This short but varied walk takes in the stunning Gaineamh Mhòr beach of Gairloch before climbing across to the pier at Charlestown. The return walk is via the Flowerdale Arboretum.
Clear paths throughout; some up and down including steps
Gairloch is served by buses.
Car park by Gairloch Golf Club.
Begin from the large public car park by Gairloch golf club. From here a wooden walkway slopes down towards the beach; at one point it forks - the left branch continues through the dunes but unless the tide is very high, continue ahead down to the golden sand. The beach, known as Gaineamh Mhòr in Gaelic, is truly stunning, all the better for being between the two built up parts of Gairloch (Charlestown and Strath) and thus backed by the verdant green of the golf course and hills.
Turn left and cross the sands to the far end of the beach where a clear path climbs up. The dune path rejoins from the left here beside a buoy; instead head slightly to the right and then left, as indicated 'To the Pier' on a wooden signpost. Before taking the path it is worth exploring the tiny An Dùn headland on the right - the name being an indicator that this was once the site of an ancient fort. Contininuing the walk, the excellent path climbs south above a rocky bay before passing through native woodland via a wooden walkway. Another signpost then indicates where to turn left (counter intuitively!) and climb across the moorland above the beach. There are stunning views over the sands to the Strath part of Gairloch.
After passing a bench the path becomes rocky as it curves round to the right, with magnificent views to the mountains, dominated by the great square block of Baosbhein. The path soon begins to descend beside a fence as the buildings of Charlestown and the pier come into view below. Another signpost indicates where to turn right down the steps to emerge on the road beside the chandlery. Charlestown has both a cafe and a shop; the walk continues by turning left along the road.
Cross directly over the main A832 road to reach a parking area opposite the Old Inn (see Gairloch hotels for details). Do not cross the bridge but instead take the 'Flowerdale' path that continues parallel to a track. This soon passes a pond with a beautiful view up the Flowerdale Glen.
Look out for a wooden signpost that indicates a left turn for the 'Flowerdale Arboretum circuit', which continues directly across the track. This ascends slightly and is marked by green spots on posts; turn left at the next two path junctions. Now continue on the main path as it winds up to the top of the Ord na h-Eaglaise. A bench provides an opportunity for a break with a great outlook over the golf course to the sea beyond. Continuing, the path now descends gradually through the fine woodland, decorated with rhododendrons.
At the bottom of the slope again keep to the main path as it swings back to the left before heading right across a small wooden bridge and pass along the edge of the woodland. Cross the flat valley floor and climb slightly up into the trees on the far side to reach a clear path at a t-junction. The waymarkers head back to the right, across a bridge, to return to the Flowerdale Glen here. Our walk instead turns to the left and continues to contour the slope through the woods. Once level with a cemetery follow the path as it turns down to the left and across the back of the cemetery. At the far end turn right onto a broad lane that leads back to the main road immediately opposite the car park and the start. Before leaving the area, be sure to enjoy the view of the beach from the viewpoint a short distance north along the road.
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