Loch Coulin and Loch Clair

Summary

This stunning, almost level circuit heads past Loch Clair and then around Loch Coulin. The views of Beinn Eighe and Liathach from across the water must rank amongst the finest mountain views as seen from a low level walk anywhere in Scotland.

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Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

A straightforward, almost flat, circuit of Loch Coulin following the private minor road along Loch Clair and then a path and track. Some sections can be boggy, particularly after heavy rain.

Getting there

Start

Small car park on A896 opposite turn off for minor road to Coulin Lodge.

Public Transport

No public transport.

Start Grid Ref

NH002581

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 9.6km / 6 miles
Time: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
Ascent: 110m (Profile)

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Walk Description

User reports (14)

Stage 1

Start at the small layby on the A896 opposite the turning at Loch Clair and walk down the private minor road towards Coulin. You soon reach a cattle grid with pedestrian access, continue to the bridge and cross the river. Continue on the minor road as it skirts the edge of Loch Clair. Across the water Sgùrr Dubh can be seen straight ahead and the white flank of mighty Liathach behind to the right.

Stage 2

Continue along the tarmac; at the head of the loch a bridge is reached. Don't cross it, instead following the signed track straight ahead through the gate and continue alongside the short section of river between the two lochs.

Stage 3

The track passes through mixed woodland and then onto more open ground. At this point turn right onto clear path heading slightly downhill (a sign indicates for cyclists to instead keep on the track). The narrow but clear path undulates across heathery ground with the loch on your right and plantation to your left. Eventually a small gate is reached, pass through this and follow the path across more open ground, passing through another metal gate.

Stage 4

The path now skirts the edge of Loch Coulin before heading south east away from the loch alongside a small stream. The path is a little boggy in places but eventually reaches a track beside a low bridge. Turn right here to pass to the right of the house at Torran Cuillin. When you meet a hydro track turn right again and follow the track past the house and in a loop down to the larger bridge over the River Coulin. Cross the bridge and continue straight ahead to the impressive house at Coulin.

Stage 5

The path to the left leads to Achnashellach over the Coulin Pass. Continue straight ahead past the house and follow the track as it curves back round towards the loch. In good weather there are amazing views of Beinn Eighe ahead. The track continues through a gate and passes behind Coulin Lodge with a fine deer larder on the left.

Stage 6

Continue following the road through the trees as it passes some estate buildings and two houses on the left and then crosses the bridge back to the Loch Coulin footpath turn off. After crossing the bridge turn left and retrace your steps to the A896 enjoying the good views over Loch Clair on the way.

Route Profile

Where to stay

Kinlochewe, Shieldaig Hotels

Kinlochewe, Shieldaig B&B

Kinlochewe, Shieldaig cottages

Kinlochewe, Shieldaig hostels

Glamping and Camping

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