cliff face. If you continue on the path for a further 2 kilometres, you will reach Loch Garbad.
Loch na Davie
Loch na Davie may only be small but it only holds a dear place in the hearts of everyone at Arran Whisky. Every drop of Arran single malt starts life as rainwater, and the water that pools at Loch Na Davie – filtered through six waterfalls as it flows down the hillside – is the purest in all of Scotland.
Why not join us on one of our whisky tours or tastings, where you can enjoy a guided tour of Lochranza Distillery and a chance to sample our range of single malts?
Whether you're a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Arran's lochs cater to all interests. From serene waters perfect for relaxation to scenic trails for adventurous hikes, touring the lochs of Arran is a unique experience simply not to be missed. If you’re looking for more information on what else to do during your visit, discover the magic of the Isle of Arran.