Loch Cluanie
Lake Highland loch and reservoir along scenic A87
Loch accessed from the western Highlands, bordered by peaks used by hillwalkers and Munro-baggers. People visit for fishing, mountain routes and highland road trips.
Loch Cluanie is a dammed freshwater loch in the western Scottish Highlands, located beside the A87. It functions as a reservoir within the region’s hydro-electric infrastructure and is framed by surrounding high ground used for hillwalking.
The loch provides scenic roadside views and access to nearby Munros and glens. It forms part of the landscape travellers pass on the main route between central Scotland and the west coast/Skye.
The body of water was created as part of mid-20th century hydro-electric developments in the Highlands and the dam altered the original glacial basin. Management of the reservoir is tied to regional water and power schemes.
It lies on the west Highlands road network, beside the A87 at the head of a valley used to cross from the Great Glen area toward Kintail and Skye.
- Roadside reservoir: The loch is a dammed reservoir on the A87 and is visible from the roadside, making it a common stop for travellers on the route to the west Highlands and Skye.
How to Get to Loch Cluanie #
Situated beside the A87/A887 routes in the western Highlands; accessible by car from Inverness or Kyle of Lochalsh. The Cluanie Inn and nearby laybys serve as common access points for walks and views.
Tips for Visiting Loch Cluanie #
- Park near the A87/A887 junction and walk the lochside trails; the Cluanie Inn is a useful reference point for supplies.
- Midges can be active in summer evenings - bring repellent and avoid still, wooded paths at dusk.
- The area is a good base for longer hikes around Glen Shiel and the dramatic Five Sisters ridge.
Best Time to Visit Loch Cluanie #
Summer offers the most accessible conditions, while shoulder seasons have fewer crowds and dramatic weather.
Weather & Climate near Loch Cluanie #
Loch Cluanie's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -1°C to 15°C. Heavy rainfall (2842 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (350 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (232 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (283 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (149 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (131 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (137 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (181 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Heavy rain (264 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Heavy rain (304 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (324 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (333 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
