Loch Etive

Loch Etive is a long inlet that winds through steep mountain valleys, its width varying along its length as it stretches inland from the Atlantic coast. The waters are surrounded by high cliffs and rugged terrain that create dramatic scenery throughout its course.

The inlet served as a crucial waterway in medieval times, connecting inland communities with coastal trading centers and enabling the movement of goods and people across the region. The Clan Campbell relied on these routes to expand their influence and control over the surrounding territories.

Local fishing traditions remain an active part of daily life, with residents practicing time-honored methods to catch salmon and native fish species that have sustained the community for generations.

The loch can be accessed from multiple points along the main road, with parking areas scattered throughout for hiking and water activities. Weather conditions change frequently, so planning ahead for the right equipment and timing makes visits more enjoyable.

At the outlet where the inlet meets the sea, tidal currents create a rare reverse waterfall effect at specific times of the day, reversing the normal flow of water. This natural phenomenon draws visitors who want to witness this unusual occurrence in person.

Location: Argyll and Bute

GPS coordinates: 56.48333,-5.15000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:23