Loch Pityoulish — Attraction in Great Britain

A beautiful location that was once very peaceful but has now been discovered by the 'wild camping' crowd, despite several signs requesting that people do not do so. My wife and I came here 11 years ago for our anniversary and it had an almost untouched feel about it back then. This time there was an almost constant stream of visitors and campers. Some do make an effort to go incognito and respect the surroundings, but many do not. Take a walk around these days and there is plentiful evidence of open fires and even attempts to set fire to fallen trees.

On the first evening I was dismayed to find two kids smashing up the old tree stumps that once rose out of the water (and feature in many a well-composed photograph). But despite me asking them to stop (and under the supervision of their parents) they must have carried on once I left because most of those stumps are sadly no more.

On other days some of the visitors brought screaming kids, with their parents saying how lucky they were to discover such a peaceful spot - at a level clearly audible from practically the other side of the loch.

When we visited last time, the bird feeders at the cottage next to the loch that we stayed in were frequently visited by red squirrels every day. This year we did not see a single one. Maybe we were unlucky, I'm not so sure.

Ah this has turned into a bit of a rant, but to anyone saying Pityoulish is 'good for camping', please just consider whether camping is good for loch Pityoulish. And while it may sound it, I have no affiliation to the owners, just desperately sad to see the fate this gorgeous place is in danger of suffering. Hopefully this year is...

It is 23 August 1939, the final few days of peace are tension filled, and one man is making a journey to his home town of Tomintoul, possibly for the very last time- who knows? Bruce Lockhart, former diplomat and now part of the Political Warfare Executive, wrote this; "The memory of my last peace journey to Scotland will remain with me always. The long drive from Aviemore to Tomintoul through the finest and loveliest stretch of Strathspey, the air was warm and balmy and the interplay of cloud and sunshine gave an added glory to the mystic majesty of the mountains. I stopped at Loch Pityoulish along the way, a natural gem in a mountain setting of pine and rowan tree and birch...... with immense view of pleasant wooded strath, and of the Spey running through it like a silver thread against the vast backdrop of the Cairngorms. I was wise to have come, for never again shall I see such a sight". And on to...

Loch Pityoulish, nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland, is a tranquil freshwater loch surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. With its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests, Loch Pityoulish offers a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or hike around the loch, taking in the stunning views and observing the local wildlife, including red squirrels and various bird species. Anglers also frequent the loch for trout fishing, while photographers capture the ever-changing light and colors of the landscape. Whether you're seeking solitude and tranquility or outdoor adventure, Loch Pityoulish is a hidden gem waiting to be explored in the...