In Scotland, lochs are a dime a dozen. So what’s so special about Loch Cluanie in Inverness?
Let’s find out….
Where is Loch Cluanie?
Loch Cluanie, known in Scottish Gaelic as Loch Cluanaidh, is located in the northwestern area of The Highlands, southeast of Glen Shiel.
It can be accessed via car from the A87, which runs alongside the northern edge of the loch.
History of Loch Cluanie
Unlike many of Scotland’s lochs, Cluanie is man-made, and serves as a reservoir behind the Cluanie Dam, which dates back to 1957.
This creation played a crucial role in the country’s hydroelectricity “Glenmoriston” project, designed and constructed by the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board.
Fast-forward a couple of decades, and it is now an ideal location for a sunny day out.
Things to Do at Loch Cluanie
Featuring all the nature-based beauty you could want from the Scottish Highlands, including snow-capped mountains and colourful wild flowers, Loch Cluanie is a must for lovers of the Great Outdoors.
Some of the ways you can pass the time at this delectable Highland hotspot is hiking.
If you like your days out to include spectacular views and the freshest, cleanest air in the country, we highly recommend embarking on some of the nearby hiking routes.
South Glen Shiel Ridge (Hard)
Considered one of the more challenging trails in the area, the South Glen Shiel Ridge hike isn’t recommended for novices.
Featuring an elevation of 1,775 metres and a length of approximately 27.4 km (roughly 30 miles), this trail is best left to those who take their hiking endeavours very seriously.
Although the trail is open all throughout the year, for weather safety and enjoyment purposes, it is best experienced between the months of May and September.
Carn Ghluasaid, Sgurr nan Conbhairean, Sail Chaorainn Circular (Hard)
Another local hike that isn’t for the faint of heart is the tongue-twister, Carn Ghluasaid, Sgurr nan Conbhairean, Sail Chaorainn Circular… try saying that one after you’ve had a couple of drams!
Although this trail is still considered challenging, it is significantly shorter than the South Glen Shiel Ridge hike. At 17.2 km, with an elevation gain of 1,312m, you won’t work up quite as much of a sweat as the South Glen.
A popular route for runners and dog-walkers alike, expect to meet other wandering souls on the Carn Ghluasaid.
Landour Bakehouse – Cluanie Inn loop from Invergarry (Intermediate)
Those wanting a less step-heavy hike, as well as a visit to the famous Cluanie Inn, can bash out this hike in under 4 hours.
At roughly six and a half miles in length, and with an elevation gain of just 1,275ft, this hike can be enjoyed by less experienced hikers (providing health and mobility is up to scratch).
Perfect for those who wish to feel the Highland wind in their hair and then tuck into a hearty meal as a well-deserved reward.
Loch Cluanie Camping
Scotland is very relaxed with its rules about wild camping, which means visitors can more or less pitch up anywhere (provided it’s not on private property!).
Places that are open to the public, such as Loch Cluanie and its surrounding areas, are free to camp at, with the golden rule being to leave the area as clean and undisturbed as you found it.
However, those who prefer the convenient amenities and community spirit of a designated campsite can enjoy any of the following nearby spots:
- Doigh Nadair (30 acres of family-owned space which includes resident ponies, pigs, sheep, goats, and ducks).
- Badrallach Campsite (8 pleasant miles from the nearest main road, this lochside spot features 12 tent and motorhome pitches and some killer mountain views).
- The Loft Camping and Glamping (As one of the most well-loved camping spots in the area, this site allows you to choose from camping or glamping – whichever takes your fancy – all situated on the stunning East Grange Farm in Kinross)
- The Hideyhole Campsite (Designed for motorhomes only, and is a stone’s throw away from the crystal clear shores of the beautiful Moray Coast).
- Cairngorms Glamping and Camping Site – Fun fact: it’s a cardinal sin to visit this neck of the Scottish woods and not have at least a quick detour to Cairngorms National Park! Oh, and there are goats!
- Sinclair Bay Lodges – If camping isn’t quite what you had in mind, but you still wish to be at one with nature, why not indulge in the terribly glamorous glamping pods that overlook Sinclair Bay?! If that alone doesn’t sell it, there are also jacuzzis!
