The best walks and hikes around Coille Inbhirwick

Coille Inbhirwick refers to the forested hillsides located near the village of Invermoriston in the Scottish Highlands. The trails in this area are known for their beautiful woodland paths and stunning views over Loch Ness and the surrounding glens.

Yes, there are several gentle walks perfect for families. A great option is the Summer House Viewpoint – Glengarry Arms Hotel loop from Invermoriston. It's a short, mostly flat walk of about 2 km that offers lovely scenery without being too strenuous.

The main starting point for many hikes is the village of Invermoriston, which has a public car park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak tourist season, as spaces can be limited. Some trailheads further from the village may have small, informal parking areas.

Yes, the trails around Coille Inbhirwick are generally dog-friendly. However, you'll be walking through forests and occasionally near farmland with livestock. It's important to keep your dog under control at all times, and on a lead where signposted or near farm animals.

Absolutely. Invermoriston is a key point on the Great Glen Way, a long-distance route that spans from Fort William to Inverness. Many local trails connect with or include sections of the Great Glen Way, offering a chance to experience part of this famous Scottish walk.

Yes, the area has a good selection of circular routes, which are perfect for exploring without having to retrace your steps. For a rewarding moderate challenge, the 16.5 km Hiking loop from Invermoriston offers a fantastic circuit through the varied woodland terrain.

The woodlands and hillsides are rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for red deer, especially in the quieter parts of the forest. The area is also home to red squirrels, pine martens, and a variety of birdlife, including buzzards and woodland birds. Patience and a quiet approach will increase your chances of a sighting.

There's a great mix of difficulties. You can find over 50 trails, with about 20 rated as easy, 29 as moderate, and 7 as difficult. The terrain ranges from gentle riverside paths to steady, challenging ascents up forested hills, so there's a suitable hike for nearly every fitness level.

The trails around Coille Inbhirwick are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained forest paths, the spectacular viewpoints over Loch Ness, and the sense of tranquility within the woods.

Many of the main trails, particularly those managed by Forestry and Land Scotland and sections of the Great Glen Way, are well-signposted. However, some smaller or less-trafficked paths may be less clear. Using a GPS device or the komoot app is always recommended to help with navigation.

Most hikes involve walking on woodland paths, which can be uneven with tree roots and rocks. Many routes feature steady climbs to reach viewpoints, so expect some significant elevation gain on moderate and difficult trails. Paths can become muddy after rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential.