Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin

Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin lies in Glen Affric, a National Nature Reserve within Scotland’s Caledonian Forest. The loch takes its name from Beinn a' Mheadhoin, the ‘Middle Mountain’ on its north-west shore. A 5.5-kilometre tunnel carries water from Loch Mullardoch to raise the loch’s level for the Affric-Beauly hydro-electric scheme. A small dam at the eastern end keeps the water controlled. Aspen saplings planted along the shore in 2016 are part of a rewilding plan to bring back beavers. The Affric-Kintail Way follows the loch’s southern bank, offering walkers steady views of the water. Scottish rewilding charity Trees for Life expects the first beaver kits to appear in 2026. Stone Island sits in the middle of the loch and can be reached on foot when water levels are low. Locals call it ‘Stone Island’ for the pebbles scattered along its shore. From the island the whole loch opens up in every direction. The Caledonian Forest surrounds the water, its ancient pines reflected in the surface. Glen Affric’s quiet glens lead off in several directions for longer explorations. The hydro-electric works are mostly hidden, leaving the scene largely unchanged. Visitors find calm paths, clear shallows and distant mountain ridges. The air carries the scent of pine and damp earth.