Loch Insh

Address

Loch Insh

GPS

57.1179777, -3.9302480873278

Address

Loch Insh

GPS

57.1179777, -3.9302480873278

Loch Insh is a freshwater lake in the heart of the Badenoch and Strathspey region of the Scottish Highlands. Loch Insh is in the centre of Badenoch and Strathspey, precisely seven miles to the south of Aviemore and seven miles to the north of Kingussie.

On the southeast side of the loch, there is a watersports centre that is well stocked, and there is also decent fishing opportunity on that side. The watersports complex is accompanied by a number of chalets as well as a modest hotel that goes by the name of Insh Hall.

Both water sports fans and land sports fans can find something of interest at the centre. Here you can participate in and learn about a wide variety of water-based activities. In addition to the water sports, guests can also participate in a wide variety of land-based pursuits, such as mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

How to get there?

You can get to the lake via the A9, the B9152, and the B970.

Fishing

The River Spey is a salmon-rich river. Loch Insh is a popular salmon fishing spot since it runs through the lake. You can also catch large pike in the lake. There are also good trout and Arctic char fishing spots behind the island in the lake.

Typically, the fishing season is open from about the middle of February to the end of September.

Skiing

Just down by the lake, you’ll find a ski run that’s open all winter long and measures about 60 metres in length. The lift is available. During the winter, you won’t have to travel far to reach the major urban hubs.

Driving time to the Cairngorms’ ski resorts is on the order of 20 minutes, while trips to The Lecht and the Nevis Range take about an hour and a half. The Loch Insh Centre states on its own website that it is not physically connected to any ski areas, although it does provide transport to the Cairngorm ski areas during the winter months.

Hiking

Around the lake in Inshriach Forest, you’ll find a lot of great spots, ideal for walking or riding a bike. The Cairngorms are accessible from Glen Feshie. Mountain bikes can be rented near the lake.

The Badenoch Footpath is a potentially engaging option for hikers. At 16 km in length, Loch Insh lies roughly in the middle of the route between Dalraddy and Ruthven Barracks and Kingussie.

A network of bikeable and walkable loops has been developed around the lake:

  • The Purple Route will take you to a safe area near Uathe Lochans.
  • The Yellow Route leads up to Glen Feshie with mild ascents.
  • The Caledonian Forest’s Blue Route leads to Loch An Eilein.
  • Past Uathe Lochans, through Inshriach Forest via Glen Feshie, and back through Drumguish and Insh is the Pink Route.

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