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The Pink House at Loch Glass: A Picturesque Highland Folly

A vivid pink folly on Loch Glass’s shore, blending whimsical charm with Highland wilderness and stunning mountain views.

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The Pink House, also known as Culzie Lodge, is a strikingly colorful folly located on the southern shore of Loch Glass near Dingwall in the Scottish Highlands. Famous for its bright pink exterior and castle-like turrets, this abandoned structure has become a popular photographic subject and social media sensation. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery including Ben Wyvis, the site offers a tranquil and scenic escape accessible via a scenic 30-45 minute walk from Eileanach Lodge.

A brief summary to The Pink House

  • Dingwall, GB
  • Duration: 2 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

  • Park at Eileanach Lodge and prepare for a 30-45 minute walk along a flat, scenic trail to reach the Pink House.
  • Visit at sunrise for the best light and fewer visitors, ideal for photography.
  • Wear sturdy footwear and be ready for variable Highland weather, even in summer.
  • Respect the private land near the parking area and keep noise to a minimum to preserve the tranquil environment.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive from Inverness to Eileanach Lodge near Loch Glass, approximately a 1-hour journey covering 26 miles. The final 5.5 miles involve a narrow single-track road with passing places. Parking is limited to 4-6 cars near the private residence; park considerately and respect the landowners.

  • Walking

    From Eileanach Lodge, follow the marked trail for a 30-45 minute walk (about 1.6 miles) to the Pink House. The path is mostly flat, passing through forestry and opening up to scenic views of Loch Glass and the Pink House.

  • Public Transport and Taxi

    Public transport does not serve the immediate area. Visitors can take a bus or train to Evanton, then arrange a taxi to Eileanach Lodge, approximately 5.5 miles away. Taxi fares typically range from £15-£25 one way.

The Pink House location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Cold Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Snow

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Discover more about The Pink House

A Unique Highland Landmark with a Storied Past

The Pink House, officially called Culzie Lodge, is an unusual and eye-catching building perched on the southern shore of Loch Glass in the Scottish Highlands. Despite its charming appearance, the house was never inhabited due to a lack of planning permission and now stands as a folly on the Wyvis Estate. Its bright pink paint and turreted design contrast vividly with the surrounding natural landscape, making it a distinctive visual landmark. The house’s windows are boarded or painted to maintain the illusion of a complete structure, but inside, it remains an empty shell without floors or furnishings.

Scenic Setting Amidst Highland Wilderness

Nestled beside the tranquil waters of Loch Glass, the Pink House is framed by breathtaking views of Ben Wyvis, one of the region’s most prominent mountains. The surrounding environment is a mix of forestry plantations and open lochside terrain, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic atmosphere. The area is rich in wildlife, including occasional sightings of wild boar, adding to the sense of wilderness and adventure. The vivid pink of the house stands out dramatically against the often moody and changing Highland skies, providing striking photographic opportunities.

Access and Visitor Experience

Visitors typically reach the Pink House by driving to Eileanach Lodge, a private residence about 5.5 miles from Evanton, where parking is limited but available. From there, a 30-45 minute walk along a well-marked trail leads through forest and open land to the loch and the Pink House itself. The path is mostly flat and accessible for most walkers, though care is advised on the narrow single-track roads leading to the parking area. The walk offers peaceful immersion in Highland nature, culminating in the rewarding sight of the vividly painted folly beside the serene loch.

Photographic and Cultural Appeal

The Pink House has gained popularity through social media and television exposure, becoming a sought-after spot for photographers and travelers exploring the North Coast 500 route or the Highlands more broadly. Sunrise visits are especially recommended for soft, dreamy light and fewer crowds. While the interior is inaccessible and the building is in a state of decay, the exterior’s whimsical charm and the spectacular natural backdrop make it a memorable destination. The site invites reflection on the interplay between human creativity and nature’s grandeur.

Seasonal Considerations and Visitor Tips

The Pink House can be visited year-round, with winter offering snow-capped hills that contrast beautifully with the pink facade. Weather in the Highlands is unpredictable, so visitors should be prepared for changing conditions. Parking is limited and the site can become busy during peak times, so early arrival is advisable. The walk back allows time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the views across Loch Glass before returning to the car.

Preserving a Highland Curiosity

Though abandoned and uninhabited, the Pink House remains a beloved curiosity and a symbol of Highland eccentricity. Its preservation as a folly rather than a residence adds to its mystique, and it continues to inspire visitors with its bold splash of color and dramatic setting. The Pink House stands as a testament to the unique cultural landscape of the Scottish Highlands, where history, nature, and imagination intertwine.

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