FOLLOW THE ORCHY TO THE AWE! WONDERFUL PLACES TO STOP AND STARE AROUND LOCH AWE

Slicing through one of the west Highland’s most spectacular glens, rippling through historic villages and gushing into the splendour of Loch Awe, the river Orchy is a natural tour guide that will take you past a collection of this region’s hidden treats. It is well worth meandering along its course to discover them.

Bridge of Orchy

The river rumbles through this tiny hamlet, named after the beautiful stone bridge which crosses it. The West Highland Way walking route passes through and this is the gateway to more hiking country including Rannoch Moor, the Black Mount Estate, and the munros Ben Doran and Ben an Dothaidh

Glen Orchy

From Bridge of Orchy, you could travel via the A85 via Tyndrum towards Oban, but the alternative B8014 offers a slower, prettier alternative that follows the course of the river as it cuts through hills and rushes over the rocks. Stop at the historic iron bridge mid-way and watch white water whirl below you, or look among the trees to spot wildlife from pine martens to crossbills.

Dalmally

The river widens at Dalmally, where you enjoy take a restful seat (or a healthy snack) at the community orchard, visit the octagonal white Glenorchy and Innishael Church, where 26 clan chiefs of the Macgregors lie buried, or take a detour via the vibrant wool-craft hub at the station to Duncan ban Macintyre’s monument (signed from the station road), a memorial to the Gaelic poet which offers spectacular views across Loch Awe.

Kilchurn Castle

The Orchy joins Loch Awe just below Kilchurn Castle, a captivating ruin with high ramparts and lochside towers that repay exploration when they are open in the summer months. The castle was a stronghold for the Campbells in the 15th century but later became a government garrison. It is a flat, photogenic 10-minute walk from the car park.

Lochawe Village

Though its function is to allow vehicular access to power station vehicles, the road from Loch Awe to Cruachan Dam is also a steep but rewarding pedestrian route to one of Britain’s engineering marvels, with more memorable views (including of the Loch Awe’s islands) along the way.

Lochawe’s historic hotel was built when the railway line towards Oban stopped here, and while its elegant Victorian design might catch the eye, St Conan’s Kirk remains the village’s main attraction.

St Conan’s Kirk

Exceptional in both in style and surroundings, the kirk’s highlight is its elaborate south side over-looking the Loch. Time your visit to coincide with a concert, play or organ recital for an extra treat.