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Loch Torridon

Shieldaig, Annat, Torridon

Sightseeing, activities, local walks

Torridon Accommodation:
Hotels, B&Bs, Self Catering

map of Loch Torridon
Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service.
Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey
and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.

photo
Shieldaig village
Online Tour

One of the most scenic and attractively located villages in the area is Shieldaig. Opposite sits Shieldaig Island which is a bird sanctuary covered in Scots Pine (in the care of the National Trust for Scotland). In 1893, the minister of Shieldaig broke away from the established church along with the minister of Raasay to form the Free Presbyterian Church.

Shieldaig Shieldaig

A few miles outside the village you can visit Balgy Falls, a series of waterfalls on the River Balgy flowing from Loch Dampth. The road from Shieldaig (A896) follows the coast along the south shore of Upper Loch Torridon and drops down to the loch-side at Annat, before reaching a junction at Torridon village.

Here you can visit the Torridon Countryside Centre (National Trust for Scotland, phone 01445 791 221) which has information about local Highland wildlife. The rangers offer guided walks during the summer (see below). There is also the Deer Museum with a small display and an enclosure with Red Deer.

Torridon Liathach
Torridon & Liathach
Liathach
Liathach in winter
The main road continues through Glen Torridon with the mountains on either side towering above. You will pass below the towering ridges of Liathach and then the long ridge of Beinn Eighe will accompany you for the full length of the glen.

Much of this area is a National Nature Reserve. On the south side of the road the glen opens out with views over Loch Clair into the Coulin Estate. The road follows the river A' Ghairbhe down to Kinlochewe.

The driving time from Lochcarron to Torridon is 40 minutes (21 miles/34 km) if you go direct, or if you chose the scenic detour via Applecross, it will take you 1 hour 20 minutes (35 miles/56 km) - not counting time for photo stops and sightseeing of course!

Interesting Diversions

Diabaig 9 miles/15 km (20 minutes) from Torridon village
The road through Torridon village to Lower Diabaig is a narrow and twisting route well worth the effort, with stunning views all the way and ending up in the charming fishing village of Diabaig, with its sheltered harbour and salmon farm. The village was used as a filming location for the movie called 'Loch Ness' (released in 1995 and starring Ted Danson).

Place Names
Shieldaig (sheel-daiyg) Herring Bay (Norse)
Balgy (bal-gi) Bubbly stream (Gaelic)
Annat (ahn-aht) Mother Church (Gaelic)
Torridon (torid-on) Place of transference - possibly to Loch Maree (Gaelic)
Fasag (fahs-ahg) Dwelling (Gaelic)
Alligin (ahl-i-gin) Jewel or Pretty Woman (Gaelic)
Diabaig (jaiya-bek) Deep bay (Norse)

Local Services
Torridon
Telephone
Hostel (SYHA)
Petrol station / bar / restaurant / hotel / Inn
(all 2 miles from Torridon, opposite loch on south shore)
Shieldaig
Shops
Telephone & toilets
Hotel/bar
Craig
Hostel (SYHA) access by footpath only
(2 miles from Diabaig)

Walks
Here are just a few of the many interesting walks in the area.
Most are on good paths or tracks.
Map required: OS Landranger Series Sheet 24.

  • End of peninsula (Eilean à Chaoil) from Shieldaig
  • Coire Mhic Fhearchair from the main car park in Glen Torridon
  • Bealach na Lice from Annat (with possible continuation to Glen Carron)
  • Coire Mhic Nobuil from the car park on the road to Diabaig. You can return by the same route or continue to the main car park
  • Craig Youth Hostel from Diabaig. You can return by the same route or continue to Redpoint (transport may need to be organised)

Torridon Walks - route descriptions, photos and online maps
(courtesy of Walk Highlands)

The Torridon Ranger Service offers two different weekly guided walks in July and August (booking essential, phone 01445 791 221).

