MacGregor's Cave, near Kinloch Rannoch

Summary

This idyllic short walk passes the shores of Dunalasdair Water and through some fine oakwoods to reach MacGregor's Cave - reputedly once a hideout for members of the outlawed clan. In Victorian times the cave was 'improved' to become a picturesque spot for a walk and picnic.

Grade

Bog Factor

4.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Mostly the walk follows a track and then a good woodland path. There is one very short steep descent - eroded and requiring a little agility - to a potentially awkward burn crossing.

Getting there

Start

Lassintullich Forest parking area.

Public Transport

None to start.

Start Grid Ref

NN701577

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 5km / 3 miles
Time: 1 - 2 hours
Ascent: 154m (Profile)

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OL49 Pitlochry

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Walk Description

User reports (1)

Stage 1

The walk begins down the track towards Crossmount, but there is no parking at the start of this, so instead park at the Lassintullich Forest entrance at NN701577 where there is space for a number of cars. There are good views over Dunalasdair Water across the road. Begin the walk by heading east (right as you leave the parking area) along the minor road, and then turning left onto the track gated track (with a small cottage on the left) signed for Bridge Cottage.

Stage 2

Keep left on the track to pass to the left of the large house and gardens at Crossmount. Further on the track leads through a gate and slowly descends to eventually reach the attractive shores of Dunalasdair Water. Just before reaching Bridge Cottage at the end of the track, turn right (waymarker) onto a broad path heading steeply uphill.

Stage 3

Ignore a smaller path off right and instead keep to the main path, passing a gate in a deer fence. Beyond this the path climbs gently through a more open area. There are views towards the River Tummel over to the left. Stay on the main path - ignoring stiles on the right. The path then enters fine oak woodland, with a few Scots pines thrown in for good measure.

Stage 4

The path winds left and right and then eventually descends a steep bank to reach an unbridged burn; the final step down is eroded and requires a little agility. The burn can usually be crossed with care using stepping stones, but may not be passable in spate. On the far side the path climbs steeply back to the left and then continues through the oakwoods.

Stage 5

There are cliffs on the right hand side, and a short distance further on MacGregor's Cave is reached (spelt McGregor on OS maps). According to local stories this was a hideout for members of that clan during the years when Clan MacGregor was officially outlawed; three MacGregors were reportedly chased to their deaths in the river by government 'redcoat' soldiers. In Victorian times the cave was 'improved' with a door entrance at the far side and a window to make a picturesque place to visit for guests of the estate.

Stage 6

Before leaving the cave area walk up onto the knoll immediately opposite the cave on the other side of the path. This gives a superb view over Dunalasdair Water to Loch Rannoch beyond. Note the ruins of the spectacular Dunalasdair House across the river; it was used to house Polish refugees during the Second World War and was vacated in 1952.

Stage 7

After enjoying the view, don't continue up the path - instead head back the way you came to return to the start.

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