An easy-going coastal walk taking in the headland beyond Port Appin with fine views over Lismore and out towards Mull.
Summary
Easy to follow track, path and minor road, fairly level throughout.
Terrain
Car park behind Pierhouse Hotel near Port Appin ferry jetty.
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of start point, satnav coords and directions]
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1. Start the walk from the ferry car park at the back of the Pierhouse Hotel near Port Appin jetty. Follow the sign for Public Footpath to Clach Thoull around the right hand side of a house and along a track. Pass through a farm gate and continue on the wide track between the high cliffs and the coast.
2. The track curves slightly to the left and passes a bench with a fine view over Lismore, a fertile, green island who's name translates as 'big garden'. As you start to turn the corner of the track, a large arch comes into view. Just before you reach this, a path continues straight ahead through the bracken to the end of the headland. This is a very worthwhile detour with good views over the Lynn of Lorn and the possibility of seeing seals. When you reach the shore at the headland turn left and after a very short while the path heads back left inland and returns to the track just beyond the arch.
3. Having passed the arch, continue on the track as it curves around the headland. The track passes another cave on the right and then another arch which can be easily walked through. The track heads inland following the side of Airds Bay which is a good bird watching spot at low tide. There is also a good view of Airds House across the bay.
4. The end of the track is reached at a house. A sign for Port Appin shows the way around the far side of the house and along a path between woodland and a fenced field. Continue along this path until it goes through a metal kissing gate and emerges onto a minor road. Turn left along the road and left again at the next junction.
5. The road passes Port Appin village hall with its interesting display in the old lighthouse lantern adjacent to it. The display has information about Port Appin's history and industry and a great photograph of the lighthouse painted pink and yellow with a sad face as part of the campaign to stop it being replaced by a modern solar powered lighthouse. Continue along the road passing two shops including one offering cake and teas, until the ferry jetty is reached at the start of the walk.
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