Loch Cluanie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Loch Cluanie |
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Loch Cluanie and Beinn Loinne seen from Meall a' Charra
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 Loch Cluanie
Location in Highland
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| Location | Northwest Highlands, Scotland |
| Coordinates | 57°8′40″N 5°5′30″W / 57.14444°N 5.09167°W |
| Lake type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United Kingdom |
Loch Cluanie (pronounced 'KLOO-nee') is a beautiful loch located in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. In Scottish Gaelic, its name is Loch Cluanaidh. It's not a natural lake, but a reservoir – a large, artificial lake created to store water. This water is used to generate hydroelectricity, which is clean energy made from the power of moving water. Loch Cluanie is an important part of the Glenmoriston project, which helps power homes and businesses in Scotland.
Contents
Discovering Loch Cluanie
How Loch Cluanie Was Created
Loch Cluanie was formed by building a large structure called the Cluanie Dam. The dam was built by a company called Mitchell Construction and was finished in 1957. It's part of a bigger plan by the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board to create electricity using water power in the Glenmoriston area. Water flows into the dam from the west. Some water comes from a tunnel connected to another dammed loch, Loch Loyne. Other water flows in from the River Moriston.
Exploring the Area Around the Loch
The main road, called the A87 road, runs right along the northern side of Loch Cluanie. This makes it easy for people to visit and enjoy the views.
The Hamlet of Cluanie
On the western side of the loch, you'll find a tiny village known as the hamlet of Cluanie. It's a small place with a car park, a place to stay called the Cluanie Inn, and a couple of houses. These houses are often used by their owners as "holiday homes."
The Cluanie Inn
The Cluanie Inn is more than just a place to eat or sleep. It's also home to a special weather station. This station helps scientists track the weather in the Highlands. The Inn is also a popular spot for hikers. Many exciting walks into the nearby hills start or end here. These hills include several Munros, which are Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet (914.4 meters) high.
Cluanie Lodge
On the south-west corner of the loch is Cluanie Lodge. This is a private home owned by the estate and land owner. It has been updated a lot in recent years and is now the owner's main residence.
Wildlife Around the Loch
The areas along the sides of Loch Cluanie are rich with plants and trees. These green spaces are perfect homes for small birds. You might spot tiny birds like the willow warbler and the wren flitting among the trees and bushes.
