PORT APPIN

Port Appin occupies a prime position on the west coast, nestling under the mountains of Appin, with wonderful views to the island of Lismore and the coast of Morven as well as views of Castle Stalker (covered in the previous post). There has been a ferry service from here to Lismore since at least 1750, and it is still running, although only for foot passengers. The port's inclusion on a steamer service from Inverness to Glasgow via the Caledonian Canal contributed to its development into a stopover for visitors. The village is ideal for walking, whether heading towards the Jubilee Bridge across Loch Laich where better views of the castle can be enjoyed, or a shorter walk to Clach Thoull, a natural stone arch, taking in a shoreline path peppered with wild orchids and harebells in the spring. The port is ideal for those wanting to take to the water, being perfect for sea kayaking or yachting. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot sea otters or seals in the water, or a variety of birdlife including oystercatchers, kestrels and sea eagles. Bookworms who have read Robert Louis Stevenson's Kidnapped will find plenty of interest here. The area featured in the novel, which centres around the true story of the Appin Murder in 1752, which occurred in the aftermath of the Jacobite rising.

Map of the area.

Jetties at Port Appin - geograph.org.uk - 1705135. Photo by Dave Fergusson, via Wikimedia Commons.