Glen Garry
Loch Garry is a large expanse of fresh water nestling within Glen Garry. As the road curves its way up the side of the mountains, the upper stretch of the loch is reminiscent of the shape of Scotland and with mountains in the distance, the view is outstanding. Trout farms and forest management practises can be seen giving an idea of the local industries. Invergarry is the largest town in the area and still holds the local Highland Games as well as shinty matches.
According to local legend, there lived a large kelpie (water spirit) in the depths of the water. One day, seven children were playing on the banks of the river which flows in Loch Garry. The Kelpie started to come out of the water and one of the children reached his hand out to touch the monster. His hand became stuck to the side of the Kelpie and so the other kids tried to help him. But as each tried to removed the hand, they too became stuck. Once all the children were glued on, the kelpie dived under the water, to the depths of the loch. Later all that was found of the children were seven hearts floating on the surface of the loch.
The area was the power centre for the MacDonell clan who built themselves an imposing 5 storey castle in the 17th century which saw a great deal of action during the Civil War and Jacobite uprisings, it was visited twice by Bonnie Prince Charlie before being destroyed by the Duke of Cumberland, William Augustus in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden.
The area suffered badly from depopulation during the Highland Clearances of the 18th and 19th Century, as did much of the Highlands and Islands. As many as 520 people were removed in a single year to make way for the more profitable sheep farms and sporting estates. These people did not forgot there homelands in a hurry and have left a lasting legacy across the New World, particularly Canada, where to this day you will find New Invergarry.
In Glen Garry you will also find the Well of the Seven Heads. A memorial to swift and terrible vengeance, this commemorates a time in the 17th century when the local Keppoch family found themselves embroiled in deceit and brutal murder. A statue stands on the spot where the tale met its conclusion.
What we do in Loch Garry:
- Try to catch some Shinty (in season)
- Hear the History and legends
- Check out 'The Well of the Seven Heads'
Tours that visit Glen Garry:
Other places that may be of interest:
- Killiecrankie
- Skye
- Glen Affric
