OS Explorer 390 - Ardnamurchan

Visit some of the best beaches on The West Coast of Scotland. This trip introduces you to three stunning beaches on the north east coast of Ardnamurchan peninsula; one is accessible by car; the other two are more remote and accessible only on foot.  The three beaches are the lovely wee beach at Ardtoe, the stunning beach at Gortenfern known as The Singing Sands, and the beautiful remote beach and dunes at Cul na Croise.  Take time to enjoy these stunning beaches.  Take a picnic or stop for lunch at the nearby village of Acharacle where you can take a short walk to the jetty on Loch Shiel for fine views of Ben Resipole.

A fabulous day out exploring the coastline, history, whisky and wildlife around Glenborrodale, on the southern coast of the Ardnamurchan peninsula. Follow the nature trail or take a guided walk through the lovely Atlantic oak woodland at the RSPB reserve at Glenborrodale. Find out about Scotland's iconic wildlife by visiting the Ardnamurchan Natural History Centre; this is also a great place to stop for a morning coffee or afternoon tea. Take time to savour the unique flavours of the Ardnamurchan spirit by taking a tour around the Ardnamurchan Distillery at Glenbeg. Step back in time and explore the deserted settlement of Bourblaige scattered along south-east flank of Ben Hiant...

The North Coast of Ardnamurchan offers breathtaking scenery; rocky cliffs, sandy bays, wildlife galore and a host of archaeological sites, including the Viking boat burial discovered in 2011 at Swordle. Take the road north from the B8007, some three miles before Kilchoan, signed towards Kilmory, Ockle and Fascadale and head into the wilds of North Ardnamurchan. Enjoy a walk on the beaches at Kilmory and Swordle, wander west from Fascadale towards Glendrian or venture east from Ockle towards The Singing Sands. Remember your binoculars to scan for eagles in this remote and rugged land. Take your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Take a stroll on The Gaelic Alphabet trail, head up Ben Resipole or take a wildlife safari on the shores of Loch Sunart. This day trip is centred around the northern shores of Loch Sunart and takes in the small coastal village of Salen and the small settlement of Resipole. There are some lovely short walks around the small inlet at Salen, including the Salen Woodland Walk and the Alphabet Trail, which can be combined together into a longer walk. Stop off for morning coffee at the Salen Jetty Shop or sample the local cuisine by taking lunch at the Salen Hotel.

Take an historic journey to Castle Tioram, the ancient fortress of the Clan Ranald, on the small tidal island of Eilean Tioram. Immerse yourself in the romance and history of this iconic castle with its turbulent past. Enjoy one of the many local walks in the area from coast to hill. Have a picnic on the lovely beach at Dorlin. Scan the sky and hills for raptors, including the magnificent white-tailed eagle. Look for otters foraging in Loch Moidart or along the banks of the River Shiel. This is a great day out focussed around a romantic ruined castle on a tidal island, with access to the island only available at low tide.