Loch Awe

Loch Awe lies in the far north-west of the Highlands, a narrow stretch of dark water beside the village of Ledmore. It sits just south of Loch Assynt in a landscape of rolling hills and scattered lochans. The loch forms part of the Assynt-Coigach National Scenic Area, one of Scotland’s forty protected landscapes. To the north-west smaller lochans feed into Loch Awe, including Loch na Gruagaich and Loch na Saighe Duibhe. The hills around rise steeply, with Canisp’s broad slopes overlooking the water. The area holds traces of ancient use. A large circular cairn stands south-west of the loch at Cnoc Bad Na Cleithe. The mound measures about two metres high and spans roughly twenty metres across. Surveyors recorded it in 1909 but found no burial chamber inside. The site adds to the sense of a long-occupied landscape. Visitors find quiet paths along the shore and open views across the water. The surrounding hills offer gentle climbs with wide vistas over Sutherland. The loch’s dark surface reflects the changing light of the northern sky. Nearby, the smaller lochans add variety to the walking routes. The whole area feels remote yet accessible, a place where history and scenery meet.