The clear waters of Soyea

As expected from the map, the north side of Soyea appreared to offer no easy landing place.  This rocky inlet looked to be the best option, but would only be feasible in weather as calm as this.  Soyea may be a version of the Norse "Soay" (sheep island), and is certainly grassy above the rocky shoreline.

 The tiny lagoon in which I landed had crystal clear water; I spent some time exploring this miniature environment.

Brightly coloured weed was growing in layers between the rocks and concealing a fascinating world.

Colourful anenomes and multicoloured whelks were everywhere

Lifting my eyes from the macro world of the rockpool, the widescreen view to Loch Inver and Suilven was a huge contrast.  It was an easy spot in which to linger but the rising tide was my cue to move on as I hoped to land at Inverkirkaig near high water.

South from Achmelvich

After lunch at Clachtoll we headed back to Achmelvich, the afternoon sun warm on our backs.  From here I would continue south with the intention of paddling right back to our base at Inverkirkaig. 

South from Achmelvich lies the narrow inlet of Loch Roe. The entrance takes a sharp double turn before opening out into a pleasant loch with woods at its head.  This is the view from seaward showing how difficult the entrance is to identify - it's there somewhere!

 Continuing south, the point of Rubha Rodha was reflecting back the heat of the afternoon.

Past the point one is in Loch Inver.  The loch and town of Lochinver are dominated by the dramatic shape of Suilven (Pillar Mountain).  Suilven has a peculiar chameleon quality in that it looks completely different from different viewpoints.  From Lochinver the outline is unmistakeable.

Continuing across the loch, the island of Soyea was my next destination.  Whether I'd be able to land was another matter; the map was less than encouraging with no obvious spots shown.