Sandaig (Camusfearna)

A short walk down through the forestry to the beautiful and atmospheric Sandaig bay. This peaceful spot was immortalised as Camusfearna in 'Ring of Bright Water' - the famous book by Gavin Maxwell telling of his life with his pet otters at this lonely spot. NOTE: If forestry operations are in place it may be necessary to use the return path to access Sandaig.

Terrain

The walk is on forestry tracks down to the coast with the option (as described) of returning on a steep woodland path or back via the forestry track.

Public Transport

Infrequent bus service to Arnisdale, get off at Upper Sandaig.

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Start

Upper Sandaig. Map and directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4km/2.5 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent: 150m (Profile)
Grid Ref: NG784152

Maps / GPS

Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Park at the side of the road near the forestry track turning just before Loch Drabhaig and the tin house at Upper Sandaig on the Arnisdale road from Glenelg. Turn down the track passing round the gate if locked into the forestry. There is a nice view of the small Loch Drabhaig to your left and the house at Upper Sandaig, which was where Gavin Maxwell's friends Morag and Calum MacKinnon lived.

Stage 2

The forestry track continues downhill, keep on the main track ignoring two tracks off to the right. The track then reaches a third junction which is where you will come put if you take the the woodland path return route. Keep left and continue downhill, crossing the Allt Mor Shantaig on a sturdy bridge. Soon you reach a crossroads, turn right here and right again at the next crossroads a little way on.

Stage 3

Follow this track downhill until you reach a lovely viewpoint from which you can see the bay and Sandaig Islands. Continue downhill through the forestry and then natural woodland until you come out through a gate onto the overgrown grassland in front of the beach.

Stage 4

To the right can be found the site of Gavin Maxwell's Camusfearna, a memorial boulder covers the resting place of his ashes. A second memorial to his beloved otter, Edal , can be found nearer to the river bank. The bay is a lovely place to explore and watch the widlife.

Stage 5

The easiest return is to retrace your steps up the forestry track, though there is an adventurous alternative. This steeper return path can be found on the other side of the stream. If attempting this, either cross near the bend just before the stream meets the sea or use the scary rope bridge pictured in the photograph - at your own risk! From the rope bridge turn right and follow the stream a short distance before crossing a stile and heading uphill through lovely native woodland. The path is easy to follow, meandering through the deer-filled woods until it emerges onto the forestry track. Turn left and after a short distance you are back at the start.

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