The best walks and hikes around Loch Sunart Marine Protected Area

There are over 60 marked routes to explore around the Loch Sunart Marine Protected Area. These range from easy woodland strolls to challenging mountain ascents, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

Yes, the region is great for families. The ancient Ariundle Oakwood National Nature Reserve offers gentle trails through beautiful woodland. For a short, accessible walk, consider the Salen Woodland Walk, which is a peaceful path suitable for all ages.

The komoot community rates the trails here very highly. Reviewers often praise the stunning combination of tranquil loch shores and ancient, moss-covered oak woodlands. The sheer variety of trails, from coastal paths to hill summits, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails. However, this is an area with sensitive wildlife and grazing livestock. It's important to keep your dog under close control, and on a lead during the bird nesting season (typically April to July) and whenever you are near farm animals.

For those seeking a true challenge, the Ardgour peaks of Garbh Bheinn (885m) and Sgurr Dhomhnuill (888m) offer tough, often pathless terrain. These demanding full-day hikes reward experienced hillwalkers with solitude and breathtaking views across the peninsula.

The area is rich in wildlife. The Garbh Eilean Wildlife Hide is a great spot to look for seals and herons. For birdwatching, the RSPB Glenborrodale trail offers chances to see woodland birds and even eagles. Otters are also frequently seen along the loch's shoreline, especially at dawn and dusk.

The scenery is incredibly varied. You'll find yourself walking along the shores of the UK's longest sea loch, through the ancient Sunart Oakwoods, and up rugged hills with panoramic views. The landscape is a dramatic mix of serene water, dense temperate rainforest, and stark mountain backdrops.

Yes, the Ard-Airigh and Garbh Eilean trail is a very short and easy walk that leads to a fine viewpoint overlooking the loch. It's perfect for a quick stroll to admire the scenery without a major time commitment.

Late spring and summer (May to August) offer the best weather and long daylight hours. This is also when the oakwoods are at their most vibrant and you might spot the rare chequered skipper butterfly. Autumn brings stunning colours to the woodlands, while winter offers dramatic, moody landscapes for experienced and well-equipped hikers.

The trails are split quite evenly between easy and moderate difficulties. There are 28 easy routes, perfect for leisurely walks, and 30 moderate routes that involve more ascent or rougher terrain. There are also 5 difficult trails for those seeking a serious mountain challenge.

Yes, the popular Lochan na Dunaich & Salen Woods trail includes a beautiful boardwalk section that crosses a marshy area, offering a unique walking experience and great views of the lochan.