West Coast Loop

This circular tour is one of the most popular daily excursions taken by our guests.  Starting  at Home Farm the route stretches north west towards Ullapool and the west to reach the beautiful and dramatic coast of "Wester Ross".  Being a circular tour guests can choose to travel clockwise or anticlockwise depending on  their mood or priorities.  Some guests also take in Ullapool which although not on the direct route lies an easy eleven miles north of 'Braemore Junction'.  Whilst every inch of the route provides a vista, we have included some more detailed information on a few of the most popular spots.  This time we are taking you clockwise.

 

Rogie Falls

Only twenty minutes from our doorstep, Rogie Falls lies in a dramatic wooded gorge carved out by the River Blackwater.  The Falls can easily be viewed and photographed from the nearby viewing platform or suspension bridge which spans the river.  During summer and autumn salmon can be seen attempting to jump the falls or ascending the constructed "fish ladder".  The falls provide a starting point for various woodland walks of various lengths.

 

Heights of Kinlochewe Viewpoint

Giving dramatic views down Glen Docherty and onto Loch Maree this little parking area is a "wow" point on this route.  Stay for a few minutes and take in the view of the magnificent glaciated "U-shaped" valley.  From here the towering mountains of Torridon and those above Loch Maree can be seen.  Keep a sharp eye open for the red deer here or scan the crags for a glimpse of buzzard or golden eagle on the skyline.

 

Loch Maree and Slattadale

Loch Maree is the largest loch in the north west highlands and arguably the most beautiful.  Surrounded by dramatic peaks, crowned by majestic "Slioch" the lochs also hold a collection of wooded islands, clothed in native "Caledonian Pine", these islands provide a refuge for nesting black-throated divers and the recently re-introduced white tailed sea eagle.  The loch has a long history interwoven with tales from both Christian history, Druid and Celtic folklore.  The roadside has many stopping places ideal for photography or drinking in the view, but our favourite is Slattadale towards the northern end of the loch.  This tranquil site gives views over the loch towards mighty Slioch and the lochs "floating islands".  A delightful shore walk stretches from the small carpark north along the shore to an elevated viewing point.  Well worth the journey!

 

Gairloch

This "Wester Ross" fishing village looks out across the atlantic towards the north end of Skye.  Gairloch is well worth the stop and repays some exploration.  It has a golf course, a fantastic beach, visitor museum and a collection of shops in the village centre.  Park on the golf course carpark and take the short walk down to the beach.  This sheltered bay boasts some beautiful clean sand flanked by dunes and views over the water towards Skye. An ideal place for a stroll a bit of sunbathing or perhaps a"dip" for some of our more hardy guests.

Gairloch pier offers trips to view the local marine life, seals, dolphins, porpoise, basking shark and whales, although it is best to reserve a complete day for this.

 

Poolewe

Home to the world famous "Inverewe Gardens" Poolewe is a charming spot.  The River Ewe enters the sea here at Loch Ewe and provides a beautiful riverside walk, which can be taken from the bridge.  An excellent place for a stroll, tea, coffee, cake and ice cream.

 

Mellon Udrigle

Although a short detour off the loop the "hamlet" of  Mellon Udrigle has one of the most secluded beaches, with wonderful vistas and a jumble of folded "Torridon sandstone cliffs" at one end.  Ideal for clambering and exploring, these rocks provide a wonderful opportunity for "children"of all ages to enjoy.  Look out for the artistic rock-piles and rock dinosaurs often found!!

 

Gruinard Bay

One of the best viewpoints of the entire trip nestled below steep cliffs, Gruinard Bay contains a series of sandy beaches.  Another spot ideal for walking, kite-flying,castle-building, bird watching, picnicking photography................

 

Little Loch Broom viewpoint

Just before your descent down to Dundonnel this stopping off point provides excellent views over Wester Ross towards the Ullapool hills and the Summer Isles (weather permitting).

 

Corrieshalloch Gorge

The Corrieshalloch Gorge and the Falls of Measach are in the care of the National  Trust for Scotland entirely hidden from the roadside, the gorge is one of the most dramatic in the highlands and is well worth seeing.  An "airy" suspension bridge and adjacent viewing platform give differing panoramas on the falls and the gorges steep sides.  The unique micro-climate of the gorge makes it home to many rare plant species.

Home Farm is the ideal base for a few days quiet exploration. There are lots of places to visit and things to do, all within easy travelling distance of our front door. 

 

Home Farm Bed and Breakfast

Highfield Mains

Home Farm

Muir of Ord

IV6 7XN

+44 1463 871779

+44 7710 112485

 

Email us at:

info@bedandbreakfasthighlands.scot

or simply use our Reservation page

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Home Farm Bed and Breakfast, Highfield Mains, Muir of Ord, IV6 XN © Home Farm Bed and Breakfast, 2015 All images on this site are copyright protected and should not be reproduced under any circumstances without our prior written permission.