Kilchurn Castle is a marvellously evocative ruin with a stunning setting on Loch Awe. Unsigned from road this short walk is a delight and ideal for a picnic on a fine summer's day.
Bog Factor
Excellent path.
Parking off A85 near head of Loch Awe.
Regular bus along the A85, but no dedicated bus stop at start.
NN139279
The walk around the castle is open but the castle itself is fenced off for repairs
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Turn off the A85 onto a track on the south side between the turning for Inveraray and the bridge over the River Orchy. There is plenty of room for parking near the start of the track. Begin the walk along the track which immediately forks; take the signed path to the right, passing through a gate, to head to the river and cross under the railway bridge beside it.
Follow the surfaced path which rejoins the old route which came over a level crossing. Bear right towards the ruined castle which is now in clear view ahead; continue on the excellent path to reach it.
The castle is entered through a doorway marked 1693. An initial vaulted room leads through into the open courtyard. The main keep - a tower house - was actually built between 1440 and 1460 by Colin Campbell, 1st of Glen Orchy - a branch of the main Campbell clan based in Inveraray.
The remains are hugely impressive. You can ascend one of the turrets on the Loch Awe side, but the best views are to be had from the top of the keep. To climb this, go to the right through the courtyard and follow a series of modern wooden staircases to get to the top. The views are magnificent - both down Loch Awe and looking up the loch towards mighty Ben Lui.
The castle is usually pretty quiet. It is well worth walking out round to the left of the castle by the shores of the loch. Beyond it grassy ground slopes down into Loch Awe.
After you've explored the ruins, return to the start the same way.
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