Loch Leven is the largest lowland loch in Scotland and is a designated natural reserve that attracts around 15,000 geese and wildfowl every winter. The best place to appreciate the diversity of its birdlife and natural environment is the RSPB’s Vane Farm Natural Reserve, which has observation hides and nature trails as well as exhibitions and a well developed programme of regular events.

St. Serf’s Island on the loch once housed a priory and on Castle Island lies Loch Leven Castle, which gained infamy when Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned there in 1567. Her dramatic escape by boat is one of Scotland’s most romantic tales and, from April to October, visitors can take a short ferry trip from Kinross to explore the castle, which is under the protection of Historic Scotland.

The castle ferry is not the only boat you’ll find on Loch Leven, as it is a Mecca for anglers and regularly hosts national competitions. It’s particularly renowned for its rainbow and brown trout and you will often see flotillas of boats fishing the waters.

For sport of a different kind visit the Scottish Gliding Centre at Portmoak, on the south shore of the loch. Trial flights and lessons are available all year round, weather permitting, and the views from the air are truly exhilarating.

However, for the best ground level views of Loch Leven, take the signed footpath from Kinross to Burleigh Sands – a popular spot to simply relax and take in views across the water to the Lomond Hills.