APPLECROSS INN, WESTER ROSS

1 LOCATION

Getting to the award-winning Applecross Inn in the north west Highlands is one of life’s unforgettable experiences. We took the Bealach na Bas (Pass of the Cattle). This climbs through the mountains to 2,053ft affording fabulous views across Skye to the Hebrides. The journey was matched by the arrival point, as the Inn also enjoys spectacular views.

2 FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Laid-back, friendly and fun.

3 SERVICE

Informal but professional. We were greeted by a smiling waitress and our order was taken quickly. She was happy to answer questions about the menu and to make suggestions.

4 MENU

Surprisingly extensive and imaginative. It offers fabulous seafood, beef and lamb, sourced locally. There are also plenty of other options for those who are vegetarian or who have dietary requirements.

5 TASTE

Fabulous! I chose whole Applecross Bay prawns with lemon and garlic butter served with salad and wastle bread. It made for messy but delicious eating. My daughter went for the children’s portion of haddock. The fish was light and the batter dry. I had a Scottish raspberry cranachan for dessert while my daughter had the sticky toffee pudding with cream. She voted it the best ever.

6 PRICE

The main course cost £18.50 – not cheap but good quality – and the child’s fish was just £4.25. Puddings were £5.50 each taking our bill, with drinks, to £38.80.

7 AMBIENCE

A warm, easy-going hostelry where you can wear your jeans and hiking boots and still feel welcome. It has also welcomed its share of celebs.

8 SOMETHING SPECIAL

Try the half dozen oysters (au naturel) with lemon and wastle bread as a starter. Special main dishes include the local venison burger with pan fried onions and cheese or the Cuaig beef in a rich casserole with creamy mash. Exclusive to the inn are its award-winning Applecross Ices – artisan ice creams and sorbets. Takeaways are also available.

9 TOILETS

Clean and well maintained.

10 VERDICT 18/20