Contin - Achterneed

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
8.5 kms	02:30 (hrs:mins)	200 metres	Explorer 437: Ben Wyvis & Strathpeffer

Description

The route climbs from the Contin car park (30m) to Loch na Crann (150m), reaches its highest point of 216m, then descends steeply to Achterneed (40m) and is level from then on. Much of it is on a broad forest track with a good surface.

Loch na Crann and the nearby Dubh Lochan are well clothed with waterlilies; and the path goes through a wood of majestic spruces. A country road takes you from Achterneed to the A834, which is paved to Strathpeffer.

Access Info

1. Going north through Contin on the A835, turn off right at the Forestry Commission sign just before the road-bridge over the River Blackwater (455566). The forestry road takes you the 400m to the car park (picnic tables and toilets).

There are infrequent buses to Strathpeffer and Contin.

2. Park in the village square (information office) in Strathpeffer (483581). If you want to avoid walking on the road from Achterneed to Strathpeffer (it's quite pleasant) you might find a place to park in Achterneed (it's very difficult).