Green Lochan An Lochan Uaine
An emerald jewel in the Cairngorms, An Lochan Uaine enchants with its mythical green waters and fairy tale folklore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Green Lochan An Lochan Uaine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An emerald jewel in the Cairngorms, An Lochan Uaine enchants with its mythical green waters and fairy tale folklore.
"Looks straight out of a fairy tale, which makes sense due to the folklore of it!"
🚗 Parking Options
Allt Ban car park is recommended. Allt Mor car park offers a shorter walk.
🚶♀️ Gentle Trails
The walk is mostly flat with minimal incline, suitable for most fitness levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unforgettable Green Water
An Lochan Uaine
An intensely emerald hue that looks like something out of a fairy tale, a truly unique natural spectacle.
Enchanting Forest Walk
Rothiemurchus Forest
Gentle paths wind through fragrant pine forests, leading to the magical loch. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Fairy Folklore
An Lochan Uaine
Legend says fairies wash their clothes here, giving the loch its magical color. Embrace the enchantment!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Emerald Glow
Beware of the Water's Chill!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Options
Allt Ban car park is recommended. Allt Mor car park offers a shorter walk.
🚶♀️ Gentle Trails
The walk is mostly flat with minimal incline, suitable for most fitness levels.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The vibrant green water is stunning, especially on sunny days. Capture the magic!
⚠️ Swim with Caution
Water is very cold and leeches can be present. Swim at your own risk!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Options
Allt Ban car park is recommended. Allt Mor car park offers a shorter walk.
🚶♀️ Gentle Trails
The walk is mostly flat with minimal incline, suitable for most fitness levels.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The vibrant green water is stunning, especially on sunny days. Capture the magic!
⚠️ Swim with Caution
Water is very cold and leeches can be present. Swim at your own risk!
🧺 Picnic Spots
Plenty of lovely spots by the loch to relax and enjoy a picnic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, almost surreal green color of An Lochan Uaine, describing it as a fairy tale come to life. The gentle forest walk is a major plus, making it accessible for many. While the beauty is undeniable, some caution is advised regarding the very cold water and potential for leeches if swimming.
"Lovely walk with very little incline though there are a few but not anything too steep , it's a straightforward walk with a lovely spot for a picnic at the loch or just a place to sit and relax and enjoy the view"
Shox Wake
"An Lochan Uaine (The Green Loch)
Nestled deep within the majestic Rothiemurchus Forest, An Lochan Uaine, affectionately known as The Green Loch, is an absolute must-see for anyone venturing into the Cairngorms National Park.
This isn't just a body of water; it's a vibrant, almost mythical, natural phenomenon that captivates the senses and sparks the imagination.
From the moment you approach, the loch's namesake colour immediately grabs your attention. Its intensely emerald hue, a result of ancient fallen Scots Pines releasing their pollen into the water, is unlike anything you're likely to have witnessed before. On a sunny day, the green shimmers and dances create a truly ethereal spectacle against the backdrop of towering trees and rugged mountains. Even on a more overcast day, the colour retains its enchanting depth, a testament to its unique geological origins.
The walk to An Lochan Uaine is an experience in itself. It is easily accessible from Allt Bann carpark just past the Visitors Centre, the well-maintained paths wind through fragrant pine forests, offering glimpses of stunning Highland scenery and the chance to spot local wildlife. It's a relatively gentle stroll, making it suitable for families and those seeking a peaceful escape into nature. As you get closer, the air seems to buzz with anticipation, building to the breathtaking reveal of the loch itself.
Beyond its striking colour, An Lochan Uaine offers a sense of tranquillity that is profoundly restorative. The stillness of the water, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the fresh, crisp air combine to create a perfect environment for reflection and relaxation. There are plenty of spots along the shore to sit and simply soak in the atmosphere, perhaps enjoying a picnic or just observing the play of light on the water.
For the more adventurous, the loch is a popular spot for wild swimming, though be warned – the water is, as you'd expect from a Highland loch, bracingly cold! For photographers, the opportunities are endless, with every angle offering a new perspective on this natural wonder.
An Lochan Uaine isn't just a pretty face; it's a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. It's a place that lingers in your memory long after you've left, a vivid splash of emerald green against the wild canvas of the Cairngorms. If you're seeking a truly unique and unforgettable natural experience in Scotland, make sure An Lochan Uaine is at the very top of your list. You won't be disappointed."
Nerual Gee
"No documentation can do this scenery any justice. Looks straight out of a fairy tale, which makes sense due to the folklore of it! The path is very well-marked if you go from Glenmore visitor centre. Very easy to walk in and it may take you 45-50 minutes to reach the loch. Worth every inch of the walk, though!"
