Aberchalder

Settlement in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Aberchalder

The Bridge of Oich Situated at the eastern end of Loch Oich, the Bridge of Oich crosses the River Oich where it joins the loch. These days the road passes over a new river bridge and a swing bridge over the Caledonian Canal. Now the old suspension bridge carries a pathway. — The Bridge of Oich Credit: Bob Walters

Aberchalder is a small rural village located in the county of Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated on the western edge of Loch Oich, it is nestled within the magnificent Scottish Highlands. The village is part of the Great Glen, a geological fault line that stretches from Inverness to Fort William.

Aberchalder is known for its picturesque scenery, with lush green hills, dense forests, and the tranquil waters of Loch Oich. The village is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The surrounding mountains provide excellent opportunities for hillwalking and climbing.

The village itself is home to a small community, with a population of around 200 residents. The local economy is largely centered around tourism, with a few guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering accommodations available for visitors. There is also a small café and a craft shop in the village, providing basic amenities for both residents and tourists.

Aberchalder has a rich history, with evidence of settlements dating back thousands of years. The nearby Aberchalder Bridge, built in the early 19th century, is a popular landmark and an important part of the village's heritage. The bridge was once a crucial crossing point on the Caledonian Canal, connecting Loch Oich to Loch Ness.

In summary, Aberchalder is a quaint village located in the scenic Inverness-shire, offering stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a glimpse into Scotland's history. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands.

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Aberchalder Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.093461/-4.743757 or Grid Reference NH3303. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Bridge of Oich

Situated at the eastern end of Loch Oich, the Bridge of Oich crosses the River Oich where it joins the loch. These days the road passes over a new river bridge and a swing bridge over the Caledonian Canal. Now the old suspension bridge carries a pathway.

Bob Walters

A82 at Oich Bridge

Steven Brown

Dam on the Caledonian Canal, Cullochy Lock, Inverness-shire

This is one of two temporary dams which have been installed at Cullochy Lock while the lock gates are being replaced. The other can be seen at NH3404 : Dam on the Caledonian Canal, Cullochy Lock, Inverness-shire. The house is a Category C listed former lock keeper's cottage which is now available to rent as a holiday let.

Claire Pegrum

Pontoon across the Caledonian Canal, Cullochy Lock, Inverness-shire

A section of The Great Glen Way has been temporarily diverted while works are undertaken to replace the nearby lock gates. The pontoon allows walkers and cyclists to pass between the main route and the diversion.

Claire Pegrum

Dam on the Caledonian Canal, Cullochy Lock, Inverness-shire

Claire Pegrum

Owl Cottage

A traditional stone cottage in the heart of the Scottish Highlands close to Loch Ness and available for holiday accommodation

Eirian Evans

Jaggy Thistle

Food, cafe and gift shop south of Loch Ness

Eirian Evans

Northern end of Loch Oich

The Caledonian Canal leaves Loch Oich on the other side of the trees on the left

Eirian Evans

Car park at Oich Bridge

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Ralph Greig

Aberchalder Swing Bridge, Caledonian Canal

David Dixon

Loch Oich

The northern end of Loch Oich.

David Dixon

Loch Oich

The northern end of Loch Oich.

David Dixon

Lifeboat on the Caledonian Canal, Loch Oich

Pictured near the swinging bridge at Aberchalder is the Roy Barker II lifeboat.

Kenneth Allen

Former Railway Tunnel, adj to Loch Oich

The Invergarry and Fort Augustus Railway opened in 1903 and closed in 1943. It was intended as the first stage of a rail link between Fort William and Inverness, however the second phase was never built leaving an unprofitable spur line to Fort Augustus. The former trackbed is being surveyed by sustrans for improvement work.

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