It’s estimated that there are over 30,000 lochs in Scotland – from vast bodies of water to tiny lochans.
Their evocative names are known around the world, whether it’s the monster residing in Loch Ness or the famous oysters of Loch Fyne.
From attracting tourists in their droves, to providing a place to enjoy a range of recreational activities for generations of Scots, the country’s lochs are a key part of its magical geography.
Here are the 10 biggest in Scotland by surface area.
5. Loch Morar
It may be the deepest loch in Scotland, but Loch Morar just squeezes into the top 5 largest with a surface area of 26.7 square kilometres. Located in Lochaber, in the Highlands, the loch is the rumoured home of Scotland's second most famous aquatic monster - called Morag. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Loch Tay
Spanning both the Perth and Kinross Council and the Stirling Council areas, Loch Tay stretches out to 26.4 square kilometres. Archaeologists have found evidence of people living on the banks of the loch dating back to the 8th and 7th millennia BC. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Loch Shin
The largest loch in Sutherland, in the North West Highlands, Loch Shin has a surface area of 22.5 square kilometres. In the 1950s the construction of a dam as part of a hydro-electric scheme raised the level of the loch by around nine metres. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Loch Shiel
With both the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Glenfinnan Monument on its north bank, Loch Shiel isn't short of dramatic views. The 19.5 square kilometre loch has made its mark on popular culture, featuring as the Black Lake in Harry Potter and the birthplace of Connor MacLeod in the Highlander film franchise. Photo: Canva/Getty Images