How To Visit Loch Awe | A Complete Guide
Things to see, places to stay & Munros to hike around beautiful Loch Awe.
Loch Awe.
Despite being the longest loch in Scotland, I’ll admit, I largely ignored Loch Awe for the longest time. Situated in the area of Argyll & Bute, and a a 60-minute drive from bustling Oban, Loch Awe remains relatively unexplored. Yet take the time to stop here and you’ll experience so many incredible and unique things to do all around Loch Awe - from ancient castles to unforgettable wild landscapes.
For me, all it took was an outdoorsy weekend spent exploring its alluringly peaceful shores to establish Loch Awe as a magical place.
On our trip around Loch Awe we discovered so many wonderful and unique things to do. There are mountains and glens with the most incredible hikes and stunning vistas. And forest trails through ancient woodland that offer walkers and cyclists the chance to be immersed in nature, passing by waterfalls and rivers in this lush landscape.
This summer, I spent 3 days on a mini road trip around Loch Awe exploring its many gems. In this post, I’m sharing how to plan a trip to Loch Awe, including where to stay, eat, and hike. And of course, the most unique and very best things to do around Loch Awe.
What to expect at Loch Awe
A haven for hikers, nature lovers and those in search of a slower pace alike, Loch Awe is defined by a wonderfully wild shoreline.
Soaring mountains seem to sweep up from the water and are mirrored in the lochs glassy surface. Quaint villages stud the shoreline, hubs for walkers and city-escapees. The beauty of Loch Awe is undeniable. The loch itself, the longest in Scotland, stretches 41km across the length of Argyll and Bute. Thick oakwood forests surround the shore, and secluded pebbly beaches overlook the lochs scattered islands and faraway peaks. When the sun shines, the sparkle of the water and the endless views are simply breath taking.
And whilst every landscape is jaw droppingly beautiful, the choice of accommodation - from off-grid cabins to boutique B&Bs - is also something special. Meanwhile, cosy restaurants hidden inside inns and small hotels serve local produce and seafood plucked fresh from surrounding west coast waters.
What became clear to us is that this beautiful area still retains its quiet, isolated charm. Even though coach tours stop at Kilchurn Castle, and the bustling harbour town of Oban is only a short drive away, it is entirely possible to wander into the hills around Loch Awe and be totally alone; this is a place where tranquillity and adventure seamlessly meet.
Plan a Loch Awe trip and you’ll get a true sense of what makes this part of Scotland so special.
getting to Loch Awe
By Car
As Loch Awe is Scotland’s longest loch, there’s a lot to explore, with pretty villages and stunning views dotted along both shorelines. Whilst you can get to Loch Awe by public transport, having your own car will allow you to fully explore Loch Awe and venture into its more remote spots.
If you are driving, then you have the choice of two roads to reach Loch Awe:
The A84, on the eastern side of the Trossachs National Park. It passes through Lochearnhead and Crianlarich on its way to Dalmally then Loch Awe.
The A82, which follows the beautiful scenery and winding western shore of Loch Lomond on its way north.
By Train
However, it is possible to get to Lochawe village by taking a direct train from Glasgow. Loch Awe station is on the West Highland Line, departing Glasgow Queen Street for Oban. Trains run regularly and a single ticket (at time of writing) cost around £26. The journey takes just over 2 hours and passes through the gorgeous scenery of the Trossachs National Park.
Loch Awe Villages, Amenities + Nearby Towns
Dotted around the beautiful banks of Loch Awe are a handful of small villages and rural communities, many no more than a few homes or farm dwellings. However, there’s still places to stop for snacks, lunch, or a quick tea break. And if you’re looking to visit (or stay) somewhere a little less remote, there are also small towns close by.
Dalavich: This village on the western shore of Loch Awe is a thriving, friendly community. Located between Kilchrenan and Taynuilt, tranquil Dalavich sits on the waters edge, with forest trails perfect for walking and cycling and excellent spots for swimming. In the village is the lovely Wild Rowan cafe which doubles as a small shop and post office - pop in for a delicious lunch. There’s also a small restaurant and bar in Dalavich, perfect if you’re staying in the nearby forest cabins.
