Lochinver
The road from Achiltibuie north to Lochinver is known locally as the 'wee mad road', and you'd be mad to miss this thrilling route which twists and winds its way through some the northwest's most stunning scenery.
The village of Lochinver is a working fishing port and the last sizeable village before Thurso. It has a good tourist office (see below), lots of accommodation, a bank with ATM, post office and petrol station.
Phone code: +44 (0)1571
Travel Directions to Lochinver
There's a Postbus service from Lochinver to and from Drumbeg, via the coast road, which continues to Lairg. It runs once a day, Mon-Sat. There are also buses to and from Drumbeg and on to Ullapool, once or twice daily except Sun, with Rapsons of Brora, Tel. 01408-621245, and Spa Coaches, Tel. 01997-421311.
Local Sights & Activities for Lochinver
The best place to start is the Assynt Visitor Centre, which houses the Tourist Information Centre. It has displays on the local geology, history and wildlife and there's also a ranger service with guided walks throughout the summer. Info - The centre is open Apr-Oct Mon-Fri 1000-1700 and Sun 1000-1600. Tel. 844330. Those looking for local souvenirs should head for Highland Stoneware, Tel. 844376, www.highlandtrail.co.uk/stoneware.html, a local pottery factory just outside the village on the road north.
A few miles south of Lochinver, beyond Inverkirkaig, is the trail along the river to the Kirkaig Falls. The path starts near the Achins Bookshop, Tel. 844262, which has a good stock of Scottish titles and a café. Follow the path for about two miles till it branches right to the falls in the gorge below. Continue along the main path for about another � mile till you reach Fionn Loch, with superb views of mighty Suilven. The walk up to the falls and back should take around 1 1/2 hours. This is one of the main approaches to the foot of the mountain.
Castles Nearby
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Ardvreck Castle
Ruined castle that stands on its own promontory overlooking Loch Assynt. Not as old as you might expect but with its wonderful position such a romantic castle...
Nearby Ancient Monuments
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Clachtoll Broch
Spectacular iron age settlement beside sandy beach at Clachtoll that dates to before 150BC. In the process of being stabilised by local archeology groups. You can visit and on a fine weather day with the beach, its a great day out.
Local Visitor Attractions
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Clachtoll Beach
Small sandy beach with headland protecting from the waves that faces west. There is a ranger hut and also some toilet facilities. Great for family paddling and sand castle building.
Walks
Local Pubs
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The Caberfeidh
Friendly local pub in centre of the village with good beers and locally sourced food. Good for stop and sunsets at the right time. Popular with locals
Lochinver Hotels & Accommodation
Inver Lodge Hotel, Iolaire Rd, Tel. 844496, Fax. 844395, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 20 rooms, open Apr-Oct. A modern luxury hotel standing above the village with great views and excellent restaurant (lunch mid-range; dinner expensive). L The Albannach Hotel, at Baddidaroch, Tel. 844407, Fax. 844285. This wonderful 18th-century house overlooking Loch Inver is one of the very best places to stay in the northwest, and the food offered in the award-winning restaurant is sublime. The price includes dinner. Non-residents are also welcome but booking is essential.
For really good food, try the excellent Caberfeidh Bar & Restaurant, Tel. 844321. All dishes are cooked to order using local produce, all meat is from the local butcher, the fish is landed local and delivered fresh daily. A traditional pub with food, cooking only the best local ingredients and produce available. Real ale on draught too. Highly recommended. For their website see The Caberfeidh Bar & Restaurant
Apart from the hotels listed above, good food can be also found at Lochinver's Larder Riverside Bistro, Tel. 844356, on the way into town on the A837. You can eat in or takeaway and prices are mid-range.
Lochinver Cottages and Holiday SelfCatering
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Hilltop Cottage at Clachtoll in Assynt - Sleeps 4
Detached cottage near Clachtoll north of Lochinver. Sleeps four people in two bedrooms. -
Canisp View, nr Lochinver, Sutherland - Sleeps 6
Set beside a small loch with views towards the loch and Sutherland mountains. Traditionally decorated bungalow with large gardens for outdoor dinners and peace. Close to Achmelvich & Lochinver
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The Cottage, Lochinver - Sleeps 2
This traditional, detached cottage is conveniently situated on the quiet side of the bay, in an attractive fishing port, within walking distance of the town centre, beautiful waterfront and the .... -
Ruighe Cottage, Lochinver - Sleeps 6
Surrounded by beautiful lush countryside, this delightful, detached modern cottage is peacefully situated off a country road with lovely views to the west over the surrounding hills and woodlands. .... -
Drumbeg Bungalow, Sutherland - Sleeps 6
Beautifully situated in a quiet valley on the edge of a picturesque coastal village, this detached bungalow enjoys open views west to the loch where the sunsets are truly magnificent. The bright .... -
Drumbeg Cottage, Sutherland - Sleeps 4
Beautifully located amidst the unspoiled beauty of the Assynt peninsula, this charming detached cottage is one of two holiday properties. Enjoying magnificent views over the green valley to the .... -
Achmelvich Bungalow - Sleeps 7
In a spectacular scenic setting on the edge of a fresh-water loch, surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, this most attractive modern bungalow offers a superb Highland retreat in a peaceful and .. -
Lochinver Cottage - Sutherland
In a secluded, elevated location, high above Lochinver, this charming cottage enjoys wonderful views over the water and the village to the magnificent mountain peaks of Suilven and Canisp. The .... -
The Cottage, nr Lochinver - Sleeps 4
Discover, explore or re-visit this very special part of Sutherland with its breathtaking scenery, magnificent mountains, lochs and quiet, unspoilt beaches - a wonderful location for the perfect relaxing ge... -
Garavault, North Western Highlands - Sleeps 6
Assynt in Sutherland is remote but has marvellous mountains, lochs and sandy bays making it interesting but very peaceful. This delightful highland style house offers a good standard and comfortable holida...