Craig Varr is a craggy bluff projecting from the high hillsides north of Kinloch Rannoch and is very prominent when seen from the village. Its ascent gives a short hillwalk and the views from the top are sensational.
Summary
Very steep initial ascent on a wide path; then pathless and boggy for a section before a final rough ascent.
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1. Park in the attractive square at the centre of the village of Kinloch Rannoch. Begin the walk by walking along the road in the direction of Pitlochry. Pass the petrol station and the garage workshop; just after this there is a pretty stone cottage on the left. Turn left heading up the lane beside the cottage. Behind the cottage is an attractive waterfall cascading down a rocky slab.
2. Go through a gate to a junction. A sign indicates the Nature Trail route heading off to the left - keep straight on for Craig Varr. The wide path, which is initally stony - now heads steeply uphill through beautiful broadleaved woodland. The route winds to and fro in a series of zigzags but the ascent still requires a lot of effort. Ignore any smaller paths heading off to the left and right and keep on the main, wide path; near the top of the woods it swings to the right near a stone cairn. A little further on the woods are left behind; continue on the track through a gate.
3. There are now good views back down to Loch Rannoch and also to Craig Varr which is further round the hillside. When the track forks, turn right and cross over the footbridge. Continue on the track which now descends slightly. At the next gate, leave the track and head left across the boggy moor, following the fence for a short distance and then a tumbledown drystone dyke. Finally the path reappears on the steep and rough final climb towards the prow of Craig Varr.
4. Although the hillside rises above Craig Varr to the left, the little headland projects out far enough to make it a fabulous viewpoint. The view down to Kinloch Rannoch village and the whole of Loch Rannoch beyond is a classic which has been visible during the later stages of the ascent, but the surprise reward is the view in the other direction. Dunalastair Water is backed by the great cone-shaped peak of Schiehallion, whilst further left distant Loch Tummel is also well seen.
5. The summit has a scattering of trees and makes a good place for a rest in fine weather. After enjoying the airy situation, the return to Kinloch Rannoch is best made by reversing the outward route.
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