Lochawe village: The village of Lochawe sits on the northern tip, on the A85 - the road to Oban and the Western Isles. Lochawe village is tiny but does have a small shop selling essentials, a hotel, places to eat, and train station. Surrounding Lochawe village is a breathtaking landscape packed with historical sites - from Lochawe it’s only a few miles to Kilchurn Castle, St Conan’s Kirk, the Hollow Mountain, and the rugged Loch Awe Munros.
Inveraray: On the southern side of Loch Awe is the lovely town of Inveraray (driving time 20-minutes). It’s a serene little place on the banks of Loch Fyne with quaint houses, an ancient castle, and lots of options for eating out. Order oysters at the famous Loch Fyne restaurant and stay at the 250 year old Inveraray Inn for fabulous waterside views and traditional rooms.
Oban: If atmosphere and evening buzz is more your thing, then Oban is your best option. A lively harbour town, Oban is worth a blog all on its own. About an hour’s drive north of Loch Awe, Oban is packed with shops, supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, chip shops, bars, and coffee shops. There’s also a whisky distillery and a chocolate café that do THE BEST hot chocolate and waffles drenched in cocoa goodness. Check out Perle Hotel, The Scot and The Ranald for accommodation options.
Lochgilphead: Around a 45 minute drive from the southern tip of Loch Awe is the small town of Lochgilphead. A sleepy place, there’s not a huge amount to see but you will find a well-stocked supermarket (Co-op and smaller Spar), petrol station, bank, and a handful of shops.
The Best Loch Awe Hotels & Cabins
It’s fair to say the Loch Awe area has an amazing range of accommodation, from boutique hotels to cosy inns and options to suit all budgets. This is a friendly place so expect a relaxed, informal vibe in most hotels who seem happy to welcome outdoorsy folks in hiking boots.
Some hotels are located on the banks of Loch Awe itself, some a little further afield. Due to the remoteness of the area, you’ll also find that most hotels have their own in-house restaurants. Read my top-picks of the best places to stay around Loch Awe, like the low-key but lovely Ben Cruachan Inn.
Other top accommodation around Loch Awe are:
Loch Awe Inn: The Kilchrenan Inn a laid back luxe in a beautifully refurbished traditional inn.
Loch Awe Cabins: Lochaweside Forest Cabins these Loch Awe lodges are beautifully styed Scandi-style forest cabins with hot tubs, hidden amongst the woods.
Loch Awe Hotel: Taychreggan Hotel this Loch Awe hotel has roaring fires and fine dining in an idyllic little spot on the waters edge.
The best Loch Awe pubs
After a big day outdoors, nothing beats a well-earned beer or G&T. Whilst there aren’t many pubs around Loch Awe, those I did find are wonderfully cosy and friendly - and serve a whole range of beers, gins, and whiskies. They also tend to be part of small hotels. So, if time and budget allow, then plan your visit to include an overnight stay.
My favourite Loch Awe pubs are:
Kilchrenan Inn: A warm and friendly bar with an impressive wine list. There’s a real focus too on Scottish produce, so a good place to sample local beer and ale. Inside is luxe, with just enough tradition to keep things cosy.
Ben Cruachan Inn: This place takes its drinks seriously – especially whisky. There’s an extensive single malt menu, alongside gins, wine, and beers. When the sun is shining, there’s a decked beer garden. Or in winter make a beeline for the slouchy sofa and roaring fire.
The Best Time to visit Loch Awe
Personally I think the best time to visit Loch Awe is either the spring or autumn months, when the air is clear and the villages quiet.
If you’re keen to explore the hills, then both spring and autumn are good options, when you can generally spend time in the Loch Awe hills under clear blue skies (but always check the Loch Awe forecast).
Best Loch Awe walks
Being outdoors is a big part of the Loch Awe experience. The best way to enjoy the landscapes and viewpoints is exploring on foot, on one of the area’s walks.
Woodland walk | The very accessible Tall Trees Trail at Dalavich is a real beauty. Perfect for those who want to stretch their legs but not scale a summit, this hour-long woodland circuit is waymarked. Visits waterfalls, soaring trees in Mackenzie’s Grove, and the remains of an ancient crannog before detouring to the shores of Loch Awe.
