Kinlochbervie Travel Guide

Kinlochbervie is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands of the United Kingdom. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide and explore its culturally important landmarks, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scenes, accommodations, and nearby destinations.


Kinlochbervie is a hidden gem in Caithness and Sutherland of the Scottish Highlands in the United Kingdom. Tucked away from the bustling cities and famous tourist attractions, Kinlochbervie offers a peaceful escape to enjoy the natural beauty and rich culture of Scotland. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Kinlochbervie and its surroundings to explore the culturally important landmarks, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scenes, accommodations, and nearby destinations.

Introduction to Kinlochbervie

Located on the northwestern coast of Scotland, Kinlochbervie is a small fishing village that is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. The area’s rugged coastline and mountains make it popular among hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The village has a rich history, dating back to the Viking era, and there are many historical landmarks to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Kinlochbervie

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Kinlochbervie, there are several museums and historical sites worth visiting. The Old Shore Bunkhouse Museum is a former herring station that has been converted into a museum. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the life of fishermen in the 19th century. The Scourie Crofting Museum is another popular attraction in the area. It showcases the history of farming and crofting in the Highlands and provides an interesting insight into traditional Scottish culture.

Natural Attractions of Kinlochbervie: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kinlochbervie boasts of stunning natural scenery all around it. The Quinag is one of the most popular hiking spots in the area, as it offers beautiful views of mountains and lochs. Handa Island Wildlife Reserve & Nature Trail is another must-visit site in Kinlochbervie. It is a haven for bird watchers, as it is home to over 100,000 seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. The Cape Wrath Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. The trail is over 200 miles long, and it is recommended only for experienced hikers. Kinlochbervie also has several stunning beaches, including Polin Beach and Oldshoremore Beach, where you can soak up the sun and relax.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kinlochbervie

Hiking and biking are popular activities in Kinlochbervie, thanks to its gorgeous natural scenery. There are several hiking and biking routes for varying levels of expertise. Some popular ones are – North West Highlands Geopark, Cape Wrath Trail, Sandwood Bay Trail, and Ben Stack Trail.

Best Things to Do in Kinlochbervie: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Kinlochbervie. Fishing is a popular pastime in the area. You can join a fishing trip for either sea trout or deep-sea fishing. You can also go on a wildlife-spotting tour, where you might spot otters, seals, dolphins and porpoises. Surfers will also enjoy the challenging waves around the coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kinlochbervie

To get the most out of your trip, we recommend staying in Kinlochbervie for a week. Here is a suggested itinerary –

Day 1: Arrive in Kinlochbervie and explore the village. Day 2-3: Hike or bike on the North West Highlands Geopark, Quinag, or Ben Stack Trail. Day 4: Visit Handa Island Wildlife Reserve & Nature Trail. Day 5: Relax on Polin Beach or Oldshoremore Beach. Day 6: Go on a fishing trip. Day 7: Take a wildlife-spotting tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Kinlochbervie

Must-Try Dishes

When in Kinlochbervie, make sure to try the local delicacies such as Cullen Skink, smoked salmon, and fish and chips.

Local Beverages

There are many great breweries in Scotland, and Kinlochbervie is no exception. Make sure to try local brews like Deeside Brewery’s Macbeth’s or Cairngorm Brewery’s Wildcat.

Where to Stay in Kinlochbervie: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in and around Kinlochbervie, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels like Mackay’s Hotel and Restaurant. You can stay in budget-friendly options such as Scourie Hotel or aim for the luxurious Old School Lodge.

What to Buy in Kinlochbervie: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring back a piece of Kinlochbervie with you, make sure to grab local produce like smoked salmon, handmade chocolates, or locally brewed beer. You can visit local shops such as Kinlochbervie Tourist Information Centre and Lochinver Larder to pick up souvenirs or trinkets.

Local Culture and Customs of Kinlochbervie

The people of Kinlochbervie are proud of their fishing heritage and enjoy celebrating their traditions through various festivals and events. The Harvest Festival, which takes place in October, is a popular event where people come together to celebrate the end of the fishing season with food, music, and dancing.

Best Time to Visit Kinlochbervie

The best time to visit Kinlochbervie is during the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is pleasant and daylight lasts for a long time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kinlochbervie

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately according to the weather.
  • Carry cash as some establishments might not accept cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Ignore safety signs.
  • Trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kinlochbervie

Kinlochbervie is a safe place to visit, but you should still be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or camping. Always follow the safety guidelines provided by local authorities.

Health in Kinlochbervie

Kinlochbervie has a medical center, pharmacy, and a dentist, so you are covered in case of any emergency.

Getting to Kinlochbervie: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kinlochbervie

The nearest airport to Kinlochbervie is Inverness Airport, which is about 115 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Kinlochbervie

Durness is the nearest bus station to Kinlochbervie, which is about 16 miles away.

Other Options

Driving or cycling to Kinlochbervie is a popular option for those who love to explore scenic routes.

How to Get Around Kinlochbervie

The village is small enough to explore on foot, but you can also hire a bike or car to get around.

Where to Go Next from Kinlochbervie: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve got more time after exploring Kinlochbervie, you can also visit nearby places such as Durness, Thurso, John O’Groats, and Orkney.

Conclusion

Kinlochbervie may be a small village, but it is packed with delightful surprises. From the natural beauty of its surroundings to the rich cultural heritage, this village will enchant you with its charm. Plan your trip today, and experience the unique beauty of the Scottish Highlands in Kinlochbervie.

The Telford Church The Telford Church Fishing vessels offload at the harbour Fishing vessels offload at the harbour "The Shepherd" beyond Sandwood Bay Kylesku before they built the bridge Kylesku before they built the bridge