Loch Long, Sea loch in Highland, Scotland
Loch Long is a fjord-like sea loch in the Highlands that stretches inland for about 20 miles (32 km) with steep banks rising on both sides. The deep saltwater body is wide enough to accommodate large vessels and is bounded by mountains that descend directly to the water's edge.
In 1263, Viking raiders sailed up the loch to Arrochar and then transported their longships overland to Loch Lomond during their campaigns in Scotland. The waters later became an important naval and trading passage in Scottish maritime history.
The name comes from Gaelic words meaning ship loch, reflecting how this waterway served as a passage for boats rather than being named for its physical size. Visitors walking along the shores can still sense this maritime character in the open waters and the way the loch connects to the wider sea.
The loch is best explored from surrounding villages like Arrochar and Tarbet, which sit on the shores and offer good starting points for walks and views. The area can be explored on foot or by car, with a road running along the western side.
A torpedo testing range was established in 1912 and operated in connection with the Clyde Torpedo Factory until 1986, serving British naval development through both World Wars. Few visitors realize this remote loch played a crucial role in military technology testing for decades.
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