Gairloch & Beyond: Heart of the Wester Ross Highlands
Nestled on the edge of the Gairloch sea loch, The Old Inn offers more than just a place to rest; it is a gateway to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United Kingdom. Here in Wester Ross, the air is purer, the pace is slower, and the welcome is warmer.
Whether you are seeking NC500 accommodation with a soul or a base to conquer the Torridon Mountains, our historic Highland inn provides authentic Highland hospitality for every traveller. We extend a particularly warm invitation to our friends from across the UK and beyond to discover a corner of Scotland where peace and tranquillity are not just promised, but guaranteed. Our staff are knowledgeable about the area and are happy to make recommendations to help our guests make the most of their stay in our beautiful part of the world.
A Landscape Steeped in History
In Gairloch, the past is woven into the very fabric of the hills. From the Iron Age fort of An Dùn overlooking Gairloch Beach to the ruins of Bronze Age roundhouses, history is written in the stone of the landscape.
- Clan Heritage: Explore Flowerdale Glen, the ancestral seat of the Clan Mackenzie.
- Local Lore: Visit the award-winning Gairloch Museum, housed in a repurposed nuclear bunker, to uncover the social and natural history of the area.
- Wartime Secrets: A short drive away at Loch Ewe, the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum tells the gripping story of the “deadliest journey in the world” during WWII.
- Living Traditions: Experience our fishing heritage first-hand with a Shellfish Safari from Badachro, where you can haul creels on a traditional working boat.
Marine Wildlife & Natural Wonders
Gairloch and The Minch are world-renowned for their biodiversity. Our waters are a playground for marine wildlife, including Minke Whales, Dolphins, Basking Sharks, and the elusive White-tailed Eagle. Inland, the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve and Loch Maree offer a sanctuary for Pine Martens, Red Deer, and rare birds like the Black-throated Diver.
Step out of our front door and stroll to the harbour, where several expert-led tours await:
- Hebridean Whale Cruises & Gairloch Marine Life Centre for unforgettable encounters.
- Gairloch Glass Bottomed Boat to see the many wonders below the waves.
- Glendale Self Drive Boats for a more personal coastal exploration.
Adventure & The Great Outdoors
From the gentle woodland paths of Flowerdale to the jagged peaks of the Torridon Mountains, this is a mountaineer’s dream. We offer a selection of Self-Guided Walks to help you find your feet.
For those seeking a professional guide or a shot of adrenaline:
- Mountaineering: Tackle the Great Wilderness with Climb Torridon or Go Further Scotland.
- On the Water: Kayak the crystal-clear coast with Ewe Canoe or The Gairloch Kayak Centre.
- Biking, Archery, Coasting, Paddleboarding and more: Hire gear or take a tour with Climb Ride Explore.
- Beach Riding: Experience the magic of the sands with Gairloch Trekking Centre.
Local Gems & Pristine Beaches
Gairloch boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the UK. The golden sands of Big Sands, Gairloch Beach, and the remote, red-tinted dunes of Red Point are perfect for wild swimming, photography, or simply letting the dog run free.
We also have an excellent variety of visitor attractions – don’t miss these nearby treasures:
- Inverewe Garden: A lush, sub-tropical paradise sustained by the North Atlantic Drift.
- Pool House: A quirky, historic home full of tales from the 18th century.
- Gairloch Golf Club: A 9-hole course with views so beautiful they might just distract you from your game.
A Quiet Alternative to Skye
If you love the rugged beauty of the islands but crave peace and tranquillity, Gairloch is your perfect match. Offering a similar tapestry of mountains, sea lochs, and ancient history, we remain a sanctuary for those who prefer the sound of the waves over the sound of the crowds. It’s the secret the locals keep—all the grandeur of the West Coast, with plenty of room to breathe.
Village Amenities
Despite our remote feel, Gairloch is a well-equipped hub. Within the village, you will find:
- Essentials: A pharmacy, doctor’s surgery, and local shops including a Co-op and the wonderful Shop at the Pier.
- Leisure: A local leisure centre with a climbing wall, and a swimming pool just a short drive away in Poolewe.
- Dining: Beyond our own fantastic menu, there are many charming local cafes to discover and enjoy.
Exploring Further Afield
While you could easily spend a week without leaving the village, we are perfectly positioned for day trips across the region:
See below for distance and journey times to popular excursions.
| Destination | Distance | Approx. Drive Time |
| Achnasheen | 30 miles | 35 minutes |
| Lochcarron | 52 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Ullapool | 57 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Inverness | 71 miles | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Kyle of Lochalsh | 100 miles | 2 hour 30 minutes |
| Portree (Skye) | 130 miles | 3 hour 30 minutes |