A Great Place for Close Encounters with Red Squirrels, Pine Martens and other Highland Wildlife
Strontian Community Woodland
Details
This is a lovely magical short walk through a former policy woodland. The woodland was planted by the Riddle family in the 1800s and boasts over 60 exotic and native species of tree, including firs, spruces and pines, as well as a range of fine specimen deciduous trees. There is a particular fine specimen of the monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana). Identity labels on some of the larger specimens provide a wonderful opportunity to familiarise yourself with many of the exotic species. A real treat for the dendrologist.
Many of the large specimen trees also support a diversity and abundance of bryophytes and lichens, whilst fallen trees/dead wood provide a variety of habitats to support a diverse invertebrate community. The ground flora is particularly rich, supporting a combination of native woodland species, as well as introduced exotics. The ground flora is particularly lovely in Spring and early Summer. Listen out for cacophony of woodland bird song in Spring and early Summer.
Route Details
1. Park at Strontian village car park and head off to the village green with its play area, immediately behind the Tourist Information Centre. Cross the village green and turn left onto the road and left again after approximately 10 yards into Dalmhor. The route passes by some houses, Sunart Cycles and heads towards the Community Composting Area. Follow a path by the side of the Composting Area to reach the Community Woodland as signposted.
2. There is an interpretation board at the start of the walk and a map showing the paths through the woodland. The woodland path skirts and bisects the boundary of the woodland providing ample exposure to the diversity of trees, shrubs and magnificent ground flora. There are several picnic benches on route, a lovely stream crossing, as well as some good views of Loch Sunart at the southern boundary of the woodland. There is also an optional path to a viewpoint at the northern end of the Community Woodland (signposted), affording good views of Loch Sunart.
Explore the woodland at your leisure. The path through the woodland is well defined and way marked, although rather steep in places.
Location
starting grid ref:
NM817616
parking grid ref:
NM815617
grade:
- easy
terrain:
woodland path
length:
1.5km (1 mile)
Type:
- circular
Safety
Route details and information are provided in good faith. All walking is potentially dangerous and it is your responsibility to ensure that you are properly dressed and equipped, have a map and compass, have checked and planned your route in advance and are able to navigate effectively. Maps displayed on these walking pages are intended as an overview of the walk and are NOT suitable for navigation. Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and respect landowners and residents' privacy. Always check the weather forecast and let others know if you are walking in the hills.
