Loch Venachar’s Dimensions: 6.6km long, 1km wide & up to 33m deep
Road Access for Loch Venachar: over the Dukes Pass via the A821
Loch Venachar: Exploring the Beauty and History of the Scottish Gem
Loch Venachar is a picturesque freshwater loch situated in Stirling district, Scotland, within the captivating landscape of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Nestled between the vibrant tourist town of Callander and the charming settlement of Brig o’ Turk, Loch Venachar stretches approximately 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) in length, with a maximum depth of around 33 metres (108 ft).
This enigmatic loch, positioned at an altitude of 82 metres (269 ft) above sea level, is celebrated not only for its natural splendour but also for its abundance of outdoor activities. Loch Venachar’s south shore encompasses a vast forested area housing an extensive network of cycling and walking trails. In addition, the loch’s pristine waters are teeming with various fish species, including trout and pike, making it a highly sought-after destination for anglers.
Visitors who embark on a walk around the loch will encounter a hidden lochan amid the trees, further showcasing the area’s beauty and allure. With its exceptional blend of natural scenery, wildlife, and recreational opportunities, Loch Venachar provides an idyllic backdrop for those looking to explore and experience the wonders of the Scottish outdoors.
Geographical Location
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Loch Venachar is a freshwater loch situated in Stirling district, Scotland. It is located within the boundaries of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, which is known for its diverse and beautiful landscapes, as well as a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The loch itself lies approximately 82 metres above sea level and is 6 kilometres long with a maximum depth of around 33 metres.
The south shore of Loch Venachar is characterised by a large area of forest, home to an extensive network of cycling and walking trails. A scenic 4.5-mile walk within the park uncovers a hidden lochan amid the trees, offering visitors a tranquil spot to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Centre of the Trossachs Region
Loch Venachar is situated in the heart of the Trossachs region, between the towns of Callander and Brig o’ Turk. The loch is easily accessible from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The loch receives water from Loch Achray to the west, while its eastern end feeds the River Leny. Renowned as a fishing location, Loch Venachar attracts anglers looking to catch species such as brown trout, pike, and perch. The surrounding Trossachs region is also rich in wildlife, with deer, red squirrels, and various bird species commonly spotted in the area.
With its picturesque landscapes and wealth of outdoor activities, Loch Venachar truly is at the centre of the Trossachs region, providing a remarkable destination for visitors seeking to experience the natural beauty of Scotland.
Physical Features
Loch Venachar is a freshwater loch in Stirling district, Scotland. It is situated between Callander and Brig o’ Turk and is part of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
Length and Depth
The loch is 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) long and has a maximum depth of approximately 33 metres (108 ft). It lies at an elevation of 82 metres (269 ft) above sea level, making it an impressive body of water in the region.
Shores and Surfaces
Loch Venachar boasts a scenic shoreline with an abundance of natural beauty. The area surrounding the loch is rich in forest and hills, creating picturesque landscapes perfect for a peaceful walk or hike. There are trails around the loch, such as a 4.5-mile walk that reveals a hidden lochan amid the trees. Some trails even extend towards the nearby Lake of Menteith, Scotland’s only official lake.
The A821 road runs along much of the loch’s northern banks, making for an enjoyable drive through Kilmahog and on to Brig o’ Turk towards Loch Katrine. The shores of Loch Venachar provide an excellent spot for fishing due to its pristine waters, with populations of trout and pike thriving in the loch.
Recreational Activities
Fishing
Loch Venachar is a fantastic spot for fishing, offering pristine waters populated by stocks of trout and pike. Anglers can enjoy their favourite pastime while admiring the stunning beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Boating and Sailing
The Loch Venachar Sailing Club operates on the loch, hosting regular races and events from the end of March until October. They offer Royal Yachting Association (RYA) dinghy and powerboat courses for those interested in learning boating skills. Furthermore, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the loch with a number of paddle entry points to help enthusiasts get started. The loch also serves as the perfect venue for open water swimming events, attracting swimmers to experience the natural beauty of the National Park.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Loch Venachar is surrounded by several scenic hiking and nature trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. One nearby point of interest is the Glen Finglas Visitor Gateway & Estate, which offers well-marked trails for walkers to explore the diverse flora, fauna, and outstanding views of the park. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Go Country at Loch Ard provides a range of outdoor adventure activities such as cliff jumping, gorge walking, and archery. Additionally, Action Adventure in Gartmore offers 4×4 experiences, quad biking, canyoning, and more.
Wildlife and Environment
Birds and Mammals
Loch Venachar, located in Stirling district, Scotland, is home to a diverse array of bird species. Many birds can be found in the surrounding forest and wetland habitats. Some of the notable species that can be found include:
- Pink-footed geese: Up to 20,000 of these birds depend on the surrounding wetlands during their winter migration.
- Other species of waterfowl, including ducks and swans, take advantage of the loch and its surrounding habitats.
The forested areas in the south shore of the loch are inhabited by a variety of mammals such as:
- Red Squirrels
- Pine Martens
- Roe Deer
Aquatic Life
The pristine waters of Loch Venachar provide a suitable environment for various fish species. This makes it an excellent spot for recreational fishing. The loch is known to be populated with:
- Trout: A popular catch for anglers visiting the area
- Pike: Another common fish species found in the loch
Flora
The 3.7 mile-long loch is surrounded by an extensive area of forest, which is home to a wide network of cycling and walking trails. This forested area on the south shore of the loch is characterised by the following types of vegetation:
- Pine: A common and iconic tree species in Scotland
- Birch: Another common tree found in the area
- Heather: A flowering plant that adds colour to the landscape
- Additionally, a hidden lochan amid the trees provides a unique spot for enjoying the beauty of the flora found throughout the area.
The Loch is located within the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, which aims to protect and preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity found in and around the loch.