Walking in Gairloch
A Scenic Paradise for Walkers
Step into the enchanting landscapes of Gairloch and embark on a journey through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. In this review, we will introduce you to our five favourite walks in and around Gairloch.
Each walk offers its own unique charm and showcases the raw beauty of this idyllic corner of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking solace in the great outdoors, these walks will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories. So lace up your boots, breathe in the crisp Highland air, and let’s embark on a grand adventure through Gairloch’s scenic wonders. Video footage courtesy of Frank Burden Remote Scotland.
Additionally, to enhance your visit to the area, we have included a selection of maps and informative guidebooks that will serve as invaluable resources during your exploration of Gairloch’s stunning walking trails.
Fairy Lochs
The Fairy Lochs walk is a captivating 4-mile circular route that takes you into the picturesque hills behind Shieldaig and Badachro, alongside the stunning Loch Gairloch. This scenic trail offers a unique experience, as it leads you to the Fairy Lochs, a group of freshwater lochans known as Na Lochan Sgeireach. These enchanting lochans have gained their name due to their close proximity to the majestic ‘Sìthean Mòr’ or ‘Big Fairy Hill’.
As you explore the area, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Loch Bràigh Horrisdale and the Badachro River, adorned with magnificent waterfalls. The walk itself meanders through farmland and marshy terrain, providing a sense of remote tranquility. While enjoying the natural beauty of the Fairy Lochs, it’s worth noting that this serene location also holds historical significance.
The lochans serve as the final resting place of an American World War II bomber that tragically crashed in 1945. Today, the wreckage remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made by the 15 crew and passengers on board. As a war grave, it is important to respect the site and refrain from disturbing the wreckage. A memorial plaque, erected by the families and friends of those who perished, stands as a testament to their memory. The Fairy Lochs walk offers a blend of natural wonders and historical significance, making it a truly captivating and thought-provoking experience for visitors.
Distance: 2.8 miles round trip
Parking: Limited parking is available at start of hydro track just before Shielding Lodge Hotel on the B8056. What3Words: limits.pilots.emotional
-
Out of stock
Night Loch
The Night Loch walk offers a remote and mesmerising experience as you venture into the captivating landscape of Loch na h-Oidhche, also known as the Night Loch. Nestled between Loch Torridon and Loch Maree in the Flowerdale Forest of Wester Ross, Scotland, this freshwater loch is located approximately 4.5 miles north of Torridon and 8 miles southeast of Gairloch.
The walk begins along a stony track, leading you to the tranquil shores of the Night Loch. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this serene loch is a haven for anglers who are drawn to its beauty during the summer nights when darkness is scarce. Brown trout fishing is a popular activity here, offering a peaceful and idyllic setting for angling enthusiasts.
As you navigate the route, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of notable landmarks such as Slioch, Benin Làir, Baosbheinn, Loch Maree, and Loch Garabhaig. The scenic beauty of these mountains and lochs adds to the allure of the Night Loch walk, creating a truly immersive experience.
Along the way, you may also come across evidence of glacier activity. The hillsides bear witness to the movement of glaciers, with numerous erratics – large rocks deposited by the glacier – scattered across the landscape. This serves as a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped the region’s geological history.
The Night Loch walk is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the remote and captivating beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With its peaceful loch, stunning mountain views, and traces of ancient glacier activity, this walk offers a unique blend of natural wonders and rich history.
Distance: 8 miles round trip
Parking: Car parking is available at the ‘Red Stable’ on the A832 5 miles south of Gairloch (yes, we know it’s green!) What3Words: splendid.sparks.eggshell
Hidden Corrie
The Hidden Corrie walk takes you on a captivating journey to the awe-inspiring beauty of Coire Mhic Fhearchair, one of Scotland’s most magnificent mountain corries. Tucked away behind the north-west shoulder of Beinn Eighe in Torridon, this hidden gem reveals itself as a true spectacle.
While Beinn Eighe may appear less impressive from the road compared to the majestic Liathach, the Hidden Corrie walk unveils the true splendour of this mountain. As you follow the excellent stalkers path, you’ll traverse a wild highland glen and venture out into open moorland before immersing yourself in the stunning, wild, and remote corrie that encircles a dark loch. The combination of the rugged landscape, the dark loch, and the impressive rock formations creates a remarkable and unforgettable setting.
