An easy route wandering through the thick Caledonian pine forests of the Rothiemurchus estate, and around the freshwater Loch an Eilean (Loch of the Island). With views of rolling hills between the trees, expansive forest and a castle ruin perched on an island, this walk offers the perfect immersion into the Scottish Highlands.
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Loch an Eilein Walk Stats:
- Location: Rothiemurchus Estate, Aviemore, Scotland.
- Start/end location: Walk starts and ends at Car Park Loch an Eilein.
- Route link: All Trails
- Distance & Duration: 5.5km / 1.5 hours.
- Walk type: Circular.
- Terrain: Well-maintained path the entire way.
- Accessibility: Although the path is flat and wide, some sections feature exposed roots and sections of mud. All-terrain pushchairs and motorised wheelchairs are advised.
Highlights: Why We Love It
- The castle ruin nestled among the trees on a small island certainly adds an element of intrigue. It’s said to date back to the 14th century and was used to defend against clan bands.
- The forest teems with incredible wildlife! Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels, crested tits, Scottish crossbills and even osprey.
- Loch an Eilean has been voted as the UK’s best picnic spot – quite the feat given so many scenic competitors across the country. Make sure to bring your sandwiches!
About the Loch an Eilein Loop
Starting from the car park, follow the well-established path that leads you to the loch for your first glimpse. The beach here is a perfect place to play, take a wild dip (it’s one of my favourite wild swimming places near Aviemore!) or return after the walk for that five-star picnic.
You can walk around the loch in either direction — the path is well-marked and established both ways. Following the path anticlockwise will soon reward you with a closer view of the castle.
Continuing on around the irregularly shaped Loch for roughly 2 km (around 45 minutes), a small path on the right offers the option to extend your walk slightly to wee Loch Gamhna.
If you chose not to, cross the quaint footbridge over the burn that links the two lochs and continue on – this roughly marks your halfway point.
On the homeward stretch, the path strays away slightly from the loch deeper into the trees. Once you pass the quaint forest cottage, you’re only a few hundred meters away from returning to the idyllic beach where you began.
Loch an Eilein Walk Photo Gallery:
Things to Know:
- Important parking note: The car park costs £2 per person or £5 per car.
- Popularity warning: Rothimurchus can get busy during summer with families, cyclists and large groups of walkers.
- Leave no trace: Take all litter away with you, and leave any natural features like stones or wood.
- Dogs: Allowed, but keep on a lead.
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic benches and refreshments available at the start of the walk.
- OS Map: OL 57- Cairn Gorm & Aviemore