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Loch Faskally

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Lakeside, Valley

Walking, Swimming, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Kayaking, Fishing, Picnicking, Birdwatching

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Trevor Littlewood via Geograph.org.uk

Walking along the wooded banks of Loch Faskally at dawn reveals an incredible engineering achievement that completely mirrors the surrounding forest. Wimpey Construction built this massive reservoir between 1947 and 1950 to stabilise the heavy river flows down below the main dam at Pitlochry.

The ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

The Auld Smiddy Inn​, Mackintosh Lounge (Fisher’s Hotel) – Pitlochry, The Old Mill Inn – Pitlochry

Pitlochry Youth Hostel, The Retreat Cabin

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Loch Faskally?
Perthshire contains this large body of water right on the boundary of Pitlochry town. Dense woodlands surround the shores where winding walking trails run alongside the waterline.

What type of place is Loch Faskally?
Loch Faskally is a man-made reservoir near the town of Pitlochry in the Scottish Highlands.

When is the best time to visit Loch Faskally?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for spending a day out on the water. October brings spectacular autumn colours when the surrounding tree canopy turns completely gold and copper.

What can you do at Loch Faskally?
People love to hire kayaks and glide across the glassy surface or fish for Atlantic salmon from the banks. Swimmers regularly take a dip here, while others enjoy watching wildlife like grey herons from the shoreline pathways.

How long should I spend at Loch Faskally?
Allocating half a day lets you enjoy a proper walk around the edge and visit the nearby power station. A shorter stop works well if you only want to sit by the water for a quick picnic.

Where do I park at Loch Faskally?
Vehicles can use ten spaces nearby, split into eight day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Loch Faskally?
The Auld Smiddy Inn, Mackintosh Lounge (Fisher’s Hotel) – Pitlochry, and The Old Mill Inn – Pitlochry offer three choices close to the water. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Loch Faskally?
Pitlochry Youth Hostel and The Retreat Cabin provide two options close by. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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