Loch Duntelchaig
This walk visits Loch Duntelchaig in Inverness-shire in the Scottish Highlands. The scenic freshwater lake is also the primary reservoir for Inverness.
At the south western end of the loch you can follow a country lane to the ancient hut circles which sit on the western side above the water. It's a lovely peaceful place with fine views over the water to the surrounding hills.
The loch is just to the east of Loch Ness so it's easy to continue your waterside walking in the area. You can visit Dores Beach on the eastern side or pick up the epic Great Glen Way on the western side of the world famous loch. The lovely RSPB nature reserve at Loch Ruthven is also just a mile to the south. It's an excellent place for wildlife with Slavonian grebes, osprey and black-throated divers to see.
Postcode
IV2 6TX - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsLoch Duntelchaig Ordnance Survey Map
- view and print off detailed OS map
Loch Duntelchaig Open Street Map
- view and print off detailed map
Loch Duntelchaig OS Map
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Loch Duntelchaig Open Street Map
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
On the western side of Loch Ness you'll find the community run Abriachan Forest. The expansive forest area includes a school which encourages learning in the outdoors and health and well being through exercise. The site includes around 40km of trails for walkers while mountain bikers can enjoy a fairly easy 3km green loop and a longer 5km blue trail. You can also visit the smaller Loch Laide in this area too.
To the north of the loch there's one of the historic highlights of the area at Culloden Battlefield. There's a circular walking trail here which explores the site of the famous battle of 1746. The site includes an informative visitor centre where you can learn all about this fascinating conflict.
The Inverness Canal and Forest Walk will take you along the canal before heading to Craig Phadrig Forest, which lies just to the west of the city. The forest is a peaceful place for walks and includes a viewpoint with an Iron Age Hillfort.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Scottish Highlands Walks page.