171. Smirisary Beach

I am looking forward to this walk. I know that this special beach (or beaches) can 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 park at the end of the road leading to the remote crofting settlement of Smirisary and follow 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 my 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 am reminded of Traigh Mheilein on the Isle of Harris. As I get closer, smaller isolated sandy coves appear, backed by lush green pasture and wild yellow flowers. It is idyllic, and even more so when a seal pops its head out of the turquoise water. I have lunch here on a small hill overlooking the beach, contemplating a magnificent three days walking, and already planning a return to Ardnamurchan.  I return back along the path, passing a few walkers heading to the beach, and that is it for this trip.  I pass 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 is full of families enjoying the weather, so it doesn’t feel appropriate for me to turn up and take photos. Some other time perhaps.