24 Hours in Applecross; A Guide

Going to one of the most isolated villages in the UK may not be something high up on many peoples to do list, but I think it's something everyone should consider.

Applecross isn't your average little village, situated on the coast line with a wide sweeping bay, incredible views and fantastic food, its a place like no other that will leave you feeling you really have escaped from the rest of the world.

We only managed to spend 24 hours in the area, and I'm already dying to go back. so if you're heading over to Sskye or fancy doing the NC500 route (read more about that here), here's a quick comprehensive guide on how to spend your time in the beautiful place at what feels like the edge of the world...

Where to stay in Applecross?

It's safe to say there isn't much choice of where to stay in Applecross, it's tiny after all.

We stayed at the Hartfield House Hostel, which was pretty darn basic but had everything we needed and for £50 for the two of us, it was pretty reasonable price as well. Although there is no phone signal at the site, there is Wifi to connect to should you wish.

If hosteling isn't your thing, you can grab a room at Applecross Inn, the country put in the centre of the village starting from £70.

If you want somewhere a little fancier, I'd encourage you to book Applecross B&B.

Of course, there's also a camp site and a few other B&Bs dotted around should none of these places tickle your fancy. Due to the low number of rooms though, I'd encourage you to book, especially in the Summer.

Where to eat and drink in Applecross?

For me, there is only one place to eat in Applecross, the Walled Garden. The place is a converted greenhouse, it's tucked away from the main road and provides a little oasis (should you need one). The cafe come restuarant has a menu of locally sourced products and everything we ate was cooked perfectly. In fact, the chef could quite easily fit into a London Pub and you would still be impressed. My only issue was the fact I couldn't go again because we were leaving the area.

Now of course there are a few other options which all looked great, including the Applecross Inn where the seafood is the freshest you may ever experience, or The Junction, a relatively new bar where you can grab pizza till late and stare across to the sea with a whisky in hand.

What to do near Applecross?

If finding the best views around is something that interests you than the Bealach na ba route is perfect. Reaching a peak of 600m, it's one of the highest roads in the UK with plenty of hairpin bends. Whether your in a car, on a bike or walking, there are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the sites. It's really not to be missed

With so much natural beauty around, you could head into Rassal Wood; a 6000 year old ash woodland where wild flowers can be spotted. More of a beach buddy? Then head to Sand beach for views over the Isle of Skye.

If like me, lochs and waterfalls are your favourite thing to go and visit. I'd highly recommend a walk to the Falls of Bagly. In autumn you can sometimes catch a sighting of Salmon (sadly I didn't have any luck), but continue up the path and through the gate and you'll reach a loch completely deserted. Should you fancy a bit more of a walk then you can head back to the road and across the other side to climb a hill called Aird Mhor.

If my small amount of time spent in Applecross taught me one thing, its that the views at every turn really can take your breath away, and the isolation, although a little daunting at first, can leave you with a feeling of complete calm by the end of your trip.

Have you ever been to Applecross? Would you go?

Love
Erin