A tranquil peninsula along Scotland’s Adventure Coast, the district of Appin beckons to seekers of sprawling coastal vistas and mountainous backdrops. This peaceful district is home to myriad scenic walks, whether you want to immerse in a day-long hike or a short circular trail that boasts expansive views within easy reach.
From romantic castles to tumbling waterfalls, the coastal district of Appin promises a medley of wild and captivating backdrops to your walks, inviting you to step into Scotland’s otherworldly landscapes. Discover some of the country’s most beloved landmarks, from the striking scenes at Glencoe to historic forts amidst glistening lochs, before sinking into one of the area’s fire-warmed pubs to plan your next salt-kissed adventure in Argyll.
Inspired to soak up your surrounds with dreamy explorations on foot? Start crafting an ocean-infused itinerary replete with soul-sparking walks in Appin and beyond.
Port Appin Circuit
This tree-shrouded headland is the perfect place for mindful moments in nature, backed by tranquil waters and the undulating delights of the Isles of Lismore and Mull. A 1.5-mile circular route, your pocket-sized journey begins by the water at the ferry terminal. The footpath skirts around the edge of this idyllic peninsula, offering sweeping views of Loch Linnhe and the surrounding seascapes, with a number of benches inviting you to pause in your coastal reverie for a while. At the headland’s point, you’ll pass beneath a fascinating natural arch that has been carved into the stone by time. At Airds Bay, curious caves fringed by pine-scented woodland line the coast, crafting a fairytale setting for a picnic by the water’s edge. Returning via the charming village of Port Appin, you’ll pass the old lighthouse lantern, the village hall, and a trail of pretty cottages before arriving back at the start. Climb aboard the ferry to explore the magical Isle of Lismore, or retreat to your luxury cottage for a cosy evening.
Castle Stalker and Jubilee Bridge
If you’re looking for a short walk near Appin that proffers spellbinding views across one of the area’s most romantic castles, this short trail is sure to stir the soul and refresh the senses. Beginning in Taychreggan, you’ll trace the coastal footpath west towards Jubilee Bridge, with sprawling views across the salt marshes of Loch Laich. Reaching the other side, you’ll then follow a cycle track towards Portnacroish, where a mesmeric viewpoint overlooking Castle Stalker awaits. Pause and take in the grand visage of the 14th-century castle, or book onto one of the private tours that take place at certain times throughout the year. Retrace your footsteps back for the return walk, dipping into the luxurious interiors of Airds Hotel for a seasonal banquet awash with Scottish flair.
Isle of Lismore
If gazing across Loch Linnhe at the Isle of Lismore ignites adventure in your heart, the hourly ferry crossings to the island are sure to satisfy cravings of wanderlust. Meaning ‘Great Garden’ in Gaelic, the Isle of Lismore is replete with nature-infused walks, from soulful strolls to rugged routes rewarded with spellbinding views. For a 6-mile walk you can begin the moment you step off the ferry, head south from Point Ferry for a winding track that leads you past historic quarries, hidden beaches, and around the enchanting Alasra Peninsula, before circling back to the ferry. Or, turn your toes towards the southern reaches of the island for magical trails that take you past romantic ruins and the striking Eilean Musdile Lighthouse as you traverse the rich and rugged landscape.
Fairy Bridge of Glen Creran Circular
A storybook setting steeped in history and wonder, Glen Creran is spellbinding at every verdant turn. One of the most enchanting walks is a short, 2.5-mile trail to the beloved Fairy Bridge of Glen Creran, which takes you through the valley before entering a dappled woodland of oak and birch. Beneath the ancient canopy, the idyllic Fairy Bridge invites you into a fairytale lined with crooked stones and moss-strewn trees. Beneath the bridge, a small waterfall tumbles over time-worn rocks, crafting a truly magical moment for all who visit. In the spring, these untamed woodlands burst with wild garlic and bluebells, carpeting the forest floor with white and purple blooms. Before following the circular trail back to the start, turn right after passing the remnants of an ancient bothy to view Fas na Cloiche from the footpath, a remarkable pine tree that grows from a grass-topped boulder.
