Five reasons to head for...
Nestled on the north-west coast of Scotland, this gateway to the sea makes a rewarding base camp for exploration.
Lochinver – a NW Highlands escape
For the island peaks
The peaks of the Assynt region around 1
Lochinver are like nothing else in Britain. Many of them, such as the truly iconic Suilven, are inselbergs – island peaks – left standing proud from the landscape when the glaciers retreated. But all of the mountains here, like Canisp, Quinag, the sprawling Ben More Assynt and, a little further south, Cul Mor, Cul Beag and Stac Pollaidh, are gems in their own right and should be on every hillwalker’s bucket list.
To see the birth of Britain
The land here is part of the North West 2
Highlands Geopark – home of the oldest rocks in Britain. The wide range of geological formations found here cover twothirds of the Earth’s history, with the rocks along the seashore around 3000 million years old – even older than the hills.
For the remains and ruins
Go to the Skye Highland
3
Games. The Assynt area has a remarkably rich history. Clachtoll Broch is the remains of a spectacular 2000-year-old drystone tower, while Ardvreck Castle at the north-eastern end of Loch Assynt dates from the later years of the 15th century. The ancient remains of lynx, reindeer and polar bear were excavated from the dramatic Bone Caves near Inchnadamph, and there are numerous chambered cairns to be discovered dotted around the landscape.
To test your sea legs
For a different view of Lochinver,
4 the surrounding beaches and bays and the hills beyond, take to the water with a boat trip from the harbour. You may even be treated to some spectacular wildlife sightings, including dolphins, seals and sea eagles.
For the drive of your life
5 Strapping on your walking boots and heading to the hills is the best way to explore, but for something a little more leisurely there are some incredible driving routes to be enjoyed, all of which showcase some breathtaking scenery. Try the Drumbeg Loop around the Assynt coast road, or the drive south to Achiltibuie.