Calling to the lovers of wild romance, Achnasheen in Wester Ross promises untold escapism. Residing within the centre of the northern Highlands, this peaceful village and its surrounding communities nestle at a natural junction where winding roads scatter across the compass to reach some of the most breathtaking locations in the UK. The perfect place to indulge in luxurious escapes in rhythm with nature, it tempts with year-round retreats woven with magic, from spellbinding sunrises atop ancient peaks and lochside reveries to unforgettable stargazing under the cosmos.
Places to Visit
Things to Do
Places to Eat
To curate the dreamiest homestay in this divine pocket of Scotland, uncover some of the best things to see and do. The birthplace of The Studio Jewellery, whose bespoke jewellery was once made for the Queen Mother, and home to a plethora of natural attractions, enchantment awaits at every turn in Achnasheen.
Places to Visit
Gairloch Museum
The award-winning Gairloch Museum sits within a transformed nuclear bunker in the coastal village of Gairloch. A fascinating, family-friendly visitor attraction, it resides in one of the top places to visit on the West Coast and features an array of exhibitions revealing the region’s cultural and natural history. Amongst the displays, the museum showcases the original lens from the Rua Reidh Lighthouse and a replica of a traditional Scottish croft house. Explore the museum before heading to the inhouse café for a delicious treat with a backdrop of captivating views across the loch. Later, take the few steps to the neighbouring Gairloch Farm Shop to find the freshest produce and local artisan goods.
Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
One of the UK’s first ever National Nature Reserves, Beinn Eighe NNR was established in 1951 and is recognised across Europe for the importance of its natural environment. One of only five sites within the UK awarded a European Diploma of Protected Areas, it is woven with a mix of woodland and upland habitats and covers nearly 50 square kilometres, encompassing Loch Maree with its protected islands topped with ancient woodland. Step out into the jewel tones of nature and explore the pathways over Beinn Eighe, weaving through protected Caledonian pine forest and cresting craggy mountains. As you walk, keep an eye out for flame-coloured crossbills flitting between branches and majestic golden eagles soaring high above.
Glen Docherty Viewpoint
For one of the most famous valley views in Scotland, ensure you visit Glen Docherty Viewpoint during a heaven-sent sojourn in Achnasheen. Promising the most perfect panoramas to immortalise through the lens, this viewpoint overlooks a winding country road that threads a tarmac ribbon past the striking shape of Slioch mountain and towards Loch Maree. To begin your journey, drive past the iconic Achnasheen Terraces SSSI, where an ancient lake used to lie, and continue your drive along the A832 to Glen Docherty Viewpoint where a small car park resides. From here, you can hop out of your car to gaze at the scenery and capture an iconic photo to hang on your wall.
Victoria Falls
Following the road to Loch Maree from Achnasheen, adventure seekers can find further fairytale moments at Victoria Falls. Named after Queen Victoria, who visited the site in 1877, the falls tumble down from the mountain massif of Beinn Eighe before pooling into a glassy basin. Park in the dedicated car park and enjoy a gentle walk to reach the viewing area. The path can be slippery in the autumn and winter months; however, this time of year is also when the falls are at their most spectacular. Lace up walking boots and follow the roar of the cascades to see the sights and absorb the atmospheric setting.
Inverewe Garden
Inverewe Garden is an otherworldly botanical paradise in the heart of Ross-shire. The life’s work of Highlander Osgood Mackenzie, it was established in the mid-1800s, transforming once wild and barren lands on the shores of Loch Ewe into an experimental garden full of life. Today, the gardens overflow with native and exotic flowers, trees, and shrubs and cover an area of over 2,000 acres. Across the calendar, an array of colours and scents fill the space, promising something to savour at every corner. As well as the beautiful flora, the area is also famous for the presence of Scotland’s ‘Big Five’, including red squirrels, red deer, otters, seals and golden eagles. You can sometimes see sea eagles too.
Things to Do
Hiking
Achnasheen and its surrounding landscapes make for a hiker’s dream. All around the village, a network of footpaths lead to stunning beauty spots, such as Fionn Bheinn, Loch a’ Chroisg, Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve and the River Bran. You can also board the train at Achnasheen to reach neighbouring Achanalt and follow more trails past the shores of Loch Achanalt and Loch a' Chuilinn. South-west of Achnasheen village, Kishorn calls with captivating sea lochs and coastal routes, while to the north, bewitching mountain realms nudge towards the snow-brushed Arctic Circle and promise wild escapism.
For the lovers of mountain pursuits, nearby Torridon lies to the west of the village and has long been a mecca for walkers and climbers with its ancient, undulating peaks - the origins of which date back 750 million years. For those seeking to summit a Munro or two, five of the NTS’ 46 Munros can be found in Torridon, including Beinn Alligin, meaning “Mountain of Beauty” or “Jewelled Mountain”. Meanwhile, for those seeking endless adventure, a section of Scotland’s most challenging long-distance walking trail, the Cape Wrath Trail, runs from Kinlochewe to Strath na Sheallag in Achnasheen and beckons experienced hikers with magical miles.
Wild Swimming
Cold water swimming is well-known for its soothing therapeutic qualities, improving circulation and releasing feel-good endorphins. One of the best ways to immerse in nature, wild swimming can be relished across Scotland, from the shores of Loch Lomond to the breath-taking beaches of Skye. To enjoy a wild swim in Achnasheen, check local conditions and pack warm layers, before heading off to one of the local idylls. Loch a’ Chroisg is particularly inviting for invigorating dips, while nearby Loch Maree is also a beloved choice. Especially popular amongst locals is Tollie Bay at the northern tip of Loch Maree. From the A832, a narrow track turns off towards the lake and leads past Tollie Farm to a small roadside car park above the loch, providing easy access for a handful of cars.
Painting
The perfect way to illustrate moods and moments, painting is a timeless activity that calls to all generations. Whether you would like to try something new, channel your creativity, or preserve the landscapes of your Scottish sojourn on canvas, there are plenty of opportunities to do so in Achnasheen. Head out into the wilderness with a portable easel and palette and let the stunning mountainscapes inspire you. For artistic guidance, you can also take part in artist-led courses from local groups such as The Bridge Art Collective and North West Highlands Art. Or, you can venture to Ullapool Visual Arts Centre, a community arts charity supported by The Royal Scottish Academy, to see artworks created by local painters and sculptors.
Beach Exploring
With its countless lochs, lochans, and coves, Achnasheen and Wester Ross propose heavenly hours of salt-kissed exploration throughout the seasons. One of the best beaches in the area for oceanside forays, Firemore Beach is set close to the mouth of Loch Ewe, around an hour from Achnasheen village. Imbued with a sense of romantic seclusion, this beach has no lifeguard service or amenities and is perfect for those looking to step off the beaten track. Pack up a hamper brimming with artisan delights and take a spot on the rose-hued shores in summer, gazing at the views of the Island of Ewe and surrounding headlands. For further coastal reveries, you can also visit Gairloch’s picturesque beach with its backdrop of mountains and moors, as well as neighbouring Big Sands.
Wildlife Watching
Embraced by untouched landscapes, Achnasheen is one of the top places to visit in the UK for wildlife watching. Simply stepping out the door of your luxury retreat promises the chance to see some incredible species, from secretive pine marten to resplendent eagles. Wander along country trails, keeping a pair of binoculars at hand, and look out for the area’s resident wildlife. Beckoning for magical moments on the ocean, a number of local operators also offer coastal wildlife watching trips. Hebridean Whale Cruises are based in Gairloch and run daily boat tours in season around Loch Gairloch and out into the waters of the North Minch. Close to shore, seabirds, seals, and otters can often be seen, while in the deeper waters, the lucky can spot dolphins, porpoises, whales and sharks.
Places to Eat
The Midge Bite, Achnasheen
The Midge Bite is a beloved local café in the village of Achnasheen. Open on select days, the café is adored for its fresh coffees, satiating sandwiches, and home-baked cakes. Check opening hours before heading over and taking a corner inside the café or outside on the deck to admire the views.
1887 Restaurant, Annat
The three AA Rosette 1887 Restaurant takes pride of place within The Torridon Hotel. Secure a reservation for a fine dining experience and savour the finest flavours with masterfully curated meals. Telling a tale of land and loch, the ever-changing menus expertly combine local ingredients from The Torridon’s own farm and kitchen gardens, as well as from local farmers, fishermen, and producers. From succulent shellfish to fresh game, expect a veritable taste of the Highlands.
For further delectation, you can also relish a meal at The Torridon’s Bo & Muc Brasserie, home to a cosy dining pub and whisky bar.
Carron Restaurant, Strathcarron
Set in Cam-Allt, Strathcarron, the family-run Carron Restaurant is one of the best places to eat during road trips along the NC500. Overlooking Loch Carron and tempting with seafood and traditional Scottish cuisine, it provides a delicious setting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not far from the famous Malt Whisky Trail in Moray Speyside, the restaurant’s bar also serves a fine selection of local whiskies.
Coul House, Contin
Whether you are seeking a laidback lunch, luxurious afternoon tea, or candlelit date, Coul House awaits. Set within a striking country house and serving delicious meals from breakfast until dinner, it provides an irresistible scene for unforgettable repasts. Reserve a table and look forward to menus filled with local fare, such as venison, hare, home-cured salmon, scallops and more.
The Stag Restaurant, Kinlochewe
Nestled within Kinlochewe Hotel, The Stag Restaurant welcomes diners with menus of wholesome favourites. Featuring the highest quality ingredients sourced from the locale, dishes reflect Highland culture and seasonality. Take a seat and anticipate classic dishes such as cullen skink, haggis and neeps, Ross-shire steaks, and creel-caught langoustines from Loch Torridon.
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