Glencoe
Shouldered by roughhewn peaks and steeped in history, the sweeping valley of Glencoe has taken root in the hearts of many, defining it as one of the best places to walk in Argyll and the Highlands. The glen’s sprawling views can be enjoyed as you drive through the rugged pass, but for true immersion in your romantic surroundings, leave your car behind for one of the many walks that trace the ancient vale. With waterfalls and craggy summits to explore, Glencoe proffers myriad trails to uncover, from short and sweet strolls that offer breathtaking views to longer hikes that invite you to take on some of Scotland’s most arresting challenges. For a blissful blend of scenes, turn towards the beautiful Glencoe Lochan, where three 1-mile trails promise a choice of settings, from sloping mountains to wooded paths that curve beneath towering conifers and afford mesmerising views across the water.
Kentallen to Port Appin
This lochside, 11.5-mile there-and-back calls to those who seek tranquil waterside reveries peppered with historic landmarks. Beginning in the idyllic hamlet of Kentallen, your trail skirts the glassy waters of Loch Linnhe, affording many serene spots to pause for a moment of mindfulness. After a short detour to Kentallen Point, which boasts panoramic views, you’ll join the 233-mile Sustrans route, The Caledonia Way. This mostly traffic-free trail follows the ebbing line of the coast all the way to Castle Stalker, before joining the Appin Loop to arrive in the charming village of Port Appin.
Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve
A mosaic of Celtic rainforest and dappled glades, Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve is a leaf-strewn haven for wildlife and endangered plants. It’s also home to one of the prettiest forest walks in Appin, with a short, 0.5-mile loop that proffers rambling views across Loch Creran and the rising peaks beyond. Surrounding the moss-cloaked trees, a carpet of flowering plants attracts a range of rare butterflies, including the tortoishell printed Chequered Skipper. Pause amongst the ancient oaks and climbing ash trees, appreciating the spellbinding beauty of life beneath the rustling canopy.
Ganavan Sands and Dustaffnage Castle
A rich blend of history and meandering seascapes, the 4-mile walk between the white sands of Ganavan Bay and Dunstaffnage Castle is perfect for those seeking fresh air and mesmerising views. You’ll start and finish at the pristine beach at Ganavan Sands, ideal for those wishing to walk into crystal clear waters or lounge on sun-warmed sands. When you’re ready to go, follow the grassy trail before climbing the gentle slopes of Aonadh Mòr, where sweeping views await across the undulating coastline ahead and the quaint gathering of cottages at Ganavan behind you. Along your journey, soak up expansive scenes that roll across azure waters to the craggy silhouettes of Mull and Lismore in the distance. Passing the Marine Science Park, you’ll soon come across the 13th-century ruins of Dustaffnage Castle and Chapel. Both structures permeate grandeur amongst the trees, inviting you to marvel at one of Scotland’s oldest castles before following a pretty, tree-lined cycle path back to the start.
Beinn Lora
Home to thousands of summits to climb, Scotland is a paradise for experienced hikers and climbers. In Argyll and the coastal district of Appin, you’ll find some pocket-sized peaks that invite you to bask in the challenge of a climb in an afternoon. Halfway between Appin and Oban, Beinn Lora is a magnificent peak that sits only 308 metres high, allowing you to admire the reaching views from the top during a short and sweet 4-mile walk. Starting in the Beinn Lora car park, you’ll trace the waymarked path uphill, pausing to soak up the views of Benderloch Beach below as you go. Following the blue-marked path, you’ll ascend through scatterings of trees, some new and some that have clung to the hillside for centuries. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the distant islands of Seil, Kerrara, Mull, Lismore, and Morvern, crafting a truly captivating sight from the summit.
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