Hidden among the ancient forests of the Cairngorms lies a small loch so beautiful that generations of locals have struggled to explain its unusual colour. An Lochan Uaine, better known as the Green Loch, is tucked away in Glenmore Forest near Aviemore and is well worth a visit.
While visitors are often drawn in by its striking emerald waters, it is the folklore surrounding the loch that has helped make it one of Scotland's most magical locations.
Location and Scenery
The freshwater loch sits beneath Creag nan Gall, or the Rock of the Stranger, and is surrounded by Caledonian pine forest. The woodland setting alone is enough to make the walk worthwhile, but it is the water itself that stops many visitors in their tracks.
Its striking green-turquoise colour has continued to puzzle those who visit for years. Some believe the colour comes from algae in the water, while others suggest it is simply the reflection of the surrounding trees.
Fairy Folklore
However, local legend offers a far more intriguing and magical explanation for the loch's gorgeous colour. According to folklore, the loch gets its distinctive colour from fairies washing their green clothes in its waters when night falls.
Unlike the tiny winged creatures of modern fairy tales, Scotland's traditional fairies were often described as human-sized beings who lived alongside people in the wild landscapes of the Highlands.
The story is linked to nearby Loch Morlich, which legend says was home to Donald, the King of the Fairies. Locals say it was his clan who regularly washed their clothes in the loch, leaving behind the vivid green tint that remains today.
Visiting the Loch
For those wanting to visit the loch, it can be reached via a short walk through Glenmore Forest. Most visitors start the walk from the Allt Mor Car Park or Glenmore Visitor Centre before following forest trails for around a mile. The journey usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes, with paths winding through pine trees and alongside a flowing burn, making it extra scenic.
For those travelling from Aviemore, cycling along the Old Logging Way offers another scenic route into Glenmore. The off-road trail is popular with visitors looking to explore more of the national park, and an added bonus is that the return journey is all downhill.
Wildlife and Activities
The Cairngorms National Park is home to around a quarter of the UK's rare and endangered species, making wildlife spotting an added attraction for visitors. If you're lucky, you might be able to spot red squirrels, several woodland birds, and other native animals that often live among the trees surrounding the loch.
Despite its growing popularity, An Lochan Uaine remains a peaceful spot where visitors are encouraged to relax and take in the scenery. A small viewing platform overlooking the water offers one of the best vantage points, with many choosing to sit quietly and admire the loch's remarkable colour.
One question often asked by visitors is whether they can swim in the water. While there are no specific restrictions, the loch has a reputation for being home to large numbers of leeches, making it a less appealing wild swimming destination than some of Scotland's other freshwater beauty spots.
Whether its famous green colour is caused by nature or something more magical, An Lochan Uaine continues to be a standout spot for visitors from across Scotland and beyond. And if you arrive early enough, you might just convince yourself you've spotted a fairy disappearing into the trees.
