Lovely Loch Awe

Forget Nessie! If you're chasing Scottish loch legends, you need to set your sights on Loch Awe. It's not just the longest freshwater loch in Scotland, it's a captivating tapestry woven with history, stunning scenery, and a healthy dose of Highland magic. This Argyll beauty, recently crowned one of Scotland's "10 Must-See Lochs," offers far more than just prime fishing. Think enchanting villages, architectural wonders and a whole lot of "wow" moments.

Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe

Forget cookie-cutter castles and predictable landscapes. Loch Awe is brimming with the unexpected. Take the village of Lochawe, home to St Conan's Chapel, a whimsical architectural masterpiece that'll have you scratching your head in the best way possible. This Scottish baronial-style marvel, voted one of the top 10 Scottish buildings of the last century, is a delightful jumble of styles and boasts a fascinating history that's sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

St Conan's Kirk

Of course, no visit to Loch Awe is complete without a pilgrimage to Kilchurn Castle. One of Argyll's most iconic and photographed landmarks, its romantic ruins stand proudly on a small peninsula, practically begging to be captured in a postcard-perfect shot. For a darker, more brooding atmosphere, explore the remnants of Ardchonnel Castle, another testament to the region's rich and turbulent past. And don't miss the imposing 44-foot granite monument dedicated to Duncan Ban MacIntyre, the celebrated Gaelic bard. Designed by the same genius behind the Wallace Monument, John Thomas Rochead, it's a fitting tribute to a literary legend.

But the real surprise lies hidden within the heart of Ben Cruachan, Argyll's highest peak. This majestic mountain is more than just a pretty face. It's home to a mind-blowing engineering feat: the world's first high head reversible pumped storage hydro scheme! Imagine a gigantic man-made cavern carved deep within the mountain, humming with power. While only a high storage dam and an administration office block hint at its existence from the outside (you might even recognise it from Star Wars: Andor!), there is an interactive exhibition, a dedicated kids' area, wildlife watching opportunities, a gift shop and a café, so Ben Cruachan is a guaranteed fun and educational day out.

Loch Awe in Argyll, Scotland

Loch Awe is easily accessible from both Oban and Glasgow, making it a breeze to explore. The surrounding communities offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, from cozy B&Bs to luxurious hotels. Indulge in locally sourced cuisine and experience the legendary Highland hospitality that will leave you feeling welcomed and refreshed.

So, skip the tourist traps and venture into the heart of Argyll. Discover the hidden gem that is Loch Awe – a place where history, nature, and engineering collide to create an unforgettable Scottish experience. You might even find you prefer it to Nessie!

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