The Loch Tulla Viewpoint is a roadside viewing area on the A82 near Bridge of Orchy in the Scottish Highlands, offering views across Loch Tulla to surrounding mountains. This 2026 visitor guide covers opening hours, parking, facilities, accessibility and practical tips for planning your visit.
The viewpoint is a popular photo stop on a Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands day tour from Edinburgh.
Quick facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | Open 24 hours daily, year-round |
| Entry price | Free admission. Free parking |
| Address | A82, Bridge of Orchy, Argyll and Bute, PA36 4AG |
| Nearest town | Bridge of Orchy (1.5 miles south), Tyndrum (8 miles south) |
| Time needed | 10–20 minutes for viewing and photography |
| Distance from Glasgow | Approximately 70 miles (1 hour 45 minutes’ drive) |
Loch Tulla Viewpoint opening hours
The viewpoint is open 24 hours a day, year-round. There are no gates, barriers or restricted access times. The car park is always accessible, and there is no charge to use it.
There are no staffed facilities or visitor centre opening hours. A mobile food van occasionally operates in the car park during daytime hours (typically late morning to mid-afternoon in summer months), though this is not guaranteed.
Why book the Edinburgh to Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands day trip?
- Visit iconic Scottish landscapes: Travel into the Highlands to see dramatic scenery, rugged glens, lochs and mountain views in one full-day tour.
- Explore Loch Ness: Stop by the legendary freshwater loch and enjoy views over its mysterious waters, with time for photos and exploration.
- See Glencoe’s dramatic valley: Take in one of Scotland’s most famous natural wonders, known for its atmospheric cliffs and historic past.
- Guided coach transport from Edinburgh: Sit back and relax with return transport and commentary from an experienced local driver-guide.
- Perfect for first-time visitors: Ideal if you want an efficient, informative way to experience Scottish Highlands highlights without self-drive planning.
How to get to the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
The viewpoint is located directly on the A82, 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of Bridge of Orchy village.
From Glasgow: Take the A82 north via Loch Lomond, Crianlarich and Tyndrum. Continue through Bridge of Orchy. The viewpoint is on the left-hand side of the road approximately 1.5 miles beyond the village. Journey time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (70 miles).
From Fort William: Take the A82 south through Glen Coe and across Rannoch Moor. The viewpoint is on the right-hand side approximately 15 miles south of Glencoe village. Journey time is approximately 50 minutes (35 miles).
The postcode PA36 4AG will bring you to the general Bridge of Orchy area. The viewpoint is clearly visible from the road with a large parking area.
Public transport: Trains on the West Highland Line stop at Bridge of Orchy station. From the station, the viewpoint is a 20-minute walk (1.5 miles) north along the A82. The route follows a roadside footpath with some uneven terrain. Limited bus services operate along the A82, though these are infrequent and seasonal.
Parking at the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
A large gravel and tarmac car park accommodates approximately 40–50 vehicles. Parking is free with no time restrictions. The car park includes spaces suitable for coaches and motorhomes.
The car park can become busy between 10am and 3pm during summer months (June to September), particularly when tour coaches stop. Parking is usually available throughout the day due to the large size of the car park.
There are no toilet facilities at the viewpoint. The nearest public toilets are in Bridge of Orchy (1.5 miles south).
How long to spend at the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
Most visitors spend 10 to 20 minutes at the Loch Tulla Viewpoint. The site is designed as a brief stopping point rather than a destination requiring extended time.
Allow 5–10 minutes for viewing and photography from the car park. Visitors who wish to walk along the shoreline or explore the immediate area may spend 20–30 minutes.
The viewpoint is commonly used as a rest stop when travelling between Glen Coe and Bridge of Orchy on the A82.
Accessibility at the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
The car park surface is gravel and tarmac with level areas, making it accessible for wheelchairs. Views of the loch are available directly from the car park without needing to access uneven ground.
There are no formal paths or viewing platforms. The area immediately around the car park includes grassy and uneven terrain which may be difficult for wheelchair users.
There are no accessible toilet facilities at the viewpoint. The nearest accessible toilets are in Bridge of Orchy (1.5 miles).
