Loch an Eilein is a picturesque freshwater lake surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine forest in the Rothiemurchus area of the Cairngorms National Park. The loch is nestled in a tranquil valley and is home to a 13th-century island castle ruin, said to be the former stronghold of the Comyn clan. The surrounding forest is teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, capercaillies, and ospreys, and offers scenic walking trails and picnic spots.
Absolutely beautiful place! The water is crystal clear there's lots of wildlife around. We did the 3 mile loop around the loch which is fairly easy with a few hills and allows for you to see the beautiful loch from all sides. There is also a small shop with second hand trinkets, some ice cream and drinks plus some loos which is ok. Parking cost us PS4.50 and allowed easy access to the loch.
The Loch an Eilein walk is a three mile/five kilometre loop around the loch on a well maintained gravel path (though muddy in a couple of patches today). Very peaceful on the far side away from the castle. Would definitely recommend checking it out if in the area
Didn't know that you have to pay per person for parking but thankfully it wasn't expensive. The lake is beautiful with view over the mountains. There's a walk around in the woods which is very easy and flat. You can find toilets and a cafe too. Unfortunately there are not enough bench or chairs to have a sit.
We choose to walk round the two lochs and so glad we had our hiking boots on. . enjoyed a lovely latte that we took in our flask to sit and enjoy the stunning views which where breathtaking. It was lovely and quiet and easy to park...toilets were clean and some picnic benches available
A favourite place for many years. Gorgeous views up to the Cairngorm mountains and surrounded by the gorgeous Rothiemurchus forest. There are few more peaceful and beautiful places. On a practical note, there is an excellent hard surface path (although muddy in a few places) all the way round the loch. It is great for walking or cycling and only has a few short steep bits. If you can't walk all the way then I would recommend the very best bit as the bridge crossing the river from Loch Gamnha into Loch an Eilein.
Beautiful place. This place has some lovely paths, which are maintained to a high standard. Parking is available for a small fee. We gave them a bit more as we both appreciate what they are doing to look after the area. Toilets are available as is a beautiful gift shop,you can buy gifts as well as coffee, tea and juices as well as other choices of edibles. Large selection of gifts. Dogs should be kept on a leed, the place also has an area you can let your dogs run about off the leed. Excellent for walking as well as bikes and for people who just want to sit down ,relax, and enjoy the peaceful and beautiful surroundings.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Absolutely beautiful place! The water is crystal clear there's lots of wildlife around. We did the 3 mile loop around the loch which is fairly easy with a few hills and allows for you to see the beautiful loch from all sides. There is also a small shop with second hand trinkets, some ice cream and drinks plus some loos which is ok. Parking cost us PS4.50 and allowed easy access to the loch.
The Loch an Eilein walk is a three mile/five kilometre loop around the loch on a well maintained gravel path (though muddy in a couple of patches today). Very peaceful on the far side away from the castle. Would definitely recommend checking it out if in the area
Didn't know that you have to pay per person for parking but thankfully it wasn't expensive. The lake is beautiful with view over the mountains. There's a walk around in the woods which is very easy and flat. You can find toilets and a cafe too. Unfortunately there are not enough bench or chairs to have a sit.
We choose to walk round the two lochs and so glad we had our hiking boots on. . enjoyed a lovely latte that we took in our flask to sit and enjoy the stunning views which where breathtaking. It was lovely and quiet and easy to park...toilets were clean and some picnic benches available
A favourite place for many years. Gorgeous views up to the Cairngorm mountains and surrounded by the gorgeous Rothiemurchus forest. There are few more peaceful and beautiful places. On a practical note, there is an excellent hard surface path (although muddy in a few places) all the way round the loch. It is great for walking or cycling and only has a few short steep bits. If you can't walk all the way then I would recommend the very best bit as the bridge crossing the river from Loch Gamnha into Loch an Eilein.
Beautiful place. This place has some lovely paths, which are maintained to a high standard. Parking is available for a small fee. We gave them a bit more as we both appreciate what they are doing to look after the area. Toilets are available as is a beautiful gift shop,you can buy gifts as well as coffee, tea and juices as well as other choices of edibles. Large selection of gifts. Dogs should be kept on a leed, the place also has an area you can let your dogs run about off the leed. Excellent for walking as well as bikes and for people who just want to sit down ,relax, and enjoy the peaceful and beautiful surroundings.