It doesn't have to be windy to enjoy Arisaig. However, Scotland offers so many superb anchorages, that Arisaig is a bit of a specialist in bad weather shelter. The village is located at the bottom of Loch nan Ceall, on the west coast of Scotland, 35 miles from Fort William. Opposite, are the small islands: Eigg, R ù m and Canna, a magnificent sailing area!
A very protected loch entrance
The entrance to Loch nan Ceall is particularly protected by a network of islets and sandbars, which provide an excellent hunting ground for numerous seals and otters. Moreover, it is only accessible at high tide, because of a weir in the channel. Once in the loch, the harbor is very sheltered, but with a westerly wind, the fetch is not negligible.
Arisaig, ideally located halfway between Mallaig and Fort William
In front of the village, the harbour buoys allow you to leave your boat and visit the surrounding area. Arisaig is located between Mallaig and Fort William, on the A830 road which follows the west coast of Scotland. The railroad also passes through there. You can even catch the famous Harry Potter train, whose smoke plumes rise up into the hills along with the whistle.
Boats can also anchor behind the buoys, at a reasonable distance from the only pontoon in the port. This pontoon is only used for refueling and disembarking ferry passengers. The authorized stopping time is 30 minutes. However, it is possible to moor dinghies on the sides or at the back under the gangway.
Nature hikes in the area
Within walking distance, you can discover Larachmhor garden, a wild garden of exceptional diversity and beauty. The Land Sea & Islands center will inform you about the old life in the villages of the coast and the current biodiversity. Hiking trails will take you either to the top of Sg ù rr an t-Sasunnaich, more than 350 meters above the village for an exceptional view, or to discover the Scottish sheep. You can even take the ferry to the small isles if you feel like it!
All essential services nearby
In the village, you will find a grocery store, public restrooms, small restaurants, a medical center, garbage containers and a children's playground. Amenities in the harbor include a cafe that offers an Anglo-Saxon breakfast or light lunch, a small boatyard, a souvenir store and a sanitary and laundry area.
So don't hesitate to discover Arisaig during your Scottish sailing trips!
