Bothy
Peanmeanach
A beautifully restored coastal bothy on the Ardnish Peninsula, overlooking the Sound of Arisaig. Sandy beaches, sea views and a short walk-in make this one of the most popular bothies in Scotland.
Quick facts
- Walk-in
- 4 km· 1.5 hrs
- Sleeps
- 6
- Altitude
- 10m
- Condition
- Good condition
- Grid ref
- NM713804
- Maintained by
- Estate maintained
- Fireplace
- Yes
- Water
- A burn near the bothy; treat before drinking.
- Mobile signal
- No reliable mobile signal on the peninsula.
- Dogs
- Dogs welcome off-lead
Our take
Peanmeanach is the bothy people dream about. White sand, turquoise water, views to the Small Isles, and a well-maintained shelter with a fireplace. The walk in is easy enough for families. The catch is popularity — on a summer weekend you may share with a dozen others. Go midweek or in shoulder season.
Getting there
From Polnish on the A830 (Road to the Isles), follow the good path west along the coast of the Ardnish Peninsula. Gently undulating with some boggy sections. Allow 1–1.5 hours.
Nearest parking: Polnish / A830 near Lochailort
No approach GPX yet
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Stalking season / estate access
Access is arranged through Ardnish Estate; check stalking arrangements when booking.
What to expect inside
Well-restored MBA bothy with two rooms, a fireplace and sleeping platforms. The main room has sea views. The building is part of an abandoned village — several ruined cottages surround it. Very well maintained.
Nearby hills
When to visit
The coastal position means less midge pressure than inland bothies. Best April–October. Summer weekends are very busy — this is one of the most popular bothies due to the short walk-in and stunning location.
Wildfire risk — May to October
Dry conditions increase wildfire risk during summer. Never light fires in the open. Use the bothy fireplace only, and ensure it is fully out before you leave.
Current conditions
Condition unverified
We have not received a recent visitor report for this bothy. Check the local estate or syndicate for current status before relying on this bothy as shelter.
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 04:29
- Sunset
- 22:18
- Civil dawn
- 03:22
- Civil dusk
- 23:25
NOAA Solar Calculator · 16 June 2026
Share your experience
Stayed at Peanmeanach? Help other walkers plan their visit.
Stock up at Mallaig
Nearest TripSCOT town for food, fuel, and accommodation if the bothy is busy.
Peanmeanach — common questions
- How far is the walk into Peanmeanach?
- 4km from Polnish / A830 near Lochailort — about 1.5 hours at a steady walking pace. From Polnish on the A830 (Road to the Isles), follow the good path west along the coast of the Ardnish Peninsula.
- Does Peanmeanach have a fireplace?
- Yes — Peanmeanach has a working fireplace. Bring your own firewood; natural wood at most Scottish bothies is scarce, and burning bothy furniture or boundary posts is not acceptable.
- How many people does Peanmeanach sleep?
- 6 sleeping spaces — but bothies operate first-come-first-served and you may share with strangers. On busy weekends parties often pitch a tent outside if the bothy is full.
- Is there water at Peanmeanach?
- A burn near the bothy; treat before drinking.
- When can I visit Peanmeanach?
- Best months: April, May, June, July, August, September, October. During the stalking season (August-October), contact the estate before visiting.
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