Gairloch

Gaerrloch, The Short Loch

Sitting snugly between the two headlands of Red Point in the south and Rua Reidh to the north, the small fishing village of Gairloch lies amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the highlands. Throughout the area is a choice of clean sandy beaches and golf courses There is an opportunity to fish on both land and sea and it is a place where you can further enjoy the spectacular views whilst pony trekking. There are many superb walks to take you through the famous mountains of Wester Ross which include 60 Corbets and Munros.

When you come to this special place you will be assured a warm West Highland welcome. There is plenty of good quality accommodation and a range of restaurants offering imaginative, tasty meals made from local ingredients. There is an unrivalled array of seafood, venison from the hill, beef and lamb from local farms, lots of locally grown fruit and vegetable and haggis from wherever it is they hang out!

To the south and east there is the beautiful coastal route around past Sheildaig and on to Red Point, and one is treated to spectacular views along the way, going south from Gairloch and you will arrive at beautiful Loch Maree. It is the only Loch in Scotland with “an island with a loch with an island with a loch with an island with a loch” and so on seven times. To the southern end of Loch Maree lies Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve which has an immense amount of wildlife. Continuing on you come upon Kinlochewe (see Kinlochewe), Glen Docharty and Achnasheen.

Northwards from Gairloch on the small coastal road is Big Sands; a large safe beach which provides the perfect place to practise water sports. Once you pass the houses of Melvaig you arrive at Rue Reid Lighthouse and an experience not to be missed. There you will find yourself immersed in panoramic views with the mountains at your back and the expanse of the Minch in front of you.