Loch Maree

Loch Maree is a large freshwater loch in Wester Ross in the northwest Highlands of Scotland, noted for its wooded islands and wild landscape. The loch is internationally recognised for remnant Caledonian pinewood and important habitats on its islands and shoreline.

Boating and fishing are common ways to experience the loch, and several viewpoints on the surrounding hills provide wide panoramas across water and islands. The islands are a defining feature of the loch and include a number of small, tree-covered isles.

Historically the loch and its islands have been used for grazing, fishing and small-scale settlement; today much of the area is managed for nature conservation and recreation. The islands and adjacent woodlands have conservation designations reflecting their ecological value.

Geographically it lies in the Northwest Highlands, with the nearest towns and visitor services in the Wester Ross area; the loch is set within rugged hills and moorland typical of this part of Scotland.

• Size and nature: The loch is roughly 15 kilometres long and is noted for its wooded islands and natural conservation importance.

What to See #

• Islands and woodlands: The loch contains numerous wooded islands, many of which are covered in ancient Scots pine and form part of protected conservation areas.