Loch Morar to Tarbet, Bracorina, near Morar

Summary

A fantastic walk along Loch Morar with great mountain views then over a low pass to Tarbet on Loch Nevis. Western Isles Cruises ferry can be used to return to Mallaig (usually 3:40pm) but must be booked in advance (01687 462233) - check timetable here. If using the ferry, a train or bus could be caught from Mallaig to Morar, and an additional road walk of 5km leads back to Bracorina unless transport has been arranged. Alternatively, you could make an 18km walk by simply returning from Tarbet on foot the same way.

Grade

Bog Factor

4.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Stony path and track, a few steep sections, boggy in places after rain.

Getting there

Start

Bracorina road end from Morar.

Public Transport

Ferry to and from Tarbet, bus and train between Mallaig and Morar (5km from Bracorina).

Start Grid Ref

NM725927

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 9km / 5.5 miles
Time: 3 hours (one way)
Ascent: 129m (Profile)

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Explorer 398 - Mallaig

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Walk Description

User reports (6)

Stage 1

There is parking at the road end at Bracorina, take care not to block the gates or turning area. Start the walk by heading over the bridge into the trees and following the lochside path (signed Tarbet 7.5 miles - though the distance is actually 5.5). This is an ancient route built to serve the settlements, now mostly abandoned, along the loch which is the deepest freshwater body in Britain. Not content with that record, it is also said to be home to Nessie's monster cousin Morag, although sightings have been rare.

Stage 2

The path soon passes the restored remains of the Chapel of Inverbeg built around 1780 to replace a previous chapel on an island in the Loch. Keep following the clear path as it undulates along the shore, sometimes coming down close to the water where there are a number of tempting pebble beaches which make perfect rest spots.

Stage 3

The remains of the settlement of Brinacory are passed and tree-covered Brinacory Island can be seen in the water - allegedly one of the more popular places for spotting Morag. The path leaves the shoreline in a few places but soon returns with some rocky steps but no difficulties.

Stage 4

At one point the path is actually built up on stones in the water and on later sections the walls of the path can still be seen, testament to the skill of the path builders. The view ahead to the mountains beyond the head of Loch Morar is fantastic on a clear day. Soon the jetty at Camas Luinge on the far side of Loch Morar can be seen, truly a remote spot.

Stage 5

After passing a shed at a small beach, the path climbs to the cottage at Wester Swordland. Pass in front of the cottage and behind Swordland Lodge which is visible through the trees. Keep left onto the wider track (to the right leads down to the Lodge) and climb gently across more open land to eventually reach the track leading through Glen Tarbet. Turn left onto the track to head uphill through the glen - a cairn is visible at the highest point.

Stage 6

The steep descent to Tarbet is on a good track, passing through a gate part way down and emerging at the green sword, buildings and jetty at Tarbet. Once a bustling fishing village, it is now home to just six residents, numerous sheep, and visitors from the ferry which can be used for the return journey, otherwise retrace the outward route back to the start - doubling the distances and times given above.

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