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.
Bog Factor
Very steep initial ascent on a wide path; then pathless and boggy for a section before a final rough ascent.
Kinloch Rannoch.
Bus to Kinloch Rannoch.
NN661587
Park in the attractive square at the centre of the village of Kinloch Rannoch; the summit of Craig Varr can be seen from here, high above the roofs of the lovely cottages. Begin the walk by walking along the road in the direction of Pitlochry. Pass the the garage workshop, and look out for a sign for Craig Varr on the left just beyond, past a fence.
The path is signed for Craig Varr and heads up to the left of a cottage. The path leads through a gate to reach an attractive waterfall cascading down a rocky slab. Continue up to a hydro power building, ignoring a signed path off to the left here, then a short distance further on fork right off the main track onto a narrower, older track heading uphill through the trees.
The wide path, which is initally stony - now heads steeply uphill through beautiful broadleaved woodland, with good views back over Loch Rannoch. The route winds to and fro in a series of zigzags but the ascent still requires a lot of effort. Near the top of the woods a hydro track joins in from the left; keep right and follow the track as it leaves the woods behind, eventually passing through a gate.
There are now good viewsto 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. Immediately before 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.
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 true classic.
The summit has a scattering of trees and makes a good place for a rest in fine weather. The surprise reward is the view in the other direction, where Dunalastair Water is backed by the great cone-shaped peak of Schiehallion, whilst further left distant Loch Tummel is also well seen. After enjoying the airy situation, head back down the path alongside the wall and fence.
When the track is reached near the gate, turn left through the gate to follow the track downhill. It soon leads into the lovely birchwoods and continues a long, zig-zagging descent. Eventually it emerges on a footpath just above the road; turn right along the path, contouring the slopes through the trees, until this joins the road. Now simply follow the road back to the right to return to the start.
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