CORVID-19 is still here and you are asked to be safe whilst out in the North West of Scotland. Current restrictions have been relaxed recently. Even so, please do not go out in the area if you are showing signs of Corvid-19. When out paddling or hillwalking make sure you give people space - 1m at least and preferable 2m. Remember that if it feels too crowded then you can walk away and try somewhere else; the environment will still be there tomorrow. Also remember the emergency services, the RNLI and the MRT. They will come out to rescue you but they should not have to put themselves into danger from this virus.

Take Care Out There.

Loch Laxford

Loch Laxford
OS map : 9
start : Boathouse west of A838
gridref : NC226479
summary : A838 Boathouse - Eilean an Eireannaich - Ardmore point (bay) - Eilean a Mhadaidh - A838 Boathouse
tide : HW/LW 15mins AFTER Ullapool. Tidal flow is minimal. Loch Laxford is sheltered from the Atlantic winds and swell.
distance : 14.0km.
time taken : 4hr. 10min.

Boathouse in Laxford Bay.

Paddling up Loch Laxford.

Loch Laxford is a remote loch on the A838 between Scourie and Rhiconich. The access from the A838 is easy and paddling from the inshore to the open sea, and back is a really pleasant trip enhanced by the exploration of the various islands that populate the loch. Being inland, it can be sheltered when the sea is rough. It can also be long if the detours are made into the offshoot Lochs such as Loch a Chaol Fi. However this Loch gives great opportunity for the kayaker to paddle as far as they wish before turning back.

Follow the A838 north from Sourie. A turn off leads to a boathouse (locked) good parking and easy access to Laxford Bay and then into the loch.

Start at the boathouse and paddle west along the northern coast of Loch Laxford. The shore has much interest as you paddle along with various rocks, isles and inlets. Continue to Eilean an Eireannaich. A diversion into Loch a Chaol Fi is well worth the paddle and this is again likely to be more sheltered than the main loch. The outdoor centre of Ardmore is situated in this loch. Whether you explore the loch or cut across the mouth, continue further along this northern shore towards the mouth of the loch at Ardmore Point. The coast is rocky and getting out is an issue, but it is possible just short of Ardmore Point at NC189511, a nice inlet. You may not want to paddle further as this area is more exposed to the full force of the Atlantic if the weather is at all poor. (7kms. 2hrs. 10min.)

Now for the paddle back along the southern coast. First cross the loch making towards Sgeir Iosal. On to the south coast, south of Sgeir Iosal, where there are good landing points. The route back goes along the south coast, keeping to the channel south of the islands and north of the coast. Good navigation is needed to find the passage between Eilean a Mharaidl and the shore. At low tide it may be better to go outside this island. From here on keep to the outside of the islands and make for Laxford Bay. Cross the bay and get out at the fishing hut where this route started. (7kms. 2hrs. 10min.)