Get Lost Mountaineering

North Coast of Muck

Start/Finish

Muck is reached by Calmac ferry from Mallaig or smaller ferry from Arisaig.

Distance/Time

4 km.      About 1.5 hours.

Peaks

None     OS sheet 39:Rum & Eigg

Introduction

Muck is a low lying island but with an interesting rocky coastline. The ferry from Arisaig is the MV Shearwater. At busy times, it is essential to book in advance on 01687 450224. In 2019, the return fare was £20 for an adult. It is difficult to walk all around the coastline of Muck on a day trip as one is limited to 2 – 3 hours ashore. A road goes across the island which allows the coastline to be divided up into smaller sections. The cafe and craft shop is excellent. There are lots of paths but also a few cliffs so care is needed in places especially near rocky inlets. There are great views to Eigg and Rum. Whales are not uncommon at sea.Calmac also call at Muck but with shorter stopover time although the fare is about £10 for a day return. This particular route may involve crossing some fences or walls.

Route

(1) Whichever boat you arrive on, turn left and start walking along the track with the sea on your left. This track becomes a road and passes the old small jetty, the white Pier House, the bunkhouse and the lovely little cafe before gently climbing to cross the island. Follow the road for about 1 km to reach a gate on the right with a winding gravel track going to a new white house in the distance. Walk to just past the wood before the house then turn left and follow the edge of the wood towards the sea. After that just pick a way around the coast. If it becomes too rocky or difficult then come inland a little although this may mean crossing a wall or fence. Reach a short sandy beach. Just beyond here, a gate leads to the road. Walk along the road for as long as time permits before following the road back to the ferry terminal.

Notes

(a) This walk took place on 28^th May, 2019.