The highlight of the Hidden Corrie walk is undoubtedly the Triple Buttress, a dramatic rock formation that towers above the corrie lochan. This magnificent mountain theatre serves as a playground for rock climbers, offering a thrilling and challenging experience for those seeking adventure.
For those who choose to explore further around the lochan, keep a lookout for the remains of a WW2 Lancaster bomber that crashed on the summit. Sections of wreckage can be found at the foot of the rock screes, serving as a poignant reminder of the area’s history.
The Hidden Corrie walk offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With its breathtaking corrie, imposing rock formations, and intriguing historical remnants, this walk promises an unforgettable adventure in a truly remarkable setting.
Distance: 8 miles round trip
Parking: There is a car park on the A896 just west of the bridge over the Allt a’Choire Dhuibh Mhòir. A signpost for Coire Mhic Nobuil indicates the start of the well-made stalkers path. What3Words: classic.hikes.scariest
Old Tollie Road
The Tollie Road walk offers a delightful journey along a historic path that showcases the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. This linear walk follows a broad hill path, taking you over a low moorland pass and providing stunning views of Loch Maree’s islands and the majestic mountains beyond.
Starting south of Poolewe, a well-trodden path traces the route of an old military road that once connected Dingwall to Poolewe. Although the Tollie Road is part of a longer road project initiated by William Caulfield in 1763, it was never fully completed. Over time, much of the path has been altered or eroded, but the central section over the higher ground remains relatively untouched, allowing glimpses of the original features.
The terrain of the Tollie Road walk mainly comprises open moors, which are occasionally rough and challenging. As you progress along the path, you’ll encounter sections that are boggy, particularly towards the end. It is important to be prepared for these conditions.
Throughout the walk, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Loch Maree’s picturesque islands, surrounded by the grandeur of the distant mountains. The beauty of the landscape is truly captivating, offering a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.
While some of the features of the old road have been lost or worn away, modern “footpath builders” have made efforts to maintain and improve certain sections of the Tollie Road. Despite these alterations, the walk still retains its historic charm, with remnants of the original road visible in the untouched higher ground.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful adventure in the Highlands, the Tollie Road walk promises a memorable experience. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the moorland, marvel at the views of Loch Maree, and discover the traces of the past along this fascinating and scenic path.
Distance: 5 miles one way
Parking: Park at the Loch Maree View Point situated on a bend South of Poolewe on the A832. What3Words: older.studs.stay
Above Achtercairn
The Achtercairn Archaeology Trail offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the Achtercairn area, located above the GALE Centre. This trail takes you on a journey through time, showcasing the enduring legacy of farming in this region for nearly 5000 years.
In ancient times, communities in this area constructed roundhouses using a combination of stone, turf, wood, and thatch. Today, you can still witness the remnants of these roundhouses as low circles of collapsed stonework scattered throughout the landscape. Over 200 of these remarkable ‘hut circles’ or roundhouses have been discovered within a 20-mile radius of Gairloch village.
One of the highlights of the trail is the first roundhouse, located just a short two-minute walk from Gairloch Museum. This well-maintained path offers an easy access point to explore the dwelling used during the Iron Age. Excavations in this area have unveiled a treasure trove of artefacts, including pot boilers, polishers, and a quartz hammerstone, providing valuable insights into the lives of the ancient inhabitants.
The remainder of the trail follows a hill track and takes approximately two hours to complete. Along the way, you will encounter an array of stone circles, varying in diameter from 5m to 17m. These stone circles are a testament to the prehistoric field systems associated with the occupation of the roundhouses.
Embark on the Achercairn Archaeology Trail and immerse yourself in the captivating history of this ancient farming community. Discover the enduring legacy of the past as you explore the remnants of roundhouses and witness the remarkable stone circles that have withstood the test of time.
Parking
Public parking is available in front of the Chinese Takeaway located off the A832.
What3Words: soils.fits.captions
Maps & Guides
-
-
-
-
Out of stock
-
-
-
Out of stock
-
-
-
-
Please demonstrate respect for the environment and adhere to the countryside code. It is important to keep dogs under control at all times. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, as weather conditions can change unexpectedly. GALE does not assume any responsibility for any damage or injuries that may occur as a result of using these walking guides.