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Lochan na Dunaich

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Latest forest information

Open water

  • This destination contains areas of open water which can be hazardous if you are not suitably prepared. Follow our water safety advice and take care.

About

A peaceful loch alive with water lilies and dragonflies

If you're looking for a quiet spot for a picnic or a grassy area to run around and play games, then this is the place for you.

There's a gentle trail around the lochan too.

Walking trails

Lochan na Dunaich Walking Trails Route Card (PDF)

Walking

Lochan na Dunaich Trail

A short wander through the open oakwoods to brooding Lochan na Dunaich, said to be haunted by a kelpie (or water spirit).

Firm but uneven gravel surface throughout. Generally flat with some short moderate slopes. Includes sections of wooden boardwalk.

Moderate trail grade icon grade icon
½ miles / 0.8 km

Allow ¼ hour

More information

The lochan here is particularly lovely in summer, when the water lilies are in bloom and dragonflies and mayflies dance across the surface. Its placid appearance belies its name – Lochan na Dunaich translates from the Gaelic as the 'little loch of sadness'. Legend says that a kelpie, a mythical white waterhorse, would lure children into the lochan’s dark waters, never to be seen again.

Facilities and access

Walking
Walking
Parking
Parking

Take a break

Acharacle has public toilets, shops and refreshments.

Water safety

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.

Water safety

Car parking information

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.

More about parking

Getting here

From Strontian, take the A816 west for about 9 miles (14.5 km). Lochan na Dunaich car park is on the right hand side. If you reach the junction with the B8007 to Salen, you've gone about 250 yards too far! 

Using SatNav?

PH36 4JN is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

There are buses from Fort William to Kilchoan via Strontian every day except Sunday. Find timetables at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6650 (option 1)
More contact information

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Drooping conifer branch

Ancient woodland leads to a peaceful natural harbour

Facilities and activities
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Parking
Parking
Picnic area
Picnic area
Distance from 'Sàilean nan Cuileag': 0.5 miles
Drooping conifer branch

A peaceful picnic site with intriguing Viking history

Facilities and activities
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Parking
Parking
Picnic area
Picnic area
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Drooping conifer branch

Spot seals, herons and otters on Loch Sunart

Facilities and activities
All ability trails
All ability trails
Easy-access facilities
Easy-access facilities
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Walking
Walking
Wildlife hide
Wildlife hide
Stay the Night
Stay the Night
Distance from 'Garbh Eilean Wildlife Hide': 3.37 miles