The Ardnamurchan peninsula is a wild and remote place full of wonderful scenery situated on the west coast of Scotland. It is home to the most westerly point in the UK.
An “unspoiled” and pristine stretch of peninsula at the most westerly point of mainland Britain is home to ancient woodland, crystal clear waters and scores of sea otters.
Ardnamurchan’s beautiful stretch of coast line is home to Ariundle Oakwood National Nature Reserve, filled with Atlantic coastal oakwood, mosses, liverworts, and lichens. The unique rain-forest like ecosystem is protected thanks to it housing many rare insects such as the chequered skipper butterfly.
Scotland Wild describes Ardnamurchan as a “remote and unspoiled peninsula located on the westernmost point of the British mainland.” The coastline is also home to the ever-popular otter. If you listen out for sounds of munching while at the shore or paddling in a kayak, it may mean you’re near an otter feasting on some shells.
According to TripAdvisor, you can go on otter tours, which are part of Otter Adventures “slow adventure” tourism, aiming for a more sustainable approach towards wildlife tours.
It said: “Our principle aim is to help you explore and understand this beautiful wilderness landscape through human powered journeys on land or on the water. All our trips are tailored to you and we can offer guiding in canoe, kayak, walking, scrambling and cycling.”
One TripAdvisor review rated the experience five stars saying: “I enjoyed a great sea kayak taster session with Karl on Thursday. He talked me through selecting the correct kayak for my body size and then how to set it up ready to use on the loch. Karl is a knowledgeable and patient instructor who quickly had me at ease and paddling across loch sunart.
“He has a great understanding of the local wildlife, environment and history. The 7.5km paddle was both interesting and offered me a physical challenge (as a fit 67 year old).
“Kayaking through the heavy rain was an experience but did nothing to dilute my enjoyment. The highlights were definitely the seal and otter that popped up to keep an eye on us.”
The area also has one single-track winding road that serves as the main access route from Salen on Loch Sunart winding through from moorlands and forests to lochs and beaches, including the magnificent Sanna Bay. The abundance of golden eagles, red deer, whales, and dolphins will keep wildlife enthusiasts busy.
Perched on the cliffside stands the 118-foot Ardnamurchan Lighthouse. Constructed in 1849, this structure provides an excellent vantage point to observe the weather-beaten coastline.
Visitors can also embark on several walks in the area. One such route is the four-mile stretch between Portuairk and Sanna – a coastal walk commencing in a village before meandering over a gentle hill towards the beach.
This picturesque stroll explores some of the splendid beaches on the peninsula’s northern coast. On clear days, panoramic views extend out to the Small Isles of Muck, Eigg, and Rum.
