Kinloch Rannoch is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands that offers an escape into nature, full of history, and adventure. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or simply relaxing and taking in the views, there’s something for everyone here. In this guide, I’ll share some of the best things to do and spots to visit to help you plan a great visit to this peaceful part of Perthshire. The area has been completely bypassed by any major road construction which has left the village in a lovely peaceful spot without too many passing visitors (there’s only one way in, and one way out!) It’s a really special place that’s well worth a visit!
# 1 Explore Loch Rannoch
Loch Rannoch is a stunning freshwater loch in the depths of the Scottish Highlands. The landscape is spectacular, filled with rugged mountains everywhere you look. There’s an abundance of wildlife including deer and red squirrels in this area due to the lack of people around.
To fully explore the loch you can take the scenic drive around, or cycle the 22 mile circuit. Following the shoreline you can keep an eye out as you go for wildlife. The road is quiet so it’s perfect for cycling and there are plenty of places to stop along the way for a picnic as well as many photograph opportunities. As you make your way around the loch you will also see signboards as part of ‘The Clan Trail’ sharing information about the people who lived and farmed in the area as well as those who fought for the land during the highland clearances.
Get out on the water and explore from a different viewpoint, or if you’re feeling brave, get in it and enjoy a bit of wild swimming.
#2 Visit Rannoch Station and Explore Rannoch Moor
Rannoch Station is one of the most remote train stations in the UK. Experiencing Rannoch Moor by train is one of the most relaxing ways to see the rugged landscape of this area. The station itself is small but you’ll find a cosy tearoom there and I’ve heard the cakes are something you must try! There’s also a tiny visitors centre where you can visit to find out more about the remote station and the history of the area including the Jacobite rebellion and how the West Highland Line was built.
From Rannoch Station you can walk to Loch Laidon through the pine forests (about 3/4s of a mile each way), it’s absolutely gorgeous and if you’re lucky with the weather there’s sandy beaches to enjoy with incredible 360 degree views!
Rannoch Moor is one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe. It’s hard to put the scale of this place into words but as you stand and look across Rannoch Moor and realise there’s no road until you reach Glencoe you really start to appreciate the wilderness of Scotland’s highlands.
#3 Stroll Around Kinloch Rannoch Village
The village of Kinloch Rannoch is small but there are a handful of interesting shops including a local photography gallery called ‘The Shed Gallery’ which is jam packed with gorgeous prints of the local area!
Stop for a bite to eat at the village cafe and enjoy the quaint peaceful atmosphere. There are several walks you can do from the village itself, one of which I’ll detail below.
#4 Walk up Craig Varr from Kinloch Rannoch
If you’re looking for something to do which doesn’t require you to get the car out then the walk up to Craig Varr is something you don’t want to miss. It’s one of the many walking routes in Kinloch Rannoch. I climbed it at sunrise and got so lucky with the weather and experienced a cloud inversion. The walk isn’t too difficult, there are some steep sections so take your time, but you are seriously rewarded by the views.
#5 Hike Up Schiehallion
The prominent cone shaped mountain that is Schiehallion is one of Scotland’s most famous Munro’s (a Scottish mountain over 3000 feet high). Known as ‘Fairy Hill of the Caledonians’ the climb to the top of the 1083m peak begins from Braes of Foss car park (paid). It’s interestingly located in the geographic centre of Scotland so offers incredible views across Rannoch Moor to Glencoe and on a clear day you can even see right across to the Cairngorms. It’s one of the more popular Munros and you can find a detailed description of the route here.
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Kinloch Rannoch Accommodation
Despite being small, you won’t be short on options when it comes to choosing somewhere to stay in Kinloch Rannoch.
# 1 Loch Rannoch Hotel
The Loch Rannoch Hotel offers beautiful views, a spa to relax in after a long day on the hills and a couple of restaurants to dine at. It’s the perfect place to relax and wind down after a busy day exploring. The hotel boasts big open fires which are really cosy and a lovely place to completely relax with a glass of wine before heading up to your room.
#2 Kilvrecht Campsite
The campsite at Kinloch Rannoch is in such a lovely location alongside the edge of Loch Rannoch. It’s a basic campsite, with everything you need but completely immersed in nature. For pricing and more information click here.
#3 Tighnavon Glamping Pods
Eight cosy camping pods which each sleep four, located in the centre of the village have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Dogs are welcome and the site has bikes available for hire which you can use to cycle around Loch Rannoch.
I hope this guide has given you some ideas of things you can do whilst visiting Kinloch Rannoch, it really is a beautiful place, there’s something magical about it.
I just love Scotland!
Enjoy your trip!
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