Activities

Wester Ross Activities guide book

Kenny Murray
Wester Ross Tours
2 Kielburn Crescent
Lochcarron
Ross-shire IV54 8YT
Tel: 01520 722711
Email: kenny68@btopenworld.com
Web site

Photo

Conducted tours of Wester Ross & Skye with local guide, in a comfortable modern vehicle. Numerous itineraries, personal attention, maximum of six people. Also available for private hire, airport and train transfers, and weddings. No smoking. Open all year.

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Jim Sutherland
Alltan
Shieldaig
Strathcarron
Ross-Shire IV54 8XN
Tel: +44(0)1520 755358
Mobile: 0776 1293097
Email: info@nineonesix.co.uk
Web site

Jim Sutherland is a member of the local Mountain Rescue team, with many years mountaineering and trekking experience in Scotland and other parts of the world. "I lead people on walks and scrambles in the stunning Torridon mountains, along with activities such as introductory rock climbing, low level and coastal walks, wild country camping or winter mountaineering. Based in Torridon, I can go to other areas. Contact me to arrange details."

photo

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Torridon Activities
Torridon
By Achnasheen
Ross-shire IV22 2EY
Tel: +44(0)1445 791242
Email: activity@lochtorridonhotel.com
Web site

The Torridon area is one of the U.K.’s premier areas for all outdoor activities. At Torridon Activities we can offer you the chance to experience everything from kayaking on Loch Torridon to climbing the famous Liathach. During all your activities your safety is our paramount concern. With the blending of fully qualified instructors and their unique knowledge of the area you are ensured that your day’s activities will be a time you will never forget.

Based in the heart of the Torridon mountains we can also offer a choice of accommodation at the luxury Loch Torridon Hotel (Winner of The Scottish Activities Hotel Award 2006) or more budget choice at the Ben Damph Lodge. This bringing together of high quality accommodation with professionally run activities offers you the chance to fully experience the Torridon area whilst still enjoying excellent hospitality. Torridon Activities has the ability of being able to offer activities on not only a daily basis but also as a package where we can offer multi activity days from the individual to large corporate groups.

Torridon Activities
kayaking rock climbing

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Shopping

Maciver Shellfish
Tigh a' Chracaich
Kenmore
By Shieldaig
Ross-shire IV54 8XH
Tel / Fax: 01520 755367
Email:
derrick@maciver-shellfish.co.uk
Fresh Local Shellfish: Fresh & Dressed Crab - Langoustine Prawns - Squat Lobster Tails - Lobster - Scallops - Traditional Smoked Salmon.
We also offer Bed & Breakfast with Evening Meals (seafood a speciality!)
Located on the Applecross coast road. See our web site.

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Hotels

Loch Torridon Country House Hotel
Torridon
by Achnasheen
Wester Ross IV22 2EY
Tel: 01445 791 242
Tel: 01445 791 296
Email: stay@lochtorridonhotel.com
Web site

The Loch Torridon Hotel is a former shooting lodge set amidst mature trees and parkland at the foot of majestic mountains on the shore of the loch. Luxury accommodation and fine dining is complimented by a range of activities including archery, mountain bikes and clay pigeon shooting offering some of the best facilities on the West coast of Scotland. Winner of The Scottish Activities Hotel Award 2006.

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Ben Damph Inn
Torridon
by Achnasheen
Wester Ross IV22 2EY
Tel: 01445 791 242
Tel: 01445 712 253
Email: bendamph@lochtorridonhotel.com

Set at the foot of the impressive Torridon mountains in the grounds of Loch Torridon Hotel. This former stable block has been converted to The Ben Damph Inn, similar to a travel inn style of accommodation, open from April until November
All 12 rooms, some sleeping up to 6 people, having been recently refurbished, have en-suite bath and shower, colour television and tea and coffee making facilities. The Ben Damph Bar & Bistro has an extensive menu using locally sourced products. During the summer months we have live music most weekends.
The Ben Damph is ideal for people touring the area and people looking for a base to explore the Torridon mountains or do other adventure activities. Families are also welcome with many child facilities provided. If interested in activities take a look at our activity centre www.torridon-activities.com.

