Sailing around the Inner Hebrides off the West Coast of mainland Scotland is one of life’s true pleasures. Rolling mountains, pristine beaches and whisky distilleries bring people back to this glorious archipelago year after year. But what makes it so special, is the sheer number of stunning, secluded anchorages. The anchoring possibilities are quite literally endless in the region, so we tasked Klaas van Twillert – Captain of S/V Flying Dutchman – to give us a run down of his favourite five:
1. Loch Spelve, Mull
Located on the south-eastern corner of Mull, Loch Spelve’s dauntingly tight entrance and anvil-shaped tidal lagoon offers great protection in most conditions. Common Gulls nest here in the summer and Herons can be spotted along with an abundance of otters. Shore, you’ll find the ruins of a medieval church that was abandoned back in the 17th century. Anchoring up in the North-Western edge of the Loch, you’ll find some great paths to explore.
2. Loch Scresorts, Rùm
Considering it’s the largest of the “Small Isles”, Rùm’s population is relatively small – at around thirty people. Now managed by Scottish Natural Heritage, the island is a hot spot for ecological research into red deer and well as the beautiful white-tailed sea eagle. Loch Scresorts in the only accessible anchorage on the island and shore is easily reachable thanks to a modern pier. Ashore, you’ll find the impressive Kinloch Castle. Built in 1897, the castle and surrounding hunting ground estate boasted squash courts, a ventilated billiards room, a Jacuzzi and a palm house full of hummingbirds, turtles and small alligators. Tours are the castle are available most afternoons.
3. Loch Choire
Over on the mainland, mountains dominate the landscape – and if it’s mountains you want, Loch Choire has some of the most impressive. A quick row ashore and you’re into the mountains which are peppered with endless trails to both trek and cycle. Back at the quiet anchorage, nothing will disturb you, apart from the quiet chimes of a local church bell. Bliss.
4. Loch Nevis
Famed for having the UK’s most remote mainland pub, The Old Forge, the Bay of Inverie in Loch Nevis is certainly one not to miss. If the swell isn’t too bad, you can anchor, or even pick up one of the visitor mooring balls for easy access to this great watering hole and fine eatery. If the swell is too much for you, it’s possible to go all the way to the head of the Loch by passing through the Kyles of Knoydart. Dropping the anchor at the head in Camusrory will offer a beautiful, undisturbed night.
5. Loch Tarbert, Jura
To experience unspoiled wilderness, you can’t go wrong with Loch Tarbert on Jura. This 4-mile loch almost cuts all of the way through Jura creating a number of anchorages suitable in most conditions. Over a shingle beach, you can visit a freshwater loch with beautiful sandy beaches. For the brave, this is a great spot to go for a swim.
