Loch Morlich
A unique freshwater loch with a sandy beach, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cairngorm Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Loch Morlich
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique freshwater loch with a sandy beach, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cairngorm Mountains.
"It's simply Gorgeous. You won't be disappointed."
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, making it easy to access the beach and facilities.
🛶 Watersports Galore
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or rowing boats. Equipment hire and booking are available on-site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Loch Morlich Beach
Loch Morlich shoreline
The UK's highest freshwater beach, offering golden sands and stunning mountain backdrops. Perfect for relaxing or water sports.
Mountain Views
Around Loch Morlich
Panoramic vistas of the Cairngorm Mountains, especially beautiful with snow-capped peaks. A photographer's dream.
Forest Trails
Surrounding woodlands
Explore dense forests with walking trails offering diverse flora and fauna. Discover hidden glades and serene paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Beach Life (Even in the Highlands!)
+1Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, making it easy to access the beach and facilities.
🛶 Watersports Galore
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or rowing boats. Equipment hire and booking are available on-site.
🥶 Cold Water Dips
Brave a refreshing dip in the loch's icy waters for an invigorating experience! +1
📸 Instagrammable Views
Capture breathtaking photos of the loch, mountains, and beach. A true photographer's paradise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, making it easy to access the beach and facilities.
🛶 Watersports Galore
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or rowing boats. Equipment hire and booking are available on-site.
🥶 Cold Water Dips
Brave a refreshing dip in the loch's icy waters for an invigorating experience! +1
📸 Instagrammable Views
Capture breathtaking photos of the loch, mountains, and beach. A true photographer's paradise.
⚠️ Respect the Loch
This is a unique and respected natural spot. Please help keep it clean and pristine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Loch Morlich's stunning natural beauty, highlighting its rare sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking mountain views. It's praised as a photographer's paradise and a versatile spot for relaxation and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. While generally loved, some find nearby town amenities pricey.
"It’s such an amazing view with sandy beaches on the loch edge.
Plenty of parking, water sports and fantastic views.
Worth a stop for the scenery"
Scott Walmsley
"Loch Morlich is a beautiful spot in the Cairngorms with a rare sandy beach, clear waters, and stunning mountain views. Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, walking, or just relaxing. Good facilities nearby and easy parking. A must-visit if you're in the Highlands"
Danielle Sutton
"Beautiful loch saw the northern lights while there nice sandy beach to. Dense forest that you can explore for days!probably the best place in the whole uk you got everything you need around here transport every day like £5 from aviemore to loch morlich or the mountain the bus takes you like half way up the mountain basically.lots of shops and camping shops in town but are pricey as hell so if you break you back pack or something you would be covered. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CAMP ON THE SMALL HILLS SURROUNDING AVIEMORE THAT ARE TREE COVERED TRIED GOING THERE AND IS NOT A GOOD CHOICE FOR.went there for 5 minutes and had to walk all the way back down back to town because the swamp type lake nearby very swampy in my opinion and good place for the midges and mosquitos to get you! But if your going to the mountains I've heard when its windy or you arrive late people pitch up underneath the mountain resort centre there's also a good bike shed on the side of it I'd use it it was rough up there .22s if you want to climb ben macdui its not long or hard and I found the mountain on green loch harder but that might of been because I had like 30kgs on me that day but you can do ben macdui and on the route back I think you can go up caingom mountain then back to the car park"
Ry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Loch Morlich from Aviemore via public transport, with buses costing around £5. Alternatively, driving offers more flexibility for exploring the wider Cairngorms.
Yes, Loch Morlich is easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of parking available near the beach and facilities.
Cycling routes are available in the Cairngorms National Park, offering a scenic way to reach Loch Morlich for those who enjoy biking.
Regular bus services operate from Aviemore to Loch Morlich, making it a convenient option for visitors without a car.
Loch Morlich is a short drive or bus ride from Aviemore town centre, making it an easily accessible destination for day trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Loch Morlich itself is a natural attraction and generally does not have an entrance fee. Parking may have associated charges.
Loch Morlich is accessible year-round, with natural daylight hours being the primary consideration for visitors. Facilities like the cafe may have specific operating times.
While some watersports equipment can be hired on-site, it's recommended to pre-book, especially during peak season, to guarantee availability.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines to preserve the beauty of Loch Morlich.
Camping facilities are available in the vicinity, but it's crucial to use designated campsites and adhere to local regulations. Avoid camping on unmarked hillsides.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy a wide range of activities including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, rowing, walking, and simply relaxing on the sandy beach.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the beach, gentle walks, and watersports. The calm waters are great for younger visitors.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Loch Morlich. Be prepared for cold water, especially outside of summer months! +1
Yes, the surrounding forests offer numerous walking trails suitable for various fitness levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes.
Loch Morlich is a photographer's paradise, offering stunning mountain backdrops, the unique beach, and beautiful light, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a boathouse cafe on-site offering refreshments. You can also find dining options in nearby Aviemore.
Picnicking is a popular activity. There are designated areas, and enjoying a meal with the scenic views is highly recommended.
The boathouse cafe typically offers light meals, snacks, and drinks, perfect for a break during your visit.
Aviemore has a range of restaurants, from casual pubs to more formal dining, offering various cuisines to suit different preferences.
While some shops in Aviemore can be pricey, dining options vary. It's possible to find budget-friendly meals alongside more upscale choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers magical light for capturing the mountains and loch. Midday can be good for beach shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of the mountains. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
The entire shoreline offers fantastic views. Experiment with different angles from the beach and the surrounding trails for unique perspectives.
Keep an eye out for local birdlife and other small creatures. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best for wildlife spotting.
The combination of a sandy beach, clear freshwater, surrounding pine forests, and the majestic Cairngorm Mountains creates a truly picturesque and unique landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach, families can enjoy easy walking trails through the surrounding forests, perfect for little legs. Watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding are also great family activities, with equipment available for hire. The boathouse cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and meals, making it easy to spend a full day here without any hassle.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some shops in Aviemore can be pricey, public transport from Aviemore to Loch Morlich is relatively inexpensive (around £5). Consider packing your own food and drinks to save on expenses, and focus on the natural beauty and outdoor activities that don't cost a penny.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for an especially romantic experience, as the light paints the landscape in magical colours. A picnic by the loch or a cozy meal at the boathouse cafe can add to the charm. The sheer beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for couples seeking a connection with nature and each other.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geography of Loch Morlich
The loch's location at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountains also plays a significant role in its stunning scenery. The surrounding pine forests and the dramatic mountain backdrop create a breathtaking panorama that changes with the seasons, offering a different visual experience throughout the year.
This combination of glacial history and dramatic mountain setting makes Loch Morlich a truly special place, offering a unique blend of beach-like relaxation and rugged Highland adventure. It's a testament to the powerful forces that shaped the Scottish landscape.
Activities and Adventures at Loch Morlich
Beyond the water, the surrounding forests provide excellent opportunities for exploration. Numerous walking trails wind through the trees, offering chances to discover local flora and fauna. For those seeking a more challenging experience, the proximity to the Cairngorm Mountains means hiking and climbing opportunities are abundant, with routes like Ben Macdui accessible from the area.
Even a simple cold water dip in the loch can be an unforgettable experience, though it's not for the faint-hearted!
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Loch Morlich
Golden hour is particularly magical here. The soft light of sunrise and sunset bathes the landscape in warm hues, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the mountains and water. Many visitors find the views so stunning they describe the place as 'heaven' or a 'photographer's dream'.
Beyond the grand vistas, don't forget to look for smaller details. The forests offer opportunities for macro photography, and the wildlife around the loch can provide charming subjects. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, Loch Morlich offers endless opportunities to capture breathtaking images.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit