Welcome to the Applecross Peninsula
This web site provides comprehensive information about Applecross, a beautiful and tranquil peninsula resting on the rugged coast of Wester Ross in the Scottish Highlands. Here you will find details of the history of the peninsula, view some of the spectacular scenery in the area and find information about accommodation and places to visit.
Location and access
The Peninsula is located on the west coast of Wester Ross, directly opposite Raasay, Rona and Skye.
Access is by the Bealach nam Bo, or by the coast road from Shieldaig. The Bealach nam Bo (the pass
of the cattle) is an old drove road used in past times to take cattle to the market. The coast road was
completed in 1975, and prior to this, the coastal townships were only accessible by footpath or by sea.
The
Bealach nam Bo is the highest pass in Scotland at 626m (2053 feet) above sea level. The road
incorporates a number of hairpin bends and is unsuitable for learner drivers, caravans or those of a nervous
disposition. However, the views of the Applecross hills, the Cuillins of Skye and the bay are
spectacular. The coast road offers an alternative route for those uncertain of the Bealach, and provides
panoramic views over the Torridon Mountains and Loch Torridon. Irrespective of which route is taken, the
visitor never fails to be impressed by the beauty and grandeur of this rugged coastline.
Picturesque
villages and remote crofting townships are scattered along the coast and friendly locals are always willing to
give advice and assistance to visitors to the area. Everywhere on the Peninsula, the slower pace of life
of the Western Highlands is evident.
Activities and wildlife
For those wishing more than the tranquillity of this beautiful and remote area, the Peninsula offers a wide
variety of activities which include
walking, climbing, cycling, sailing, fishing and kayaking. The offshore waters
visited by the Gulf Stream make these latter activities even more appealing.
Wildlife abounds and
includes red deer, pine martens (one of the rarest British mammals) and otters. Seals can be seen basking on
the shore and there is a huge variety of sea-birds, including eider and mergansers. Porpoises, and
occasionally whales, can be seen in the Inner Sound.
Accommodation, eating out and shopping
There are
self catering and bed & breakfast establishments between Shieldaig and Toscaig,
and the Applecross Inn provides accommodation. There is also a campsite and hostel.
The Inn
provides excellent local cuisine, as does the Potting Shed Restaurant in the colourful Walled Garden of
Applecross House.
Locally produced goods and crafts are available at locations along the coast, and
Applecross General Store & Post Office, situated in Camusteel, provides a range of groceries, wines,
spirits, general goods and souvenirs.