Ariundle Oakwoods are part of the extensive Sunart Oakwoods, an ancient environment still clinging to the sides of the glens all around the peninsula. Ariundle is much more than just trees, though. It is the centre piece of a network of paths through the upper end of the Strontian glen, some of which follow the river and provide magnificent views up to Sgurr Dhomhnuill which dominates this part of Ardnamurchan.
Ariundle includes a National Nature Reserve. Wildlife abounds: mammals include the pine marten, otter and red and roe deer. The rare checkered skipper butterfly can be seen, and the river is a haven for dippers and grey wagtails. Wild goats inhabit the hills to the south east. And don't let the label "oakwoods" fool you! There are stands of scots pine, birch scrubland, and the inevitable forestry mixture of larch and spruce. The natural woodland is being managed very carefully, with many trees being allowed to rot where they fall.
Historically, this oakwood provided fuel for the furnaces of the Strontian leadmines, and with the spread of red deer very few young oaks survive to maturity. To prevent the gradual decline of the woodland, therefore, areas are fenced off and saplings encouraged.
One of the paths takes you to the remains of the Fee Donald lead mine on the slopes of Sgurr Dhomhnuill. If you take the time to visit it, put yourselves in the (rather sturdy!) shoes of those who used to make the walk from the village every day to work there.
How to get there.
Ariundle is right on our doorstep. The best approach is on foot from Craig na Shee. Turn left at the end of the track and follow the road. As the road turns uphill, follow the smaller road straight on. Take a moment to savour the implications of the sign warning you that you're now entering lonely, sparsely populated land! Then pass the Ariundle Centre (tea, coffee and cake await after a day outdoors!) and just keep going.
Ariundle
Sgurr Dhomhnuill dominates the open glen
Wild goats on the hillside above Ariundle
Hidden from view, the young Strontian River tumbles over this wonderful waterfall
Sgurr Dhomhnuill wears his winter coat
A dead scots pine provides a home to woodpeckers
The Strontian River has gathered pace by the time it reaches the upper footbridge
A late winter sun climbs over the south west side of the glen
Looking down on the end of the glen. The path through the oak and birchwood emerges halfway up the other side.