Kinlochewe Walks - Loch Clair and Loch Coulin Walk
This walk visits two beautiful lochs in the Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve in the Torridon area of Wester Ross in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland.
The lochs are located in a lovely remote spot and sit side by side to the south of Beinn Eighe and Loch Maree. You can reach them by following the road south west from Kinlochewe to Loch Clair. Here you'll find some roadside parking north east of the loch. There is a walking trail heading south from here to take you to the loch.
Follow the trail south and it will take you along the eastern side of both lakes until you reach the River Coulin. You can then follow a circular path around Loch Coulin before returning to Loch Clair. There are some wonderful views across the still waters to the surrounding mountains for the duration of the walk.
On the western side of the lakes there is the Coulin Forest to explore.
Loch Clair and Loch Coulin Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Loch Clair and Loch Coulin Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Loch Clair and Loch Coulin OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Loch Clair and Loch Coulin Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Loch Clair and Sgurr Dubh. Loch Clair is a scenic freshwater loch located in the Torridon area of the Scottish Highlands. It is bounded to the north by a significant mountain massif that includes the highest peak of Beinn Eighe, which rises to 1,009 metres and is part of the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. This reserve, established in 1951, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and geological features, making it a key location for conservation and natural heritage in Scotland. The imposing peak of Liathach, standing at 1,024 metres, is the most prominent and dramatic mountain visible from the loch, adding to the stunning backdrop.
An inlet of Loch Clair. To the west, Loch Clair is bordered by a series of lower hills, including Creag Dhubh, which reaches 384 metres, and Sgùrr Dubh, which stands at 782 metres. These hills provide a contrast to the taller, rugged peaks to the north and contribute to the varied topography of the area. The eastern side of the loch transitions into an open peatland landscape, characterised by small hills, streams, and peat bogs, creating a diverse environment that supports a variety of plant and animal species.
To the south, the loch is framed by the continuation of the mountainous terrain of the Coulin Forest, with Meall an Leathaid Mhòir reaching an elevation of 512 metres. This area forms part of a broader, rugged landscape that includes a mix of ancient woodland, heathland, and open moorland, making it a valuable habitat for wildlife and a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The unique combination of towering mountains, serene lochs, and diverse habitats makes Loch Clair and its surroundings a quintessential representation of the dramatic beauty of the Torridon region, offering stunning views and rich natural heritage for visitors to explore.
Loch Coulin and Beinn Eighe. Loch Coulin is a small, irregularly shaped loch in the Torridon area of the Scottish Highlands. It features a northeast-facing channel, approximately 200 metres wide, that narrows before transforming into a small river that eventually flows into Loch Clair. This connection between Loch Coulin and Loch Clair contributes to the interconnected freshwater systems of the region, supported by the River Coulin, which serves as the primary inflow at the southeast end of Loch Coulin. Additionally, the Allt na Fèithe Buildhe burn also feeds into the loch, contributing to its water levels and the overall hydrology of the area.
A' Ghairbhe river
Liathach from Loch Clair
River Coulin entering Loch Coulin. The loch is surrounded by a dramatic landscape typical of the Torridon region. To the north lies the imposing Beinn Eighe massif, which is part of the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, known for its rugged peaks and ancient pinewood forests. This massif includes some of the highest peaks in the area, offering a stunning backdrop to the loch. To the west of Loch Coulin is Sgùrr Dubh, rising to 782 metres, while to the south, the terrain is dominated by the Coulin Forest, with Meall an Leathaid Mhòir reaching 512 metres in elevation. This southern expanse is characterised by a series of small hills forming a ridge running east to west, adding to the varied topography.
To the east of Loch Coulin, the landscape transitions into a boggy, flat plain, contrasting sharply with the rugged, mountainous terrain that surrounds the loch on other sides. This mix of environments supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making the area around Loch Coulin ecologically significant and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The loch and its surroundings are also popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography, offering visitors the chance to experience the beauty and tranquillity of this remote Highland setting.
Looking towards the Coulin Forest
Gairloch : Kinlochewe. The village of Kinlochewe where there is a public car park and a hotel for refreshments.