This linear walk follows a signed path which links Balmacara and Kyle of Lochalsh, giving some excellent views along the way. The return can be made by bus (timetable permitting).
There is a clear path throughout, some rougher sections and can be boggy at times.
Balmacara is 1km off the A87(T) which is served by Citilink buses.
Balmacara Square.
If arriving by car, park in the car park at the south end of Balmacara Square. This is a picturesque spot with several old cottages around a village pond. Turn left from the car park to walk past the old stable block and cafe; when a T-junction is reached turn left along the road on the left that leads towards Balmacara House and the A87. After around 700m, and just before reaching the junction with the main road, you should see a wooden footpath sign pointing off to the right into the trees; head up this path.
The path cuts through the trees and then across an open area and over a footbridge before entering more woodland. The trees are mostly conifers at first but there are more native trees further on. Keep on the main path as it descends and then climbs passing a National Trust for Scotland marker post. Continue uphill and away from the noise of the road. After emerging from the trees go through a gate and an open moorland section follows.
The path has recently been upgraded by NTS although and is a lot less boggy than it used to be. There are fine views up Loch Duich and across the narrows to Skye. The path undulates over the lumpy moorland, passing through another gate and then another one as Kyleakin on Skye comes into view.
The path slants downhill into a pretty little valley containing the Scalpaidh Burn. After crossing the stepping stones keep right at the four way signpost to continue ahead towards Kyle of Lochalsh.
From here the way lies along an old pathway through some fine oak and birch woodland. It loses height at first before climbing once more and coming clear of the trees. There is another open section, with pylons just left of the path, and on the final rise there is a fine view of Kyle of Lochalsh, backed by the Skye Bridge and, if it's clear, the Cuillin mountains of Skye.
The path now descents to enter Kyle of Lochalsh. Cross the grass when the path emerges to head left down the street soon joining Langlands Terrace, turn left to reach the main road and turn right to get to the centre of Kyle. If you have had enough, catch a bus back along the A87 to the turn-off for Balmacara. Otherwise, or if you haven't checked the timetable, the best return is back the way you came, which obviously doubles the stated time and distance for the walk.
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