My Solo Trip to Corrour: Scotland’s Most Remote Train Stop

Exploring the Highlands in Scotland has been on my travel bucket list for a while.

However, I did not want to see only the Glencoe part of it. Don’t get me wrong, the valley is beautiful and absolutely worth a visit. But I wanted that wild nature and dramatic landscapes, the secluded lochs and simple stays away from civilization. I’d devoured Edinburgh on a solo trip with all of its cultural richness, and was ready for a deep dive into untamed Scotland.

And so, one rainy Friday afternoon, I hopped on a train from Edinburgh to Glasgow, then switched to another train — a much smaller one (only four wagons, two of which were to be detached along the way), and headed to Corrour.

This is one of Scotland’s most remote train stops known as the gateway to the Scottish wilderness.

Where Is Corrour Anyway?

Loch Ossian (Inessa Rezanova)

Corrour (pronounced kər-OUR) is located in Rannoch Moor on the West Highland Line. The train station is truly an isolated one — it is serviced by a train of only two carriages, and is otherwise accessible by foot (a very long hike from the Rannoch Station) or by bicycle. The closest road is more than 20 km away.

I hopped off the train onto a tiny platform and reached for my GPS. According to the map, the only accommodation in the area — the Youth Hostel — was another 25 minutes away from the station. Under the pouring rain, I thanked myself once again for buying a waterproof jacket and proper hiking boots for my adventures in Scotland, turned on the head torch, and stepped off the platform onto the trail.

About 20 minutes or so into my hike, the rain stopped — and so did I. The sky cleared, exposing the moon, which was reflecting in the waters of Loch Ossian. Next to it beamed the light above the entrance to the hostel — a very simple stay with two mixed gender dorms, a kitchen, and a dining area.

I couldn’t wait for the next day to properly look around and see what I had gotten myself into.

Hiking Around Loch Ossian

Loch Ossian (Inessa Rezanova)

My intention for this trip was to experience the wilderness and authenticity of the Highlands, but without going full survival mode — no hiking up Munros, wrestling with the tent, or cooking breakfast over a fire.

The great thing about the Loch Ossian area is that it offers that solitude, a chance to go off-grid without the necessity of carrying a backpack full of camping gear.

So, the next morning after arriving at the Youth Hostel, I ventured out on a long, relaxing hike around the lake. The trail is a loop of roughly 15 km — a well-maintained track with practically no elevation. In other words, anyone relatively fit can do it in half a day or less. 

The beauty of the trail is that it keeps close to the lake while also leading through the moorland. Old pines, thick moss, clear streams, and small waterfalls are among the things to enjoy on the hike.

Halfway through my route, I sat on a thick cushion of grass and leaves and had my lunch to the soundtrack of the gentle waves. 

A couple of hikers passed me by, and we got to talking. They were a couple who had hopped off the same train I did. Unlike me, though, they had bravely headed straight into the moorland — determined (in pitch dark and under the pouring rain) to find a place to camp.

I was glad to catch up with them the next day. The two seemed very pleased about a night spent in the wilderness and suggested I explore beyond the lake trail. They were headed towards Beinn na Lap.

And so, the next day, I also ventured up Beinn na Lap. It’s a small Munro close to the Youth Hostel. I can confirm that it is an adventure that can be tackled even by families with kids. The trail is a bit boggy, even on a dry day, so good shoes are a must. The views from the top are worth the effort.

A Stunning Journey Back

Loch Ossian (Inessa Rezanova)

The journey back served me stunning views of Rannoch Moor. I had missed out on them on my way to Corrour as I caught the last train from Edinburgh and everything was pitch black outside.

In the light of day, however, I was glued to the window. The train was gliding through the vast wilderness — sometimes boggy, often dotted with lakes. Everyone on the train was busy spotting stags and Highland cows — both common to the area. 

In terms of stunning scenery, this journey competes with a train ride from Edinburgh to Fort William, often dubbed the most scenic train journey in Scotland. As I was devouring the views, I kept thinking that untouched, authentic Highlands had turned out to be quite accessible and affordable.

As a solo traveler, I can also confirm that this journey felt safe, and I can wholeheartedly recommend it as part of a Scotland travel itinerary.

Travel Tips for Those Going to Corrour

Loch Ossian (Inessa Rezanova)

For those of you planning to explore Loch Ossian, my best tip would be to book train tickets in advance to secure the best price. Waverley Train Station is located in the center of Edinburgh, and if you want to make the most of your journey to Corrour but are on a tight schedule, earlier trains are a better option. This means that choosing a hotel close to Waverly might also be a smart choice.

There are no shops near Corrour, and the cafe near the train station operates limited hours (and is closed during the low travel season), so bringing food supplies for the duration of your stay is a must. In terms of clothes, think practical: wind- and waterproof, and comfortable. The final tip is to enjoy the adventure — Scotland’s nature is one of a kind, and it’s well worth the journey.