Scottish anchorages

Sound of Mull

Given the direction of the prevailing wind, it doesn't often seem sensible to anchor in this bay but it is well worth a visit. It is surrounded by high cliffs with – after rain - waterfalls cascading down into beautiful deciduous woods (on a stormy day the waterfalls go upwards and back over the top of the cliffs!). These falls are known as the Morvern hags or witches. There is a short and pretty walk to the remains of the very ruined Ardtornish Castle. Not a lot remains of this late 13th/early 14th century stronghold of the Lords of the Isles but it is perched on a bright and breezy spot with fine views up and down the sound. In his usual understated way 'Pevsner' describes it as 'architecturally unrewarding' but then he may not have been looking at the view. The cottage on the shore of the bay is wonderfully placed and looks to now be a holiday home (in fact I think it is only available to friends of the Ardtornish Estate).