Sunnyside Croft Touring Site, Inverness-shire
This should have been a brief stopover on our way home from the Highlands, but we loved it so much we extended our stay.
Situated next to a stunning coastline of glistening, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters with views of the Isles of Eigg, Rhum and Skye, Sunnyside Croft is graded four stars by VisitScotland and has the gold award from the David Bellamy Conservation Scheme.
On our first morning we walked to Arisaig station to catch the train to Fort William – advertised as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. If you book in advance you can travel on the Jacobite steam train.
On the return journey we walked part of the Great Glen Way to Banovie to admire the dramatic flight of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal, known as Neptune’s Staircase. These locks raise the canal by 19 metres over a distance of a quarter of a mile. We completed the rest of our journey by bus and the friendly driver diverted to the coast road to drop us at the entrance to our campsite.
We loved the beach, which can be easily accessed in a few minutes, via a private path, for activities including kayaking, swimming and walking.
On site there is an outdoor shower to rinse salt water and sand from wetsuits, etc, and an outside/inside drying area as well as a rinsing off point for dogs.
Unfortunately, the facilities block was closed during our visit due to Covid restrictions, but all other aspects of the site, including waste disposal, were very neat, clean, well-planned and eco-friendly.
All the gravel-based pitches are large enough for you to park at any angle, including lengthways, to get the best view of the coastline and the stunning sunsets. The rear of the site is surrounded by mountain views so you have the best of both worlds.
Wildlife galore, including red deer, otters, dolphins and eagles, can be spotted on foot or by boat.
Island and wildlife cruises are available from Arisaig.