Kenmore to Falls of Acharn circular walk was our very first Loch Tay Hikers‘ walk and I can say it was a success! There were five of us which is not a bad turnout for the first time.
The weather was on our side too. Very enjoyable 6.5 miles and not a drop of rain! Some of you haven’t done this particular walk which is the purpose of this group. Meeting new people and making friends is another one. Thank you everyone for joining us today. 🙂
Kenmore to Falls of Acharn Walk
Kenmore to Falls of Acharn walk starts in the beautiful village of Kenmore is situated on the north end of a 14 miles long Loch Tay in Perthshire, Scotland.
Parking
There is a paid car park next to Kenmore beach. You can also park on the small layby next to the beach for free. Taymouth Castle gate opposite the Kenmore hotel is another option.
Falls of Acharn circular walk
As mentioned above, this 6,5 miles walk starts at Kenmore beach. It then continues up the steep, quiet Glen Quiach single-track road for about a mile. That is the only steep section of this walk. The road winds up to the turn-off to the actual trail.
The trail itself consists of a broad path through the forest area followed by a decent farm track all the way to Acharn. There are lovely views of Ben Lawers range and Loch Tay along the track. Visit the Hermit’s Cave and re-trace your steps back a bit to join the Falls of Acharn signposted route to the village of Acharn. Crossing the wooden bridge enjoy the lovely views of the upper falls. Following the trail to Acharn village, there is a lovely view across the Hermit’s cave where you’ve just been.
The last section from Acharn village back to Kenmore is via South Loch Tay road but it is not very busy.
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Hermit’s Cave
This man-made cavern was constructed in the 1760s by the 3rd Earl of Breadalbane to give the most dramatic views of the falls. Hermit’s cave is reputed to have been visited by Robert Burns and William Wordsworth. Follow the dark tunnel (you might need your phone as a torch but it is only a few steps of darkness) through the archway on the balcony and enjoy the fine views of the Falls of Acharn falling over 20 meters in a single leap.
I would suggest visiting the falls after the rain as they will be in full flow.
Coffee Stop
There are a few coffee stop options on the Kenmore to Falls of Acharn walk. Just before the walk ends you can stop for a drink at the Taymouth Marina. It was closed when we were there so we stopped for a coffee next door at the lovely Iron Age museum, the Scottish Crannog Centre. It’s well worth a visit. You can also have a coffee at the Paper Boat cafe or at the Mains of Taymouth Courtyard Bar or shop.
Conclusion
Kenmore to Falls of Acharn trail is one of my favourite walks in the Loch Tay area for its variety. It gets your heart beating at the beginning and the views of the Ben Lawers range and Loch Tay are amazing. Acharn Falls together with the Hermit’s cave are interesting and fun to visit especially for kids. A perfect family walk.
 For more information on my free social walking group visit Loch Tay Hikers’ social channels. If you enjoyed my walks and would like to support the group you can buy me a virtual coffee. |
Have you walked this trail? Let me know in the comments at the end of this post. 🙂
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