sailscotland 2020

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 Nikki Alford Skipper & Owner © Bessie Ellen

Loch na Drom Buidhe Loch of the Golden Hill: This wonderfully sheltered anchorage is a perfect stop at the western end of the Sound of Mull approached through a narrow rocky entrance opening out into a sheltered loch surrounded on all sides. The shores are by ancient woodland of oak and rowan timber cladding the hillsides and the trilling of rock pipits resound around the sleepy valleys. White tailed Eagles are a frequent visitor, if we are lucky they come to rest in branches close to, or flying low overhead back to their nesting sights on Mull. A good walk from the stony beach takes you westwards up along the track towards Drimmin. Stop at the summit overlooking Drom Buidhe and marvel as the evening light shines across Loch Sunart and Ardnamurchan Loch na Cille This lesser know loch is a firm favourite although not frequently visited. Situated on the Argyll coast adjacent to Loch Sween, here you will find a little bit of heaven. Green fields dotted with sheep sweep down to the shore and the old stone pier provides a suitable spot for hopping ashore to visit the wonderfully restored St Charmaig’s chapel situated half way up the hillside with stunning views overlooking the sound of Jura. From here it’s an easy journey to catch the

tide through the Sound of Luing with great views through the Coryvrekkan. Treshnish Sitting in a sparkling sea to the west of Mull, the Treshnish group of islands are the jewel in the crown of the west coast. Each island carries its own identity in shape, being made from volcanic basalt. Cathedral-like Staffa, the extraordinary volcanic plug that creates the Dutchman’s cap before reaching Lunga and Fladda and the surrounding rocky islets. Anchor off Lunga among bobbing puffins in clear turquoise water but be aware of a strong tidal stream that runs through the main islands. Most days the islands are visited by the tourist boats from Iona, so the best is to anchor late afternoon and have this magical kingdom to yourself with all the time in the world to explore. Spring time, the sea birds come to Treshnish for breeding, so a careful walk along the cliff edge to the guillemot colony is a must! Mingulay We love Mingulay - generally used as a day anchorage before moving to Vatersay overnight, Mingulay is a close cousin to St Kilda becoming a jewel in the Hebridean crown. Approaching from the Atlantic, stark black cliffs reaching

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