Loch Morlich Tours

Loch Morlich showing forest scenes, mountains and a river or creek
Loch Morlich featuring forest scenes and a lake or waterhole
Loch Morlich which includes a lake or waterhole and forests
Loch Morlich showing a lake or waterhole
Loch Morlich showing forest scenes


Relax on the sandy beach or go for a scenic hike around this beautiful freshwater loch in the shadow of CairnGorm Mountain.

Loch Morlich is a picturesque lake in Glenmore Forest Park. Overlooked by the peaks of the northern Cairngorms and surrounded by forests, the loch is a popular spot for nature walks. Rent a canoe and paddle over the shimmering waters. Feed Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer at the nearby reindeer center or simply stretch out on the shore and feel the sand between your toes.

Stop at the Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Centre on your way to the loch. Enjoy a slice of homemade cake at the café and plan your itinerary for the day.

Walk along the 1-mile (1.9-kilometer) wheelchair-accessible Beach Trail, a path lined with towering old pine trees, which leads to Loch Morlich’s beach. Relax on this sandy beach, enjoying the panoramic views of the Cairngorms and the surrounding forest of pine and spruce trees. Watch windsurfers gliding across the loch, build a sandcastle and enjoy the sun.

Rent a kayak, rowboat, paddleboard, sailboat or wetsuit from Loch Morlich Watersports and spend a few hours on the waters. Head to the balcony of the center’s boathouse to see lovely views over the loch.

Don’t miss the Loch Morlich Trail, which winds through the Rothiemurchus estate forests and forestry commission land, offering stunning views of the loch from different perspectives. Look for herons, dippers and wagtails, among other birds and wildlife as you walk along this 3.8-mile (6-kilometer) trail.

Visit the nearby Cairngorm Reindeer Centre to see the only herd of free-ranging reindeer in Britain. A herder will take you on a guided walk to pet and feed the reindeer and provide first-hand reindeer education.

Loch Morlich is 6 miles (10 kilometers) east of Aviemore. On-site parking is available for a fee. Buses between Aviemore and the CairnGorm Mountain Funiculary Railway include stops near the loch. Cycle to the loch from Aviemore by following the pleasant Old Logging Way trail. Experience an active day or lounge on the sands while admiring the views at Loch Morlich.

Plan a trip to see Loch Morlich

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The Royal Highland Hotel
Hootananny
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Reviews of Loch Morlich

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
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5 - Excellent 65%
4 - Good
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4 - Good 35%
3 - Okay
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5/5 - Excellent

Liz

Great for a dip in summer!

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Loch Morlich

Coylumbridge Resort Hotel

Coylumbridge Resort Hotel

4 out of 5
Aviemore Invernesshire, Aviemore, Scotland
Coylumbridge Resort Hotel
Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel

Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel

3 out of 5
Glenmore, Loch Morlich, Aviemore, Scotland
Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel
Fabulous location, luxury lodge for 8+2 in cots, hot tub, garden, garage, dogs

Fabulous location, luxury lodge for 8+2 in cots, hot tub, garden, garage, dogs

Aviemore
Fabulous location, luxury lodge for 8+2 in cots, hot tub, garden, garage, dogs
Croftside House - S4401

Croftside House - S4401

Aviemore
Croftside House - S4401
3 bedroom accommodation in Aviemore

3 bedroom accommodation in Aviemore

Aviemore
3 bedroom accommodation in Aviemore
Time share lodge on Scotland for all ages .

Time share lodge on Scotland for all ages .

Aviemore
Time share lodge on Scotland for all ages .
Macdonald Aviemore Hotel

Macdonald Aviemore Hotel

4 out of 5
Macdonald Aviemore Resort, Aviemore, Scotland
Macdonald Aviemore Hotel
Delmhor No3

Delmhor No3

3.5 out of 5
Ski Road Cottages, Coylumbridge, Aviemore PH22 1QH, Aviemore, Scotland
Delmhor No3
Macdonald Morlich Hotel

Macdonald Morlich Hotel

4 out of 5
Macdonald Aviemore Resort, Next to the Conference Center, Aviemore, Scotland
Macdonald Morlich Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Loch Morlich

Loch Morlich offers a variety of exciting activities for tourists, including swimming, golfing, and skiing. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic excursions, explore nearby trails, and embark on wildlife tours. Additionally, visitors can experience a fantastic golfing atmosphere and take advantage of sailing opportunities on the beautiful loch. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Loch Morlich has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Loch Morlich, explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, The House of Bruar, 29 miles away, offers a wide selection of Scottish goods, while Iolaire, 30 miles away, features charming local crafts and apparel.

Recreation

Experience the tranquility of the Spey Valley Golf Course, only 5 miles from Loch Morlich, where you can enjoy stunning landscapes while playing a round of golf. Similarly, the Boat of Garten Golf Club, 6 miles away, offers a perfect outdoor atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, as does the Carrbridge Golf Club, located 9 miles from the loch.

Adventure

Experience thrilling skiing at CairnGorm Mountain, located 3 miles from Loch Morlich, where snow-covered slopes await. For breathtaking views, hike the Speyside Way - Tominoul Spur, 13 miles away, immersing yourself in Scotland's stunning landscapes. Alternatively, embark on an exciting biking adventure at Bike Glenlivet, 14 miles distant.

Nightlife

In Loch Morlich, the nearby Aviemore offers lively pubs like The Cairngorm Hotel, where you can enjoy local brews and live music. For a cozy evening, visit The Old Bridge Inn, known for its warm atmosphere and traditional Scottish fare.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Loch Morlich

Loch Morlich, located in Aviemore, Scotland, offers a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore the pristine lake and nearby nature reserves, perfect for hiking and enjoying the beach experience. History enthusiasts can also discover the area's historic railways. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Loch Morlich provides an ideal destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Scotland's natural beauty.

  • Cairngorm Reindeer Centre: Located 1 mile from Loch Morlich, this unique reserve is home to Scotland's only free-ranging reindeer herd. Enjoy friendly interactions and learn about these gentle creatures in a family-friendly environment, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
  • Loch an Eilein: Situated 4 miles away, this picturesque lake offers stunning scenery and serene beaches. Ideal for outdoor activities or a romantic escape, you can stroll around its tranquil shores while soaking in the breathtaking landscape.
  • Rothiemurchus Estate Visitor Centre: Also 4 miles from Loch Morlich, this center is an adventure hub for families. Explore the beautiful outdoors with various activities, from hiking to wildlife spotting, making it a great destination for everyone.

Best time to go to Loch Morlich

The best time to visit Loch Morlich is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January34.2°F (1.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March37.4°F (3.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
June52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
July55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
November39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Loch Morlich

To save money on your trip to Loch Morlich, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, March, or November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Tuesdays often offer the lowest hotel rates, while Fridays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and package options, combining your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and opportunities to earn cash for future bookings, ensuring a budget-friendly vacation experience.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Loch Morlich are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Loch Morlich is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Loch Morlich is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Loch Morlich is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package on Expedia that combines your Loch Morlich hotel stay with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia