A multi-phase Iron Age broch, trails through an ancient hazelwood and a protected area overlooking Loch Kishorn give Applecross its many facets. If you are looking for accommodation here, you can first consider whether local history, mountain scenery, coastal activities or cycling will shape your stay. There are two road connections for getting here: the winding coastal road from Shieldaig and the Bealach na BĂ pass.
Beinn Bhan and the landscape
The Beinn Bhan SSSI protected area lies in the south of the Applecross Peninsula and overlooks Loch Kishorn. Beinn Bhan is a mountain of Torridonian sandstone. Its landscape includes high cliffs, deep corries and upland plant communities. The mountain road over the Bealach na BĂ and an access track to the communications mast provide access to the summit of Beinn Bhan. Mountain conditions can change; check them locally if you are planning a trip there.
On the coast lies Ard Ban, a white “coral beach”. Its sand is made up of calcareous remains of several species of red algae. Alongside the mountain landscape, this natural area reveals two markedly different sides of the peninsula: coast and sandy beach on one side, sandstone, corries and upland vegetation on the other.
Trails and historic traces
The waymarked Archaeological Trail is 1.8 km long. It runs through an ancient hazelwood and connects the farm area with Milltown. The 550 m River Walk follows a woodland path to the Walled Garden. The lengths clearly distinguish the two trails; their destinations also offer different focuses for a walk. The River Walk ends at Applecross Walled Garden, which covers 1.25 acres and includes an orchard, raised vegetable beds and a herb garden.
The Keppoch Track descends from Bealach Road, passing historic features: a disused lime kiln and an old ice house. Check local conditions before setting out on the trails in the area.
Culture and local history
Applecross Heritage Centre is a local museum and research centre run by volunteers from the Applecross Historical Society. The present-day Clachan Church was built in 1817 on the site of an earlier parish church. It provides space for weddings, musical events and exhibitions. Applecross’s local history thus centres on both archaeological traces and a church used for a range of events.
Applecross Broch is a multi-phase Iron Age broch. It was investigated by Time Team and as part of a community archaeology project. The investigations confirmed its interpretation as a ground-level broch with a gallery, extending over at least two storeys. These structural features give the find a specific archaeological focus, without requiring you to assume a particular use or accessibility.
Coast and cycling
Sea canoeing and kayaking are possible along the Applecross coast, with numerous launch and landing spots. For cycling, roads, trails and open spaces offer a range of options, from family cycling and touring to mountain biking. Check the conditions on individual routes locally before finalising your plans.
The two road connections are another practical consideration when travelling here. Applecross’s landscape, history and trails can help you assess it as a destination before choosing accommodation.
Discover more destinations: Ardgay, Teangue, Insh, Fearn, Torridon, Cononbridge, Polloch, Mallaig.
For the main travel overview: Highland.
