Point of Ardnamurchan

Point of Ardnamurchan

Point of Ardnamurchan Group Walks | Join a Walk

47m Elevation
32m Prominence
Scotland Country

Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!

Classifications

0-99m Tump

Looking for walking companions?

Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Point of Ardnamurchan together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.

Elevation

47m

154 ft

Prominence

32m

Coordinates

56.7257, -6.2225

NM417672

OS Map

47

Explorer: 390W

At the Summit

At the summit, visitors will find a small stone cairn, surrounded by sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby islands.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and rocky with gentle slopes leading to the summit.

The Point of Ardnamurchan is primarily composed of volcanic rock due to its proximity to the Ardnamurchan volcanic complex, one of the youngest volcanic areas in the UK, formed around 60 million years ago.

Views & Scenery

From the top, enjoy vistas of the Hebrides, including the Isle of Skye, and the rugged coastline of Ardnamurchan Peninsula.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ardnamurchan' is derived from the Gaelic 'Aird nam Murchan,' meaning 'Headland of the Sea.'

Historical Significance

The point is home to Scotland's most westerly mainland lighthouse, built in 1849, which now serves as a popular tourist attraction.

Popular Routes

Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Circular Route

Moderate

This popular route begins at the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, the westernmost point of mainland Britain. From the parking area near the lighthouse, follow the coastal path heading east along the rugged cliffs. The route offers spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean and the Small Isles. Turn inland near grid reference NM4179367298 and climb gently through heathland and rocky terrain to the Point of Ardnamurchan. Return via the same path to complete the circular route.

6 km 2 hours

Kilchoan to Ardnamurchan Point Linear Walk

Moderate

Starting in the village of Kilchoan, this linear route follows the minor road towards Ardnamurchan Point before transitioning to a trail near Portuairk. The walk takes you through picturesque crofting landscapes, small beaches, and rocky headlands. Upon reaching the Point of Ardnamurchan, enjoy panoramic views and the dramatic coastal scenery. Return options include retracing your steps or organizing transport back to Kilchoan.

10 km 3.5 hours

Portuairk to Point of Ardnamurchan Coastal Path

Easy

This scenic coastal walk starts in the small hamlet of Portuairk, the westernmost settlement on mainland Britain. Follow the coastal trail westward, traversing rocky outcrops and small sandy coves. The trail gradually ascends to the Point of Ardnamurchan, offering stunning views of the surrounding seas and islands. This is an out-and-back route that allows for exploration of the coastline along the way.

5.5 km 2 hours

Sanna Bay to Point of Ardnamurchan

Moderate

Begin this route at Sanna Bay, known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. From the car park, head west along the coastal trail, navigating between dunes and rocky headlands. The path gradually climbs towards the Point of Ardnamurchan, offering breathtaking sea views and a chance to spot wildlife such as seals and seabirds. Return by the same route to Sanna Bay.

8 km 3 hours

Wild Ardnamurchan Exploration Loop

Challenging

This adventurous loop route starts at the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse and explores lesser-traveled paths around the Point of Ardnamurchan. Begin by following the coastal trail eastward, then turn inland near NM4179367298 to traverse open moorland and rocky terrain. The route loops back to the lighthouse, offering a mix of coastal and inland scenery, and is ideal for experienced walkers seeking solitude and a challenge.

9.5 km 4 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, providing easy access to the walking routes.

Public Transport

Limited, but services operate from Fort William to Kilchoan, with connections to the lighthouse available via local taxis.

Nearby Facilities

There is a café at Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, which serves refreshments and provides restroom facilities.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of the weather; conditions can change rapidly. Some paths may be slippery when wet.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Find Walking Companions

Join friendly walkers exploring Point of Ardnamurchan and surrounding area

Can't find a walk? Organise your own!

Create a walk and let others join you. It's free and easy!

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Point of Ardnamurchan?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Point of Ardnamurchan through the maps

Are there other walkers around Point of Ardnamurchan?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Point of Ardnamurchan search or of course create your own walk for Point of Ardnamurchan

Can I organise a walk to Point of Ardnamurchan?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Point of Ardnamurchan.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Point of Ardnamurchan?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Point of Ardnamurchan here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible