Loch of the Lowes
A serene Scottish loch renowned for its osprey nesting site and abundant wildlife, offering peaceful walks and educational experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ospreys arrive & nest
Loch of the Lowes
Best Time
Ospreys arrive & nest
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Scottish loch renowned for its osprey nesting site and abundant wildlife, offering peaceful walks and educational experiences.
"A wonderful and tranquil place with so much wildlife to see, from ospreys to woodpeckers and squirrels!"
Binoculars are Key! :binoculars:
Bring your own binoculars for the best wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds and squirrels.
Visitor Centre Insights :information_desk:
Chat with the knowledgeable staff and volunteers; they have amazing insights into local wildlife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Osprey Nest Viewing
Visitor Centre
Witness the incredible sight of ospreys nesting and feeding their young through live camera feeds and expert guides.
Red Squirrel Encounters
Woodland Trails
Keep an eye out for playful red squirrels darting through the trees on the scenic walking paths.
Tranquil Lochside Walks
Loch Perimeter
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the loch, spotting swans, grebes, and potentially deer by the water's edge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Osprey Visit
Embrace the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Binoculars are Key! :binoculars:
Bring your own binoculars for the best wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds and squirrels.
Visitor Centre Insights :information_desk:
Chat with the knowledgeable staff and volunteers; they have amazing insights into local wildlife.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The walking trails are lovely but can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
Check Osprey Cam Live :computer:
Even if you can't visit, watch the live osprey feed online for a virtual experience.
If you had to recommend one Scottish town for a day trip, where would you recommend?
Tips
from all over the internet
Binoculars are Key! :binoculars:
Bring your own binoculars for the best wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds and squirrels.
Visitor Centre Insights :information_desk:
Chat with the knowledgeable staff and volunteers; they have amazing insights into local wildlife.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The walking trails are lovely but can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
Check Osprey Cam Live :computer:
Even if you can't visit, watch the live osprey feed online for a virtual experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Loch of the Lowes as a tranquil haven for wildlife spotting, particularly the ospreys and red squirrels. The knowledgeable and welcoming staff at the visitor centre are frequently highlighted, enhancing the educational and enjoyable experience. While the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere are major draws, some visitors might find the wildlife viewing dependent on the season and luck.
"Great place for spotting birds , etc"
chris lowe
"Stunning Loch with lovely locals, got waved at by a farmer in his quad with 3 dogs and met a really kind innkeeper!"
El Dee
"Tranquil spot to do some bird spotting. Nice walks in the area and an excellent visitor centre with great guides to learn about the local wildlife. Recommended stop off spot."
Drifting Smoke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loch of the Lowes is a beautiful walk from Dunkeld, approximately 3 miles. You can also drive, with parking available at the visitor centre. The walk is recommended if you're fit enough to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, there is a visitor centre with parking facilities available for visitors.
While direct public transport to the loch itself might be limited, you can reach Dunkeld by bus or train and then enjoy a scenic walk or taxi to the loch.
From Dunkeld, follow signs for the A9 and then take local roads towards Loch of the Lowes. The visitor centre is well-signposted.
Absolutely! The walk from Dunkeld, in particular, offers lovely views and is a great way to experience the Scottish countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the loch and its grounds is generally free, but there may be a small charge for parking or donations requested at the visitor centre.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the Scottish Wildlife Trust website for the most up-to-date information on visitor centre hours.
While the grounds are free to access, donations are greatly appreciated to support the conservation efforts, especially for the osprey program.
The loch and its surrounding trails are accessible year-round. However, the visitor centre and specific osprey viewing opportunities are seasonal.
Yes, the visitor centre often has guides and volunteers available, especially during peak osprey season, to share their knowledge.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
You can see ospreys (seasonal), red squirrels, deer, swans, grebes, woodpeckers, and a variety of other bird species.
Yes, there are lovely walking trails around the loch offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Absolutely! It's a wonderful place for families to connect with nature, learn about wildlife, and enjoy gentle walks.
The visitor centre typically offers information, restrooms, and sometimes refreshments. It's also the hub for osprey viewing.
Dogs are usually welcome on the trails but must be kept on a lead, especially during nesting seasons, to avoid disturbing wildlife. Check local signage.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the osprey nest (via the visitor centre feed), the lochside paths for landscape shots, and the woodland trails for wildlife photography are excellent.
With patience and good binoculars or a telephoto lens, it's possible to capture great shots of birds and squirrels. The live osprey feed is also great for stills.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife. For landscapes, a standard zoom lens will suffice.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of wildlife and other visitors. Avoid using flash near nesting birds.
You can photograph the osprey nest via the live camera feed displayed at the visitor centre, offering a unique perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to bring their own binoculars or use the ones available at the centre to enhance their wildlife spotting adventure. The chance to see ospreys, red squirrels, and other animals in their natural habitat makes for an educational and memorable day out. The friendly staff are also great at engaging with children and sharing interesting facts.
🚶 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Don't forget to bring your binoculars and camera! The trails are well-maintained, allowing for comfortable exploration. Engaging with the knowledgeable volunteers at the visitor centre can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Ospreys of Loch of the Lowes
Observing the ospreys is a highlight for many visitors. The live feeds offer a close-up view of their daily lives, from the intricate process of nest building to the feeding of hungry chicks. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the impact of dedicated efforts. The presence of ospreys has transformed Loch of the Lowes into a vital hub for birdwatching and ecological education.
For the best viewing experience, aim for the spring and summer months. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide more active bird behaviour and fewer crowds. Remember to bring binoculars if you plan to observe them from the designated viewing areas around the loch, though the visitor centre's live feed is incredibly immersive.
Exploring the Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The visitor centre is an invaluable resource, staffed by passionate volunteers and guides who are eager to share their knowledge about the local flora and fauna. They can point you towards the best spots for sightings and offer fascinating insights into the ecosystem. Many visitors have praised the welcoming nature of the staff and locals, adding to the charm of the experience.
Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a nature photographer, or simply seeking a serene natural setting, Loch of the Lowes delivers. The combination of accessible trails, abundant wildlife, and the chance to witness iconic species like the osprey makes it a must-visit destination in Scotland.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit