Dun Canna Camas Mor from Blughasary

This easy coastal out-and-back begins near Blughasary, north of Ullapool, with the trailhead at the small parking area just beyond the last house in Blughasary on the Loch Kanaird side of the A835. The walk is about 5 km / 3.1 miles return, and although the overall elevation gain is modest, there are a few short uneven and slightly steeper sections that make it feel a little rougher than the distance suggests. The route leads out toward the ancient fort of Dun Canna on a sea-wrapped promontory, with wide views over Loch Kanaird, Isle Martin, and the surrounding Coigach coast. (highland.gov.uk)

Getting to the start is straightforward by car from Ullapool: follow the A835 north for only a few miles to the turning for Blughasary, then continue to the parking area beyond the last house. Public transport is more limited. The easiest option is usually to travel to Ullapool by coach or bus and then arrange a taxi for the short onward journey, as the walk itself starts outside the main village and rural services can be infrequent. The nearest significant hub is therefore Ullapool, rather than a formal street address. (highland.gov.uk)

What to expect on the route

From the parking area, the route crosses a small bridge over the River Runie. This is one of the first points of interest: in late summer, salmon are sometimes seen attempting the short fall below the bridge. After crossing, the path turns left and then right at a signpost beside a deer fence. Early on, the walking can be rough and muddy in places, especially after wet weather, so even on an easy-rated day walk it is worth wearing proper footwear rather than light trainers. (highland.gov.uk)

As the route continues, the terrain opens out and the walking becomes more enjoyable, with broad views across the river, fields, and coast. After roughly 2 km / 1.25 miles, you pass another signpost and go through a kissing gate onto a track. From there, keep heading toward the sea and then turn right through another gate for Dun Canna. The final approach feels increasingly dramatic as the land narrows and the sea begins to dominate both sides of the promontory. (highland.gov.uk)

The fort itself stands on a naturally defensive headland. The remains are subtle in places, but the setting is striking: cliffs protect much of the site, while the neck of land preserves traces of substantial stone defenses. Archaeological records describe Dun Canna as a fort on a promontory with a massive dry-stone wall and an annexe on the mainland side, showing how strongly this position was fortified in prehistory. (trove.scot)

Landmarks, scenery, and wildlife

One of the pleasures of this walk is how much variety is packed into a short distance. You begin beside river and pasture, then move onto open coastal ground, and finally reach a headland with expansive sea views. On clear days, the outlook across Loch Kanaird toward Isle Martin is a highlight, and the exposed coastal setting gives the route a much bigger feel than its modest length suggests. (highland.gov.uk)

Immediately around the fort are Camas Beag and Camas Mor, pebble beaches lying to the north and south of the promontory. These are easily reached and can make good picnic or rest spots if conditions are calm. Because the coast is open and weather can change quickly, it is wise to carry an extra windproof layer even for a short outing. (highland.gov.uk)

Birdlife is often part of the experience in this wider area. The nearby estuarine and coastal habitats around Ullapool and Loch Kanaird support wading birds and other seabirds, and the mix of shore, river, and open water means there is usually something to watch for. If you are planning carefully, using HiiKER beforehand will help with route shape, timing, and identifying gates and junctions. (highland.gov.uk)

Historical significance

Dun Canna is the defining feature of the walk and gives it far more historical depth than a simple coastal stroll. The site is recorded as an ancient fort and