Sunday, 03 Nov 2024
The Angus Glens are the southern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park and we’re privileged to be …
Loch Arkaig is a hidden gem, fringed with woodland and open hills and tucked away off the beaten track between Fort William and Inverness. You can enjoy a picnic beside the waterfall at Chia-aig, at the east end of the loch, then look for butterflies at the more remote Allt Mhuic reserve.
Climb up onto the open hillside to see the rare chequered skipper butterfly against the amazing backdrop of Loch Arkaig.
Rough grassy surface with some rocky and very wet sections. Long steep slopes for up to 500m. Includes a narrow gate and sections of boardwalk.
Allow ¾ hour
This is a beautiful place even if there are no butterflies about. Listen for wood warblers singing among the birch trees, and look for grey wagtails and dippers along the burn.
The road alongside the shore at Loch Arkaig is narrow but quiet. On a pleasant day it may be more pleasant to park the car and continue on bike.
The nearest public facilities, shops and cafés are in Spean Bridge.
We want all our visitors to have a safe and enjoyable time at our forests. If you plan on venturing into the water here, please read our safety advice first.
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
From the Commando Memorial on the A82 at Spean Bridge, follow signs towards Gairlochy. At a fork in the road just after a bridge over the Caledonian Canal, veer right following the sign for 'Loch Arkaig (B8005)'. It's a rough and narrow road after this point, but worth the journey.
You'll reach Chia-aig waterfall first, 5 miles along the road. Allt Mhuic butterfly reserve is a further 4 miles along the road.
PH34 4EJ is the nearest postcode.
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A nationally renowned hub of outdoor activities
Spectacular views of Britain's highest mountain
Gateway to one of Scotland's iconic glens