The West Highland Peninsulas - Top 10 Picks

1. Crafts, Art & Produce

 

Seasonally open attractions such as Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, cafes and restaurants, boat trips and wildlife tours reopen for the spring and summer to welcome visitors and showcase the best of the area.

 

2. Woodlands

 

The woodlands awake in springtime, and are fi lled with a carpet of spring fl owers making way for lush abundance of summertime where the canopies of ancient oak woodlands and Celtic Rainforest (as featured on Countryfile with local Hamza Yassin) offer cool retreats from the summer heat.

 

3. Wellbeing

 

Quiet spots, nature connections and wide-open spaces off er the perfect opportunities for mindful, meditative time. Whether you practice yoga, wild swimming, forest bathing or simply just breathe deeply, you are sure to fi nd peace and relaxation here at this tranquil time of year.

 

4. Beaches

 

Even at the peak of the visitor season, the miles and miles of coastline and the remote and rural nature of the peninsulas mean peaceful solitude on stunning beaches (such as marvellous Sanna Bay – with the backdrop of ancient volcanoes) is possible here.

 

5. History & Heritage

 

Visit iconic sites of historicalminterest, black house remains, heritage trails and castle ruins.

 

 

6. Wildlife

 

As nature wakes up for springtime, hibernating creatures emerge and the longer daylight hours allow for easier spotting of dusk and dawn active creatures such as badgers, pine martens and deer. The springtime migration of birds such as geese, swallows and cuckoos and the breeding behaviours of our golden and white-tailed sea eagles means the skies are often fi lled with
wildlife. The West Highland Peninsulas are home to all of Scotland’s Big Five: red deer, red squirrels, golden eagles, otters and seals.

 

7. Birdsong

 

The call of the cuckoo is the heralding of spring time in the West Highland Peninsulas. Once widespread, the cuckoo is in decline but is still a commonplace sound echoing across the moorland here from late April through to June. The area is also rich in other springtime bird song as the birds pair up and build nests to rear young.

 

8. Ardnamurchan Point & Lighthouse

 

The most westerly point on the British mainland, Ardnamurchan Point offers spectacular views across the Atlantic to the Isles of Muck, Eigg, Rum, and Skye. Its historic lighthouse, built in 1849, is open to visitors and includes a small museum and tearoom. The surrounding cliffs are a prime spot for whale and dolphin watching. Remote and wild, the journey here is part of the experience, winding through some of Scotland’s most unspoiled landscapes.

 

9. Castle Tioram

 

Perched on a tidal island where Loch Moidart meets the sea, the evocative ruins of Castle Tioram are among the most photographed in the Highlands. Once the stronghold of Clanranald, a branch of Clan Donald, the castle can be reached on foot at low tide. While interior access is restricted, the dramatic setting and panoramic views make it a perfect stop for history lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a romantic Highland scene.

 

10. Sanna Bay

 

A pristine stretch of white sand and turquoise water, Sanna Bay is one of Scotland’s most beautiful and peaceful beaches. Located near the tip of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, the bay is framed by dunes and volcanic hills, with views toward the Small Isles. It’s an ideal spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and wildlife watching—especially seals and seabirds. Despite its stunning setting, Sanna remains relatively quiet, offering solitude and scenic splendour far from the tourist crowds.