Loch Rannoch

About Loch Rannoch

Loch Rannoch is a freshwater lake in Perth & Kinross, Scotland, over 14 km (~9 mi) long and an average width of 1 km (0.6 mi). It has a recorded average depth of 132 m (~433 ft).

It feels more remote and secluded than it is: whereas it used to be on the traditional main route north to the west coast of Scotland, major road construction in the 19th century bypassed it, leaving the area unspoilt and unchanged. With a great mix of scenery and landscapes, the area offers something to everyone, from sandy beaches on the north shore to beautiful woodland areas in the Tay Forest Park along the south side. A particular feature of the forest park is the Black Wood of Rannoch, one of the few remaining patches of the original Caledonian Pine Forest that used to cover the whole of Scotland. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its rare species.

Activities

It’s a highly popular destination for walkers and climbers, offering an easy ascent to spectacular views, not least from the famous mountain Schiehallion (the name is from the Gaelic, meaning ‘Fairy Hill of the Caledonians’), part of the Munros, which looms large over the Loch. For those seeking more of a challenge, the wild Rannoch Moor extends to the west.

A road circuits round the loch; it is rare in that, unlike most other similar lochside paths, it’s almost completely flat, so great for cycling or gentle walks. The lake itself offers great fishing.

The turbulent history of the area and the clans that lived, fought and died there is mapped on a series of story boards around the lake. The story starts at Kinloch Rannoch, the only village on the loch.