Loch Ossian

Overview

At the heart of Rannoch Moor lies Loch Ossian, a small stretch of water ringed by hills and mountains.

This is a place of immense peace and amazing scenery, to which there is no car access. A man-made island, or crannog, dating from the Iron Age has been constructed near the southern shore and there are many wooded areas and small shingle beaches to enjoy. Loch Ossian is a great base for walking and wildlife watching, with the added benefit of being well away from tarmac roads. Those wishing to experience this remote area must either walk across the moor from Rannoch Station (9 miles/14.5km on a rough path) or take the train to Corrour Station and then walk for 1 mile/1.5km on a good track to reach the loch shore.

A former boathouse has been converted to provide comfortable youth hostel accommodation and is now one of the most popular rustic hostels in Scotland. Following a £130,000, refurbishment Loch Ossian Hostel is a model of environmental excellence and boasts its own wind turbine as well as many other eco-features such as a grey water system, compost bins and bat friendly paint. Even the windows have been created using recycled floated glass.

A good level track runs around Loch Ossian (7 miles/11km) and makes for a fabulous day walk or mountain bike run. In the spring, yellow and pink rhododendrons are in full bloom near the path on the north east shore. Sightings of red deer are a regular occurrence and walkers may also be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of more elusive species such as pine marten, otter, red squirrel, grouse and golden eagle. For more energetic walking, there are many hills and mountains to choose from - Meall nan Lice (1906ft/583m) and Carn Dearg (3080ft/939m) on the east shore and the great flank of Beinn na Lap (3068ft/935m) to the west, to name a few. As with all hillwalking in Scotland, an Ordnance Survey map, together with appropriate clothing and experience, is recommended. Walkers should note that conditions can quickly become challenging in this remote area.

Further information on Loch Ossian Hostel from the Scottish Youth Hostels Association T: 01796 891300. The hostel has just 20 beds and advance reservations are required.