Best lakes around Kilninver And Kilmelford are characterized by a diverse landscape of freshwater lochs and sea lochs within Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The area features significant lochs such as Loch Avich, Loch Tralaig, Loch Seil, and the sea loch, Loch Melfort. These bodies of water are set amidst moors, woodlands, and hills, offering a range of natural features. The region also holds historical significance, with ancient castle ruins and crannogs found on some lochs.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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Popular around Kilninver And Kilmelford
EE-USK Fish Restaurant and Oban Distillery
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A great place to come and sit by the calm water on the sand, watch the boats and bring along a box of fish and chips.
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With a surface area of 14.9 square miles (38.5 sq km), Loch Awe is the third-largest freshwater loch in Scotland. The stunning stretch water flows into the River Awe and Loch Etive, eventually draining into the Atlantic Ocean. The land surrounding the loch would once have belonged to the Macarthurs family who established themselves as a powerful clan from its banks. Today, Loch Awe is a peaceful nature spot known for its trout and salmon fishing.
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Expanding amongst the moors, Loch Avich is a wonderful place to explore. Measuring 3.3 miles (5.3 km) long, this freshwater loch is an unmissable feature in the beautiful landscape. After Loch Awe, Loch Avich is the second largest loch in the Etive basin. On the southwesterly shore, you might spot the ruins of Caisteal na Nighinn Ruaidhe, an ancient castle thought to have once been the original seat of Clan Campbell.
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Ederline Loch is part of Ederline Estate, a working farm covering 13,000 acres of moors, lochs and woodland. Set amongst the hills, this beautiful loch is home to rich wildlife including ospreys. You may even spot golden eagles. Loch Erdine is a popular place to fish thanks to its pike, perch and roach population. There is also a boat house by the loch where you can stop for a picnic.
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The region is rich in history. For example, Kilchurn Castle and Loch Awe features the ruins of a historic castle. Loch Avich also has historical significance, with three islands, one of which, Innis Luana, holds the ruins of Caisteal na Nighinn Ruaidhe, or "Castle of the Red-Haired Maiden," believed to be an ancient seat of Clan Campbell. Another islet, Eilean Fraoch, contains the remains of a crannog. Additionally, Loch Seil, though its crannog is mostly submerged, is near the Duachy Standing Stones.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Loch Ederline is part of a working farm estate and is known for its wildlife, making it an engaging spot for children. Loch Avich is also considered family-friendly for exploration. For a unique experience, Angus's Garden offers a pleasant walk and welcomes dogs, making it a good option for families with pets.
The lakes are home to diverse wildlife. Loch Ederline is particularly noted for its rich wildlife, including ospreys and golden eagles. Loch Tralaig, despite past environmental concerns, is known for wildlife spotting, with observations of Golden Eagles, Sea Eagles, Goldfinches, and Peacock butterflies in its vicinity.
Absolutely. Loch Scammadale, also known as Glen Euchar, is described as a wonderful place for walking, with stunning scenery. For more structured routes, you can find various hiking trails in the region. Explore options like the 'Druim an Fhaillich loop' or the 'Ceann Mòr & Loch nan Druimnean loop from Melfort — Isle of Seil' by visiting the Hiking around Kilninver And Kilmelford guide.
Yes, the area offers several cycling opportunities. You can find routes such as the 'Loch Awe & Falls of Avich loop from Dalavich' or the 'Loch Ederline & Loch Avich loop from Kilmelford via Craobh Haven'. For more details and other routes, check out the Cycling around Kilninver And Kilmelford guide.
Loch Awe is well-known for its trout and salmon fishing. Loch Ederline is also a popular spot for fishing, particularly for pike, perch, and roach. Additionally, the sea loch, Loch Melfort, offers opportunities for both wild brown trout fishing in hill lochs and sea fishing.
Yes, Loch Melfort is a sheltered sea loch that adds to the region's appeal. Kilmelford village, located at its head, is a popular spot for the yachting community and offers stunning views and various activities.
For breathtaking views, Kilchurn Castle and Loch Awe offers a prominent viewpoint of Scotland's third-largest freshwater loch. Another rewarding spot is Loch Luachrach, an intermediate forest and lake viewpoint that provides a beautiful vista after a reasonable climb.
Loch Avich is notable for its distinctive narrow, triangular shape and its historical significance. It features three islands, including Innis Luana with the ruins of Caisteal na Nighinn Ruaidhe, and Eilean Fraoch with the remains of a crannog. The River Avich also flows from the loch, creating the scenic Avich Falls.
While not officially designated swimming spots, Loch Scammadale is known to have been used for swimming by locals in the past, suggesting its waters are suitable. Always exercise caution and check local conditions before entering any open water.
The best time to visit generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant natural scenery, ideal for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a serene, dramatic landscape, though some facilities or routes might be less accessible.
Loch Tralaig is a generally shallow freshwater loch known for its natural beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities. It's a good place to observe various bird species and butterflies, despite its historical use for fish farming.


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