Activity Snapshot
Activity description
Discover Scotland’s iconic lochs at your own pace with scenic kayaking excursions along the Great Glen Canoe Trail.
Discover the heritage charm and international reputation of the Scottish Highlands on this kayaking excursion in the heart of the Great Glen. A 22-mile trail made up of the four main lochs (Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Ness and Loch Dochfour) The Caledonian Canal system is a fun and adventurous day out for serious paddlers and myth busters alike. Whether you’re looking to beat the salmon upstream or searching for the UK's most infamous local legend, head out for a kayaking trip near Fort William & Fort Augustus
Location
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. A two-hour drive from Inverness, Citylink run regular services from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, Oban and Skye. You can also get a bus directly from Glasgow Airport to Fort William (twice a day in the summer).
Activity
Meet your instructor at the activity base for a guided kayaking tour in Loch Oich and Loch Ness. As part of the Great Glen Canoe Trail, you will explore the 22-mile trail that runs from the heart of the Highlands into the North Sea. Suitable for young families from 8 years old and groups of friends alike, everyone will get an introduction to the kayaking equipment and the basic techniques that are used to paddle the boat forwards and backwards as well as stopping and turning your boat (you might even play some games!). Don’t worry if you are looking to simply try out the sport or to just have a bit of fun messing about on the water, exploring the shoreline of the loch and the Caledonian Canal, you’ll also get a chance to learn more about the local legends and the Scottish folklore that surrounds this infamous part of Scotland – the perfect storytelling adventure for children and big kids, too!
Conditions
Loch Oich is rich in wildlife with a wide variety of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Every autumn the Atlantic salmon migration becomes a popular attraction. 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.
