This Breathtaking Scottish Lake Is Just As Gorgeous As Loch Ness But With Fewer Crowds

Though billed as one of the most serene and remote corners in the United Kingdom, Scotland's Highlands continue to draw millions of tourists every year. The Highland Council reported 8.3 million tourists visited the Highlands in 2023, with one of the most popular destinations being Loch Ness. While scenically beautiful and enigmatic thanks to the potential presence of a certain monster, Loch Ness can become quite crowded. For those looking for an equally breathtaking Scottish loch experience that takes them away from Ness's crowds, they need to head east into the Cairngorm Mountains to visit Loch an Eilein.

Located on the Rothimerchus Highland Estate in the town of Aviemore, Loch an Eilein – "The Loch of the Island" – is a small lake surrounded by dense woodlands and dramatic views of the Cairngorms. Smack in the middle of the loch is a small island containing the ruins of a 13th century castle. It's a sight that feels more at home in a fantasy novel or episode of "Outlander." We assure you, however, this is a real place that you can visit.

Despite being deep in the eastern Highlands, Loch an Eilein is relatively easy to locate. From Edinburgh, the drive takes a little over two hours. From nearby Inverness, the drive is just over an hour. Parking at the Loch is only about $6.50 per car, so make sure to have a little cash on you when you arrive at this stunning location.

There is little question that when you come upon the banks of Loch an Eilein you'll feel like you've entered into a fairytale setting. While not as awe inspiring as the enormous and beautiful Loch Lomond, Loch an Eilein offers visitors a more intimate exploration experience. Setting up for a picnic and gazing out over the waters towards the island castle makes for a relaxing afternoon. In fact, Loch an Eilein was voted Britain's best spot to picnic. Of course, for those looking for more activity in their day, the loch offers plenty of options.

A three-mile loop around Loch an Eilein is an easy walking path that takes you all the way around the lake. Dogs are welcome, though they must be on a leash. The trail provides ample opportunities to see some of the abundant wildlife around the loch. Osprey are particularly prolific here, as are red squirrels, crested tits, and Scottish crossbills. It's also a gentle trail that can be traversed by motorized wheel chairs as well as off-road baby carriages.

Those looking to experience the water first hand can feel free to swim in the loch, or take one of Rothiemurchus Estate's guided canoe or paddle boarding trips. Fishing for pike is allowed in the loch, though permits must be acquired first. Be advised, in order to preserve the natural integrity of the loch, only two permits are given per day and those fishing must be accompanied by an estate guide.

Visitors don't need to travel far from Loch an Eilein to get even more out of this scenic chunk of the highlands. Rothiemurchus Highland Estate offers numerous activities around the estate, including ranger guided excursions like clay shooting, estate walks, a Hairy Heilan Coo safari (pictured here), local deer feeding, quad bike treks, horseback riding, falconry, and archery. The estate also offers water bound adventures on the River Spey and Canyon Gorge that include kayaking, rafting, tubing, and gorge walking.

Apart from the loch itself, visitors would do well to take a 25 minute car ride out to Cairngorm Mountain. Part of the Cairngorm Mountains National Park, one of the most stunning destinations in the Highlands, Cairngorm Mountain offers an excellent amount of activities for all seasons. Hike, zip line, ski, or just take the summit train up the mountain for outstanding views of the surrounding Highlands. From the summit you'll be able to spot Loch an Eilein, as well as several other surrounding lochs.

Any trip to Loch an Eilein wouldn't really be complete without a visit into the village of Aviemore itself. Pop into The Winking Owl for a dram and elevated pub fare (the place earned the Taste of Scotland's "Taste Our Best" award), and don't miss out on the numerous whisky and retail shops dotted throughout town. Combined with the loch, a visit to this stunning section of the Highlands is well worth it to beat the crowds and experience some authentic Scottish culture.