Applecross

Applecross is located on the West Coast of Scotland and being steeped in history is a truly special place.

The Gaelic name for the area of Applecross is “a Chomraich” which means “The Sanctuary”. You will understand, immediately you arrive, why it was given this name, as it is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful and remote wilderness areas on the west coast of Scotland, lying between the Scottish mainland mountain masses and the Isle of Skye.

The perfect spot for the more energetic and adventurous of you to pursue the outdoor life - including walking, cycling, sea kayaking, climbing and fishing - both sea and loch. And for those of you who wish to enjoy a quieter pace of life to unwind by reading, painting or bird watching. 'Tigh-A-Chreagan' is particularly well located for any of these activities. The Peninsula is located on the west coast of Wester Ross, directly opposite Raasay, Rona and Skye. Access is by the Bealach nam Ba, or by the coast road from Shieldaig. The Bealach nam Ba (the pass of the cattle) is an old drove road used in past times to take cattle to the market. The coast road was completed in 1975, and prior to this, the coastal townships were only accessible by foot path or by sea. The Bealach nam Ba is the highest pass in Scotland at 626m (2053 feet ) above sea level. The views of the Applecross hills, the Cuillins of Skye and the bay are spectacular. The coast road offers an alternative route and provides panoramic views over the Torridon Mountains and Loch Torridon. Irrespective of which route is taken, the visitor never fails to be impressed by the beauty and grandeur of this rugged coastline. Everywhere on the Peninsula, the slower pace of life of the Western Highlands is evident.

Applecross was, and still remains, one of the most remote areas of Scotland.

Applecross was one of the earliest Christian settlements in Scotland, second only to Iona. In the year 673 ad the Irish Monk Maelrubha founded this Christian settlement on the land between the river and Beinn A'Chlachain. He declared the surrounding area a Sanctuary, and even today, Applecross is known as A'Chomraich - the Sanctuary. For fifty nine years, Maelrubha established his monastery and, using Applecross as his base, spread the gospel from Applecross to Lochcarron and into Easter Ross. Unfortunately, nearly every trace of Maelrubha's settlement in Applecross has long disappeared. On the site, now stands Clachan Church.

Toscaig is ideally located for walks to the remote hamlets such as 'Uags', 'Airigh-drishaig', 'Coillegillie' and 'Ardban'.

Eating out in Applecross

Eating out in Applecross is a delight.

The Applecross Inn is very welcoming and is a constant recipient of prestigious awards, winning "Seafood Pub Of The Year" and "Gastro Pub Chef" in 2005, “Scottish Pub of the Year" in 2007 and "Scottish Dining Pub of the Year" in 2008. We can highly recommend the cuisine at the Inn, not least their famous haddock and chips. The menu specialises in locally caught seafood but is varied enough to have something for everyone.

The Potting Shed (within the walled garden of Applecross House) is increasing in popularity and serves superb baking and lunches during the day. In the evening it provides a good variety of high quality produce, some grown locally or in their own walled garden. The Potting Shed is a licensed premises.

The Flower Tunnel restuarant is situated next to the Applecross campsite and offers a wide selection of snacks, meals and home baking.