Best lakes around Kinloch are found in a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including islands, woodlands, and numerous lochs. This area offers opportunities for wildlife observation, with seals, otters, and sea eagles present. The terrain features craggy sides, dark blue waters, and extensive woodlands, providing a setting for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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A very nice welcome on a heavy rainy day. It made our day perfect.
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A small loch remotely located at the head of Glen Meavaig in North Harris. Stunning location for a picnic or to just enjoy the unique landscapes of Scotland's Outer Hebrides.
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One of the smaller islands in the Outer Hebrides Scalpay has been an important fishing and seafaring island for hundreds of years. There are two good harbours and the Eilean Glas lighthouse which was first built in 1788. The island is a popular wildlife spotting and photography site, look out for seals, otter and sea eagles as well as many other sea birds. The bridge was built in 1998 making the crossing to the mainland much faster and easier and helping the islands community which was in decline. The island has been community owned since 2011 and is part of the North Harris Community Trust. There is a community shop/cafe in Buth Scalpaigh which is well worth a visit.
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Scottish Lochs are a thing of legend. Over 30,000 lochs are found across the country, shimmering on the horizon. This stretch of the Hebridean Way is flanked by lochs either side as you ride – spectacular!
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The saying goes that a loch is as deep as the mountains around it. If that is true, then Loch a'Mhorghain must be very deep. On the southern edge of the loch Sgaoth Iosal towers above the waters. With craggy sides and dark blue waters, the loch is a stunning place to have lunch or camp for the night.
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A beautiful stretch of woodland covering 155 acres (63 ha), Aline Community Woodland has a lake, play area and picnic tables. You will ride along a pretty boardwalk through the forest, spotting white-tailed eagles along the way. The birds bred here successfully after their reintroduction. You may also spot red deer darting through the woodland and otters swimming in the waters.
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Charming route overlooking a plain with many small lakes.
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Perfect to stretch your legs! Beautiful boardwalks, a lake, picnic tables and a playground - it's all there!
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The lakes around Kinloch are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You can find areas with craggy sides and dark blue waters, such as Loch a'Mhorghain, as well as extensive woodlands like the Aline Community Woodland Boardwalk and Lake. Many lochs are flanked by scenic plains, offering spectacular views, as seen around the Lochs of Mòinteach Leòdhais.
Yes, the Kinloch area is excellent for wildlife observation. At Scalpay Island, you might spot seals, otters, and sea eagles. The Aline Community Woodland Boardwalk and Lake is another prime location where white-tailed eagles have successfully bred, and you may also see red deer and otters.
The Aline Community Woodland Boardwalk and Lake is particularly family-friendly. It features a beautiful boardwalk, a lake, picnic tables, and a play area, making it ideal for stretching legs and enjoying nature with children.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, road cycling, and running. For example, there are challenging cycling routes like the 'Loch a'Mhorghain – The Lochs Memorial loop' and moderate running trails such as the 'Lochanan Lacasdail – Laxadale Lochs loop'. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Kinloch, Road Cycling Routes around Kinloch, and Running Trails around Kinloch guides.
Yes, the area around Kinloch offers excellent hiking. Lochanan Lacasdail, a cluster of interconnected freshwater lochs, provides a perfect scene for hiking. The Kinloch area in general is known for its mountain biking and walking trails, including sections of the Great Lake Trail and the W2K and K2K tracks, offering magnificent views.
For breathtaking scenery, consider visiting Loch a'Mhorghain, known for its craggy sides and dark blue waters. The Lochs of Mòinteach Leòdhais also offer spectacular views as you traverse the Hebridean Way. Additionally, Lochanan Lacasdail is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, ideal for observation.
While the guide doesn't explicitly mention designated wild swimming spots for all lakes, the clear waters of Lake Taupō (in Kinloch, New Zealand) are popular for swimming, and its pristine quality makes it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip. For the Scottish lochs, local advice should be sought regarding safety and regulations for wild swimming.
The best time to visit often depends on your preferred activities. Summer is generally ideal for water sports and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. For hiking and exploring trails, spring and autumn can offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Winter conditions can be challenging, especially for more remote areas.
While the primary focus is on natural beauty, Scalpay Island has historical significance as a fishing and seafaring island for hundreds of years, featuring the Eilean Glas lighthouse built in 1788. In the broader Kinloch Rannoch area (Scotland), you can find historical sites like the ruins of Don Alister House and old pack horse bridges.
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning natural beauty, the peaceful ambiance, and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. The chance to spot local wildlife, explore woodlands, and enjoy scenic views of the lochs are often highlighted as favorite aspects of the Kinloch lake experience.
At the Aline Community Woodland Boardwalk and Lake, you'll find convenient facilities including picnic tables and a play area. For other lakes, amenities may vary, so it's advisable to check specific locations if you require particular facilities.


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