Bintang Qanitah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Green Loch, An Lochan Uaine, is accessible from several car parks near Aviemore. The Allt Ban car park, located past the Glenmore Visitor Centre, is a popular starting point. Another option is the Allt Mor car park, which can shorten the walk. The paths are generally well-marked, often following purple or blue routes. +1
Many visitors recommend the Allt Ban car park for a scenic walk through the forest. If you're looking for a shorter route, the Allt Mor car park is a good alternative.
While direct public transport to the loch itself is limited, you can reach Aviemore by train or bus and then consider local taxi services or cycling to the starting points of the walks.
The walk from Allt Ban car park typically takes around 45-50 minutes each way, allowing time for photos and enjoying the scenery. From Allt Mor car park, the walk is shorter.
Yes, cycling is a great option, especially if you park at Allt Mor car park. The forest paths are suitable for bikes, offering a pleasant ride through the scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit An Lochan Uaine. It is a natural attraction within the Cairngorms National Park.
An Lochan Uaine is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times as it is an outdoor natural site.
There is no admission fee to visit An Lochan Uaine. Access to the loch and the surrounding forest paths is free for all visitors.
While the area is accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety and the lack of lighting. The magical green color is best appreciated in natural daylight.
As a natural site, visitors are asked to respect the environment, stay on marked paths, and take all litter with them. There are no specific entry restrictions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk is generally easy with minimal incline, making it suitable for families and those seeking a relaxed experience. Paths wind through beautiful pine forests.
Yes, the gentle walk and the magical folklore make it a wonderful destination for families. Children will be captivated by the unique color and the fairy tales.
While some visitors do swim, the water is very cold and leeches have been reported. It's advisable to be cautious and prepared if you plan to swim.
Local folklore suggests the water's vibrant green color comes from fairies washing their clothes in the loch at night.
Absolutely! There are many picturesque spots along the loch's edge perfect for a picnic and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light to capture the loch's vibrant green hue. Sunny days make the color pop dramatically.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and loch. Polarizing filters can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. It's best to check the Cairngorms National Park guidelines before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
The unique, intense emerald color of the water, set against the backdrop of the ancient pine forest, creates a truly magical and photogenic scene.
Yes, even on overcast days, the loch retains its enchanting depth of color, offering a different but still beautiful photographic opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water's edge, and let their imaginations run wild in this enchanting setting. Remember to bring appropriate footwear and be mindful of the cold water if your little ones are tempted for a paddle. 🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
The relatively easy terrain means you can focus on soaking in the scenery and the unique atmosphere of the Green Loch. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and a moment of quiet reflection amidst the stunning Cairngorms landscape. 📸 Photographers
Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the most dramatic light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Green Water
This natural wonder has inspired local folklore, with legends attributing the color to fairies washing their clothes in the loch at night. This adds an extra layer of magic and wonder to the experience, making it feel like stepping into a fairy tale. The surrounding Rothiemurchus Forest, with its regenerated Caledonian pines and native broadleaf trees, further enhances the enchanting atmosphere.
Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the loch's beauty. The interplay of light on the water, the reflections of the sky and trees, and the vibrant green create stunning compositions. Whether you're using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness or a macro lens to focus on the water's texture, An Lochan Uaine offers a truly unique photographic subject.
Navigating the Trails and Access
For those seeking a slightly shorter route, the Allt Mor car park is an alternative. This option can reduce the walking time to the loch. Many visitors also choose to cycle to the area, with forest tracks providing a pleasant cycling experience. The paths are clearly marked, often with color-coded routes, ensuring you can easily find your way to the loch.
While the walk is generally straightforward, it's worth noting that the terrain can be uneven in places, and appropriate footwear is recommended. The forest itself is a beautiful environment, with the scent of pine and the sounds of nature creating a tranquil atmosphere. The anticipation builds as you approach the loch, with glimpses of the water hinting at the magic to come.
Embracing the Local Folklore and Legends
This folklore is deeply intertwined with the landscape. The ancient pine forests surrounding the loch, the stillness of the water, and the remote setting all contribute to an atmosphere that feels otherworldly. Visitors often speak of a sense of wonder and enchantment when they arrive, as if they've stepped into a storybook.
While the scientific explanation involves pollen from Scots Pines, embracing the fairy tale adds a layer of charm and imagination to the visit. It's a reminder of the power of storytelling and how it can enrich our connection with nature. The legend encourages visitors to look at the loch with a sense of wonder and to appreciate the magic that can be found in the natural world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit