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The
hamlet of Bridge of Orchy sits on the West Highland Way between
Tyndrum and Kings House. The main A82 Glasgow to Fort Willaim
road goes through the hamlet as does the main railway. The
Bridge of Orchy railway station is still in use, not only as a
train stop but also as a bunkhouse. The river Orchy flows past
to the west. A little north is the beautiful Loch Tulla with its
fantastic Caledonian pine forest.
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The
river Orchy flows south west from here to Loch Awe past
Dalmally. In Glen Orchy there are many falls and rapids,
some of which are popular viewing points after heavy rain in
particular. Care should be taken on the slippery rocks
however.
Many
hill walkers stop here to bag the Munros in this area a few
of which lie immediately to the east of the Bridge of Orchy.
The bridge after which the hamlet was named is no longer on
the main road but on a B road which leads west round loch
Tulla. |
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courtesy of
Photograph Scotland.com |
The
old road is part of General Wades military road to the highlands
which was built in and around the mid 18th century providing
accelerated access to the highlands for troops and cattle. Those
roads transformed the highlands as previously travel had been
ponderous and dangerous at the very least.
The West Highland Way winds its way from Tyndrum to the
South East, passes through here and then on to Glencoe and Kings
House. It is a popular stop for campers on the route who
commonly pitch there tent at the old bridge within easy striking
distance of the pub at the only hotel. |
