From the road junction above the pier, take the road north (shore road) and walk to the last house on the right hand side. Behind the house take a steep, rough track upwards to find two gates. Take the second gate to the left and walk between two fenced off crofts.

Walk between the fences until a rocky hill top is reached, from here bear left and zig zag down to the glen below, cross an old fence and wall then climb the steep grassy slope ahead to reach the rocky outcrop. Once the ridge is reached bear right and follow the high ground taking in the stunning views over the Minch to the distant mainland.

Make your way down to the narrow strip of land which gives access to Eilean Oragadh. This can only be crossed at low tide, and enough time must be allowed for the return crossing.

Once back, climb the high ground to the left heading for the crossing point of Loch Nam Bodach. From the high point, drop down to the left opposite a strip of land at the end of the loch. Here you will find stepping stones. Again, this crossing can only be made at low tide and even then the stones are very slippery, so care must be taken. If you cannot cross the stepping stones, you will have to follow the loch to the right. From the stepping stones, branch left past the end of the loch and follow an old path which takes you back towards the village. Once a croft house is reached, follow the road back to your starting point.

How to get here

To reach here take the A859 Stornoway to Tarbert road and turn left onto B8060 at Balallan at the head of Loch Erisort. Travel for about 15km (9 miles) and turn left on a minor road sign posted to Cromor.

Walk Information

Park at the north end of Cromore Village. Start at road junction above pier.
Allow yourself about 3 hours to cover the 7km (4 1/2 miles). The walk itself is pathless and boggy in places. On the return route a tidal outlet must be crossed on stepping stones which can be wet and slippery. Boots are essential, and a walking stick can be of great assistance on the stones.

Common Sense Rules

• Please ensure dogs are on a leash, as they can be a danger to livestock.
• While parking your car, do not block access for others.
• Always shut gates.
• Take your litter home.
• Protect wildlife and plants, do not disturb breeding birds.
• Avoid damaging archaeological sites.
• Please respect local custom and avoid disturbing the Sabbath.

For Your Safety

Remember the weather can be unpredictable. Wear sensible clothing and waterproof boots, as you may encounter boggy ground.
Stay well away from cliff edges and caves – follow the route markers. Take extra care on windy days.
Tell someone where you are going or leave a visible note on the dashboard of your car, stating your destination and estimated time of return.

Local Accommodation

South Lochs offers a wide range of quality accommodation from self-catering, guest houses and B & B’s to hostels and bunkhouses.

Wildlife

There is an abundance of wildlife in the area from breeding otters, herons, wild swans, golden eagles, buzzards etc. Schools of porpoises may be seen in Loch Erisort.