Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Loch na Muilne
ArnolOpenSee opening timesPass through the gate and ramble up the path to the Loch Na Muilne viewing cairn for dramatic views over the two lochs and the coastal heath that thrives here.
About
Discover a hidden loch nestling within a vast expanse of the exposed Atlantic coastline on the Isle of Lewis. The breeding waders are a highlight here. We tend to see up to nine species of wader breeding on or adjacent to the reserve each year, including the rare Red-necked Phalarope.
Phalaropes are an arctic breeding species only found at a few locations in northern Scotland. Their bright plumage, unusual habit of swimming as well as wading when foraging, and their male/female role reversal makes this a particularly exiting species to watch.
From late spring through summer, the wetland and surrounding heathland are rich in flowers, including Bog Bean, Bog Asphodel, orchids and carnivorous plants, such as sundews.
When you've had your fill of the reserve, follow the sea cliffs along the coast north to the next crofting township of Brue, two miles away. The coastline is home to nesting seabirds, including Fulmar, Shag and Black Guillemot. Watch, too, as Gannets divebomb the water, hunting for fish!
At a glance
3 spaces. A small carpark is located at the end of the road through Arnol crofting village, 400m from the reserve.
Please can visitors be aware that when visiting Loch na Muilne cars should only be parked in our car park and not the Historic Scotland car park adjacent, thank you.
There are no toilets here. Nearest accessible facilities are in Stornoway, 15 miles (24 km) away. Facilities can also be found at Arnol Blackhouse Museum. These are not public toilets, but the museum is another visitor destination.
There are no toilets here. Nearest baby changing facilities are in Stornoway, 15 miles (24 km) away. Facilities can also be found at Arnol Blackhouse Museum. These are not public toilets, but the museum is another visitor destination.
Prior to your visit, please contact the reserve directly for detailed information.
Prior to your visit, please contact the reserve directly for detailed information.
There are no toilets here. Nearest public toilets are at Dalmor beach, 8 miles (12 km) south on the A858. Facilities can also be found at Arnol Blackhouse Museum. These are not public toilets, but the museum is another visitor destination.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
This nature reserve is in an important place for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) please keep your dog under close control.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Loch na Muilne
outerhebrides@rspb.org.uk Loch na Muilne, Ceanna'Tuath, Isle of Lewis, Eilean Siar, HS2 9DJ 01876 714 040