Loch Morlich facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Loch Morlich |
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 Loch Morlich
Location in Highland
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| Location | Badenoch and Strathspey, Highland, Scotland |
| Coordinates | 57°10′N 3°42′W / 57.167°N 3.700°W |
| Type | freshwater loch |
| Basin countries | Scotland |
Loch Morlich (in Scottish Gaelic, Loch Mhùrlaig) is a freshwater loch (which is a Scottish word for a lake) in the Highland area of Scotland. It is found near Aviemore in Badenoch and Strathspey.
Loch Morlich is a popular spot for many fun activities. It has a watersports centre where you can try kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. There is also a yacht club and special paths for cycling around the loch. This beautiful loch sits at the foot of the Cairngorm mountains, only a few miles from Aviemore. You might even recognize it from the TV show Game of Thrones Season 5!
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Sandy Beaches of Loch Morlich
Loch Morlich is famous for its long, sandy beaches. These beaches are quite special because they are next to a freshwater loch, not the sea.
Awards for Cleanliness
In 2009, the beaches at Loch Morlich won a "Seaside Award" from the Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB) group. This was the first time a freshwater loch beach received this award. It also became the highest beach to get this award, as it is 300 metres (about 984 feet) above sea level.
Loch Morlich's Wartime History
If you look closely at the sand on these beaches, you might find small pieces of broken glass. But don't worry, this glass is not from litter! It is actually a part of history from the Second World War.
A Secret Training Ground
During the Second World War, the area around Loch Morlich was used as a special training school for soldiers called commandos. It was a perfect place for training because its landscape and weather were very similar to Norway.
One important group that trained here was the Kompani Linge. This was a special Norwegian army company. They were trained by the British Special Operations Executive, which was a secret organization. These brave soldiers learned important skills to help their country during the war.
Remembering the Heroes
Today, you can find a memorial to the Kompani Linge outside the Glenmore Forest Park visitor centre. It helps us remember the brave soldiers who trained here long ago.
