Things To See and Do

The Gairloch and Loch Ewe area has a wealth of activities on offer as well as places to visit, from outdoor activities such as walking, kayaking,pony trekking and boat trips through to gardens, visitor centres, shops and markets.

For more information on particular activities, select from the options below:

Local villages and areas to visit

The Gairloch and Loch Ewe area is comprised of a few key villages, each offering something different to visitors.

Gairloch – the largest village in the area.  Gairloch has the area's only Tourist Information Centre and offers a number of bed and breakfast, hotels and self catering accommodation  There are also three grocery stores, a butcher, post offices, restaurants, cafes and pubs.  Gairloch Harbour also houses the various boat trips around Loch Gairloch.

Badachro, Shieldaig and South Erradale – south of Gairloch, Badachro is a sheltered bay with beautiful views.  South Erradale lies further round the coast towards Red Point with outstanding views across to Skye.  Although there are no shops, various accommodation providers are dotted around this area.  The Badachro Inn  offers dining while enjoying beautiful sea views.

Poolewe – 10 minutes drive north from Gairloch, is the small village of Poolewe located at the mouth of River Ewe.  Poolewe is famous for the Inverewe Gardens  with the garden open all year and restaurant and visitor centre being open from Easter to the end of October. There are also several self catering cottages, bed and breakfasts and the Poolewe Hotel offering a good choice of accommodation and excellent food in both the bistro and restaurant.  For a lunch stop try the Bridge Cottage Cafe and Gallery in the centre of the village.

Inverasdale and Cove – a short drive west of Poolewe are the villages of Inverasdale and Cove, both offering a variety of accommodation, plus spectacular views and beaches. The Old School House at Inverasdale hosts a wonderful tea room, open every Wednesday and Friday through the season.

Aultbea and Mellon Charles – 20 minutes north of Gairloch lies the neighbouring villages of Aultbea and Mellon Charles.  This area was famously a military base during world war two with several historic sites around the coast.  It is still used for military exercises in September.   There are also a few attractions such as the family run Smoke House together with several bed and breakfast, self catering accommodation providers.  The Aultbea Hotel offers evening meals while there are a few cafes such as Oran Na Mara and the Aroma Cafe based at The Perfume Sudio offering lunch.