Things to do…

Our area is a good centre for many outdoor and nature based pursuits including:

• Hill-walking
• Photography
• Relaxing
• Cycling
• Climbing
• Caving
• Geology
• Swimming
• Snorkelling
• Bird-watching
• Touring
• Fishing
• Sailing
• Boat trips

The perfect location for those who enjoy the countryside. It is also excellent for photography (see Scenic Views), and the safe sandy beach at Achmelvich ideal for family holidays.

There are many paths for hill-walkers both inland and along the coast including an “All Abilities” path,. Both mountaineers and walkers can enjoy the craggy shaped mountains and the treat of the spectacular views from the top. Cyclists will get plenty exercise on the spectacular winding coastal routes, but one has to be serious (Assynt has many hills!!).

The unspoiled natural habitat is excellent for bird-watching, or watching wildlife of every kind. Patience can be rewarded with the glimpse of an otter, dolphins in the bay, or maybe even a rare Golden Eagle or  Sea Eagle, or view the many wonders under the surface of the clear water when snorkelling, Achmelvich is a recognised snorkelling spot.

The geology and natural history of Assynt is distinctive and fascinating, attracting caving, climbing and geological study. The caves of Assynt are well documented by our local Mountain Rescue Team, and these are still being discovered in their entirety, with a number of passages yet to be probed. Or you can visit the Knockan Visitor Centre and Crag, to see the very old rock of our area that moved from South Pole to Scotland in 600 million years!

Salmon and sea trout fishing permits may be purchased for the local rivers, and trout permits for the very numerous and popular lochs stocked by the Assynt Angling Club and the Assynt Crofters Trust. Sea angling trips are provided by some of the local fishing boats, and the local Cruise boats, who all use their long time experience to take you to the better areas, and as mentioned the excellent boat cruises are available locally. It is also possible to arrange deer stalking. (See all under PHYSICAL LEISURE section)

The interesting shoreline, beaches with open bays, and prevailing on-shore winds, encourages sailors to pass their leisure time afloat, be it with dinghy, sailboard or rowing boat.

But you do not have to be so active, and many people come just to relax in comfort with friends, enjoy the tranquility, and read a good book while waiting for the beautiful sunset, which is usually around midnight during midsummer.