Loch Ard is in the Trossachs and one of many good lochs for swimming. The B829 runs along its northern side. The spot in the photo above is on the north side at the eastern end of the loch c. 4km west of Aberfoyle. The photo below is on the south side of the loch near one of the little islands.
Grid Ref
NN473/014
Features
The loch is excellent for swimming but going in around the little islands adds to the experience.
Hazards
Probably cold in the winter!
Date
24th June 2018
Loch Katrine (The Trossachs, Scotland)
(Photo by Ruth)
Location
Within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Park at the east end where the “steam” boat goes from and there is a pay and display car park (one of Scotlands few for the countryside). Then follow the track along the north side of the Loch and pick you spot.
Grid Ref
NN480/094 (little peninsula) and NN460/107 (small beach) but there are plenty of others
Features
Everything you have ever wanted in a Loch with an easy “walk in”
Hazards
The area does get busy on nice days which do happen more than you might think
Date
8th April 2018
River Forth (Trossachs, Scotland)
Location
This idyllic looking spot is just downstream of Loch Ard and only really reachable by boat- hence the boat.
Grid Ref
NN490/015
Features
The river widens out at this spot and it looks and is lovely to swim in.
Hazards
Even in summer the sides and bottom of the river are an unpleasant muddy silt, but only near the sides
