Clach na Criche
Clach na Criche Forest Notices
COVID-19 has changed lots of things we do. And as we re-open the majority of our facilities and welcome more of you back in Phase 3, we need your help to do it safely. Please check what’s open before you travel; enjoy your visit safely by following NHS and Scottish Government guidance; take your litter home with you; and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
At this location:
- The car park is open and normal charges (if any) now apply.
Please bear with us and check back regularly for updates. You can also find more information by visiting our COVID-19 page and our FAQs.
An ancient 'wishing stone' and a peaceful picnic site
Relax and enjoy a scenic picnic looking across the sound to the Isle of Mull. Watch for the Mull Ferry ploughing back and forth between Lochaline and Fishnish and spot sea eagles fishing in summer.
You will find the remarkable arched Wishing Stone 200 yards farther along the lochside road. Can you make your wish come true? Clach na Criche means 'Boundary Stone' in Gaelic – and this remarkable formation did mark the boundary between two ancient parishes – but it’s the stone’s magical reputation that is more intriguing.
The stone was said to have the power to grant wishes. According to local folklore, all you had to do was fill your mouth with water from a nearby spring, then hold it in your mouth as you passed through the hole in Clach na Criche three times (without using your hands). If you were thinking hard enough about your heart’s desire while you were doing all that, your wish would be granted!
Facilities & access
Grab a bite to eat
You’ll find public toilets and places to eat, drink and buy basic supplies at Lochaline.
Getting to the Wishing Stone
You’ll find the Wishing Stone beside the road about 220 yards (200 m) west of the Clach na Criche picnic area. Take care walking along the road. There is no car parking at the stone.
Getting here
From Lochaline take the B849 west. After about 4½ miles (7.5 km), you'll see the Clach na Criche car park on the left. The Wishing Stone is beside the road on the right about 220 yards (200m) farther on. There is no car parking at the stone.
Using SatNav?
PA80 5XU is the nearest postcode.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?