Loch an Eilein Loop (Rothiemurchus)

Loch an Eilein sits in the heart of the Rothiemurchus estate, a calm sheet of water ringed by ancient Caledonian pinewoods with a ruined 13th-century castle on its island that gives the whole place an almost fairy-tale quality. The 6.8km circular loop follows a well-maintained path through Scots pine, juniper and birch, with the loch visible through the trees for much of the way. The terrain is gentle throughout, barely 78 metres of elevation gain, and the forest floor is soft with pine needles and moss. On still mornings the castle reflection sits perfectly on the water, and red squirrels are a common sight in the canopy above.

This is one of the finest dog friendly walks in the Cairngorms for a relaxed outing. The pine forest floor is rich with scent, and the loch shoreline offers several easy access points for dogs that want to paddle or swim. Off-lead walking is possible through much of the woodland, though leads are sensible near the car park and visitor areas where other walkers congregate. Livestock risk is minimal within the forest. The Rothiemurchus estate is well set up for visitors, with parking and a café at the farm shop nearby. Suits all ages and fitness levels of dog, and works beautifully in every season.