Aviemore: Loch an Eilein and the Croft Track from Rothiemurchus

Walk from Rothiemurchus Farm Shop and The Barn cafe to Loch an Eilein, then follow the full shoreline circuit beneath the old pinewoods. The island castle is the main landmark, with changing views across the water as you round the loch. This route uses the Croft Track approach and returns along the same approach after the loch circuit.

From the visitor parking, join the Old Logging Way briefly, then turn onto the Tullochgrue road. Take the signed track for Loch an Eilein at the fork and continue down through the forest. At the loch entrance, follow the main walking circuit clockwise, keeping to the established trail at the southern junction near Loch Gamhna. Complete the west shore back to the visitor centre, then retrace the Croft Track to Inverdruie. The rougher circuit around Loch Gamhna is separate from this walk.

Allow about three and a half hours for the 11 km walk, including short stops. Gravel tracks and woodland paths have gentle climbs, uneven sections and puddles after rain. The first approach includes a quiet single-track road, and the short link at the loch entrance is shared with vehicles. Stay alert at junctions and passing places. Wear shoes with good grip and carry water and waterproofs.

Use the public visitor parking by the Farm Shop and cafe, checking local signs for restrictions. The Barn cafe and shop are open daily during business hours; facilities at the loch can be seasonal. Keep dogs at heel or on a short lead, stay on maintained paths and give way to cyclists, runners and horse riders. Do not light fires. Check Rothiemurchus and Cairngorms National Park access notices before setting out.

Route information: Rothiemurchus's Loch an Eilein Trail map and walking guide, with the National Park's current path notices.