The best walks and hikes around Applecross

Yes, the area offers several easier trails suitable for families. A great option is the View of Applecross Bay – Applecross Walled Garden loop from Applecross, which is a relatively short walk of about 6 km. It provides lovely views and leads past the beautifully restored Victorian walled garden, which can be a fun stop for all ages.

Dogs are welcome on most trails in the Scottish Highlands, but it's essential to keep them under control, especially near livestock which is common in the Applecross area. After your walk, you can visit the Applecross Inn, which is known to be dog-friendly.

The Applecross peninsula is perfect for coastal loops. For a moderate hike that combines shoreline scenery with a look at the local village, the Applecross Coast & Village loop is an excellent choice. It's an 11 km circuit that gives you a great feel for the area's rugged coastline.

Absolutely. For a demanding day out, the Loch Kishorn & Sgùrr a' Chaorachain loop is a difficult 22.7 km trail with significant elevation gain. It takes you into the mountainous interior and rewards you with spectacular panoramic views.

Getting to Applecross is an adventure. You can take the scenic coastal road from Shieldaig or the famous Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle), a steep, winding single-track road with alpine-like hairpins. Parking can be found in the main village of Applecross, but spaces are limited, especially during peak season. It's best to arrive early to secure a spot before your hike.

Applecross is rich in wildlife. Along the coast, keep an eye out for seals and otters. In the hills and forests, you might spot red deer and elusive pine martens. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers, with chances to see golden eagles and white-tailed sea eagles soaring above.

Yes, you can hike to Uags Bothy, a remote shelter on the coast. The Uags Bothy loop from Plockton is a moderate 8 km trail that takes you to this secluded spot, offering a true sense of the wildness of the peninsula.

The trails around Applecross are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning combination of rugged mountain scenery and dramatic coastal views, as well as the profound sense of remoteness and wildness the area offers.

For a gentle walk with a beautiful destination, consider the Coral Beach, Polnicol – Camusdarach Beach loop from Plockton. This easy route takes you to the unique coral sands at Sand, which are perfect for exploring.

The landscape is defined by its dramatic geology. The mountains are primarily Torridonian sandstone, carved by glaciers to create U-shaped glens and sharp corries. This ancient, rugged terrain, combined with the wild coastline, gives Applecross its raw, natural character.

While the Applecross peninsula is known more for its coastal and mountain scenery, many of the burns and rivers that flow from the hills feature small cascades, especially after heavy rain. The ascent of Beinn Bhan, for example, offers views of Lochan na Poite and its outflowing streams.

There is a great network of trails to explore, with over 25 hiking routes available on komoot. These range from easy coastal strolls to difficult mountain ascents, offering options for all fitness and experience levels.