Residing in the former county of Ross-shire in the Northwest Highlands, the magical realms of Wester Ross promise otherworldly enchantment. The perfect place for romantic escapism, it twines together mesmeric landscapes of mountains, lochs, forests and sea. Breathtakingly beautiful, its coastline also resides along the Hebridean Whale Trail, recognised as one of the best places in the UK to see whales and dolphins.
For the most unique experiences in Wester Ross, uncover a dream sojourn and fall in love with its picturesque villages and wild spaces. From luxurious spa days to exhilarating skiing opportunities, a world of wonder awaits.
Explore Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
Britain’s first National Nature Reserve, Beinn Eighe Reserve in Kinlochewe calls to all those seeking unique experiences in Wester Ross. Whether you’re hoping for slow woodland strolls or exhilarating hikes over ancient peaks, there’s something for everyone throughout the year. Especially magical with its cobalt waters reflecting towering mountains is Loch Maree. Situated in the heart of Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, it is one of the largest freshwater lochs in Scotland and a truly majestic sight. For a picnic with a view, make way to Slattadale, where a lochside car park offers space for a handful of cars and direct access to a pebble beach alongside Loch Maree. For additional information, venture over between April and October to find the park’s visitor centre open and uncover a wealth of knowledge about the area.
Relax at Aspen Spa
Just beyond the fringes of Wester Ross, Aspen Spa in the County of Ross promises a soothing sanctuary. With two locations in Tain and Dornoch near Inverness, each one offers a range of indulgent experiences and spa treatments, as well as outdoor facilities at Tain. Get ready to unwind with relaxing body and beauty therapies for an hour or two or settle in for a full day of pampering. Complete with spa treatments, a Champagne lunch, outdoor hot tub, scenic sauna and more, spa days at Tain are particularly enticing during luxurious retreats in the Highlands. Book ahead to avoid disappointment and immerse in the tranquil atmosphere.
Tour and Taste at Badachro Distillery
The Badachro Distillery can be found on the NC500 between Port Henderson and Gairloch. Producing tantalising spirits with perfectly balanced botanicals, its artisanal range consists of gin, vodka, port, rum and whisky. For a unique experience in Wester Ross, visit the Badachro and sign up for a guided tour. Offering a bespoke behind-the-scenes insight, each tour is led by founders Gordon and Vanessa, and discusses the history, ethos and production techniques of the distillery. As part of the tour, you will also be invited to sample a flavour-infused selection of gins, whiskies and vodkas in the sunroom with its reaching views of the coast.
Take an Unforgettable Boat Trip
The coast of the North West Highlands is part of the Hebridean Whale Trail. Encouraging lovers of nature and seekers of wild moments to connect with nature and captivating coastalscapes, the trail encompasses 30 stunning places on the West Coast. For your best chance to see whales and dolphins, Gairloch in Wester Ross is particularly recommended and there are a number of boat charters that leave from the harbour. Take a trip in season with Hebridean Whale Cruises (operating with Gairloch Marine Life Centre & Cruises) to sail out onto the waters of the Minch. Revealing beautiful wildlife closer to shore, Gairloch Glass Bottom Boat Cruises also operates from the harbour and offers an unmissable opportunity to see life beneath the waves.
See the Northern Lights
Wester Ross is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing owing to its minimal light pollution and vast skies. Thanks to its position amongst Britain’s most northerly realms, it is also one of the top destinations for seeing the Northern Lights. For the best chances of seeing this celestial phenomenon, keep an eye on aurora alerts during the peak season of October to April and head outside with cosy layers and a flask of something warming. Each November, Wester Ross Biosphere also hosts a Dark Skies Festival. During the festival, fascinating events are held throughout the month to promote the importance of dark skies for humans and wildlife alike.
Head to the Ski Slopes
For one of the most thrilling ways to immerse in Scotland’s spectacular mountainscapes, it’s hard to find a more quintessentially alpine activity than skiing. Turning the country’s statuesque mountain peaks and corries into wonders of snow-capped artistry, the region’s winters offer up some of the best opportunities in the UK for this exhilarating pastime. For the highly experienced, downhill and cross-country skiing can be enjoyed off-piste in certain areas throughout Wester Ross in winter. However, to make the most of designated ski slopes, from Wester Ross you can drive to a variety of mountain ranges for hours of powdery perfection. Some well-known destinations are Snoworks Ski School in Arisaig, Nevis Range Mountain Resort, Glencoe Mountain Resort, and Aviemore in the Cairngorms.
Go Kayaking on Loch and Sea
With its incredible scenery and network of lochs and waterways, kayaking and canoeing in Wester Ross promises endless unique experiences. Take to the coastline for divine ocean adventures, gliding past untouched beaches and tree-brushed shorelines. Or, tread footsteps to the glassy banks of lochs and lochans for heavenly pursuits in nature, ready to launch your kayak and journey past the remains of ancient castles and the bases of giant Munros. For guided experiences, established local operators such as Gairloch Kayak Centre and Ewe Canoe offer a selection of kayaking trips for explorers of all ages and abilities.
Seek Corrieshalloch Falls
Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve can be easily reached on the road to Ullapool. One of the most breathtaking gorges in Britain, it was created by glacial meltwater and is carved into a striking box canyon through which the River Droma flows. Descending from Loch Broom, the river is a sight to behold throughout the year, yet becomes even more dramatic as it descends into the 150ft Falls of Measach. To wander through the gorge and see the falls for yourself, you can pursue a short, steep amble of around 10 minutes to a Victorian suspension bridge. From here, a series of waterfalls tumbling down through the 200ft-deep gorge below reward viewers with a symphonic performance.
Eat Fresh Seafood at Kishorn
The west coast of Scotland is renowned for its ocean and lochside villages and ports bustling with the activity of fisherfolk. Lapped by coastal waters and deeply intertwined with maritime history, it is scattered with an array of beloved seafood restaurants beckoning with all manner of culinary temptations. One of the best places to visit on the west coast of Scotland, the stunning Kishorn is home to the award-winning Kishorn Seafood Bar. A handsome blue log cabin serving the local catch of the day alongside magnificent views, it has been welcoming diners since 1996 and is a must-visit during its open season of March to October. A particular treat is the seafood platter, curated with all available shellfish.
Uncover a Tropical Highland Idyll at Inverewe
Wester Ross is adored for its commanding mountainscapes that punctuate the sky with craggy summits and plummeting screes. That said, it also harbours a surprisingly tropical side that makes for a truly unique experience. Residing near Poolewe, Achnasheen, Inverewe Garden is a verdant idyll blooming with countless species of flora. Set in a sheltered spot on the Atlantic coast yet tempered by the warming effects of the Gulf Stream, this Highland arcadia enjoys its very own microclimate – despite being on the same latitude as Moscow. For the most kaleidoscopic blooms, arrive at Inverewe in the springtime.
Pursue Equestrian Adventures
There are many ways to explore the spellbinding realms of Wester Ross. However, one of the most unique ways to experience its beaches and country trails is by horse riding. A pastime that has long been revered by communities across the globe, horse riding promises an entirely absorbing way of getting around and connecting with the local environment. If you are seeking a novel way to immerse in the sights and sounds of Wester Ross, consider a trekking or riding excursion with Gairloch Trekking Centre. In association with British Riding Schools and The Trekking and Riding Society of Scotland, this accredited riding centre offers unmissable riding for children and adults.
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