The Sunday Post (Newcastle)

With castles, white beaches and islands , this west coast walk is one to be savoured

- By Keith Fergus OUTDOORS WRITER

A spectacula­r portion of Scotland’s west coast stretches from Oban to Fort William. If desired this 44-mile Great Scottish Journey can also include some island hopping as well as a diversion onto the Ardgour Peninsula. Whatever course is taken, an unforgetta­ble trip is guaranteed.

Oban is a fine place to begin any journey, its bustling environs centred around its harbour, where many ferries leave daily for the likes of Lismore, Mull and Tiree. Nearby a short ferry trip culminates on Kerrera.

The best vantage point to view Oban is from the folly of McCaig’s Tower. Built in 1902 it imparts an incredible spectacle that extends to Mull.

Heading north and Dunstaffna­ge Castle is well worth exploratio­n. The history of the castle is fascinatin­g as it was here that Robert the Bruce attacked in 1308 after his famous victory over the MacDougall’s at the Pass of Brander.

After passing Dunstaffna­ge, Connel Bridge spans the dramatic Falls of Lora

From Benderloch the A828 leads into Appin and a superb view of Castle Stalker. Another recommende­d diversion reaches Port Appin where a short boat trip gains gorgeous Lismore.

From Appin a beautiful section of coast continues through Kentallen and Ballachuli­sh before the A82 passes Corran – again a ferry crossing of a few minutes over the Corran Narrows leads onto the Ardgour Peninsula.

Back on the A82 and the final few miles arrives in Fort William and all the wonderful outdoor opportunit­ies this lively town provides.

 ??  ?? Boats in Oban harbour with McCaig’s Tower in the background
Boats in Oban harbour with McCaig’s Tower in the background

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