Loch Leven is a National Nature Reserve located near the town of Kinross, some 13 miles south of Perth, in Scotland. The loch is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including more breeding ducks than anywhere else in inland Europe.
The Loch Leven Heritage Trail offers a picturesque 20km (12.5 miles) route around the full circuit of the loch. The route includes only 66m of elevation gain so while it’s quite long, it’s easy going.
There are several places to stop for something to eat, including several places in Kinross itself, Loch Leven’s Larder and a cafe at Loch Leven Lodges at Findatie.
My friend Ben and I chose to walk the circuit from Kinross on a chilly winter’s day when the hills and mountains were forecast to have high winds. Staying lower level was a great idea although there was a lot of ice underfoot.
We took our micro spikes in case it became to slippery underfoot, although, as it turned out, we managed in our walking boots. I was testing a new pair of inov-8 Roclite Pro 400 Gore-Tex boots, which proved to be excellent in the snow, ice and cold. (Note I receive a small commission for sales of inov-8 boots through this website.)
Things to know about Loch Leven
- Loch Leven is the largest natural shallow water body in lowland Britain.
- It’s a popular place for tufted duck and teal
- Location for huge flocks of wintering wildfowl
- In summer, you might sport ospreys
- Otters and kingfishers are also regularly seen around the reserve, with the occasional visit from a white-tailed sea eagle.
- The marshy edges of the loch have sweetly scented holy grass, which is an ancient form of incense.
- Other plants include a mix of wet grasslands, raised bog, willow and reed beds.
- There are great views of the East and West Lomond hills.
- The history books reveal that Mary Queen of Scots first visited Lochleven in 1561 as a guest of its owner, Sir William Douglas. Her last stay, from 1567 to 1568, was as his prisoner.
- You can start the walk from various places, such as Kinross, RSPB Loch Leven Visitor Centre, or Loch Leven’s Larder.
- See route details on Walk Highlands.
Winter walk: Loch Leven Trail
I’ll let you enjoy some photos of our walk. It’s a great place to visit in any season. It makes a great walk, run or cycle.
