Ballachulish Slate Quarry
A former slate quarry transformed into stunning blue-green lochans with dramatic mountain backdrops and historical charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Ballachulish Slate Quarry
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former slate quarry transformed into stunning blue-green lochans with dramatic mountain backdrops and historical charm.
"Stunning blue-green lochans and mountainous backdrop make this former quarry a must-visit."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the quarry and trails.
🦟 Be Tick Aware
Some visitors have encountered ticks, especially in grassy areas. Use repellent and check yourself after your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue-Green Lochans
Ballachulish Slate Quarry
Stunning, vibrant blue-green pools formed by the old quarry, reflecting the dramatic mountain scenery.
Brecklet Trail
Adjacent to the quarry
An atmospheric woodland walk with views across Loch Leven, featuring historical quarry remnants.
Slate Beach
Loch Leven shoreline
A unique beach with slate stones, offering a different perspective of the quarry's legacy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the quarry and trails.
🦟 Be Tick Aware
Some visitors have encountered ticks, especially in grassy areas. Use repellent and check yourself after your visit.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The blue-green lochans and mountain views are incredibly photogenic. Visit during golden hour for best light.
🚶♀️ Combine with Peninsula Walk
Extend your visit by walking the Ballachulish Peninsula loop for more Loch Leven views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring the quarry and trails.
🦟 Be Tick Aware
Some visitors have encountered ticks, especially in grassy areas. Use repellent and check yourself after your visit.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The blue-green lochans and mountain views are incredibly photogenic. Visit during golden hour for best light.
🚶♀️ Combine with Peninsula Walk
Extend your visit by walking the Ballachulish Peninsula loop for more Loch Leven views.
📜 Read the History Boards
Informative boards detail the quarry's fascinating past as the 'Slate Capital of Scotland'.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ballachulish Slate Quarry for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the striking blue-green lochans and mountainous scenery. It's noted as a family-friendly and accessible location with interesting historical context. Some visitors mention the presence of ticks, so preparedness is advised.
"A small body of water, its beautiful with trees all around and views of the mountains and picnic benches.
It does have access to the Brecklett Trail."
Janet West
"Blue-grey cliffs plunge into the loch where Victorian miners carved roofing tiles. The self-guided trail passes rusted machinery and "hanging valleys" of waste slate. Kayakers explore flooded tunnels. Beautiful location pretty much in all seasons, totally worth visiting if you're anywhere nearby."
Arman Khachatryan
"If I could give it 6 stars, I would. Family friendly. Wheelchair accessible. Picnic tables. Clean lake water. Stones for skipping. Friendly locals."
Krystal Zhang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The quarry is easily accessible by car, located just across the road from the Ballachulish visitor centre. Parking is available adjacent to the centre. For those using public transport, local bus services connect to Ballachulish village.
Yes, the quarry is very close to Glencoe, making it a perfect stop for those exploring the wider Highlands region. It's often mentioned as a key sight near Glencoe and Fort William. +1
The postcode for Ballachulish Slate Quarry is PH49 4JB, which can be helpful for navigation systems.
Yes, it's a short and easy walk from the Ballachulish visitor centre, which is near the village. The quarry is a pleasant diversion for visitors in the area.
Absolutely! You can combine a visit with the Brecklet Trail, a walk around the Ballachulish Peninsula, or explore the wider Glencoe and Fort William areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Ballachulish Slate Quarry is free. It's an open natural site that visitors can explore without admission fees.
The quarry is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Ballachulish Slate Quarry. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, the quarry is accessible year-round, though visiting during spring and autumn can offer beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.
Information boards are located at the site, providing details about the quarry's history. The Ballachulish visitor centre is also a good resource.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the striking blue-green lochans, walk the Brecklet Trail through atmospheric woodlands, and explore the unique slate beach. Information boards detail the quarry's history.
Yes, it's considered family-friendly with picnic tables and clean lake water. The easy walks and interesting history make it engaging for children.
Some areas, particularly near the visitor centre and picnic spots, are accessible. However, the trails can be uneven, so full accessibility may vary.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, and the nearby visitor centre likely has restroom facilities.
The area attracts various birds, and the natural setting provides a habitat for local wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the vibrant colors of the lochans and the dramatic mountain backdrops.
The striking blue-green lochans themselves are the main draw. Also, the slate beach and viewpoints along the Brecklet Trail offer great photographic opportunities. 
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Generally, photography is welcomed. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light. The slate beach and the reflections in the water offer unique compositions. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological and Historical Significance
+1 The slate quarried here was crucial for roofing across the country, a fact highlighted by the blue-grey cliffs that plunge into the water, showcasing the layers of metamorphic rock. +1 The geological processes that formed this slate, including metamorphism, are evident in the exposed rock faces. Today, the quarry has transformed into a visually stunning natural site. The flooded sections of the quarry have created the characteristic blue-green lochans, which are a major draw for visitors.
The remnants of its industrial past, such as rusted machinery and the 'hanging valleys' of waste slate, add a unique character to the landscape. Exploring the Trails and Waterways
For those who enjoy water activities, the flooded quarry tunnels offer a unique experience for kayakers.
Visitors can also extend their exploration by combining the quarry visit with a walk around the Ballachulish Peninsula. This can be accessed by heading under the A82 road and offers further views of Loch Leven.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit