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About this place
Loch Aisir Mòr is a small lochan on the north-west coast of Scotland, near Kinlochbervie in Sutherland, Highland. It sits at the edge of the crofting settlement of Oldshoremore, surrounded by heather moorland, and forms part of the Flow Country peatlands. It suits visitors exploring the far north-west who want a quiet corner away from the busier routes.
Where is Loch Aisir Mòr?
The lochan lies roughly a mile from Sutherland's western shore, at the north-eastern edge of the scattered township of Oldshoremore. Kinlochbervie is about two miles to the south. Approximate coordinates are 58.48° N, 5.06° W. The ground around it is open heath with a few houses, and a band of clay runs along the northern shore.
What does the name mean, and where does the water go?
The Gaelic name is usually rendered as "loch of the big pass", probably a reference to a gap between hills. The outflow is the Abhainn Aisir Mhòr, a river around a mile long that reaches the sea nearby.
What is there to see around it?
Oldshoremore is a dispersed crofting community of about twenty houses, a number of them holiday lets. The land now belongs to the Sandwood Estate, a nature reserve run by the John Muir Trust. West of the township lies Oldshoremore Bay, a sandy beach closed off at its northern end by the headland Eilean na h-Aiteig. The settlement has a car park, public toilets and a cemetery.
The walk to Sandwood Bay starts from Blairmore close by. The circuit from the Blairmore car park is about 10 miles (16 km), graded moderate, with some 420 m of ascent.
Can you fish here?
The loch covers around 18 hectares, is fairly shallow and moderately alkaline. It is managed by the Durness and Kinlochbervie Angling Club, and brown trout are the main catch. Day tickets are sold on the club's website or in person at Oldshoremore Retreats & Crafts.
How do you get there?
Leave the A838 at Rhiconich and follow the B801 towards Kinlochbervie. In the village, turn right for Oldshoremore. The lanes are narrow single-track with passing places, so allow extra time.
Frequently asked questions
Is fishing allowed on Loch Aisir Mòr?
Yes, with a day permit. The water belongs to the Durness and Kinlochbervie Angling Club and holds mainly brown trout.
How far is it from Kinlochbervie?
About two miles to the south. The Oldshoremore settlement itself is roughly a mile from the village.
What else is worth a visit nearby?
Oldshoremore Bay beach and Sandwood Bay, reached by a trail from Blairmore.
Are there facilities at the lochan?
No, not at the water's edge. The car park and toilets are in Oldshoremore, while accommodation and shops are in Kinlochbervie and the surrounding area.
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