The Call Of The Highlands
I grew up in a house surrounded by Native American artifacts, Inuit treasures, and archaeological books. As a young lad, I would lose myself for hours in the pages, fascinated by the deep connection these cultures had to the natural world. One element that truly captivated me was the incredible artistry and skill that went into crafting items like birch bark canoes. The thought of gliding across serene waters in such a beautifully engineered vessel ignited a lifelong passion within me.
Five years ago, I finally acted on that passion and began taking canoe lessons on local rivers and lakes, learning the art of paddling. A few years later, I decided to combine my love for the craft with my fascination for wild places and storytelling by embarking on an expedition to descend 2,000 miles of the Yukon River in Canada and Alaska. That three-month journey of continuous paddling and immense logistical planning cemented my appreciation for the meditative pace of canoeing, allowing me to slow down and truly connect with the natural world around me.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of paddling on numerous other rivers and lochs, including some stunning waterways in my own backyard of the Scottish Highlands. This region, with its remote lochs and formidable weather, has become a true passion of mine. In fact, I recently embarked on a canoe trip into the heart of the Highlands, experiencing both the challenges and the breathtaking rewards that come with exploring these captivating waters.
Exploring Loch Maree
My journey began on the stunning Loch Maree, one of the country’s most beautiful and formidable lochs. My buddy, Jamie, and I had planned this expedition for months, only to have our attempts thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns. When we finally had the opportunity to go, the release and escape into this remote region couldn’t have come soon enough.
As we paddled out onto the mirror-like waters of Loch Maree, I was struck by the sheer solitude and tranquility of the experience. We landed on a small, secluded beach and set up our primitive camp, marveling at the lack of any other human presence for miles around. That evening, as we sat by the crackling fire, we spotted stag prints leading deep into the heart of the forested island, evoking a sense of timelessness and connection to the land.
The next morning, I was greeted by a sight that will forever be etched in my memory – the skies and waters wrapped in the most vibrant shades of purple and pink I had ever witnessed. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated beauty, one that no photograph could ever fully capture. In today’s fast-paced world, experiences like this are becoming increasingly rare, which is why I cherish every opportunity to immerse myself in the tranquil solitude of the Highlands’ lochs.
Navigating The Challenges
Of course, canoeing in Scotland is not without its challenges. As we continued our journey, we encountered a particularly treacherous stretch of Loch Maree, with fierce winds and fading daylight threatening to derail our plans. With no easy option in sight, we made the difficult decision to ditch the canoe and make a break for our shelter on foot, navigating the rugged coastline in the dark.
It was a harrowing experience, but one that underscored the importance of adaptability and quick thinking in the face of adversity. After two days of waiting out the heavy weather, we were able to retrieve our canoe and continue our journey, all the while marveling at the sheer power and unpredictability of the elements in this part of the world.
Despite the challenges, the rewards of canoeing in the Scottish Highlands are truly unparalleled. As I’ve discovered on my various trips, the region’s network of lochs and connecting rivers offers a puzzle of adventure, with the opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes and encounter a diverse array of wildlife, from whales and seals to deer and eagles.
The Joys Of Wilderness Canoeing
For me, the beauty of canoeing in the Highlands lies not only in the stunning scenery, but in the sense of connection and mindfulness it fosters. As I glide across the calm, glassy waters of a loch like Loch More, I am able to fully immerse myself in the present moment, observing the subtle movements of wildlife and the ever-changing play of light on the water’s surface.
It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and a welcome respite in an increasingly fast-paced world. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a complete beginner, the opportunity to learn and hone your canoeing skills in the tranquil loch waters of the Scottish Highlands is one that I would encourage everyone to explore.
So why not plan your own adventure and discover the magic of the Highlands for yourself? With a little preparation and the guidance of local experts, you too can embark on a journey of discovery, learning to canoe on the calm loch waters and immersing yourself in the timeless beauty of this captivating region.
