Loch Eigheach

Loch Eigheach is a large upland freshwater loch on Rannoch Moor in Perth and Kinross. It sits between Loch Laidon to the west and Loch Rannoch to the east. The River Gaur flows through the loch, entering from the east and leaving in the west. The Gaur Dam at its eastern end was built in the 1950s to enlarge the loch as part of the Tummel hydro-electric power scheme. Two rivers feed the loch: the Allt Eigheach on the northern shore and the Garbh Ghaoir in the east. The water leaving through the River Gaur passes through a hydroelectric power station before returning to the riverbed. The loch is recognised for its wild and undisturbed setting. Its shores remain completely uninhabited, with no buildings or roads along most of the shoreline. The B846 road provides access to parts of the northern shore and the dam wall, but the rest of the loch is only reachable on foot. Loch Eigheach is managed as a fishing area, mainly for perch, attracting anglers to its quiet waters. The surrounding moorland adds to the loch’s remote and natural atmosphere. Visitors find a peaceful Highland landscape with few signs of modern development. The loch’s waters reflect the surrounding moor and hills, creating a calm scene. Anglers can fish along the accessible parts of the shore, while others may walk the dam wall for views across the water. The absence of crowds and the sound of wind across the moor give the place a quiet, timeless feel. The nearby B846 offers a route through this remote area, linking Loch Eigheach to other parts of Rannoch Moor.