A lovely walk with great coastal views out to the Small Isles. Peanmeanach is a deserted village with a bothy and lovely white sandy beach.
Summary
Clear path over rough ground with some boggy areas between the old village and the beach.
Terrain
Parking at a large layby off A830 between Lochailort and Beasdale Station just after
Loch Dubh in the direction of Mallaig.
[Map of start point, satnav coords and directions]
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1. From the layby on the A830 go through the gap in the fence, following the sign for Peanmeanach, and go straight on along a gravel path. Ignore the path heading uphill on the left. The path curves round to the right and then heads downhill steeply for a short section. The path becomes wet in places as it passes through birch woodland.
2. The path soon reaches the far end of Loch Dubh and crosses a small concrete bridge over the railway line. There is an amusing sign prohibiting vehicles on the bridge. This point is a good place to watch for the steam train that runs from Fort William to Mallaig in the summer months. From here the path crosses a small wooden bridge and then climbs uphill to continue on rough ground but with great coastal views.
3. Continue on the path as it winds along the ridge above Loch Beag. The path then heads a little way inland across rough moorland. The path is easy to follow although boggy in places. The path passes Loch Doir a'Ghearrain and crosses a stream on stepping stones before descending into oak and birch woodland.
4. The path becomes paved and clearer as it goes gently downhill through the woods before emerging at the back of a flat area of grass and reeds leading to the shore. Cross this on the clear, straight path through the middle towards the sea. Although this path can look very wet it has stones on it and can usually be crossed without getting damp feet. At the far end of the path emerge at the start of the ruined village of Peanmeanach.
5. From here the coast and beach can be explored for as far as the tide allows. There are impressive mussel beds exposed at low tides. Return from the beach to examine the remains of the houses, one of which is an open bothy, maintained by volunteers with the Mountain Bothies Association. Please carry out any rubbish and submit a report on its condition via its page on the MBA website.
6. The return route is by the same path as the outward route. There are good views across the sea to the Small Isles of Rum and Eigg on a fine day.
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