I spent the weekend on the water on this sea kayak trip to the Summer Isles with Explore Highland. We had unbelievably good weather and conditions, sunny with a light breeze and (mostly) flat calm water.
Launching from Old Dornie near Achiltibuie, we headed round the north of Isle Ristol then down the east shore of Eilean Mullagrach. From there we headed to Glas-leac Mor and on to the north end of Tanera Mor – the main island.
Searching for a wild camping spot, we eventually settled on a rocky bay on the south-east shore.
Our second day involved a trip to Priest Island, enjoying a beautifully calm morning before the wind picked up for the return journey.
A gentle finish to the weekend saw us bimble round Tanera More’s south-east tip, Rubha Dubh, into the Anchorage then back to Old Dornie, detouring to a fine beach on Isle Ristol for lunch before heading home.
I really enjoyed this first full sea kayak expedition, even though I did find it quite tough! Surprisingly, the most difficult thing for me was keeping my legs in the same position all day – I’m much more used to keeping my legs active by cycling, walking or running!
Once I’d got comfortable in the boat, though, it was fantastic. The views were absolutely superb all weekend, with clear blue skies and turquoise water in many bays.
We had one experience of slightly choppier waters, which was also good for experience as we headed back from Priest Island.