Mountain hike | If you’re looking for an altogether more challenging walk, then it has to be Ben Cruachan and Stob Diamh – the Loch Awe Munros circuit. If you have plenty time then you can bag one Munro (Ben Cruachan) in around 5-hours. Alternatively, the whole 14km circuit will take around 9-hours. These mountains aren’t for the faint-hearted, with steep ascents, a bit of a scramble, and a ridge, so this hike might not be suitable for everyone. However, travellers who make the effort to hike here are rewarded with spectacular views.
I’ve shared all my advice and tips for the Ben Cruachan hike in this blog post: How to Hike Ben Cruachan.
The best things to do around Loch Awe
Whether you’re on a day trip or spending a weekend exploring Loch Awe, there’s plenty of historic sites and walking trails to explore. I’ve shared the best things to do around Loch Awe below:
1. Explore shore-to-shore
Driving around Loch Awe makes for an incredible mini-road trip. In fact, driving the entire Loch Awe loop is a fantastic way to explore the woodlands, communities, remote villages, and more remote spots that make this part of Argyll so special.
When planning a trip to Loch Awe, it’s best to split the area into the east and west shores. Each side is well connected with a great road at either ‘tip’ (the A85 on the east and A816 on the west), whilst venturing along the shoreline means navigating miles of single-track and undulating winding roads. It’s completely worth the slow drive to explore the 60 miles of shoreline and experience the more remote spots and villages.
A circuit of Loch Awe takes around 2 hours to drive (without stops) so give yourself plenty of time to explore.
2. Go swimming in Loch Awe
Loch Awe is perfect for outdoor - or wild - swimming. At 25 miles in length, it’s the longest loch in Scotland - easily accessible but unspoilt, the freshwater is beautifully clear. There’s plenty of secluded spots and pebbly beaches along the shoreline for a swim (my favourite is at Dalavich). And whilst Loch Awe isn’t tidal, it can be choppy, so stick close to the shore if you have any doubts.
3. Visit St Conan’s Kirk
Located in Lochawe Village, lovers of architecture should make time to visit St Conan’s Kirk - a beautiful if somewhat unconventional church. The building itself is stunning, whilst the interior showcases an eccentric but rather magical mixture of styles.
Entry is free, but I’d encourage you to donate and help towards the ongoing restoration project. There are beautiful lochside gardens to stroll around (keep an eye out for the otter statues), and a cute tearoom next door serving homemade scones. Do note the opening times. Normally they’re between 9am and 6pm (5pm in winter) but be aware - this is an active church with events and weddings so access inside is limited at times.
4. Visit the Hollow Mountain
A few miles from Lochawe Village is the Hollow Mountain – take a tour into the hydro-electric power station hidden underneath the Ben Cruachan mountains for a subterranean ‘James Bond’ style experience.
The tour lasts 30 minutes and is definitely a unique and interesting experience. Tours run throughout the day and tickets cost £7.50 per adult – you can find details on the website. There’s also a café on site.
5. Loch Awe boat hire
For a whole new perspective on the Loch Awe landscape, hire a boat and head out onto the water. Choose from row boats or something with a small engine and go explore the crannogs and islands of Loch Awe. Or head out to the almost forgotten ruins of Innis Chonnel Castle.
6. Visit Kilchurn Castle
Out on a windswept peninsula at the north east end of Loch Awe, you’ll find the ancient stone-walls of Kilchurn Castle – an evocative nod to Loch Awe’s rich history.
Explore around the crumbling castle walls year round, and head inside between April and September (find out more on Historic Scotland). There are plenty of photo and picnic opportunities around the castle, especially on this easy 2km walk.
Photograph Kilchurn Castle
A few things to be aware of, particularly if you’re visiting in summer when the tour buses arrive. Kilchurn Castle is a big tourist draw and you’ll really want to get there early, especially if you’re keen to get at least a few photos without anyone in them.
Also, if you’re looking for the infamous Kilchurn Castle ‘across the water’ panorama photograph, you’ll need to head to this viewpoint around the loch. There’s limited parking on the road and it’s a popular spot which can fill up quickly.
PLAN YOUR LOCH AWE TRIP
Visit Loch Awe as part of a bigger Scotland road trip or a hiking weekend. Either way, try to spend some time here and explore slowly.
