Skip to main content

Balmacara Woods

Where we are

Latest forest information

Open water

  • This destination contains areas of open water which can be hazardous if you are not suitably prepared. Follow our water safety advice and take care.

About

Walk beneath the trees beside Loch Alsh 

Balmacara Woods is an ideal family-friendly place to stop for a picnic and a woodland stroll if you're on the road to Skye. Stretch your legs and let the kids have a run around, have a picnic or walk the dog. You’ll find easy walks among the varied trees, and gorgeous views from the hillside above the woods.

Take the Tree-Spotter trail to explore the varied woodland, or venture further for great views. During World War II, tiny Balmacara played an important role in defending Scotland’s skies. Take the Skye View trail that winds up through the trees to reach the site of a World War II gun battery, which protected the military camp and port at Loch Alsh from air attack by German planes. You'll also see some spectacular views of Loch Alsh, Kintail and the Isle of Skye.

The restored buildings of Balmacara Square are at the heart of the nearby 18th century Highland crofting estate, now in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. 

Walking trails

Balmacara Woods route card (PDF)

Walking

Tree-spotter Trail

A relaxing stroll through the varied trees of the former Balmacara campsite. Lime and cherry trees brush leaves with native oak, ash and birch here.

Largely wide, firm gravel and tarmac surface with some slightly uneven sections. Includes short narrower grassy section alongside a gate. Some moderate slopes.

Moderate trail grade icon grade icon
¾ miles / 1.2 km

Walking

Skye View Trail

Oak and ash trees give way to heather-covered hillsides with sweeping views across Loch Alsh to the mountains of Skye.

Long steep slopes and sections of rough, narrow rock and grass paths. Includes narrow kissing gates and a section along the road. Can be very muddy and wet in places.

Strenuous trail grade icon grade icon
2 ¾ miles / 4.6 km

Allow 2 hours

More information

Before you drop back down to Balmacara, branch off the track to see where anti-aircraft guns defended the skies during World War II.

Activities

Go beyond the beaten track

A number of longer informal trails also start from Balmacara – these are not waymarked but look out for fingerposts as you explore. Follow routes to the little lochside village of Kirton or head over the peninsula towards Plockton, looking out for tranquil Loch Achaidh na h-Inich and the remains of the iron age Sean Creag fort on the hill above. Look carefully at what looks like a pile of stones in the loch below – this small island is actually what’s left of a 3rd century crannog, a fortified dwelling built on stilts.

These trails make great full day walks or bike trips. Always make sure you’re well prepared and take an OS map with you.

Facilities and access

Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Parking
Parking

Life's Essentials

There is a cosy café in the 18th century estate village of Balmacara Square beside the woods. Otherwise, head to nearby Kyle of Lochalsh for public toilets, parking, shopping and a range of places to eat and drink.

Car parking information

There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.

More about parking

Getting here

Balmacara Woods lie beside the A87 between Auchtertyre and Kyle of Lochalsh. Turn off the A87 following signs for ‘Balmacara Square’. The Balmacara Woods car park is on the right hand side after about 100 yards (100m).

Using SatNav?

IV40 8DP is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

There are regular buses between Inverness and Skye that stop along the A87. You’ll find details at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6100 (option 1)
More contact information

Nearby forests

Drooping conifer branch

Panoramic views over picturesque Loch Alsh

Facilities and activities
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Parking
Parking
Distance from 'Ard Hill': 0.94 miles
Drooping conifer branch

Wander woodland trails for sweeping views across Skye

Facilities and activities
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Distance from 'Kyleakin': 3.81 miles
Drooping conifer branch

The perfect place for a bit of otter-spotting

Facilities and activities
Easy-access facilities
Easy-access facilities
Toilets
Toilets
Walking
Walking
Wildlife hide
Wildlife hide
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Distance from 'Kylerhea': 4.38 miles