Why is a loch not a lake?


Why is a loch not a lake? So what is the difference between a loch and a lake? Well, the main distinction is where they are located. Lochs can be found in Scotland and Ireland whilst lakes are found elsewhere in the world. This is because the word 'loch' comes from the Gaelic languages which were historically used in these parts of Britain.


What does Glen mean in Scottish?

'Glen' is the Scottish term for a valley. Many have a U-shape and were gouged into existence by huge glaciers that ground down the mountains. The glaciers finally departed at the end of the last ice age 11,500 years ago.


Do lochs only exist in Scotland?

Lochs can be found in Scotland and Ireland whilst lakes are found elsewhere in the world. This is because the word 'loch' comes from the Gaelic languages which were historically used in these parts of Britain.


What is the warmest loch in Scotland?

What is the warmest loch in Scotland? One of the warmest Scottish lochs is Loch Lubnaig which can be found in the Scottish Highlands. If you fancy trying some wild swimming whilst in Scotland, Loch Lubnaig is a good place to start.


Can lochs freeze?

The climate of Scotland is so temperate that no lochs are in normal winters frozen over for long periods, as they are in Europe generally. The smaller lochs may be frozen over for a few days, or a few weeks, several times in the course of the winter.


Why is loch water black?

2) Its pitch black! Thanks to the glorious 'liquid sunshine' which Scotland is so well-known for, the rain carries peat from the surrounding hills down into the water. These wee peaty particles mean that visibility under the water is poor, with the darkest of depths.