Top 20 Lakes around Glenurquhart
Best lakes around Glenurquhart are situated in a picturesque glen in the Scottish Highlands, offering diverse aquatic landscapes. The region is characterized by its prominent lochs, including the vast Loch Ness and the tranquil Loch Meiklie, alongside smaller, more secluded options. These bodies of water contribute to a dramatic natural environment, featuring ancient forests and mountains. The area provides opportunities for exploring natural beauty and historical sites.
Best lakes around Glenurquhart
- The most popular lakes is Coire Loch, a…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Ruins at Loch Ma Stac
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Coire Loch
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Foyers Gravel Beach, Loch Ness
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Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin
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Glen Cannich Road to Loch Mullardoch Dam
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Popular around Glenurquhart
Affric Kintail Way – Hike across the magical Northwest Highlands
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Cycling around Glenurquhart
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Tips from the Community
Quite nice, but don't expect too much—there are completely different prospects! After all, there's a good chance you'll be pretty much alone here.
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A 19th century shooting lodge and boathouse on the Corrimony estate. When it was built, the level of the loch was higher, at least up to the level of the ground floor, which was the boathouse section. The two upper floors were the accommodation. There is possibly another boathouse ruin where the original shore of the loch was, plus the remains of a causeway for access to what was an island. The level of the loch was lowered when the Glenmoriston hydro scheme was built in the 1950s.
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Beautiful little lochan and suprisingly enough THE place in Scotland to see dragonflies and damsel flies in July and August!
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single track road winding up The Valley to the dead end at the dam. Both times I have ridden this road it’s been a perfect bluebird day and it’s hard to beat for a day out on the bike.
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Encircled by lovely Scots pine and boasting fine Highland scenery, Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin is a gorgeous body of water. A minor road runs along its northern shore, while forestry roads take the Affric Kintail long-distance trail along its southern shore. Its islands were formed when the water levels were raised in the 1950s as part of a hydro electric scheme. Beyond the loch's western end, there are no more roads and Glen Affric becomes increasingly remote.
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A beautiful lake with a ruin on the slopes of Meall a Chràthaich. This is located at the high point of the trail connecting the Great Glen to Cannich. Rather than spend a night in the ruin here, the Bothy to the North, Corrimony Bothy, may offer a better night's sleep.
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This gravel beach extends into Loch Ness where the famous Nessie monster is said to live. It's a pleasant place for a stop on a walk and gives lovely views down the length of the Loch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most picturesque and tranquil lakes in Glenurquhart?
For a peaceful retreat, Loch Meiklie is highly recommended. Described as a beautiful sheet of water surrounded by woodlands and gentle hills, it's perfect for photography, picnicking, and wildlife watching. Another serene spot is Coire Loch, a magical small lochan nestled within woodland, where dragonflies are abundant in warmer months.
Are there any historical sites or ruins near the lakes in Glenurquhart?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the Ruins at Loch Ma Stac, which include a 19th-century shooting lodge and boathouse. Additionally, the iconic Urquhart Castle, perched on Loch Ness, offers stunning views and a rich history dating from the 13th to 16th centuries. You can learn more about its turbulent past on Wikipedia.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Glenurquhart?
Glenurquhart's lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Meall Fuar-Mhonaidh — A hill above Loch Ness' or the 'Urquhart Castle – View of Loch Ness loop from Drumnadrochit'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking and MTB trails available. Explore more options on the Hiking around Glenurquhart or MTB Trails around Glenurquhart guide pages.
Are there family-friendly spots around the lakes in Glenurquhart?
Absolutely! Coire Loch is noted as a family-friendly spot, perfect for a picnic. Another great option is Foyers Gravel Beach, Loch Ness, which offers pleasant views and is a nice place for a stop on a walk with the family.
Where can I find unique viewpoints of the lakes in Glenurquhart?
For stunning vistas, consider visiting Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin, which is encircled by beautiful Scots pine and offers fine Highland scenery. Another excellent viewpoint is along the Glen Cannich Road to Loch Mullardoch Dam, where the views as you crest the dam wall are particularly sensational.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Glenurquhart?
The warmer months are ideal for enjoying the lakes, especially for wildlife spotting like dragonflies at Coire Loch. However, the dramatic landscape of the Scottish Highlands offers beauty year-round, with ancient forests and mountains providing a wild backdrop in any season.
Are there any specific trails or routes that pass by the lakes?
Yes, the Great Glen Way, a long-distance trail, passes through the Loch Ness area. Additionally, parts of the Affric-Kintail Way are accessible near Loch Meiklie. For specific routes, you can check the Hiking around Glenurquhart guide.
What makes Loch Ness so famous, apart from its size?
Loch Ness is globally renowned for the enduring legend of the Loch Ness Monster, 'Nessie,' with over 1100 recorded sightings. Drumnadrochit, a village in Glenurquhart, is a hub for 'Nessie' tourism, featuring the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. You can read more about the legend on Visit Inverness Loch Ness.
Can I find any beaches or accessible shorelines around the lakes?
Yes, Foyers Gravel Beach, Loch Ness is a notable spot. This gravel beach extends into Loch Ness, offering pleasant views down the length of the loch and a nice place for a stop.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?
The tranquil environments around the lakes are home to various wildlife. At Coire Loch, dragonflies are abundant during warmer months, and the rarer Pine Marten is said to inhabit the area. Loch Meiklie is also an excellent spot for general wildlife watching.
Are there options for longer cycling tours that incorporate the lakes?
Yes, for those looking for longer cycling adventures, there are challenging gravel biking routes available. Examples include the 'View of Loch Ness – Invermoriston Old Bridge loop from Drumnadrochit' and the 'Gravel Road to Fort Augustus – Invermoriston Old Bridge loop from Drumnadrochit'. You can find more details on the Gravel biking around Glenurquhart guide page.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Glenurquhart?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the lakes. From the dramatic and legendary Loch Ness with its historical castle to the serene and picturesque Loch Meiklie, and the secluded charm of smaller lochans like Coire Loch, the area caters to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking outdoor activities or simply a peaceful escape amidst stunning Highland scenery.
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