Moorland walk, Loch Druidibeag

Summary

This waymarked but rough circuit explores the moorland of the RSPB Loch Druidibeag reserve. There are great views over the loch towards the mountains of South Uist, and fragments of woodland to explore.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

3.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Minor road, and waymarked route over moorland. Very boggy and pathless in places.

Public Transport

None to start; bus to junction with A865 - adds 2km road walking each way.

Start

Unsigned Loch Druidibeg parking area, off B890, at bend, just east of A865 . Open in Google Maps.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.5km / 2.75 miles
Time: 1.5 hours
Ascent: 45m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NF789382

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Accommodation

Walk Description

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Stage 1

To reach the parking area turn east off the main A865 and drive along the B890 on the north side of Loch Druidibeg to reach a small parking area on the right near a bend in the road. There's an information board about this walk here, but it begins by continuing along the narrow minor road for another 600m. Note the scrubby vegetation out on the island - this gives some impression of what South Uist might have looked like before it became used for grazings.

Stage 2

A marker post indicates where to leave the road and pass through a gap in the fence. There's not really a path, and the ground underfoot is very boggy, but the route is marked with posts with a blue stripe or arrows. The route heads over a low hill, then descends to cross the narrowest ground between Loch Thamascleit (off left) and Loch Druidibeag; the burn can be crossed on stones.

Stage 3

The route heads to a stile over a fence, and then begins to climb over the open moorland towards an info board which you might spot in the distance. There are great views from here over the loch, which covers 300 hectares. Watch out for kestrels which are often seen in this area. White-tailed eagles have nested on the reserve, and you might even be lucky enough to spot the rare hen harrier. The route continues NE and then N to return to the road.

Stage 4

Turn left along the tarmac. After 800m there's a marked loop path on the left that explores a small area of woodland. Whilst it is not native, it provides a vital refuge for birdlife and proof that trees can grow here. Return to the road and continue along it to head back to the start.

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