Loch Long’s Dimensions: 20 miles long and 1-2 miles wide, up to 30m deep
Road Access for Loch Long: over A814 and A83
Loch Long: Exploring Scotland’s Majestic Sea Inlet
Loch Long is a picturesque sea loch situated in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. Extending approximately 20 miles from the Firth of Clyde at its southwestern end, this narrow body of water forms a long indent along the coast of the Cowal Peninsula and the Rosneath Peninsula. The loch boasts a rich history, varied wildlife, and provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Nestled within the bounds of Argyll Forest Park and the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Loch Long is surrounded by a diverse landscape of rugged forests and coastline. The charming village of Arrochar can be found at the head of the loch, offering tourists and locals alike a base for nearby attractions such as Ardgartan, where visitors can enjoy forest lochside and river trails. Alongside leisure activities, Loch Long supports a thriving ecosystem, including seals and various raptors, which attract nature enthusiasts from far and wide.
The loch is also part of the Clyde Sea Lochs Trail, an alluring scenic route that links communities and attractions around the Clyde Sea Lochs area. With its captivating scenery and wide array of outdoor activities, Loch Long serves as an idyllic Scottish destination, teeming with adventures to discover and memories to be made.
Geographical Location
Surrounding Area
Loch Long is located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, extending from the Firth of Clyde at its southwestern end. The loch forms a long indent, surrounded by mountains, with the Arrochar Alps on the west side of the loch head. The Cowal Peninsula is on one side, while the entire western coastline of the Rosneath Peninsula is on the other.
Loch Long is part of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, which offers various opportunities for tourists to explore its natural beauty, wildlife, and recreational activities.
The nearby Eilean Donan Castle stands at the confluence of Loch Long, Loch Duich, and Loch Alsh, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Sea Loch
Loch Long is a sea loch, which is similar to a fjord. It measures approximately 20 miles (30 kilometres) in length, with a width of between one and two miles (two and three kilometres). It is a popular destination for fishing and other water-based activities.
The loch is connected to another sea loch, Loch Goil, on its western side. The Royal Naval Armaments Depot is located on the eastern shore of Loch Long, adding to its historical significance.
Overall, Loch Long’s geographical location makes it an attractive destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.
History and Folklore
Origins of Loch Long
Loch Long is a sea loch located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It extends from the Firth of Clyde at its southwestern end and measures approximately 20 miles (30 kilometres) in length and between one and two miles (two and three kilometres) in width. The loch is situated in the Argyll Forest Park, a beautifully wild and rugged forest park in the Cowal peninsula of Scotland. This area is part of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, boasting its natural beauty and abundance of activities and walks available.
Area Legends
One of the legends associated with Loch Long is the story of the Green Lady of Knockamillie. According to folklore, the Green Lady is believed to be the ghost of a woman named Marion, who lived in a castle near the shores of the loch. Marion’s lover went away to fight in a war, leaving her devastated. For many years, she would walk along the shores of the loch, waiting for his return. Unfortunately, he never returned.
As time passed, the local people say Marion’s spirit continued to roam the area near the loch dressed in green. Her spirit is believed to have lingered in the area to this day. Locals and tourists alike continue to report sightings of her ghostly figure along the shoreline, particularly on moonlit nights.
Though Loch Long doesn’t share the phenomenon of a loch-dwelling monster like its more famous neighbour, Loch Ness, the area’s rich history and folklore provide a sense of mystique and allure. The stories of the Green Lady and other legends contribute to the charm and intrigue of Loch Long and its surrounding areas.
Wildlife and Ecosystem
Marine Life
Loch Long, located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, hosts a diverse array of marine life. A variety of fish species, such as cod and mackerel, make their home in this sea loch. These fish populations attract a multitude of bird species like gannets, eider ducks, and cormorants, which can often be seen diving for their prey. Grey seals are commonly found around Loch Long, while occasional sightings of pilot whales, porpoises, dolphins, and even humpback whales have been reported.
Flora
Loch Long is situated within the Argyll Forest Park, which is part of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. This wild and rugged area boasts lush and diverse vegetation that supports the area’s rich wildlife. The surrounding forests are a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees, providing shelter and habitat for various fauna. As the park transitions through the seasons, it offers a constantly changing landscape of colours, foliage, and plant life.
Fauna
In addition to marine life in Loch Long, the surrounding land teems with terrestrial wildlife. Golden eagles and buzzards frequently soar above the land, while oyster catchers and other shorebirds forage along the shoreline. The forests play host to an assortment of mammals such as red squirrels, pine martens, and roe deer. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, who can observe the rich diversity of wildlife in this extraordinary environment.
Recreation and Tourism
Boating
Loch Long is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, offering a variety of options for those who love being on the water. From leisurely cruises to fishing trips, there is something for everyone in this beautiful sea loch. For avid anglers, Loch Long provides good fishing opportunities from both the shore and boats, with possible catches including cod, whiting, plaice, mackerel, skate, wrasse, and Pollack. It should be noted that while it is free to fish in the loch, it is illegal to land any migratory fish such as salmon or sea trout.
Hiking
The area surrounding Loch Long is ideal for hiking and exploring the Scottish countryside. There are numerous trails and paths to choose from, catering to walkers of all abilities and interests. One popular option is the nearby Ardgartan, offering forest lochside and river trails which are particularly picturesque during May when bluebells are in bloom. For more experienced hikers, the Arrochar Alps on the western side of the loch provide a more challenging trek, offering stunning views and encounters with local wildlife.
Sightseeing
Loch Long’s stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife make it the perfect destination for sightseeing. Visitors can spot seals, otters, and various raptors in their natural habitat, as well as explore the interesting shells and coloured pebbles that can be found along the shoreline. The picturesque village of Arrochar lies at the head of the loch and is just a few miles away from Loch Lomond, making it an ideal stop for visitors looking to explore more of the region. Additionally, the Clyde Sea Lochs Trail connects various points of interest around the Clyde Sea, offering a fantastic way to soak in the beautiful landscapes and rich history of this area.