The Scottish coast is the
ultimate playground for sailors. There are lochs and anchorages galore to
explore. Some of the Scottish sea lochs are particularly impressive because
they offer a really heady mix of dramatic scenery and wildlife as well as being
close to interesting towns and villages. You can find sea lochs up and down the
west coast, so it’s been tricky to narrow the list down to our favourite five,
but here they are:
1. Loch Fyne
Loch Fyne is
Scotland’s longest sea loch. Like all Scottish sea lochs, it is special because
of its wonderful scenery. From here you’ll see the beautiful Arrochar Alps, a
collection of mountains, popular with walkers and climbers. There’s also picturesque
Inveraray – with its stunning Scottish Castle, which is home to the Duke and
Duchess of Argyll. The area is renowned for its seafood, with the ever-popular
Loch Fyne Oyster bar further along the loch at Cairndow. (You will need to book
ahead!). Loch Fyne is also famous for its wildlife – there are otters, seals
and even dolphins living in and around the loch. On the western edge of Loch
Fyne, you’ll find the Crinan Canal – linking Loch Fyne and Ardrishaig with the
sound of Jura. There are fifteen locks along this canal - peppered with good pubs and hotels. Enjoy!
Caption: Loch Fyne – our longest sea loch,
home to Inveraray and Tarbet, wildlife, history and wonderful sea food.
2. Loch Sunart
The
west highland loch is situated in the Ardrnamurchan peninsula. It runs from
Strontian to the most westerly point of the British Mainland. Loch Sunart also
offers some wonderful wildlife spotting opportunities – including otters and
perhaps even sea eagles. If you go here, then there are some wonderful other
lochs to explore whilst you are in the area, too. Read on!
Caption:
Loch Sunart and the edge of the British Mainland.
3. Loch Linnhe
Further
along the west coast is Loch Linnhe. Fort William sits on the banks of Loch
Linnhe – and if you look up, you’ll see Britain’s tallest mountain – Ben Nevis.
If the conditions are right, you might even want to spend a day climbing the
Ben. If you are a serious climber, then there are numerous Munros close to the
Loch. Follow the Loch south and then east at the Ballachulish Bridge to head
for the villages of Ballachulish and Glencoe – two beautiful and picturesque settlements,
surrounded by dramatic mountains, and steeped in Highland history. Sail south
along Loch Linnhe towards Oban and the gateway to the Isles. En route you’ll
pass Port Appin and the wonderful Castle Stalker – or you could sail to the
connecting sea loch, Loch Etive – a remote and beautiful area, deep in
mountainous terrain.
Caption: Ben
Nevis and the town of Fort William, on the banks of Loch Linnhe.
4. Loch Duich
Further
north in the Skye and Lochalsh area is Loch Duich, it’s here you’ll see the
famous Eilean Donan Castle –one of the most photographed buildings in Scotland.
It’s situation where Loch Duich, Loch Alsh and Loch Long meet, and definitely
worth a visit. Loch Duich is right in the middle of a rugged, beautiful and
unspoiled part of the country. Popular with hill walkers given its proximity to
the five sisters of Kintail mountain range, and with nature lovers – since it’s
the perfect host for otters and eagles.
Caption:
Eilean Donan Castle – one of the most photographed buildings in Scotland, near
Loch Duich, Long Long and Loch Alsh.
5. Loch Carron
Further
north again is Loch Carron, on the shores of the beautiful villages of
Lochcarron and Plockton. Plockton has the appeal of a seaside village – there
are even palm trees thriving along the shoreline. You’ll also find wonderful
inns and pubs serving locally caught seafood, as well as art galleries,
traditional highland hospitality and stunning views.
Caption:
Beautiful Plockton on the shores of Loch Carron, Wester Ross.
Are you planning to set sail on the West Coast of Scotland this
year?
Perhaps we can help you with one
of our yacht charters. Flamingo Yacht
Charters is based in Largs on the west coast of Scotland. We offer a
substantial range of yachts for hire -
one of the best ranges in Scotland. If you are planning a sailing trip on the
west coast of Scotland, then please do get in touch to discuss your needs. You can find out more about us at flamingoyachts.com or on our Flamingo Yacht Charters Facebook page.