Loch Maree Shoreline Walk (Beinn Eighe)

Loch Maree is widely regarded as the most beautiful freshwater loch in Scotland, its 20 km length studded with pine-covered islands and framed by the quartzite ridges of Beinn Eighe and the massive presence of Slioch. The Woodland Trail starts from the Coille na Glas-Leitire car park on the Loch Maree side of the A832, passes under the road and loops up through a remnant of ancient Caledonian pinewood that is among the most intact in the Highlands, with twisted, veteran Scots pines and a short detour to a viewpoint over Loch Maree to Slioch. The trail is a 1.5 km circuit taking about an hour, with around 100 m of climbing on a well-made path that is steep in places. The trees here are in the order of 300 years old and the woodland floor carries a carpet of heather, blaeberry and mosses found in few places outside the ancient forest remnants of the north-west.

This is one of the finest easy dog friendly walks in the Highlands. Keep your dog under close control in the reserve, as the Scottish Outdoor Access Code asks; the car park sits on the loch side of the road. The ancient pinewoods carry a deep stillness and a scent world of resin, peaty soil and woodland must that dogs find deeply engaging. The walk is short enough to suit most dogs, though the steep sections may be hard going for older dogs. The NNR car park has toilets and information boards that provide excellent context for the ancient forest. Pair with the Mountain Trail for a longer day if fitness allows.