Published On: Sat, Jan 27th, 2024

The pretty little castle in middle of nowhere that’s one of UK’s best tourist attractions | Travel News | Travel


Cheap flights and all-inclusive resorts make the idea of spending your summer holiday overseas all too tempting, and the art of the UK getaway has been somewhat forgotten. But this Scottish destination, however, may well singlehandedly reverse that trend thanks to the stunning experience it offers visitors. 

Loch Awe, one of Scotland’s largest freshwater lochs, certainly lives up to its name and has been named one of the top 25 hidden gem spots in the UK by travel provider Kayak.

Despite being Scotland’s longest loch, it remains relatively unexplored, so is guaranteed to offer guests a relaxing stay – even in the height of summer! 

Nature lovers will truly be in heaven if they holiday here. From the jaw-dropping mountains that tower over the loch to the endless stretches of wild forest that surround it, this is a holiday they won’t want to miss. 

Hiking enthusiasts will surely be satisfied at Loch Awe, and venturing out into the Scottish wilderness on foot is arguably one of the best ways to take in the stunning scenery. 

For the less experienced explorer, try the Cruchan Dam walk, which takes walkers from the ruins of an abandoned train station, up and across a dam, and past a Gothic church, all accompanied by breathtaking views of the nearby loch. 

Alternatively, those in search of a challenge should try climbing one of the area’s mountains. Ben Cruchan is a good one to start with – and the sights from the top are certainly worth the effort – but is certainly not an adventure suitable for every visitor!

If sitting and relaxing is more your style, don’t worry! Loch Awe is surrounded by secluded beaches where visitors can also try their hand at wild swimming. Or, they can have a go at in the loch, where the biggest brown trout in the UK was caught in 2001! 

A road trip around the Loch is also worth a shot. Taking around two hours without stops, the car is another fantastic way to explore Loch Awe’s natural beauty.

Its 60 miles of shoreline is peppered with fascinating small villages, so it’s advised to set aside an entire day for the road trip! 

One must-see landmark on this Loch Awe drive is St Conan’s Kirk, located in Lochawe Village. Its gardens are charming and, if you need further convincing, the Church also runs a quaint tearoom where you can enjoy home-made cake with a loch-side view. 

As for evenings out, Loch Awe is surrounded by cosy pubs which makes it the perfect place to recuperate after a long day out in the wilderness.

The Ben Cruchan Inn sits right in the heart of Lochawe Village and is central to the local community. Head here for a warming, comforting meal. 

At the Inn, rooms are also available to book and make the perfect accommodation for visitors wanting comfortable simplicity during their stay. 

Alternatively, book a Lochaweside Forest Cabin and wake up each day in idyllic seclusion. 



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