Loch Ailort

Loch Ailort is a shallow, V-shaped sea loch in Morar, Lochaber, Highland. It opens into the Sound of Arisaig in the west and is bounded by the Ardnish Peninsula to the north and the Moidart Peninsula to the south. The settlement of Lochailort sits at the loch’s northeast end, while Loch nan Uamh lies to the north. The northern shore is overlooked by Cruach an Aonaich, and the southern shore by the cone-shaped former volcano An Stac. Behind An Stac, ridges like Sgurr na Ba Glaise and Rois-bheinn rise steeply from the loch. The loch holds several islands, including Eilean nan Gobhar at the mouth, known for its two vitrified forts. Eilean á Chaolis lies nearby, while Eilean Buidhe marks the point where the loch turns northeast. Eilean Dubh, visible from Lochailort, forms a small mid-channel group. The coastline remains sparsely populated, with only scattered farmhouses and hunting lodges. Hamlets like Alisary and Roshven sit along the southern shore, while Glenuig lies just outside the loch’s mouth. Visitors find a quiet, rugged landscape of hills, ridges and volcanic cones framing the water. The islands add interest, especially Eilean nan Gobhar with its ancient forts. The Ardnish and Moidart peninsulas offer empty beaches and moorland walks. Lochailort provides a base for exploring, with views across the loch to An Stac and the surrounding ridges. The Sound of Arisaig’s wider waters lie just beyond the loch’s entrance.