The best walks and hikes around Loch of the Lowes

The area is a designated wildlife reserve, famous for its breeding ospreys, best viewed from the Scottish Wildlife Trust visitor centre. The surrounding woodlands are home to red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers, and fallow deer. On the loch itself, you might spot beavers, otters, and various wildfowl like goldeneyes and great crested grebes.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the paths around Dunkeld and Loch of the Lowes. However, as it is a wildlife reserve with ground-nesting birds and other sensitive species, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control or on a lead, especially during the breeding season from April to August.

Absolutely. The area offers several gentle walks suitable for families. A great option is the Birnam loop via Birnam Riverside Path, which is a relatively flat and short walk along the scenic River Tay.

There isn't a complete circular path right around the loch itself. However, many routes connect Dunkeld to the loch and can be walked as a circuit. The Fungarth Path is a popular trail that links the town to the visitor centre and can be incorporated into a longer loop walk starting and ending in Dunkeld.

Hiking is possible year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Summer (June-August) provides the best chance to see the famous ospreys. Autumn offers stunning colours in Perthshire's 'Big Tree Country'. Spring sees the return of migratory birds and blooming wildflowers, while winter can be crisp and quiet, with fewer crowds.

Dunkeld has several public car parks that serve as good starting points for local hikes. The main car parks are located in the centre of town. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as spaces can fill up quickly.

Yes, while many paths are gentle, there are more strenuous options. For a tougher climb with rewarding panoramic views, the hike up Birnam Hill is a popular choice. For a longer, more demanding route near the loch, consider the Mill Dam – Mill Dam Lochan loop from Loch of the Lowes, which involves more elevation gain.

Both are excellent but offer different experiences. Loch of the Lowes is focused on wildlife and lochside views, with paths through open country and woodland. The Hermitage, a highly-regarded National Trust site, is famous for its giant Douglas firs, the dramatic Black Linn Falls, and its historic folly, Ossian's Hall. It offers a more sheltered, forest-focused walk.

This is a series of well-maintained and waymarked trails connecting the towns of Dunkeld and Birnam with the surrounding countryside, including Loch of the Lowes. The network offers a variety of routes, from riverside strolls along the Tay to woodland walks and more challenging hill paths. You can find a leaflet and map on the Perth and Kinross Council website.

Definitely. The visitor centre at Loch of the Lowes provides excellent, sheltered views for wildlife photography. For landscape views, the Fungarth Path offers lovely vistas over the loch and rolling hills. For a more dramatic viewpoint, Pine Cone Point in the nearby Craigvinean Forest provides breathtaking panoramas over the River Tay.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 120 routes mapped on komoot in the region. These range from easy, short loops to moderate riverside walks and more difficult hill climbs, ensuring there's a path for every fitness level.

The routes around Loch of the Lowes are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of woodland and lochside scenery, and the abundant opportunities for spotting wildlife. The peaceful atmosphere of the reserve is a frequently mentioned highlight.