Discover the Wild Heart of the Highlands: Walking at The Old Inn
Gairloch is more than just a destination; it is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the British Isles. For those seeking walking holidays that combine rugged adventure with serene beauty, our corner of the North West Highlands is quite simply a walker’s paradise.
The Old Inn offers a warm, traditional welcome for hikers of every kind. You may be joining us as a stop on your NC500 tour. Alternatively, you might need a dedicated base for exploration. We pride ourselves on being an excellent choice of hotels in Gairloch for those who want the wilderness by day and authentic Highland hospitality by night.
Trails for Every Journey
From our doorstep, the variety of terrain is staggering. We understand that a perfect walk is different for everyone, and our local landscape provides for all:
- Coastal & Low-Level Wanders: For a gentle afternoon, wander through ancient Caledonian pine forests or follow winding coastal paths where the salt air off The Minch is as fresh as it gets. These circular routes are perfect for families or those seeking a peaceful stroll before returning for a taste of the Highlands in our dining room, featuring fresh local seafood and game.
- The Majesty of the Mountains: For those drawn to the heights, we are a short, scenic drive from the giants of Torridon. From the celebrated Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail—within the UK’s first National Nature Reserve—to the legendary, technical ridges of Liathach and An Teallach, the challenges are as rewarding as the views.
A Tranquility Rarely Found
One of the greatest luxuries of Gairloch is the silence. Popular lowland trails in the Lake District or Skye can often feel crowded. In contrast, our paths remain blissfully quiet. Here, you can truly “get away from it all.” This allows you to find a level of peace and solitude that is rare elsewhere in the UK. Therefore, we invite our friends visiting from the south to trade the crowds for our open horizons. Consequently, you will find a slower, more soulful pace of life.
Dark Skies and Dancing Lights
When the sun sets over The Minch, the adventure continues. Our remote location and lack of light pollution make Gairloch an incredible spot for stargazing. For some of our guests, a five minute evening walk to Gairloch beach offers the chance of a lifetime: witnessing the Northern Lights. We are frequently blessed with displays of the Aurora Borealis, and there is nothing quite like the experience of standing under a shimmering green sky in the crisp Highland air before returning to the warmth of our bar.
A Landscape of Wonders
Loch Maree curtesy of Ed Duncan Photography
Every step in Wester Ross tells a story:
- Wildlife & Nature: The quiet nature of our trails means you are far more likely to encounter our local residents, from golden eagles soaring above to red deer on the slopes.
- Deep Time & Geology: Walk upon the Torridonian Sandstone and Lewisian Gneiss—some of the oldest rocks on the planet, dating back 1.5 billion years. The landscape is a living museum of Earth’s history.
- Ancient Heritage: History enthusiasts can step back in time on the archaeological trails, exploring the mysterious remains of Iron Age roundhouses that dot the coastline.
Your Basecamp: The Walking Wall
We aim to be the ideal NC500 accommodation for outdoor enthusiasts. To help you navigate our wilderness, we have created the “Walking Wall”. This carefully curated resource was born from our own love for this area.
Our team has hand-picked 30 spectacular routes, nearly all within a short drive of the Inn. We also provide complimentary OS maplets for our guests to take away, ensuring you can explore with confidence.
Warmth for Weary Feet
We know that the best part of a long day on the hills is the homecoming. At The Old Inn, we are fully equipped for the Scottish elements, offering drying facilities for your boots and gear.
Once you are settled, satisfy your hiker’s appetite with our celebration of local produce. We take great pride in serving the very best of our local larder—from Gairloch-landed langoustines to West Coast mussels and Highland venison. There is no better feeling than sharing stories of your day’s adventure, with a plate of wonderful local food and a well-earned local ale or a dram of malt whisky.