DID YOU KNOW?

The Bone Caves, a short drive from Lochinver, are famous for the huge number of ancient animal bones found within them. They also contain the only evidence for the presence of polar bears in Scotland.

STAY HERE BUDGET: Achmelvich Beach Youth Hostel

This SYHA hostel netted silver in the accommodation category of last year’s TGO Awards, thanks to its sublime location. A short drive north of Lochinver, it overlooks what one of readers described as “the best beach this side of Heaven”. hostellingscotland.org.uk

MID: Davar

This small, friendly B&B is run by keen hillwalkers. The breakfasts are based around locally sourced ingredients, so you can enjoy sampling everything from salmon smoked in the village to fresh eggs laid locally. davar-lochinver.co.uk

SPLURGE: Inver Lodge Hotel

Push the boat out with a stay at Inver Lodge, which has a range of sizeable, en suite rooms along with an award-winning restaurant.

Set high on the rocky hillside above Lochinver, it boasts stunning views over the sea. inverlodge.com

EAT HERE Lochinver Larder

The prospect of tucking into one of Lochinver Larder’s melt-in-themouth homemade pies will keep you going as you tramp back out of the Assynt wilderness. There’s a takeaway menu as well, so you can stock up on a day’s worth of goodies for the hill. piesbypost.co.uk

Peet’s Restaurant

Peet’s puts a strong emphasis on good-value, locally sourced produce. Try the seafood selection – including lobster, crab, langoustine and prawns – all of which are landed at the nearby harbour. The coastal setting means you can enjoy sunset views while you dine. peetsrestaurant.com

DRINK HERE The Wayfarers’ Bar

This snug bar at the Culag Hotel stocks over 100 single malt Scotch whiskies along with a good selection of beers, wines and liqueurs. culaghotel.co.uk