Visit Loch Awe, Argyll
Castles, wild shores and Highland skies. Your official guide to Scotland’s most storied loch.
Welcome to Loch Awe
Loch Awe rewards every turn with history and horizon. Explore Kilchurn Castle, wander St Conan’s Kirk, follow wooded paths to hidden viewpoints, or sail across Scotland’s longest freshwater loch. Whether you’re here for photography, family adventures, quiet escapes or Highland heritage, this is where unforgettable trips begin
FEATURED HIGHLIGHTS
KILCHURN CASTLE
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Epic ruins at the head of the loch with unbeatable sunrise views.
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History of Lochawe
Loch Awe, lying at the heart of Argyll and Bute in western Scotland, is one of the Highlands’ most remarkable natural features — a 25-mile-long ribbon of freshwater winding through forests, mountains, and glens. It is Scotland’s longest freshwater loch and a place where natural beauty and human history intertwine.
The name Awe is thought to stem from the Gaelic abh, meaning “river,” a nod to the River Awe that flows from the loch’s north-eastern end. Along its shores, traces of ancient settlements, crannogs, and ruined fortifications speak to centuries of habitation.
The most famous of these is Kilchurn Castle, built in the mid-15th century by Sir Colin Campbell of Glenorchy. The castle became a stronghold of Clan Campbell, one of Scotland’s most powerful families, and its picturesque ruins remain an enduring symbol of the area.
Things to See and Do
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Lochawe is served by the Oban–Glasgow train line, with a stop right in the village. The A85 roadconnects Lochawe to Oban (40 minutes west) and Tyndrum (25 minutes east).
Lochawe may be small, but its history and landscape are vast. Here, every path leads to a view, every stone has a story, and every visitor leaves with a sense of stillness that only the Highlands can offer.
A relaxed 2-day mini-itinerary
Day 1 – Kirk, castle & loch views
Morning: Arrive by train or car and drop bags at the Ben Cruachan Inn. Stroll to St Conan’s Kirk to explore its eclectic architecture and loch-side gardens. VisitScotland
Afternoon: Head to Kilchurn Castle for the classic panorama—bring waterproof footwear if it’s been wet. Golden hour here is unforgettable. Return for dinner and a nightcap in the village. Historic Environment Scotland
Day 2 – Hollow Mountain or high ridges
Option A (all-weather): Visit Cruachan Visitor Centre and, take the guided tour deep inside the mountain. Coffee and cake with loch views afterward. Visit Cruachan
Option B (fair weather): Hike Ben Cruachan (hillwalkers only) for a classic Argyll ridge day. Prefer something gentler? Choose a forest walk around Strone Hill or Glen Nant instead. wildaboutargyll.co.uk
Evening: Back to the Ben Cruachan Innfor dinner—then step outside for stars over the loch on a clear night.
