Inverness: Applecross, Loch Carron & the Wild Highlands

Enjoy a day exploring the scenic beauty of the Northern Highlands and travel to one of the most remote spots in Scotland; Applecross. As you journey along the southern stretch of the North Coast 500 - enjoy spectacular scenery, see a range of wildlife and experience the breath-taking Applecross Peninsula on your one-day tour from Inverness.

1. 1

   North Coast 500

   30 min

   We depart early in the morning and begin our day tour from Inverness to Applecross using the lower part of the North Coast 500 route, crossing the beautifully scenic Black Isle before stopping in the village of Lochcarron. Enjoy the views across Loch Carron and perhaps pick up a bite to eat, before we continue on to Achintraid. The small village enjoys views over Loch Kishorn and a magnificient mountain range on the opposite shore.

2. 2

   Bealach na Ba Road

   15 min

   We then continue our journey, climbing upwards through dramatic landscape over the Bealach na Ba (Gaelic for Pass of the Cattle) which is also known as the Applecross Pass. The road is the third highest in Britain at over 2000 feet; we’ll pause for photos at the summit, so have your camera ready for those jaw-dropping views across Raasay and the Isle of Skye!

3. 3

   Applecross

   1.5 hours

   We then begin our descent to Applecross. Located on a beautiful bay, Applecross is full of natural wildlife, perfect for nature lovers! You may see otters, red kites, deer and perhaps pine martens! We’ll stop here for plenty of time to explore Applecross Village.

4. 4

   Shieldaig

   30 min

   We then leave Applecross and begin our return journey to Inverness, with a relaxing drive along the banks of Loch Torridon, and through the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. This nature reserve is one of the oldest in Britain and is home to plenty of wildlife; you may even spot a golden eagle! Travelling on, our Applecross tour will make brief stops at the villages of Shieldaig and Kinlochewe on our way back to Inverness. Shieldaig is a small fishing village founded in 1800 and takes its name from the Viking word síld-vík which means “Herring Bay”.

5. 5

   Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve

   15 min

   We pause here to admire the scenery and get some refreshments before moving along Loch Torridon and on to Kinlochewe. From here, we leave the NC500 route and head homeward bound to Inverness, where our Applecross tour ends.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Minimum age is 4 years old.
• Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.