Name: Cruachan Hollow Mountain
Rating: 5.0

Cruachan Hollow Mountain

Cruachan Visitor Centre, Cruachan Power Station, Lochawe, Dalmally, UK

1-90 Years

Description

Cruachan Hollow Mountain is a unique hydroelectric power station located deep within Ben Cruachan Mountain in Dalmally, Argyll and Bute, Scotland. Known as the "Hollow Mountain," this site features a vast underground machine hall where electricity is generated using pumped hydro power. Guided tours take visitors inside the mountain to explore its tunnels and learn about the history and technology behind Scotland's first pumped hydroelectric station. It’s an ideal destination for families, offering a fascinating educational experience about renewable energy and engineering, set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.

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Features

Free
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Cruachan Power Station: Discover the underground world of Cruachan Power Station, Scotland's pioneering pumped hydro station, nestled deep within Ben Cruachan Mountain. Known as The Hollow Mountain, this unique facility generates electricity on demand and is a remarkable feat of engineering.
Visitor Centre & Experience: The Visitor Centre serves as your gateway to the power station, offering stunning views of Loch Awe and an opportunity to learn about this extraordinary facility. Explore interactive exhibits that delve into the history of the station, from its construction to its current role in generating renewable energy for Scotland. This educational experience is ideal for both children and adults, inspiring future engineers and emphasizing the station’s environmental significance.
Inside The Hollow Mountain: Venture one kilometre inside Ben Cruachan Mountain to the cavernous machine hall, the heart of the power station. Though tours are temporarily suspended due to an exciting £80 million upgrade, this area houses turbines and machinery responsible for generating electricity. The upgrade will enhance generating capacity and replace original components to improve efficiency.
Nature & Biodiversity: The surrounding Highland landscape plays a vital role in the station’s operation. Protecting the biodiversity of the area is a key priority. Since 2005, Cruachan Power Station has maintained a Biodiversity Action Plan, focusing on wildlife protection and promoting healthier ecosystems around the site.
Ben Cruachan: A Highland Icon: At 1,126 metres, Ben Cruachan is not only home to the power station but is also a popular Munro for hillwalkers and climbers. The Highland landscape offers breathtaking views and a challenging climb, making it a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Hollow Mountain Cafe: After your exploration, relax. Enjoy homemade food in a stunning lochside setting, perfect for unwinding while taking in the magnificent views of Loch Awe and Ben Cruachan.

Facilities

Free exhibition, cafe and gift shop
Parking onsite.
Pets are not permitted in any area of Cruachan visitor centre

Website

Contact

Video

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Summer Opening Hours: April – October, Monday – Friday only, 9.15am – 4.45pm
Winter Opening Hours: November – March, Monday – Friday only, 9.15 am – 3.45pm
Closed Friday 19th December 2025, re-opening Monday 2nd February 2026

Address: Cruachan Visitor Centre, Cruachan Power Station, Lochawe, Dalmally, UK

Post Code: PA33 1AN

Council: Oban North and Lorn

County: Argyll and Bute

Cruachan Visitor Centre is situated on the north bank of Loch Awe, 19 miles east of Oban on the A85. Falls of Cruachan station is 200 metres away and served by trains between Glasgow and Oban . The Visitor Centre is also on Glasgow to Oban bus routes .

Free of charge car park for visitors to the centre.