Sandwood Loch

Sandwood Loch is a freshwater loch in Sutherland, in the Highland council area of north-west Scotland. A long, narrow stretch of water, it lies just inland of the dunes at Sandwood Bay, in one of the most remote corners of mainland Britain. Its coordinates are roughly 58.53°N, 5.04°W.

Where is Sandwood Loch and who looks after it?

The loch sits on the coast south of Cape Wrath, not far from the village of Kinlochbervie. Only a band of dunes separates it from the sea, and its water drains towards the bay. The land has belonged to the John Muir Trust since May 1993, and the Trust maintains the path and the car park used by walkers.

How do you get to Sandwood Loch?

No road reaches it. You walk from the car park at Blairmore, which you reach along the B801 from Kinlochbervie (turn off the A838 at Rhiconich). The route is about 6.5 km each way, or roughly 4 to 4.5 miles, though guides quote slightly different figures. The track crosses peaty moorland and passes several smaller lochs. Allow several hours for the round trip and bring sturdy boots and waterproofs.

What will you see?

The loch lies where two kinds of rock meet, Lewisian gneiss and Torridonian sandstone, so the scenery shifts noticeably over a short distance. From the surrounding rises you look down on a ribbon of blue water, the dunes and the wide beach beyond. The ruined Sandwood Cottage stands nearby. Otters, mountain hares, seabirds and birds of prey live in the area, and Sandwood Bay is often named among the most secluded beaches in Europe.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring and summer are best, with long daylight and a drier path. Weather on this coast changes fast and Atlantic wind can be strong. In winter the short days make a walk back in the dark a real risk. Phone signal is patchy, so download an offline map before you set out.

Can you stay overnight?

Wild camping is allowed near the bay under Scotland's outdoor access rights. Take all rubbish home, avoid fires on the dunes and leave no trace. For a bed and supplies, head back to Kinlochbervie, which has a shop and a fishing harbour.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sandwood Loch close to the car park? No. From Blairmore it is around 4 to 4.5 miles each way on a rough path.

Can I drive there? No, the final stretch is on foot only. Leave your car at Blairmore.

Who manages the land? The John Muir Trust, which has owned it since 1993.

Is there phone signal or a shop nearby? Signal is weak and the nearest shop is in Kinlochbervie, so carry water and food.