Loch Doilet

Loch Doilot (usually spelled Loch Doilet on maps) is a small, remote freshwater loch in Lochaber, Highland, in eastern Ardnamurchan, Scotland. It sits among forestry plantations a few kilometres north of the village of Strontian and is best known among anglers.

Where is Loch Doilot?

The loch runs north-west to south-east, roughly 1.5 miles south-east of the lower, eastern end of Loch Shiel, at about 56.74° N, 5.59° W. Its water drains west through the River Polloch into Loch Shiel. This is the Shiel catchment, separated from the Loch Sunart coast by a ridge of hills.

How do you get there?

Strontian, about 6 km away, is the natural base. The road over the hills climbs above the village, then drops steeply into Glen Hurich, which lies within the Loch Shiel National Scenic Area. It is narrow and winding, so allow extra time. There are no visitor facilities at the water's edge; shops and accommodation are in Strontian.

What can you do here?

Fishing is the main draw. Loch Doilet holds a healthy stock of wild brown trout, and Atlantic salmon and sea trout run the loch and the Polloch towards the end of summer. Permits for the River Polloch and the loch are sold in Strontian, so arrange yours before heading over the hill.

Walkers will find quiet forest and moorland scenery well away from the busy routes. For a bigger outing, the climb of Ben Resipole starts from Strontian and dominates the Ardnamurchan skyline. An easier option is Ariundle National Nature Reserve, just north of the village.

When should you visit?

Anglers aim for late summer, when migratory fish enter the river and loch. For walking, late spring and early autumn combine long days with fewer midges. The weather in the western Highlands changes fast and rain is possible in any season, so bring waterproofs and sturdy footwear.

What else is nearby?

Strontian has a notable mining past: lead mining began in the area in the 1720s, and the mineral strontianite found here gave its name to the element strontium. The village was founded in 1724 to house the miners. Loch Sunart and Loch Shiel are both within easy reach.

Frequently asked questions

Are Loch Doilot and Loch Doilet the same place? Yes. Doilet is the spelling used in reference sources; Doilot is a variant found in some databases.

Can I fish without a permit? No. Permits for the River Polloch and Loch Doilet are sold in Strontian. Check current rules and prices locally or on the fishLochaber website.

Is it worth visiting if I don't fish? If you enjoy quiet Highland scenery, yes, but there are no waymarked trails or visitor facilities at the loch. Combine it with the drive through Glen Hurich.

Where can I stay? The nearest accommodation and shops are in Strontian, about 6 km from the loch.