Cottage Search
Follow Us
Sun, Sea & Sunart...
..the best of the West
Part of the appeal of Scotland is the fact that there are so many little known but extraordinary and beautiful places just waiting to be explored. With our unrivalled knowledge of this largely undiscovered country, Unique Cottages introduces one such out-of-the-way treasure guaranteed to delight.
As far west as you can go on the Scottish mainland you will find a truly unique sea water loch which stretches for 20 miles into the magnificent highland landscape of rolling hills and ancient woodland. Loch Sunart, a long, narrow inlet from the Atlantic Ocean, via the Sound of Mull, benefits from the warm west coast sea temperatures influenced by the Gulf Stream. The resulting oceanic microclimate makes the area surrounding the loch one of the only places in Europe where temperate rainforest still exists, offering an exceptionally rich habitat for a multitude of varied wildlife.
The ancient, predominantly oak, woodlands that border the loch provide shelter to red squirrels, red and roe deer, pine marten and even the elusive Scottish wildcat. In the skies above soar magnificent predators, goshawk, golden eagles, sparrow hawk and even sea eagles, while at night short eared and tawny owls take their place. By the water's edge and on the small islands of Oronsay, Carna and Risga, seals bask in the sun, otters busy themselves fishing for dinner and all manner of nesting seabirds make their seasonal homes.
Beneath the placid surface of Loch Sunart, its waters are bustling with an amazing selection of sea life you would normally envisage finding in the shallow turquoise waters of a tropical island. Amongst the striking marine reefs, which sprawl across the bottom of the loch, hide crayfish, lobsters, scallops, brittlestars, pipefish and unusual looking sea hares. The now critically endangered spurdog glide silent past, like miniature sharks. Colourful northern feather stars dance gracefully across the loch-bed, while eye-catching sunstars cling to underwater rock formations- a delicate and unspoilt aquatic wonderland.
Loch Sunart and the surrounding area is not only a haven for wildlife. The area has an interesting history that can be witnessed as you explore even the most secluded of valleys. Hundreds of abandoned ruined buildings are scattered across this vast expanse of land, evidence of settlements long since vacated, possibly because of their extremely rural nature and the move to cars, rather than boats, as a primary mode of transport. Currently the largest settlement in the area, Strontian, has a population of approximately 400, yet it has a heritage that rivals most large cities. This attractive village near the head of Loch Sunart has an element of the periodic table named after it. Strontium was first found in the lead mines just north of the settlement in 1790 and it was these mines that produced most of the lead shot which was used in the Napoleonic wars.
Whether you're looking for your next Scottish adventure or just somewhere to relax and unwind, Loch Sunart is one hidden gem which is well worth a visit.
Sunset over Loch Sunart
Shores of Loch Sunart
Island on Loch Sunart
