Northwestern Highlands, scotland
Attractions Guide

The following attractions are listed in order along a recommended route through this rural yet incredibly scenic part of Scotland, a part of the Western Highlands that is typically less seen by tourists.

Head northwest from Inverness and stop by the beautiful Rogie Falls if you haven't yet, which require only a short 0.5 mile (0.8 km) round-trip walk to view, and includes a nice suspension bridge over the river.

Continue much further up the road to the Corrieshalloch Gorge, a 1.3 mile (2 km) round-trip trail amongst lush forests with views of a tall cascading waterfall and a small suspension bridge.

Ullapool, Scotland

Next be sure to stop in the town of Ullapool to admire the beautiful scenery that surrounds the town and the harbor. Ullapool is quite small, however it is one of the largest towns of the Northwestern Highlands and hosts many hotels and restaurants. Additionally, you can take a tour boat from Ullapool's harbor in the warmer months to enjoy the wild landscape of the Highlands from the coast. From Ullapool, it's possible to take the ferry or car ferry across to the Isles of Lewis and Harris.

Further north you might climb one of the tallest mountains in the area, Stac Pollaidh for incredible far-reaching panoramic views high over the many lakes and grassy hills of the area. This moderate hike is approximately 2.8 miles (4.5 km) round-trip with quite a bit of elevation gain and offers one of the best views in Scotland.

The trailhead is located at Stac Pollaidh Car Park located on the road that spurs off the main highway from the village of Drumrunie. The Stac Pollaidh Mountain hike is the most highly recommended attraction of the Northwestern Highlands.

Afterwards you might stop for a short hike at Knockan Crag Nature Reserve nearby, which features a 1.3. mile (2 km) round-trip trail through a gorgeous wild landscape with sculptures along the way. This area is also significant as it marks the location where Scotland and North America were once connected.

Adjacent to Knockan Crag is the trailhead for another incredible mountain hike, to the top of Cul Mor. This peak requires a significantly longer hike, at about 8.5 miles (13.5 km) round-trip. From the top you can take in astoundingly gorgeous views over the rugged highland landscape of lochs and mountains.

Now continue to the Ardvreck Castle, a small ruined medieval castle that sits just above the large Loch Assynt lake. Surrounding the castle is a vast green wilderness that is quite scenic.

One more attraction to consider is Achmelvich Bay where you can look out over the clear blue waters and admire the stunning beach and surrounding hills.