Top 5 Lakes around Crieff

For easy walking, the Loch Turret East Shore Trail is a well-made 4x4 track offering scenic views. Loch Turret also has tracks along both sides suitable for most abilities. For more challenging hikes, you can tackle Munros like Ben Vorlich near Loch Earn or Ben Chonzie, accessible from Loch Turret. The St Fillans Viewpoint Circular and sections of the Glen Ogle Trail are also popular around Loch Earn.

The lakes offer a wide range of activities. Loch Earn is a hub for water sports like sailing, paddleboarding, canoeing, and waterskiing, along with fishing for trout. Loch Monzievaird provides paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes, as well as foot golf and frisbee golf. Beyond the water, you can find numerous walking, running, and cycling routes. For mountain biking, explore trails like 'The Glenturret Distillery – Path to Loch Turret loop' or 'Lady Mary's Walk' near Crieff, which you can find more about in the MTB Trails around Crieff guide. Gravel biking options are also available, such as the 'Loch Earn Railway Path – The Glenturret Distillery loop' detailed in the Gravel biking around Crieff guide.

Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Loch Turret has tracks along its sides that are suitable for most abilities, making it a good choice for families. Loch Monzievaird provides open areas for relaxation and play, along with activities like foot golf and frisbee golf. The surrounding woodlands also offer lovely walks. Many trails around the lochs are dog-friendly, but always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock.

The lakes boast diverse natural beauty. Loch Earn is known for its depth and unusual 'tidal system' or seiche, and its shores offer views of Munros like Ben Vorlich. Loch Turret, a reservoir, provides dramatic views of surrounding hills, especially from the Glen Turret Dam. The area around Loch Turret is also excellent for nature observation, with opportunities to spot ground-nesting birds, butterflies, and ospreys. The vibrant colors of the water and flora are particularly striking during certain seasons.

Yes, the region is rich in history. Loch Monzievaird features the remains of Castle Cluggy, an ancient fortress, and an artificial island that once served as a prison. A large mound at the west end of the loch is a burial site for plague victims from the reign of Charles I. Nearby, Ochtertyre House is a Georgian Category A listed building. Around Loch Earn, you can find historical sites like the 16th-century Edinample Castle and Ardvorlich House. The Glenturret Distillery, established in 1775, is located below Loch Turret and offers a cultural diversion.

The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer warmer weather ideal for water sports and longer daylight hours for hiking. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the surrounding flora, making it a beautiful time for walks. Wildlife spotting is also excellent during these seasons. While winter offers a different, often serene beauty, some trails might be more challenging due to weather conditions.

The lakes are generally accessible by car. For Loch Turret, there is a car park below the dam, which serves as a good starting point for exploring the loch and accessing Ben Chonzie. Loch Monzievaird is very accessible, located just two miles west of Crieff. Specific parking details for each loch may vary, but generally, there are designated areas. Public transport options to the more remote lochs might be limited, so checking local bus schedules or planning for car travel is advisable.

The lakes and their surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Around Loch Earn, you might spot kingfishers, herons, cormorants, ospreys, and red deer. Loch Turret is known for ground-nesting birds, butterflies, and ospreys. The woodlands around Loch Monzievaird also provide a habitat for various species, offering opportunities for peaceful nature observation.

While specific cafes directly on the shores of every loch might be limited, the nearby towns and villages offer options. For example, the Glenturret Distillery, located below Loch Turret, provides a historical and cultural experience that often includes visitor facilities. Crieff itself, being a charming town, has various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. It's always a good idea to check in advance for specific opening times and availability.

Visitors appreciate the dramatic views of the surrounding hills, especially at Loch Turret Reservoir and from the Glen Turret Dam. The well-made tracks like the Loch Turret East Shore Trail are favored for easy walking and enjoying the scenery. The komoot community highlights the area's appeal for outdoor activities and scenic beauty, with many upvotes and photos showcasing the natural landscapes.

While not explicitly designated swimming spots, some visitors do enjoy taking a dip in the lochs. For instance, the Gravel section past Loch Meallbrodden mentions that some have been known to take a swim there. Always exercise caution, be aware of water temperatures, currents, and any local regulations before entering the water.