Rannoch Forest

Overview

This vast beautiful forest lies on the southern shores of Loch Rannoch and forms part of the Tay Forest Park.

There are three waymarked walks through a wide range of trees including remnants of the ancient Caledonian forest that once covered much of Scotland.

Walks start at Carie, half way along the southern shore of Loch Rannoch where there are parking, toilet and picnic facilities. Both the Carie and Kilvrecht Walks follow short routes through oak and Norway spruce, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of a red squirrel feasting on the large spruce cones. For those wishing a longer route the Allt Na Boigar Walk 5 miles/8km is a superb choice as it follows the steep sided burn through native broadleaved woodland and Scots pine before returning by way of a forest road with panoramic views out to the loch and distant hills.

For an even more energetic day try linking the forest route with the old drove road across the hill to Innerwick in Glen Lyon. The high part of the route crosses moorland and is rougher than the forest track - Ordnance Survey map required. Length (7 miles/11km one way only). Walkers should enquire locally about any possible restrictions before tackling this route in the shooting season (August to October).

A short distance west of Rannoch Forest lies The Black Wood of Rannoch, a Caledonian Forest Reserve. This special place is rich in native tree species and supports a wealth of plants, insects, birds and animals. Today the wood is peaceful, but in a time long gone it sheltered outlaws and caterans (cattle rustlers) who made it the base for their notorious operations. Remnants of canals, constructed in the 17th century to assist in the clearing of timber, can also be seen in the woods.

Walks and facilities in the Tay Forest Park are fully described in an excellent leaflet - `A Guide to Tay Forest Park` - available for sale at Pitlochry Tourist Information Centre.