Thousands of years ago our coasts were fringed with wonderful Atlantic woodland, stretching as far south as Spain. The Sunart Oakwoods are among the last remnants of these temperate rain forests, used and cherished by locals from the Celts right through to the present day.
Perpetually changing as the seasons come and go and home to over 500 species of plants and animals you may well see deer, otter, pine marten, red squirrel, and fox. Delve a little deeper and you will discover a paradise for insects, birds, and plants as well as many interesting geological and heritage features.
Loch Sunart
As well as giving us the gift of beautiful scenery, shoreline to explore and wildlife to spot, if you are lucky enough to get out on the water or venture below the waves there is a remarkable world of marine life to discover.
Owing to its special environment, Loch Sunart is home to many unusual and important species and has been designated a Marine Protected Area and you can find out more at Caolas. Boat access to Loch Sunart (when in Strontian) is via the Jetty situated towards the head of Loch Sunart. Moorings can be hired here also. Please see Sunart Community Company for details of the mooring fees.
Strontian
Strontian, ‘Sron an T’Sithein’, meaning ‘Point of the Fairy Knoll’ is the main village and is situated on the A861 at the head of Loch Sunart. Here you will find two well-stocked shops, visitor information, slipway, post office, fuel, public toilets, recycling facilities as well as places to eat, crafts and activities.
The Lead Mines & Strontium
Much of the history of the Strontian area dates from the beginning of lead mining in the 1720s but its greatest historical claim to fame is that the element Strontium was discovered here and named after the village. There are a number of walks around Strontian and up to the mines and full details are available in the local walking guide which you can see at the Oakwood Visitor Centre.
Oakwood Tourism & Crafts
In the village centre you will find the Oakwood Craft and Tourism Visitor Centre showcasing many local crafts. Owned and run by the local community, you can also pick up maps, leaflets, and area itineraries, hire bikes and find out all you need to know about visiting the West Highland Peninsulas.
The Sunart Centre
Based in our local high school, The Sunart Centre houses a well-stocked public library, has internet access, and also hosts many concerts, ceilidhs and events throughout the year as well as a regular film night.
Ariundle National Nature Reserve
With trees and rocks festooned with spectacular mosses and lichens, carpets of bluebells and primroses, wild orchids, subtle traces of people through the ages, incredible Autumn colours and brimming with wildlife, the ancient woodland at Ariundle is a magical place to spend some time. You can park at the entrance to the nature reserve and follow one of two routes. More detail on what to look out for can be found at Wild Lochaber.
Beinn Resipole
At 845 metres Ben Resipole is a Corbett and our highest hill. On reaching the top, on a clear day, you will be rewarded with great views across Ardnamurchan and the Inner Hebrides and even as far as Ben Nevis. You can access the path from Resipole Farm which is also home to the wonderful Resipole Studios.
Garbh Eilean Hide
Just 10-15 minutes’ drive from Strontian along the A861, you will come across the hide. Common Seals, a Heronry and the odd Otter and White Tailed Eagle have been spotted through binoculars at this hide. Enjoy nature at its best, recording what you might see. It has a car park and is just a short walk to the Hide itself.
The Wood School & Alphabet Trail
Gaelic was once widely spoken across the West Highland Peninsulas and nature, landscape, weather and wildlife had, and still has, great meaning to the people and their language, songs and verse. In the woods above the village of Salen, there is a short circular walk that, if you have a look at the signposts, uses the Gaelic alphabet to name the difference species of tree along the trail. You will also come across ‘Sgoil Na Coille’ (The Wood School), a structure built by local foresters and used for community events.
Discover more
Whatever time of year you visit, whichever peninsula you make your base and whatever memories you would like to make, there are loads of sites, experiences, and activities around the West Highland Peninsulas for you to explore and enjoy.
All the peninsulas are within easy reach of each other and these short guides will help you explore this beautiful place. For more detailed information on walks, wildlife, geology and heritage, some great places to look are listed below:
Remember to look out for wildlife along the way, keep an eye on ‘what’s on’ while you are here and most importantly, relax, don’t rush, have fun, explore and enjoy! Please always remember the Scottish Outdoor Access Code