Previously, we’ve covered Scotland’s many exquisite natural wonders including our caves, glens, lochs, dolphin spots, the award winning Scottish Highlands and our beautiful white sand beaches which leads us to today’s instalment; rock pools.
If you are scientifically inclined and enjoy the intriguing marine biology of rock pools or simply want a fun outdoor activity for you and your kids to enjoy as we enter summer then you’ve won a watch in Scotland as there are many on offer here.
The Keep Scotland Beautiful organisation reports that “Barnacles, mussels, shore crabs, hermit crabs, shrimps, prawns, starfish, sand hoppers, whelks, razor shells can all be found in fairly sheltered, rocky seashores, whether they are gravelly or sandy.”
Clearly, there’s lots to discover for any intrepid rock poolers out there young or old, so here are our top picks of nine rock pools in Scotland.
5. Loch na Keal, Isle of Mull
Loch Na Keal or “Loch of the Cliffs” is the principal sea loch on the Isle of Mull which extends over 20 km inland. Usual marine suspects aside, Brett Westwood with Discover Wildlife reported that within “the rocky shores at Loch na Keal on Mull, I’ve even seen toad tadpoles in freshwater pools, just a few metres from the salty ones.” | Trevor Littlewood on Geograph
6. Ganavan Sands, Oban
Ganavan is a small settlement on the west coast of Scotland, roughly two and a half kilometres north of Oban. Here, you’ll discover the beautiful Ganavan Beach (or Ganavan Sands). The rural beach offers gorgeous coastal views and, at low tide, a rich selection of rock pools. | Trevor Littlewood on Geograph
7. Horgabost, Isle of Harris
On the Isle of Harris visitors flock to the famous Luskentyre Beach for its white sands and aquamarine waters. However, just around the corner you can find Horgabost Beach which boasts attractions of its own including rock pools (all while enjoying less tourist presence.) | Pet_r on Flickr
8. The Silver Sands of Morar
The Silver Sands of Morar are a picturesque string of white sandy beaches that are peppered along the River Moidart from Arisaig to Morar. According to All About Argyll: “The sea is shallow and the rock pools are plentiful, and packed with whelks, mussels, shrimps and a variety of crustaceans.” | Vanessa Heincke on Flickr