Visitors with mobility limitations can view and photograph the loch from the car park surface without difficulty.
What to see at the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
Loch Tulla is a freshwater loch approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) long and 0.5 miles (800 metres) wide. The viewpoint overlooks the loch from an elevated position on the A82, providing views across the water to surrounding peaks including Beinn an Dòthaidh and the Black Mount range.
The southwestern and western shores are lined with remnants of ancient Scots pine woodland, part of the Caledonian forest. These old-growth pines create a distinctive landscape particularly visible from the viewpoint.
The loch historically supported trout fishing, though pike were introduced in 1848 by Lord Breadalbane, significantly altering the fishery. The loch continues to support populations of salmon and trout.
The viewpoint offers panoramic views across Rannoch Moor to the east and towards Glen Coe to the north. On clear days, visibility extends across the moorland with views of multiple mountain peaks.
Weather conditions significantly affect the view. Mist and low cloud can obscure the mountains, though these conditions create atmospheric photography opportunities. Sunrise and sunset provide enhanced lighting, particularly in autumn when surrounding vegetation displays seasonal colours.
Red deer are occasionally visible in the area, particularly during winter months when they descend to lower ground near the road. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Practical tips for visiting the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
| Tip |
|---|
| Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions and fewer crowds. Sunrise and sunset are particularly favourable for photography. |
| Be aware of fast-moving traffic when entering and exiting the car park, as the A82 is a major through route with vehicles travelling at speed. |
| Bring appropriate clothing for changeable Highland weather. Conditions can shift rapidly, and the exposed location offers little shelter from wind or rain. |
| No facilities are available at the viewpoint. Bring water and snacks, and use toilets in Bridge of Orchy before arriving. |
| The occasional mobile food van operates in summer months, offering hot drinks and snacks, though this service is not reliable or guaranteed. |
| The viewpoint can be windy and exposed. Secure loose items and be cautious when opening vehicle doors in strong winds. |
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the Loch Tulla Viewpoint suitable for children? | Yes. The viewpoint requires no walking beyond the car park, making it suitable for all ages. Supervise children near the road due to fast-moving traffic. |
| Do you need to book in advance? | No. The viewpoint is open to all visitors without booking or advance arrangements. |
| Is the Loch Tulla Viewpoint open in winter? | Yes. The site is accessible year-round, though snow and ice may affect road conditions on the A82 during winter. Check road conditions before travelling. |
| Are dogs allowed? | Yes. Dogs are permitted. Keep dogs under control near the road and be aware of sheep grazing in surrounding fields. |
| Is there a walking trail? | No formal trails exist at the viewpoint itself. The West Highland Way passes along the western shore of Loch Tulla but is not accessible from the viewpoint car park. |
| Can you see the loch from the car? | Yes. Views across Loch Tulla are visible directly from the car park without needing to leave your vehicle. |
Things to do near the Loch Tulla Viewpoint
Glen Coe (15 miles north): One of Scotland‘s most dramatic glens with towering peaks, the Three Sisters viewpoint, and numerous walking trails.
Rannoch Moor (5 miles north): One of Europe’s last remaining wilderness areas, an expansive peat moorland with lochs and rugged terrain. Viewpoints accessible from the A82.
Bridge of Orchy (1.5 miles south): Small Highland village with accommodation, the historic 18th-century Bridge of Orchy, and access to Munro climbs including Beinn Dòrain (1,076m).
Glen Etive (12 miles north): A remote glen branching off the A82, featured in James Bond and Harry Potter films. Single-track road suitable for scenic drives.
Kilchurn Castle (20 miles south): 15th-century ruined castle at the head of Loch Awe, operated by Historic Environment Scotland.
Glencoe Mountain Resort (15 miles north): Ski resort in winter offering chairlift access in summer for mountain views, walking and mountain biking. Admission charge applies.
More Scottish Highlands travel
Other Scottish Highlands travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- How to visit Plodda Falls in Glen Affric.
- Plan your visit to Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness.
- Live out your Outlander fantasies at Beauly Priory and the Clava Cairns.
- Explore Scottish history on Culloden Battlefield.
- How – and why – to get to the Commando Memorial in the Scottish Highlands.
