Gairloch Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs of Gairloch, Scotland. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Gairloch, a beautiful coastal village located in the Ross and Cromarty region of Scottish Highlands, Scotland, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking natural wonders, rich history, outdoor adventures, and a warm and welcoming local community. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Gairloch.

Introduction to Gairloch

Gairloch is a picturesque village situated on the north-west coast of Scotland. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world, thanks to its stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and wildlife. The village is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Gairloch

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Gairloch Museum - This local museum displays interesting exhibitions about the village’s rich history and culture.

  2. Poolewe Museum - Located in the nearby village of Poolewe, this museum showcases the history of the local area and its people.

  3. Inverewe Garden - The stunning gardens, affectionately known as the “Jewel of Wester Ross,” were founded in 1862 and boast beautiful plants and serene landscapes.

Natural Attractions of Gairloch: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Red Point Beach - This Scottish Coastal Path leads to a beautiful and remote beach perfect for picnics and relaxation.

  2. Badachro Bay - A picturesque bay that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.

  3. Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve - This reserve is home to rare plants, birds, and animals and offers scenic trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gairloch

Gairloch and its surrounding area offer some of the most stunning hiking and biking routes in the UK. Some of the most popular routes include:

  1. The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve - offers a wide variety of hiking and biking trails that suit all levels of fitness.

  2. The Gairloch Circuit - This route is perfect for experienced hikers who want a challenge. It offers breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands that are worth the effort.

  3. The Torridon Range - This range offers trails that lead hikers to stunning peaks with beautiful views of the rugged coastline.

Best Things to Do in Gairloch: Activities and Tours

  1. Loch Maree - Evening cruises on Loch Maree, one of the UK’s most beautiful freshwater lakes, offer visitors the chance to take in the surrounding beauty and to spot wildlife that calls the lake home.

  2. Gairloch Golf Club - For golf enthusiasts visiting Gairloch, a round at the golf club is a must. The course has been cleverly designed to blend into the surrounding landscape, making for a unique and memorable round of golf.

  3. Sea Kayaking - Sea kayaking tours are a great way to experience Gairloch’s rugged coastline and take in the stunning views of nearby mountains, beaches, and hidden caves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gairloch

Day 1: Visit the Gairloch Museum, then take a walk along Big Sand Beach.

Day 2: Explore The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, then go sea kayaking in the afternoon.

Day 3: Take a scenic day trip to the Isle of Skye.

Day 4: Hike the Gairloch Circuit, then enjoy a round of golf at Gairloch Golf Club.

Day 5: Take an evening cruise on Loch Maree.

Day 6: Visit Poolewe Museum in the morning, explore the Inverewe Garden in the afternoon.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenic views around Badachro Bay.

Food and Drink Scene of Gairloch

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Haggis - A traditional Scottish dish made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with spices, onions, and oatmeal.

  2. Cullen Skink - A creamy and flavorful local soup made with smoked haddock, potato, and onion.

  3. Arbroath Smokies - A smoked haddock dish that originated in the coastal town of Arbroath.

Local Beverages

  1. Whisky - Scotland is famous for its whisky, and Gairloch is no exception, with a variety of locally distilled whiskey available for tasting.

  2. Real Ale - Microbreweries throughout Scotland offer locally brewed beers, and Gairloch has its choice of real ale pubs and taprooms that showcase the region’s best drinks.

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

  1. Shieldaig Lodge - Located on the north shore of Loch Gairloch, this hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  2. The Old Inn - This charming inn has an excellent restaurant that serves up the best of local seafood fare.

  3. Gairloch Sands Youth Hostel - This hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation for travelers who want to experience Gairloch on a shoestring.

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

  1. Woolen goods - Scottish woolen products such as sweaters, scarves, and blankets make excellent souvenirs.

  2. Whisky - Bring home a bottle of local whisky as a reminder of your trip to Scotland.

  3. Handmade crafts - Artisanal crafts and handmade goods showcase the local talent, and make for unique and memorable souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Gairloch

Visitors to Gairloch will experience a friendly, welcoming community with a rich history and unique traditions. Be sure to respect local customs, and take the time to learn about the cultural heritage of the area.

Best Time to Visit Gairloch

The best time to visit Gairloch is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the landscape is in full bloom. However, visitors can enjoy Gairloch’s natural beauty year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gairloch

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.

  2. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.

  3. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions.

Don’t:

  1. Leave trash behind in natural areas.

  2. Underestimate the rugged terrain and weather conditions.

  3. Trespass on private property without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gairloch

Gairloch is a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions when hiking or participating in outdoor activities. Always stay on marked trails, bring appropriate gear and equipment, and be aware of weather conditions.

Health in Gairloch

Visitors to Gairloch should bring any necessary medications and check for any vaccinations required before traveling to Scotland.

Getting to Gairloch: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gairloch

Inverness Airport is the nearest airport to Gairloch, which is around a two-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Gairloch

Regular bus services operate from Inverness to Gairloch.

Other Options

Travelers can rent a car or take a taxi from Inverness to Gairloch.

How to Get Around in Gairloch

Gairloch is a small village, and visitors can easily get around on foot or bike. Taxis and local buses are also available for visitors who need to travel further distances.

Where to Go Next from Gairloch: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. The Isle of Skye - A beautiful island with stunning landscapes, rich history, and local culture.

  2. Applecross Peninsula - A rugged and remote peninsula with awe-inspiring views and abundant wildlife.

  3. Wester Ross - An unspoiled and wild region with some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes.

Conclusion

Gairloch is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors the chance to experience the rugged beauty of Scotland, rich history and culture, and warm community spirit. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Gairloch, one that you will remember forever.

Inverewe Garden Inverewe Garden