Loch Oich

Loch Oich is a freshwater loch which forms part of the Caledonian Canal, of which it is the highest point, just over 100 feet above sea level. This narrow loch lies between Loch Ness (to the Northeast) and Loch Lochy (to the Southwest) in the Great Glen. It is fed by the River Garry (from Loch Garry) from the West, and feeds the River Oich from its North end. The Laggan locks separate it from Loch Lochy.

Loch Oich is rich in wildlife with a wide variety of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.

Every autumn the Atlantic salmon migrates from the sea using Loch Oich, Loch Lochy and Loch Ness as their spawning nests. After two years when the fingerling are up to 20 cm long they migrate back to the sea where they grow rapidly and weigh from 3.5 – 17 kg after two years.

On Loch Oich there are a number of mooring points, with the main area being located at the Great Glen Water Park. There are also pontoons located just after the Aberchalder Swing Bridge, beside the Invergarry Castle ruins and in front of The Well of the Seven Heads.

Sights & Walks

Invergarry Castle - The ruins of Invergarry Castle, once the seat of the powerful MacDonnell Chiefs of Glengarry, stands on Creagan an Fhitich (The Raven's Rock) in the grounds of Glengarry Castle Hotel, overlooking Loch Oich. It was burned down after the Jacobite Risings in 1715 and again in 1745. Before and after the Battle of Culloden it gave shelter to Prince Charles Edward, better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Well of the Seven Heads – This well has some story to tell. It was erected in 1812 by the Glengarry chief. The heads of the seven murderers of the family of Keppoch were washed in the well before being presented to the Clan chief at Invergarry Castle in 1665.

Activities

Highland Activities – This outdoor adventure centre have two bases, one at the Great Glen Water Park and one at Ardverikie Estate (the setting for the BBC series “Monarch of the Glen”). From their base on Loch Oich they run various activities including kayaking, canoeing, abseiling, water skiing and wake boarding.
Tel: 08450 945513

Great Glen Water Park – The main building, just up beyond the lodge’s at the park offers facilities for non-residents to use such as a heated swimming pool, games room and children’s play area.
Tel: 01809 501381

Restaurants, Bars & Cafes

Loch Oich Restaurant & Bar – This small family run business is located within the main building at the Great Glen Water Park. The restaurant offers a choice of freshly prepared lights snacks through out the day as well as a wide range of freshly prepared evening meals. Light lunches and snacks are served daily from 11.30am to 2.30pm, along with a large range of coffees that are served all day. Evening meals are available from 6.15pm to 8.30pm, with the menu changing throughout the week, offering a selection of fresh home cooked dishes made from local produce. Booking in advance is advisable.
Great Glen Water Park, South Laggan, Near Spean Bridge, PH34 4EA
Tel: 01809 501383

Taxis & Transport

Great Glen Travel - 01809 501222
 

West End Garage - 01320 366247