Loch an Eilein, Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom

4.5 (1.408 reviews) Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Ranking #2 in Scottish Highlands Bodies of Water

Absolutely gorgeous

Hidden in the forest of Rothiemurchus, this beautiful place is one of the most loved in the UK. Loch an Eilein (loch of the island) with its 13th century island castle, was voted Britain's Best Picnic Spot. Step back in time and retrace the steps of the Highland cattle raiders as you enjoy views of the dramatic and mysterious Highland castle and enjoy the exceptional wildlife of this forest particularly the Red Squirrels and Scottish Crossbills. You can enjoy some of the best low level walking in Scotland. Sheltered by ancient pine trees with views of the mountains, the path around the loch is suitable for motorised wheel chairs, off road buggies and is part of the Rothiemurchus way marked network of paths.
Scottish Highlands review images

Address

Loch an Eilein Rothiemurchus By Aviemore Rothiemurchus Forest, Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore PH22 1QT Scotland

Working hours

Monday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday : 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Current local date and time now

Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 0:47

User Ratings

4.5 based on (1.408 reviews)

Excellent
77%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%

Reviews

  • 5Andy M 5:00 PM Sep 25, 2022
    An absolute must see!
    Loch an Eilein is one of the most beautiful places I've had the pleasure of setting eyes on. It's relatively untouched in terms of human intervention and what has been put in place by the national park blends into the environment seamlessly. Even though we were here on a relatively dismal and rainy day, it was every bit as dramatic and breathtaking as any other day in the Highlands can be. I'd classify it as a must see for anyone who enjoys being out and about in nature. The walk around the Loch from Rothiemurchus centre is roughly 14km depending on route, or there's the much shorter option from the Loch an Eilein car park which is about 6km. Both are a worthwhile trip, with the terrain being undulating with exposed tree roots at worst and flat at best. I would say a minimum of sturdy trainers/walking boots are needed, and definitely make sure you've got some wet weather gear just in case! Another recommendation would be to pop into the little Bothy store at the visitors car park, the owner is lovely and provides handmade items which are a reminder of your visit. A brew and some duck feed will only set you back a couple of quid too so that's well worth the outlay!
  • 4CS-Linlithgow 5:00 PM May 9, 2022
    Relaxing walk
    It’s picturesque but not the most glamorous in Scotland. Loads of wildlife from red squirrels to frogs and very relaxing. Took about two hours to walk the loch but was with four kids aged 7-10. Recommended. Cafe shop near the start and parking costs unusually per person rather than per vehicle

See also

More Things to do in Scottish Highlands