Best lakes around Contin are primarily freshwater lochs nestled within a landscape of birch and oakwoods, characteristic of the Scottish Highlands. The region features both natural lochs and those integrated into hydroelectric schemes, offering diverse natural attractions. These lochs provide opportunities for walking, fishing, and observing local wildlife. The area's terrain includes forested hills and valleys, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Meig dam was built in 1957 as part of a series of post-war infrastructure projects led by the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board (NoSHEB). The reservoir is part of the Conon Hydro Scheme.
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Loch na Crann is a very small loch in Highland at an elevation of approximately 118 metres. The shoreline of Loch na Crann is approximately 1,357 kilometres around and the depth of Loch na Crann is relatively shallow. Loch na Crann is a freshwater loch.
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A bit bumpy, but a great decend nonetheless.
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This path is heavily overgrown. In the middle is a gate - walkers can easily path the gate through a passage. Cyclists must open the gate - it is not easy to open - but with some stenghs it is possible. The gate is not locked. Nice view over Loch Ussie.
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This descent is worth the steep ascent required to reach it. You will bike past Loch Orrin on the way, which is a part of a hydroelectric scheme, and keep your eyes peeled to spot the beautiful Orrin falls as you follow the river Eastwards.
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A wonderfully peaceful spot set amidst densely forested hills. Great for a picnic stop and watching the local wildlife, although very popular with midges over the summer months.
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Quiet little Loch with an old boathouse. A nice place to stop and take a moment.
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Scotland is famous for its dams and hydropower and this is a great example. It dams the Meig river to create Loch Meig. Great views all around.
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For a peaceful experience, visit Loch na Crann (Lake of the Trees). It's a quiet, small loch with an old boathouse, set amidst densely forested hills, perfect for a picnic and observing local wildlife. Loch Achilty also offers a tranquil setting with fine views and quiet picnic spots among silver birch and heather.
Yes, Loch Meig is an excellent destination for anglers, known for its large brown trout and perch populations. The local angling club actively stocks brown trout, and both boat hire and good bank fishing are available, particularly at the west end. The fishing season runs from April 1st to September 30th.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, such as the 'View of Rogie Falls – Rogie Falls loop from Contin' or the 'Loch na Crann (Lake of the Trees) – View of Strathconon loop from Contin'. For more challenging options, there are running trails like the 'Contin Forest and View Rock Circuit' and gravel biking routes, including the 'Rogie Falls – Loch na Crann (Lake of the Trees) loop from Contin'. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, running trails, and gravel biking guides.
Loch Meig is notable for its accessibility, featuring a custom-built 'Wheely Boat' which makes it accessible for wheelchair users, allowing them to enjoy fishing on the loch.
Summer brings wildflowers and butterflies, while autumn offers brilliant colors from the mixed forests reflecting in the calm waters. The fishing season at Loch Meig runs from April to September. Generally, late spring to early autumn provides the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, though midges can be prevalent in summer.
Loch Achilty is an accessible spot for open-water swimming, featuring a shallow, beach-style entry into the water.
Yes, the Orrin Dam is an impressive concrete structure that forms a reservoir and offers great views down the Glen. It's a significant part of the Conon Hydro-Electric Power Scheme. You can also bike past Loch Orrin and spot the beautiful Orrin Falls.
The lakes and surrounding areas are home to various wildlife. Loch na Crann is a great spot for watching local wildlife. Loch Achilty is known to host char fish, while Loch Meig is abundant with brown trout and perch. The forested areas around the lochs also support diverse birdlife and other woodland creatures.
Loch na Crann (Lake of the Trees) is categorized as family-friendly, offering a peaceful spot for a picnic. Its quiet nature and scenic surroundings make it suitable for families looking for a relaxed outing.
Loch Achilty is a small but deep freshwater loch known for its picturesque setting within birch and oakwoods. It features a charming pebble beach with quiet picnic spots. Uniquely, it has no visible outflow, with water believed to travel through an underground tunnel to the River Rosay. It's also home to char fish and offers a shallow entry for open-water swimming.
Many lochs offer scenic views. Loch na Crann (Lake of the Trees) provides fine views over the water to the surrounding hills. The Orrin Dam offers impressive views down the Glen, and there's also a View of Loch Ussie, particularly when looking out from Loch na Crann.
Yes, Loch Meig was formed by the construction of the Meig Dam in 1957 as part of the Conon Hydro-Electric Power Scheme. Loch Orrin is also part of a hydroelectric scheme, and you can bike past it on routes like the Descent from Hydro Bothy to Orrin Dam.


Still not found your perfect lake around Contin? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.