Bridge of Oich to Fort Augustus
You join the towpath by the Aberchalder Swing Bridge, at the north end of Loch Oich and continue on the towpath with the River Oich running alongside for much of the towpath’s length, giving a watery feeling to this outing. On the right, you’ll see the steep slopes of the Great Glen formed by a tear fault in the Earth’s crust.
Continue on to enter bustling Fort Augustus where the canal descends through five locks to enter Loch Ness. Among the many attractions is the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre, which details the waterway’s history up to its present day rejuvenation.
Note: This route is part of the proposed National Route 78 between Fort William and Inverness.
Natural attractions:
- Loch Oich
- River Oich
- Great Glen
- Loch Ness
Visitor attractions:
- Caledonian Canal
Route submitted by: Sustrans
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Comments
Key route details
- Region/Area:
West Highland
- Distance:
4.5 miles / 7.5 kilometres
- Time needed:
40 minutes
- Classification:
Suitable for families
- Traffic:
Traffic-free
- Surface:
Whin dust
- NCN Route:
Proposed National Route 78
- Start:
Bridge of Oich
- Finish:
Fort Augustus
- Cycle hire:
Clansman Centre Cycle Hire, Fort Augustus. 01320 366444
- Links with:
Great Glen Way
- Weather:
-
Wed
max: 3°C min: -2°C
-
Thu
max: 5°C min: 1°C
-
Fri
max: 6°C min: 1°C
-
Sat
max: 5°C min: 1°C
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21/07/09, at 05:25 PM
There is a very fine tea-room at Bridge of Oich.