Everything You Need To Know
About Achmelvich
Explore this little corner of paradise...
One of Scotland’s best kept secrets lies off the West Coast down a single country road sheltered by hill tops and stone cliff faces. Achmelvich, traditionally a spot of legend amongst backpackers, has grown a well-deserved reputation as a North Coast 500 ‘must see’. Glorious white sandy beaches verging on the tropical coupled with a range of activities both in the water or up the hills have rightfully stapled Achmelvich as one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the country.
Achmelvich Beach
The largest draw for travellers is the esteemed shoreline of Achmelvich Beach with its translucent sea at a cove’s edge of brilliant white sands. Perfectly placed for water sports due to the dome-like rockfaces that surround it, the beach is frequented by waterskiers, kayakers, surfers and swimmers. The seashore is a hotspot for fishing as the bay draws shoals in with the tide. Sightings of ocean wildlife are commonplace with reports of porpoises, dolphins and the odd minke whale frequenting the area.
Hermit's Castle
Widely regarded as the smallest castle in Europe, Hermit’s Castle was constructed in the 1950’s. Tale has it the English architect who built it left the finished building after only spending a couple of nights never to return. A stunning location blends the castle walls into the rocks of seafront. With an air of mystery to the vision behind the building, its intrigue continues to captivate travellers the world over.
Suilven
One of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. Suilven may appear daunting to the novice climber towering in at 731m high with two formidable looking peaks at the pointed ‘spire of Meall Meadhonach’ and spiky rock-faced summit at Caisteal Liath. However, approaching from the North the ascent follows a long gradual ridge rather than the scarily steep climb it seems. If you have a day spare the 15-mile trek weaves through wild lochs and moorland opening up to breath-taking views, cementing its status as one of the best hill walks in the UK.
Loch Assynt & Ardvreck Castle
The dramatic ruins of Ardvreck Castle poignantly impose over the east side of Loch Assynt against one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes within the region. Easily accessible with a leisurely walk from Inchnadamph, Ardvreck remains one of the most distinguished examples of 16th century architecture in Scotland.
The Bone Caves of Inchnadamph
Around a 30-minute drive to Assynt from our pods and an easy 2.5 mile hike up Creag nan Uamh (Crag of the Caves) lie the infamous Bone Caves of Inchnadamph. The mythical surroundings and spectacular views from the secluded glen’s edge are a must see for travellers of the North Coast 500. Named after the remarkable amount of animal bones found during excavations – including polar bear, lynx, wolf and even some prehistoric human remains – the story behind the four caves is shrouded in mystery and a popular crowd draw in the region.
