Top 12 Lakes around Alyth
Best lakes around Alyth, a town in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, are set amidst a landscape of natural beauty. The area is characterized by its picturesque setting, with various lochs offering diverse natural features. These bodies of water are often found in glacial basins or are man-made, contributing to the region's varied geography. The natural landscape provides habitats for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Alyth
- The most popular lakes is Laird's Loch, a forest lake surrounded by woodland in the Sidlaw Hills. From the loch, views extend over Perthshire, Angus, Dundee, and Fife.
- Another must-see spot is Auchintaple Loch, a man-made lake popular with walkers on the Cateran Trail. This area is rich in history, featuring remnants of an early chapel and the Lady Well.
- Visitors also love Loch Shandra, a man-made lake known for its fly fishing opportunities. This tranquil spot is appreciated for its historical roots and peaceful atmosphere.
- Alyth is known for man-made lakes, natural lochs, and nature reserves. The area offers a variety of lakes to explore, from those with historical significance to those important for wildlife.
- The lakes around Alyth are appreciated by the komoot community, with 18 upvotes and 12 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Auchintaple Loch
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Loch Shandra
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Laird's Loch
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From the loch, you will be afforded incredible views over Perthshire, Angus, Dundee and Fife. Look out for the stunning blue dragonflies whilst you're there.
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Loch of Lintrathen
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You can ride all around the loch on the road loop.
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Alyth Hill Summit and Viewpoint
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Other adventures around Alyth
Tips from the Community
Rising steeply from Alyth to 300 meters, the Hill of Alyth offers stunning views of Strathmore, the Sidlaw Hills, and the Cairngorm Mountains. At the summit, a Triangulation Point and commemorative pillar highlight the hill's connection to Alyth's commonty, a shared land used by parish inhabitants. Geologically, the hill is significant, formed from sedimentary and volcanic rocks shaped by glacial activity. The area also features healing wells, believed to have curative powers since pre-Christian times, and remains a symbol of community land rights, with a notable history of local disputes, including the 1948 reclamation of the hill by residents.
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This man-made loch, created by damming the burn flowing down the glen, is a peaceful spot renowned for its excellent fly fishing opportunities, where anglers can catch wild brown and rainbow trout. The loch's name is believed to stem from the Scottish Gaelic term "Seantruibh," meaning "Old farmtoun" or "settlement," reflecting the area's deep historical roots. This connection to the Gaelic past adds cultural significance to the loch, enhancing its charm alongside its natural beauty and recreational appeal.
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Auchintaple Loch, a popular spot for walkers on the Cateran Trail, features a boat house on its far side. Although man-made, the area is rich in history, with nearby remnants of an early chapel at Chapel Hillock. The site, marked by a turf-covered stone bank enclosing a hollow, contains several stones. Close by is the Lady Well, or Virgin Mary's Well, which still flows with clear water. Historically, this well, along with others in the region, was believed to have curative properties, attracting people seeking healing. The first Sabbath in May was thought to be the time when the waters were most powerful, and drinking from the well before sunrise was considered particularly beneficial.
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Very spread out hill top that is worth a wander. With the undulating surface, the little lakes and the snaking path I dare you to not loose your sense of direction. The western end has an old drovers route if you fancy pondering the olden days during your stroll.
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The narrow dirt path around the loch's southern edge is very scenic. In parts the path passes along the top of the dam wall - this is a man-made loch. A few gates to pass through. Pause at the boat house for photos and refreshments.
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Trig point and viewing compass. An undulating hilltop crisscrossed with paths - a sense of what's around the next corner. Very scenic 360-degree panoramic views. A small hill well worth the hike up.
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Two adjacent paths along the loch's north side: a tree root-laden dirt path near the loch edge and a much smoother path a few metres inland. Both paths give easy access to Northballo Hill to the west.
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Often difficult to see the loch from the road due to the trees; so take the opportunity when available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes around Alyth for wildlife spotting?
The Loch of Lintrathen is a significant site for birdlife, especially during winter, attracting greylag geese, whooper swans, tufted ducks, and even ospreys. It's managed as a nature reserve by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and has two hides, one of which is wheelchair accessible. Loch Clunie and Loch of Drumellie (Marlee Loch) are also known for various wildlife, including otters and wintering greylag geese at Drumellie.
Are there any lakes near Alyth with historical significance?
Yes, Auchintaple Loch, though man-made, is rich in history with remnants of an early chapel and the Lady Well, believed to have curative properties. Loch Clunie features a single island with the ruins of Clunie Castle, a 16th-century tower house linked to the Ogilvy family, offering a glimpse into Scotland's past.
What kind of recreational activities can I do at the lakes around Alyth?
The lakes offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy trout fishing at Loch of Lintrathen and Loch Shandra, or fish for brown trout, pike, and perch at Loch Clunie and Loch of Drumellie. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are popular at Loch Clunie and Loch of Drumellie, with some opportunities for swimming at Lintrathen and open water swimming at Drumellie. Circular trails around Lintrathen are great for walking or cycling.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Alyth?
Many of the lakes offer family-friendly experiences. Laird's Loch is a beautiful forest lake with easy paths. The Loch of Lintrathen nature reserve has accessible bird hides, making it suitable for families interested in wildlife. Loch Clunie and Loch of Drumellie also provide peaceful settings for strolls and gentle watersports.
What are the best lakes for walking or cycling near Alyth?
The Loch of Lintrathen has a circular trail perfect for walking or cycling, which also connects to the longer Cateran Trail. Quiet country roads around Loch Clunie are ideal for cycling, and easy strolls can be enjoyed along its tranquil shores. Auchintaple Loch is a popular spot for walkers on the Cateran Trail.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Alyth?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For birdwatching, winter is excellent at Loch of Lintrathen due to the large numbers of wintering birds like greylag geese. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and watersports, with breeding songbirds active at Lintrathen. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.
Are there any accessible options for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, the Loch of Lintrathen nature reserve has two wildlife hides, one of which is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy birdwatching comfortably.
What unique natural features can be found at the lakes?
Loch of Drumellie (Marlee Loch) is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation due to its exceptionally diverse aquatic vegetation, including rare species of pondweed and the internationally rare slender naiad. Loch of Lintrathen is also recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention and an SSSI.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes near Alyth?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Loch of Lintrathen offers trout fishing, managed by the Lintrathen Angling Club. Loch Shandra is renowned for excellent fly fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout. Loch Clunie and Loch of Drumellie are also popular for fishing, with pike and perch being common catches.
What are some nearby routes for outdoor activities around the lakes?
You can find various cycling and mountain biking routes in the area. For cycling, consider routes like the 'Loch of Lintrathen Nature Reserve & Backwater Reservoir loop' or the 'Loch of Lintrathen β Peel Farm CafΓ© and Farm Shop loop'. For mountain biking, options include the 'Alyth Town Centre β Alyth Parish Church loop'. You can explore more routes on the Cycling around Alyth or MTB Trails around Alyth guide pages.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Parking is generally available at designated locations around the lakes, particularly at popular spots like Loch Clunie. Visitors are encouraged to use these areas and respect the natural environment.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Alyth?
Many of the walking trails and areas around the lochs are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves like Loch of Lintrathen, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
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