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Guest houses / B&Bs

Ann Barton
Aurora Bed and Breakfast
Shieldaig
by Torridon
Strathcarron
Ross-shire IV54 8XN
Tel: +44 (0)1520 755246
Fax: +44 (0)1520 755285
Email: info@aurora-bedandbreakfast.co.uk
Web site

photo
View from guest's living room

Aurora is purpose built with large en-suite rooms. Scottish Tourist Board 4 Stars. Our aims are to:

  • Give you a great welcome.
  • Provide good quality, locally produced, home cooked food.
  • Help you make the most of your time here.
  • Give you restful nights on high quality, luxurious, large beds in spacious rooms.

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Peter & Gina Burt
'Ferroch'
Annat
Loch Torridon
Achnasheen
Wester Ross IV22 2EU
Tel: 01445 791451
Email: enquiries@ferroch.co.uk
Web site

Ferroch sits elevated on the side of a mountain giving spectacular views over beautiful Loch Torridon and its magnificent mountains. This former croft house has been lovingly restored and extended to a high standard, creating a home that is cosily domesticated and refreshingly uncomplicated. We have 3 ensuite bedrooms (double / twin). Scottish Tourist Board 4 Stars.

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Maciver Shellfish
Tigh a' Chracaich
Kenmore
By Shieldaig
Ross-shire IV54 8XH
Tel / Fax: 01520 755367
Email: fiona@lochtorridon.net
Bed & Breakfast with Evening Meals (seafood a speciality!)
Located on the Applecross coast road.
Visit our web site for more details.

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Self-catering / holiday homes to rent

Tigh na Mara
Shieldaig

Contact: Mrs Mary Barlow
51 Naze Lane
Freckleton
Preston
Lancashire, PR4 1RH
Tel: 01772 635016
Email: sugarbarlow@aol.com
Web site

Tigh na Mara at Shieldaig
Set in the picturesque village of Shieldaig overlooking the loch with panoramic views, this spacious house sleeps up to 7 people. Recently refurbished to a high standard. 4 bedrooms (2 double, 1 twin, 1 single). Kitchen with washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, microwave. Lounge/dining area with traditional open fire, TV, VCR, DVD, CD, books, games, etc. Telephone. Garage. An idyllic retreat surrounded by the Torridon mountains which is an excellent area for hill walking. Lochcarron 15 miles. Plockton 33 miles. Skye 40 miles. Loch Maree 20 miles. Gairloch 40 miles. Weekly lets available all year. Short breaks out of season (minimum 3 nights). See web site for more details.

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Annat Lodge
Torridon

Contact: Roddy and Debbie Morrison
Tel: 0131 447 5276
Email: info@annatlodge.co.uk
Web site

photo
Annat Lodge is a self catering detached cottage (sleeps 6) recently upgraded to a high standard and set in secure private grounds. Situated at the head of Upper Loch Torridon, it commands wonderful views over the water to Beinn Alligin and Liathach. Full details on web site.

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Duncan's House

Contact: Elizabeth & John Lumb
21 Diabaig
by Achnasheen
Wester Ross IV22 2HE
Tel: 01445 790226
Email: elizabethlumb@aol.com

Duncan's House
Recently refurbished, sleeps 5. Duvets with linen supplied. Conservatory with spectacular views. Newly fitted dining kitchen with washer, microwave, dishwasher, fridge freezer, tumble dryer. VCR. Log burning stove in sitting room - free logs. Bathroom with overhead shower, towels provided. Electric Heating / double glazed. Secure garden with barbecue area. Shop, 9 miles away, but mobile shop calls on Tuesdays.

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Camusaluinn Self Catering Holidays
Camusaluinn
Annat
Torridon
Ross-shire IV22 2EU
Web site

Contact: James Mould
Tel/Fax: 01520 722992
Email: James.Mould@btinternet.com

Camusaluinn is a fully modernised traditional Highland stone cottage with 2 bedrooms providing comfortable self catering holiday accommodation for up to 4 people. It is situated in a magnificent waterside position in Annat, Torridon, Wester Ross in the NW Highlands of Scotland.

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Please note that we cannot make bookings for you with individual establishments - you need to contact the owners direct via the contact details given on the relevant entry.

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Last update: March 2008