Top 10 Things to Do in Ardnamurchan and Moidart This Summer
Tucked away on the remote west coast of the Scottish Highlands, Moidart is a land of lochs, forests, and untamed beauty. Often called the “Hidden Gem of the Highlands,” it offers a rare blend of wild landscapes, rich Gaelic heritage, and total tranquillity. Here, time slows down — and the connection to nature deepens. From ancient castles and white-sand beaches to local music and starlit skies, Moidart is the perfect place to escape the crowds and experience authentic Scotland. The Ardnamurchan Peninsula is one of Scotland’s last true wildernesses – and it’s right on your doorstep when you stay at Garmoran Square. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or just want to unplug and unwind, there’s something unforgettable waiting here for you.
Here are our Top 10 things to do this summer when staying with us at Garmoran Square:
- Walk to Castle Tioram
A visit to Ardnamurchan wouldn’t be complete without a walk to Castle Tioram, a romantic 13th-century ruin perched on a tidal island. Accessible by foot during low tide, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic or dramatic photos. see our Blog on the circuit walk for more information
Insider tip: Go at golden hour for the best light and fewest crowds. Best seen at low tide – don’t forget your camera! - Wildlife Watching at Garbh Eilean Wildlife Hide
Bring your binoculars! Eilean is a haven for otters, seals, herons, and even eagles. The tide exposes small rocky islands that seals bath on. Garbh Eilean is Gaelic for rough island. The hide is perfect for gentle walks and spotting wildlife.
Bonus: Keep your eyes peeled for rare birds and even sea eagles. Ardery is beautiful bay a short drive from heading back towards Strontian Garmoran Square and is a wildlife watcher’s paradise — bring binoculars and take it slow. More details can be seen at foresty website - Beach Day at Sanna Bay
Sanna Bay is one of Scotland’s most stunning beaches, with white sand, turquoise waters, and epic views to the Small Isles. Great for paddling, sandcastles, and lazy days under a beach towel.
It’s about an hour’s drive through scenic single-track roads — worth every second.
Take a day trip to Sanna Bay – one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets and a must-visit when staying at Garmoran Square. Pack a picnic, bring a book, and breathe in the Atlantic air. - Music at the Glenuig Community Inn
The Glenuig Community Inn isn’t just about good foodand sea views — it’s also a beloved local music hub. Throughout the summer, the inn hosts a range of live music events, including:
Monthly Sunday Afrernoon Traditional Music Sessions (last Sunday of the month)
These informal, foot-tapping gatherings feature fiddles, pipes, guitars, accordions and songs rooted in Highland tradition. Musicians and visitors are welcome — bring an instrument or just enjoy the craic.
Or Montly Jazz Afternoons
Looking for something a little different? The occasional jazz session transforms the Glenuig Inn into a mellow, candlelit venue for smooth sax and soulful improvisation. It's the Highlands with a twist.
Great atmosphere, local ales, and a real sense of community make these evenings unforgettable.
Check the Glenuig Inn's website or Facebook page for up-to-date session dates.
Couples, music lovers, and anyone looking to experience authentic Highland hospitality. - Take the Ferry to Tobermory
Hop on the ferry from Kilchoan and explore Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Famous for its colourful harbourfront, boutique shops, and the Mull Aquarium, it makes for a fun day out.
It’s a mini adventure with big charm. Catch the ferry from Kilchoan and head to Tobermory – colourful, charming, and packed with things to do. Grab an ice cream, stroll the harbour, or visit the aquarium.
Island vibes just a short sail from Garmoran Square!
Here some helpful websites links
https://www.calmac.co.uk/tobermory-kilchoan-ardnamurchan-mull-ferry-summer-timetable
http://www.mullaquarium.co.uk/ - Stargazing in Moidart
Thanks to low light pollution, Moidart offers incredible dark skies. On clear nights, the Milky Way, shooting stars, and even the Northern Lights can be seen. Garmoran Square houses have outdoor rugs for you to use during your stay take it with you and look up — nature’s show starts after sunset. From Garmoran Square, you can spot the Milky Way with the naked eye.
Ideal for night photography, romantic evenings, or just marvelling at the cosmos.
Seen the Northern Lights we have from the garden at Garmoran. The link to this blog gives some more information - Wild Swimming Spots
Feeling brave? Try wild swimming at Ardtoe Beaches or Samalaman Beach . Refreshing, energising, and surprisingly addictive.
Always swim safely – stay close to the shore and know your limits, check tides. Ardnamurchan and Moidart offers some magical wild swimming spots – think crystal-clear lochs and gentle rivers.
Cold? Yep. Worth it? Absolutely. - Woodland Trails at Ariundle Oakwood
Explore ancient woodland at Ariundle National Nature Reserve. Moss-covered trees, bubbling burns, and peaceful trails make this a magical escape into nature.
Ideal for family walks, photos, and soaking up forest calm. Into the woods we go…
Just a short drive from Garmoran Square, the Ariundle Oakwoods offer fairytale forest walks and gentle trails.
Great for all ages and especially lovely on a cool summer morning. - Photography Hotspots All Around
Whether it’s castles, beaches, lochs or wildlife, Ardnamurchan is a photographer’s dream. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical.
Tip: Castle Tioram and Sanna Bay are top spots. Ardnamurchan and Moidart offers jaw-dropping views around every corner. From Castle Tioram at dusk to Sanna Bay at dawn, it’s pure magic. - Stay in Luxury at Garmoran Square - All roads lead back to luxury…
After all that exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort of your luxury apartment at Garmoran Square.
Curl up with a book, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy the views.
After a day exploring the Highlands, unwind in your cosy, spacious apartment at Garmoran Square.
Comfy beds, warm welcome, and peaceful surroundings.
