INFORMATION ON LOCAL ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
The main appeal of the Gairloch area is the outstanding scenery and there are also many other attractions and activities to keep holidaymakers fully occupied:
Walking
There are many walks in the area that range from short, gentle strolls to challenging mountain climbs. The spectacular Torridon Range, containing some of Scotland’s finest climbs as well as low-level paths, is within easy reach. There are also a number of lovely walks direct from the door of Birchwood including to the waterfalls at the top of Flowerdale Glen.
Beautiful sandy beaches
There are many beautiful sandy beaches in the area. The lovely beach at Big Sands is a ten minute drive away, whilst Gairloch Sands are only a ten minute walk away, next to the golf course. Both are safe for swimming.
Boat trips
Birchwood overlooks Gairloch Harbour from where you can arrange boat trips for fishing, leisure or wildlife spotting.
Sports (including Golf and Swimming)
It is a ten minute walk to a scenic 9 Hole Golf Course where day visitors are made welcome. There is also a Pitch and Putt course in the centre of Gairloch at Strath just a five minute drive away. There is a swimming pool in Poolewe (6 miles north) and a Sport and Leisure Centre in Gairloch, where activities including badminton, short tennis, table tennis, archery, trampolining and an indoor climbing wall can be enjoyed.
Pony-trekking
Pony treks and hacks can be arranged at Gairloch Trekking Centre, which is a 5 minute drive/15 minute walk away.
Inverewe Gardens
The world famous Inverewe Gardens, owned by the National Trust are only seven miles away, just beyond Poolewe.
Rua Reidh lighthouse
Rua Reidh lighthouse is situated at Melvaig at the end of a 30 minute scenic drive from Gairloch, affording spectacular views across to Skye and the Outer Hebrides. Note that the lighthouse café is no longer open.
Gairloch Heritage Museum
This award-winning museum is open from April to October and is a good way to learn about the history of the area. There are often fun activities for children.
Wildlife
Wildlife is also a big attraction of the area. Red deer and buzzards are common, as are a variety of interesting birds such as herons and black-throated divers. Porpoises are regularly spotted in the sea loch and, if you’re lucky, you may also see eagles, dolphins, otters, pine martens and, perhaps, even whales.
Hotels/Bars/Restaurants
There are many high quality establishments in the area to cater for all tastes and budgets. Fishing vessels do come into Gairloch and so seafood is a speciality of the area. Scotland’s Pub of the Year (2003), The Old Inn, is only a two minute walk away with its great food, real ales and regular live music.
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