Northwest Highlands Sea Kayaking

It’s the end of road quite literally. Kinlochbervie or KLB as it’s sometimes locally abbreviated to, is the last major settlement on the NW coast of mainland Scotland before Cape Wrath and the North Coast.

Due to it’s proximity to good fishing grounds, KLB has almighty sized harbour in relation to the size of the town. However the harbour has got a slightly under-used and run-down feel to it. Not its fault but perhaps to due to EU fishing policies and a plethora of other valid reasons I’m sure. A topic which could keep a fisherman talking to a sea kayaker for more than a couple of pints in a bar, somewhere, sometime.

In terms of facilities for the sea kayaker, KLB offers a hotel, slipways/access points, shop, pub and public toilets. There is also good Vodafone and O2 mobile phone reception however the VHF radio reception isn’t great in the sea lochs. KLB also boasts a high school, doctor’s surgery and heli-pad.

There are a number of short day trips of excellent quality to be had in the surrounding area; Rhiconich to KLB, KLB to Oldshoremore, KLB to Scourie or Loch Laxford, KLB to Sandwood Bay. Swell and wind direction / speed can be limiting factors however the hillwalking, fishing and hunting in the surrounding area is world class should you be land-lubbers for the day. The beaches at Oldshoremore, Sheigra and Polin certain rival and are better than anything Arisaig could offer in my opinion. Why? There aren’t hoards of tourists everywhere. This is the end of the road but the rewards are there for those who make the effort.