This stunning circular walk from the Glenelg Ferry gives superb views along a little visited section of the shores of Loch Alsh, before returning via forestry tracks over the hill.
Clear woodland paths, pebbly beaches and forest tracks.
Bus service to Glenelg, also summer ferry from Kylerhea on Skye.
Glenelg ferry car park.
Park at the car park on the right hand side of the Glenelg Ferry road just before its final zigzag down to the slipway. There's a bench here - a great place to sit and stare on a fine day, as the quaint hand-operated turntable ferry, the 'Glenachulish' crosses the narrows with its cargo of upto six cars at a time - as well as a new waiting room.
Begin the walk by heading up the track behind the waiting room. Pass through a gate, then a bench with a view through a gap in the trees, and then a second gate. At a fork take the left branch that descends, soon passing under the base of a massive pylon that carries electricity over to sea. Beyond this the lovely path runs through mixed woodland with glimpses of the water below. At one point the path becomes rough, descending to cross a stream and then climbing up the far side.
The path crosses another burn before gradually leading down out of the trees to reach the pebbly shore at Camas nan Gall. The path continues through the grass immediately adjacent to the shore along this delightful bay where otters and sea birds can often be see; the scene is marred only by a large fish farm.
Pass through a gap in an old fence and continue close by the shore. As Ardintoul Point is approached, keep to the shore to the left of the stone wall - there no clear path here. Cross a small burn, and when half way out to the point - by a marker post - turn right through a gateway to follow a grasys track inland, to the left of a fence. Pass through a gateway, and at a junction just before a large barn, turn left and pass some old outbuildings and the ruins of Ardintoul House.
When the shore is reached again turn right heading towards the whitewashed house. Turn right again, passing a ruined barn on the left. Soon the track curves to the left and climbs steeply uphill. There are great views back over Ardintoul and Loch Alsh.
Ignore a post indicating where the Dirty 30 challenge route heads off left (linking to Totaig). Continue following the very well made track as it climbs up through the forestry to the Bealach Luachrach, keeping straight across at a turning area. There are views of Skye's Kylerhea hills from here.
From the top of the bealach it is downhill all the way. Continue following the track on the descent; it eventually swings sharply left. There are views down the Sound of Sleat, with the Isle of Eigg visible in the far distance. Follow the track as it turns right and heads down Gleann Bernera to reach the Glenelg Ferry road.
Here turn right and follow this minor road, soon leading back to the car park at the start.
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