We set off from the car park on the Pitlochry side of Kinloch Rannoch which has a signpost across road pointing to the "Craig Varr Path". In hindsight we could have parked in the village itself and followed a shorter and clearer route but we got a couple of extra miles walk out of this mishap. I also think this might be a good spot to park in the Summer when the village is really busy. The path almost immediately turns left and climbs gently through a woodland path. Around half way to Kinloch Rannoch there is another sign pointing straight ahead. We ignored this and started to climb upwards to the path on the right. I enjoyed this part of the walk with the rust coloured ferns, gentle brooks and autumnal leaves. We also spotted a deer prancing through the trees ahead of us.
As we followed the path out of the trees the route took us away from the peak we thought we were heading to and towards a larger hill, which we then realised was Craig Varr. At this point the path continues over more moor land, past a cairn and towards a bridge over a small waterfall. This is a beautiful spot offering views down to the village below and across to Schiehallion. As we had set off early the sun was now rising further in to the sky and sending rays over the mountains and lochs around us. A really stunning sight!
We continued over the bridge and turned to the left. Once we got to a rough old stone dyke (keep your eyes peeled for this- we missed it the first time!) we started to head across the rough moorland and up the hill. There is no path at this point so we tried to roughly go up and leftwards avoiding swampy patches. As it had been raining that weekend the ground was very squelchy at some points and there were small streams running from the top of the hill.
As we climbed upwards another rough path emerged which was covered with fern and heather roots. We carefully followed this until we got to a stone dyke which we followed up to the top of the hill. From here we were rewarded with captivating views of Kinloch Rannoch, Loch Rannoch, Dunalastair Water, Schiehallion and the mountains all the way to Glen Coe. We spent some time taking in these views and the peaceful isolation that can be found at the top of hills.
After this pause we set back off on our way down the hill, this time heading towards the village following the river and waterfall. Most of this path had turned in to a stream. We were able to walk through it but in bad weather this may be a more difficult route. This took us out at the waterfall in the centre of Kinloch Rannoch. We then continued along the woodland path beside the road which completed our circular route and took us back to the car park.
Altogether this route took us longer than we had expected but if you were wanting a shorter walk I suggest parking in Kinloch Rannoch and climbing up the route we climbed down from as this did not take long. I think this is a great walk for all abilities at any time of the year, especially if the weather is clear to take full advantage of the view!
The Facts on climbing Craig Varr:
- We started from the park park around 1 mile before Kinloch Rannoch, however you could also park in the village for free.
- I believe there are public toilets in Kinloch Rannoch.
- Climbing Craig Varr from the further car park took us around 3 hours.
- Distance is around 7k.
- Difficult points: Some of the paths had turned in to streams which could be slippy and there was no path once you got near the top of the hill.
- Wear: Hiking/ hill walking boots and trousers that you don't mind getting a bit muddy.
- Perfect for those who enjoy finding their own path and being rewarded with amazing views of the lower Highlands.
Further Reading:
- Another guide to climbing Craig Varr, this time starting from the village.
amazing landscape, beautiful pics! so captivating!
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a possible fantasy
Thanks for your kind comment. It is a beautiful part of Scotland!
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