171. Smirisary Beach

I was looking forward to this walk. I knew that this special beach (or beaches) could only be reached via a two-mile walk along the coast and that’s just the kind of beach I like. On this perfect sunny day, I parked at the end of the road leading to the remote crofting settlement of Smirisary and followed the path which snakes its way through heathland, past the crofting huts (they look to have been converted into holiday lets, which is quite a feat seeing as there is no vehicular access to them) and around the headland. It’s a superb walk, with the sea to your right and incredible views across to the Small Isles. Eventually the stunning beach comes into view from afar, on this occasion with the sunshine glistening on the turquoise water. I was reminded of Traigh Mheilein on the Isle of Harris. As I got closer, smaller isolated sandy coves appeared, backed by lush green pasture and wild yellow flowers. It was idyllic, and even more so when a seal popped its head out the turquoise water. I had lunch here on a small hill overlooking the beach, contemplating a magnificent three days walking, and already planning a return to Ardnamurchan.  I returned back along the path, passing a few walkers heading to the beach, and that was it for this trip.  I passed the small beach of Samalaman on the way back to the main road at Glenuig. My plan was to stop here but on this sunny day the tiny beach was full of families enjoying the weather, so it didn’t feel appropriate for me to turn up and take photos. Some other time perhaps.