The Top 5 Things To Do In Applecross

Planning a trip to Applecross? Make sure you include the things on this list! Applecross is a remote peninsula in Wester Ross, facing across to the Isle of Skye & Raasay. The area around Applecross is believed to be one of the earliest settled parts of Scotland, and the name Applecross is at least 3,100 years old, known in Gaelic as A'Chomraich – 'The Sanctuary'. Keep reading for the top 5 things to do in Applecross!

Things To Do In Applecross

1. Drive the Bealach na Bà

A visit to Applecross is not complete without driving the famous Bealach na Bà. This mountain pass, known as the "Pass of the Cattle," is one of the highest and most challenging roads in the UK. The road climbs to 626 meters (2,054 feet) above sea level, featuring tight hairpin bends and breathtaking views. As you drive up, you'll see panoramic scenes of the Inner Hebrides and the surrounding mountains. Drive carefully and enjoy the journey—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

A photo of the Bealach na Ba road leading to Applecross at sunrise

If you want to see what the drive looks like before you go, we've got a short film that shares the route via drone! This will give you a true feel for the views, single-track roads, and hopefully get you excited for a wonderful drive.

2. Enjoy local food at The Walled Garden or Applecross Inn

After the drive, relax with a visit to The Walled Garden. This restored Victorian garden near Applecross House is filled with colorful flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Walk through the peaceful pathways and enjoy the beauty of the garden. The food is served garden, sea, and land to-table - as local as it gets!

The Applecross Inn is also a must-visit. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious local food, the inn offers a true taste of Scotland. Enjoy fresh seafood like langoustines, mussels, and scallops, or try dishes made with Highland beef and venison. Pair your meal with a local ale or a dram of whisky for an authentic experience. You can also sit outside with fish & chips or a locally-made icecream from the Inn Side Out.

A photo of the Applecross Inn, which looks over to the Isle of Skye

3. Enjoy A Trip To The Beach

As a coastal Highland village, it's no surprise that Applecross is home to some incredible beaches. We always recommend a trip to Sand beach, located 15 minutes around the coast. You can enjoy a walk to Sand over the tops from Applecross, with stunning views the whole way of Applecross and over to Skye.

We also have two coral beaches, located between Culduie & Toscaig. These beaches are only accessed via an 3.5-mile walk, which is family-friendly & involves lovely views over to Skye. Here you'll find white sand made from coral-like maerl and turquoise waters. It's a great place to go and switch off for a while, maybe even enjoying a dip in the sea if the weather is nice enough!

Sand Beach just around the coast from Applecross, at sunset, with the Cuillin Moutains in the distance

4. Watch The Local Wildlife

Applecross is a great place for wildlife watching. The peninsula’s varied habitats—from coastal areas to woodlands—are home to many animals. You can often see seals along the coastline past Camusterrach, either resting on rocks or swimming in the sea. If you're very lucky (and quiet), you might even spot a sea otter.

Highland cows, with their long hair and large horns, are another common sight. These gentle animals graze in the fields and are great for photos. Deer, especially stags, roam the hills and forests, adding to the wild beauty of the area. We also have Pine Martins, which are more rare to spot!

Bird watchers will also find much to enjoy in Applecross. The area is home to many bird species, from white-tailed sea eagles and golden eagles to migrating birds such a eider ducks, divers, and snipes. Bring your binoculars and see how many different birds you can spot.

5. Visit The Applecross Gallery!

We couldn't do an Applecross blog post and not mention the gallery. Visit us, enjoy a free coffee, talk about photography and get our personal recommendations around this area of the Highlands! Maybe even grab a memento to mark your trip in Applecross...

A photo of the Applecross Photographic Gallery

Conclusion

Whether you’re driving the exciting Bealach na Bà, enjoying local food, exploring Coral Beach, or watching the wildlife, Applecross offers many experiences that highlight the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. This remote and beautiful peninsula invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of Applecross!