Applecross Explorer Day Tour from Inverness

This tour starts from Inverness and, as we head out of the town towards the Black Isle, there is always a good chance of seeing Red Kites flying overhead. As the journey progresses we also often see Osprey too. The road passes a number of picturesque Highland villages before heading into the wilderness of Strathcarron where we pass wide open moorland, magnificent lochs, ancient Caledonian Pine forests and stunning mountains.

Our first stop is usually in the coastal village of Lochcarron – undoubtedly one of the gems of the North West Highlands, with some beautiful sea views. For art lovers out there, there are a whole host of tiny art galleries dotted around here, which are well worth a browse when you are in the area.

As we continue our journey, we descend to Loch Kishorn before heading to one of the day’s highlights; the famous, twisting, mountain track road of the Bealach na Ba. This mountain pass boasts the greatest ascent of any road in Britain as it rises from sea level to 626 metres in just a few miles of hairpin bends, switching back and forth up the hillside with gradients that approach 20%.

One of the highlights of this tour is a visit to the red sandy beach at Sands which, at low tide, extends an incredibly long way down to the beautifully blue waters of the Inner Sound of Raasay. The views over to Raasay and Skye from here are second to none. Along the way we can also see other islands including Rona.

The red roofed cottage on the banks of Loch Shieldaig makes for a great stop. After that it’s onto the Shieldaig itself, one of the prettiest villages in the Scottish Highlands. The close-by Shieldaig Island is home to a pair of sea eagles – if you are lucky you may get to see one up close. There is also a chance to pick-up some freshly smoked salmon (including speciality hot smoked salmon) from the Torridon smokehouse; simply delicious.

Our journey back to Inverness takes us through Glen Torridon, once home to some of the most infamous whisky smugglers in Scotland. The Torridon mountains are also home to two of Britain’s most iconic peaks – Liathach and Beinn Eighe – as well some as some remnants of the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest.

Our final stop of the day is at the absolutely spectacular Glen Docherty view point. Undoubtedly one of the Highlands best roadside views, which is quite a feat considering how many amazing views there are in the region!