Loch an Iasaich, Attadale

Summary

This straightforward walk heads up an attractive strath before climbing a hydro road. It then follows old tracks through forestry, giving good views of the surrounding mountains. Hydro track construction has scarred the climb but Loch an Iasaich is a peaceful spot before the route descends through woodland and back along the valley with the opportunity to visit the impressive Attadale Gardens.

Grade

Bog Factor

3.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Minor road and large track for approach; old tracks which can be wet in the forestry parts. Fairly steep climb up to the Loch and descent back to Attadale.

Getting there

Start

Parking just off the A890 at turning for Attadale Gardens.

Public Transport

Attadale train station (Inverness-Kyle line) short walk along A890 from start.

Start Grid Ref

NG924387

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 11.5km / 7.25 miles
Time: 3 - 4 hours
Ascent: 343m (Profile)

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Explorer 429 - Glen Carron

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Walk Description

User reports (3)

Stage 1

Start from the walker's car park just inside the Attadale Estate from the turning off the A890 south of Strathcarron. Here there is a map showing the route. Walk along the entrance driveway and then turn left towards the entrance to the Gardens. Pass some cottages on the right and when the Gardens entrance is reached turn right along the road up the Glen away from Attadale House. The minor road follows the pleasant valley, when the road forks take the lower, right hand side signed for cottages and walkers. A mile along the road pass through a gate, near the estate holiday cottages, and the track becomes rougher. Continue along the track, ignoring two turnings to the right, until you reach a bridge over the River Attadale.

Stage 2

Cross the bridge and follow the track through a small section of mixed woodland before starting to climb steeply, joining the enlarged track to the hydro schemes. On a clear day, despite the scars of the track, there are lovely views back down the valley to Loch Carron giving a good excuse for a rest. The track continues to climb but the gradient eases off as the forestry plantation is reached.

Stage 3

Ignore the first track leading off to the right, and continue straight ahead. The track undulates with the forestry on the right. There are good views over the open country to the left. Approximately half a kilometre after the last junction turn sharp right along a narrow track signed with an old wooden post for Killilan and Loch an Iasaich.

Stage 4

Follow the sometimes boggy, track through the forestry plantation until a junction with a wooden signpost is reached. Turn right here, again following the sign for Loch an Iaisaich, and climb steeply uphill. Keep on the main track until you reach a fork where the left track goes down to the Loch. You can follow this detour to reach the boat mooring spot which is a peaceful place for a break.

Stage 5

Returning to the main track continue to climb gently uphill following the marker posts. The track goes through more open country with good views across to Bidein a' Choire Sheasgaich, a Munro that is rarely seen due to its location. At a T-junction turn right downhill and the track soon emerges on the original track up from the valley.

Stage 6

Turn left onto the track and follow the outward route back to Attadale. If time allows, it is well worth visiting Attadale Gardens.

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