Loch Awe And Loch Etive

North of Loch Fyne is Loch Awe, the longest freshwater loch in Scotland and, further north, the beautiful Loch Etive. There's enough here to justify a couple of days' exploration, particularly the little-visited west shore of Loch Awe, but if you're pressed for time, there are a few conveniently placed sights along the A85 from Glasgow to Oban...

Loch Awe,the longest freshwater loch in Britain is deep rooted in history that dates back to the times of Robert Bruce and the infamous Campbells. It makes the perfect base for visiting the local places of interest, enjoying the leisure activities or simply relaxing by the water.The A819 north from Inveraray joins the A85 at the northeastern tip of Loch Awe, between the villages of Dalmally and Lochawe. The picturesque Dalmally Golf Club located by the rolling waters of the River Orchy is well suited for golfers of all standards!

Just west of the junction is the romantic ruin of Kilchurn Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland on a promontory jutting out into the loch. The castle ruin can be visited by boat from the pier in Lochawe village. Loch Awe is well known for its trout and salmon fishing options in the Rivers Awe and Orchy. Another must see spot includes the Hydro-Electric Power Station within the "hollow mountain" of Ben Cruachan, which is served by its own railway halt.

Ben Cruachan & Pass of Brander

A few miles west of Lochawe, and almost a mile inside Ben Cruachan (3,695 ft) is the underground Cruachan Power Station, 0930-1700, £5, children £2 (free if arrive by cycle) or "Hollow Mountain". From the visitor centre on the shores of Loch Awe, a guided bus trip takes you deep into the heart of the mountain through massive tunnels until you reach the generating room. Between Loch Awe and Loch Etive runs the River Awe, which squeezes through the dark and ominous Pass of Brander, so steep and narrow that legend has it that it was once held against an entire army by an old woman brandishing a scythe.

Region

Argyll

Travel Directions to Loch Awe And Loch Etive

Both Dalmally and Lochawe are on the Glasgow-Oban rail and bus routes. Trains in either direction stop 3 times daily and there are several Scottish Citylink buses daily. These buses also stop at Inveraray and Taynuilt en route from Glasgow to Oban and vice versa.

Local Visitor Attractions

Loch Visions One Day Photography Experience

1 day photography course experience in Highlands that is perfect for the newbie. Includes 1 hours tuition and then it's shutters away. Runs all year around Loch Awe
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Loch Etive Boat Trips

Wonderful new operation that takes you along Loch Etive and around the Firth of Lorn from Dunstaffnage Marina (near Oban) aboard wide beamed catamaran. Booking required.
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Loch Awe And Loch Etive Hotels & Accommodation

Portsonachan Hotel
Steeped in history, this idyllic location is an excellent resort from which to explore the surrounding countryside and its many attractions. The location of the hotel offers glorious views of the loch and the mighty Ben Cruchan. The Hotel has a mixture of family, double and twin rooms, all with pleasant views and en-suite facilities.

There's a good selection of places to stay in Dalmally and Lochawe. A place with an especially nice view is the Portsonachan open Feb-Dec.

Self Catering cottages

Set amidst a secluded woodland setting, ST. Conan's Tower is a unique and historic Tower House overlooking Loch Awe in Argyll. It comprises of Three stylish apartments; Ben Lui, Cruachan and Glen Strae, which offer some of the best views of the Loch. With attention to detail,these self catering apartments offer convenient accommodation options for both large and small groups. Tel: +44 (0) 1838 200342 |This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Lochs Awe & Etive

Guide to area around Lochs Awe & Etive

Find Your Holiday Cottage...

Loch Visions One Day Photography Experience

Loch Etive Boat Trips