Loch of the Lowes

Loch of the Lowes lies near Dunkeld in Perth and Kinross, a freshwater loch set in a wildlife reserve run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It forms part of a chain of five connected lochs known as the Lunan Lochs, stretching north of the Highland Boundary Fault. The water is mesotrophic, meaning it has moderate nutrients, supporting rare plants such as slender naiad. A drainage channel dug in the 19th century links it to Loch Craiglush, equalising water levels. The reserve was bought by the Trust in 1969 to protect this habitat. The loch is recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. It supports a rich variety of wildlife, including breeding ospreys whose nest sits within 200 metres of an observation hide. Red squirrels, otters and beavers also live here, and early winter brings flocks of greylag geese. Year-round visitors include goldeneye ducks, great crested grebes and pike in the water. The reserve’s woodlands host jays, treecreepers and sparrowhawks, while migrant geese and swans gather on the loch in colder months. A visitor finds three observation hides close to the osprey nest, offering clear views across the water. The Scottish Wildlife Trust’s visitor centre on the western shore provides displays and live camera feeds of the birds. A woodland footpath links the reserve to Dunkeld, suitable for walkers and cyclists but not wheelchairs. From the hides, fallow deer and otters may be seen moving along the shore. The reserve’s car park sits beside the A923, with paths leading through quiet woodlands and open water.