Loch Liath

Loch Liath is a mountain lake in the Glen Moriston area of the Scottish Highlands. Its Gaelic name translates as "the grey loch". There are no kiosks or signed car parks here: it is a destination for walkers and cyclists who like to go deep into the uplands, away from the busy shores of Loch Ness.

Where is Loch Liath?

The loch lies in the hills north of the River Moriston, roughly between Loch Ness and Glen Affric, at about 57.23° N, 4.75° W. The Ordnance Survey name books from the 1870s describe it as a sizeable mountain loch, a short distance south of Loch an Staca. Its outflow, the Allt Bhlàir (spelled Allt Bhlàraidh on modern maps), runs south-east and joins the River Moriston near Drochaid Bhlàir.

Several Scottish lochs have similar-sounding Gaelic names, so check the grid position and the name of the outflow stream on a map before you set off.

How do you get to Loch Liath?

The usual starting point is the Bhlaraidh area beside the A887 in Glen Moriston. A tarred road heads north from there, followed by estate tracks and service roads for the hydro scheme and the Bhlaraidh wind farm, passing the Bhlaraidh dam and reservoir. Walkers and cyclists report that the hydro track is well surfaced with a reasonable gradient, but it is still a long slog, especially by bike. A gate closes part of the route, so check the current access arrangements on this private estate before you go. Scotland has a right of responsible access, but take care near forestry and energy works.

What will you see?

The surroundings are open moorland with sparse conifers, boggy patches and deer fences. Hills such as Meall na Faiche, Carn Coille Bhlaraidh and Carn an Tuairneir rise above the reservoir. From the area around the summit of Meall na Faiche you can pick out Loch Liath in the distance, which makes a good photo stop. Alongside the wild scenery you will also notice turbines and energy infrastructure, so the landscape is not entirely untouched.

When should you visit?

Late spring to early autumn is the most comfortable period, with long days and drier ground on the boggy stretches. In winter daylight is very short and conditions in the hills change quickly. Take a paper or offline map, waterproofs and water, as phone signal in the side glens can be poor. In summer, expect midges and carry repellent.

What should you pack, and what should you watch for?

Good hiking boots or a mountain bike are the best choices. The approach is long, so plan your return before dusk. In autumn, check for deer stalking notices on the estate so you do not walk into an active stalk.

Frequently asked questions

What does Loch Liath mean? It is Gaelic for "grey loch". Similar names occur elsewhere in Scotland, so always give the region or coordinates.

Can you drive to the loch? Not to the shore. The route begins at the A887 near Bhlaraidh and follows estate tracks that you cover on foot or by bike.

Is the route difficult? The track is surfaced and the gradient is moderate, but it is long and can be tiring on a bike. Off the surfaced sections the ground is wet and boggy.

Can you see Loch Ness from the loch? No. Loch Liath sits deep in the hills. Loch Ness is in the same region but is not part of the view from its shore.