Lochinver makes the perfect base for walkers to stay when summiting Suilven

Lochinver is Ullapool’s smaller, northerly neighbour and is equally full of character. The fishing town is full of excellent eateries, whether you’re looking for a delicious pie to take out on the hills or sample some of the seafood landed almost on the doorstep of the restaurants. It makes a great base for walking one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains.

Lochinver’s eateries are second to none – for such a small town, it really is overflowing with choices! Seafood is served the same day as it was landed in several of the restaurants in the town. The Lochinver Larder’s pies are legendary, and an ideal hill snack if you’re climbing one of the area’s may mountains. There is also a well-stocked local shop, and a Tesco under an hour south in Ullapool.

Achmelvich and Clachtoll beach campsites are just 4 and 6 miles to the north, although take care and be prepared for the twisting, single track roads to get there – it will feel much longer than that! They are well worth the journey though, as their sheltered white sand beaches are popular swimming spots in summer. Beyond these, the Old Man of Stoer seastack is popular with climbers – and those who just want to walk the coastal path and admire it!

Lochinver’s main draw for hillwalkers is the access to Suilven, one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. Approaching from the west, the hill’s unique pillar shape – the name Suilven even means ‘pillar’ in Norse – stands out against the skyline. This isn’t a walk for the faint hearted, as a 5-mile walk along a track is followed by a short (731m) but steep hike up the side of the mountain. Once you’re down, the work isn’t over – the 5 mile walk out is perhaps the hardest part of the day! Fortunately the estate provide a chest freezer stocked with ice creams and an honesty pot near the end of the walk. You’ll never be so glad of a sweet treat in your life!

As Ullapool’s quieter but equally delightful cousin, Lochinver is well worth a visit – whether you’re there to enjoy delicious local food, summit Suilven or bathe at the beach. All surrounded by spectacularly wild Highland scenery!