Wester Ross is located on the North West coast of the Scottish Highlands, part of the region of Ross and Cromarty. It can take several hours to drive from Edinburgh, weather and traffic dependant. So why would you visit Wester Ross and drive that far you might ask? The Highlands have some of the most scenic landscapes including great glens, waterfalls, heather covered moors and to top it all off some of the most unmistakable mountain ranges. Such as Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles at 1,344 metres (4,409 feet) above sea level.
Reasons to Visit Wester Ross, Scotland
When you visit Wester Ross, driving through the breathtaking Glen Coe is a must! The road is higher than most of the surrounding land. As you drive along taking various turns watch out for the parking zones. There are definitely photograph opportunities to be had! Also at the top in the last large parking bay stands the lonely Scottish Piper. The notes drifting through the Glen that time has not forgotten, the massacre of Glen Coe.
A good time for a pit stop would be at the town of Fort William. There are large supermarkets, chain and independent restaurants available. If you have the time it is a lovely place to stay for a few days. Attractions include the Fort William Ski lift, take a gondola up the Ben Nevis Range and post a postcard from the highest point. You could also take a day trip on the Jacobite Steam Train (more famously known as The Hogwarts Express) from Fort William to Mallaig. There are various types of accommodation available, suitable for all budgets.
We took the A87 via the Five Sisters Range having a brief stop at Eilean Donan Castle . One of the most picturesque and recognised Castles in Scotland. This definitely is one of the reasons why you need to visit Wester Ross.
The real journey starts now as were on to the A896. The A roads are narrower with passing spaces to allow for negotiating with on coming traffic. This route takes you through the stunning Glen Torridon.
We had booked in advance to stay at one of the original operational Stevenson Lighthouses – Rua Reigh Lighthouse. Situated in one of the most dramatic and remote locations. From here there are many sights, walking routes and wildlife spotting options available.
On the first day we explored the surrounding area on foot, walking up on top of the higher ground of An Cuaidh. The great Scottish weather took a turn, low lying clouds came in and not far behind the rain. We returned to the cosy and tranquil surroundings of Rua Reigh.
The second day we were already heading for home. On route we took in Redpoint, with its almighty sand dunes and views stretching over the Inner Sound to Skye . Redpoint Beach has recently been seen in “What we did on our holiday” starring Billy Connolly, David Tennant and Rosamund Pike. Next stop Inverewe Gardens part of the National Trust for Scotland, located just outside Poolewe.
Inverewe Gardens and Estate are well worth a visit! Bordering onto Loch Ewe, with a variety of walks and at this time of year the dramatic display of Rhododendrons. The restaurant offers a variety of snacks including sandwiches, soup and delicious cakes! Allow a few hours to make the most of your visit.
It was getting late in the day and we would have loved to visit Scotland’s only perfumery – The Perfume Studio . Located at Mellon Charles, however we carried on up the A832 to Gruinard Bay where we enjoyed the vistas before continuing on to Dundonnell.
We reached Corrishalloch Gorge just before 5pm. Thank goodness the snack van was there and still open! After a brief rest bite we were curious to see the Gorge. From the car park there is a short walk taking a few minutes to reach the suspension bridge. From here you can witness the 50 metre drop! Amazing and its not that far from the main road, which is extraordinary. The perfect end to our road trip.
There is lots to see and do, I would highly recommend you allowed a lot more time than we did. Although if you are pushed for time you can see, it is possible in a long weekend! Car rental is a great way to explore or why not hire a motorhome rental ? It can give you that little bit more flexibility on where you stop for the night.
I hope you enjoyed my latest blog. Don’t forget to share! As always we would love to hear from you, have you visited Wester Ross? Did you have a memorable experience? Please comment below. Thanks. Happy Travels!