Watersports
Many of Scotland’s lochs are safe to enjoy a variety of watersports, including wild swimming, kayaking, surfing (for sea lochs), rafting, sailing, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
It is important to ensure safety at all times, as well as opting for wetsuits – even in the summertime. Those Highland ripples can be quite chilly!
Skiing
The 1000-metre-high hills of Loch Cluanie make the area ideal for a spot of skiing, with the South Glen Shiel Ridge being a particular place of interest for keen skiers.
For those looking to spend a few days or more in the area, The Cluanie Inn offers ‘ski-to-door’ access, meaning you can ski directly to and from your accommodation without needing to hire a car or use snow lifts or shuttles.
Loch Cluanie Swimming
Because Loch Cluanie is a man-made reservoir, it is particularly safe and pleasant for those with a love of wild swimming.
The waters are known to be calm, which isn’t the case with many of Scotland’s other lochs – especially the multitude of sea lochs, making it ideal for the different types of open water swimming.
This isn’t to say that the loch isn’t affected by currents and weather conditions, so caution must always be taken.
Where to Stay Near Loch Cluanie
Okay, so camping (or even glamping) isn’t for everyone, so if you favour something a little more convenient and with sturdier ceilings, some of these local Loch Cluanie accommodation are ready and waiting to open their doors to you.
Cluanie Inn
Located in Glenmoriston, this quaint white-painted building (that even features a traditional red telephone box outside!) features a plethora of room options, including family rooms, as well as a restaurant offering vegetarian and vegan meals.
Because the area is a skiing spot, the hotel offers a ‘ski-to-door’ access, and guests can also enjoy a drink or a meal in the outdoor restaurant dining area.
Each room features a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes, a hairdryer, towels, and free toiletries.
As for the food side of things, the restaurant serves Asian, Indian, and other international cuisines, as well as continental and buffet breakfasts.
Popular features:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Room service
- Free parking
- Bar
Images by Booking.com
The Linhay
Those looking for a self-catering holiday home can relish this stunning and peaceful building for just £90 per night.
Featuring 2 bedrooms and one bathroom, this modern property sleeps 5 – and is pet-friendly, for those planning on travelling with their four-legged friend!
Peace and quiet abounds with this scenic spot, which includes plenty of garden space for barbecues, picnics, and stargazing.
Those with a love of wildlife may peep some of the ‘locals’ wandering around including roe deer, red squirrels, and the variety of birds native to this area, such as crossbills, crested tits, and even white-tailed eagles.
Popular features:
- Free parking
- Patio/deck
- Barbecue grill
- Washing machine
- Kitchen
Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel
Those wanting to be closer to the more urban areas of Inverness, while still being under ten miles away from Loch Cluanie, will delight at this charming retreat, which is mere minutes away from Inverness Castle.
As well as a restaurant, coffee shop, and garden, guests can enjoy the local bars and shops nearby while kicking back every night in one of the hotel’s plush, huge beds.
Those planning on a spot of skiing can hire ski facilities here too.
Popular features:
- Bar
- Free parking
- Airport transfer
- 24/7 front desk
- Dry-cleaning service
Images by Booking.com
The Lovat
Fun fact: Glenmoriston is under ten miles away from the infamous Loch Ness, so those wanting to stay in this neck of the woods in hopes of catching a glimpse of the loch’s most elusive resident, Nessy, can do so from the comfort of The Lovat.
This spacious country farmhouse-style hotel is the epitome of comfort and tranquility, and boasts some spectacular views – some of which overlook the famous loch itself!
Popular features:
- Free parking
- Bar & restaurant
- Laundry and housekeeping services
- Free Wi-Fi
- Breakfast available
Places to Eat Near Loch Cluanie
If you’re anything like us, food is instrumental in ensuring a good day out anywhere!
Cluanie Bar & Kitchen
Located on the site of the Cluanie Inn, this eatery features ‘mountain-inspired’ cuisine, a well-stocked bar, and even a bakery and patisserie!
Landour Bakehouse
Who doesn’t love a baked good or three – especially after a day of hiking in the Highland wilderness?!
With recipes dating back to the early 1900s, these guys know their stuff.
FAQ
The total depth of Loch Cluanie is 37.5 metres, with a mean depth of 12.5 metres.
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