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Wester Ross

Nestled in the heart of the Northwest Highlands lies the breath-taking Wester Ross. Designated a Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s ‘Man and the Biosphere’ programme in 2016, the enchanting landscapes and fascinating ecodiversity of Wester Ross are globally recognised. From the dramatic scenery of the Torridon Hills, the ancient woodlands at Beinn Eighe and walks around the calming Gairloch beach and pier Wester Ross provides both locals and visitors alike a perfect chance to slow down, relax and reconnect to nature. With a wide variety of outdoor activities on offer, the appetite of the more adventurous visitor is also sure to be sated.

Local gardens allow visitors to open up their senses and explore Wester Ross in bloom. Attadale Gardens allow visitors to step into a picturesque, dream-like scape reminiscent of a Monet painting. On your visit, be astounded by record breaking trees at the Victorian Leckmelm Arboretum and be inspired by the creativity of the internationally renowned Inverewe Gardens.

Even after dark, with little to no light pollution in most parts of Wester Ross, the clear night skies are a delightful escape to nature and a haven for dark skies photographers.

A Cultural Heartland

While Wester Ross has one of the lowest population densities in Europe, its town and villages are connected by a shared and vast cultural heritage, just as fascinating as its awe-inspiring landscape.

Gaelic heritage is deeply rooted within the communities of Wester Ross and can be encountered at every turn. Wherever you go, road signs bear unique place names, like Achnasheen, Aultbea and Ullapool, which all tell their own tales of the continuing legacy of the Gaelic language in Wester Ross. A volunteer manned local radio station, Two Lochs Radio, allows listeners regular insights into contemporary spoken Gaelic and music in Gairloch.

Cultural heritage truly comes to life across Wester Ross. Step back in time and celebrate the history and heritage of local communities at the awe-inspiring Gairloch Museum. Learn about the long-standing, timeless connection between people and the sea at Ullapool Museum. Discover the curious history and legacy of wartime links between Loch Ewe and Russia with the Loch Ewe Wartime Trail and the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum. All of which are sure to be firm hits with history lovers and all the family.

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Food and Drink

Get Inspired

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Plate of shrimp and salad with two glasses of wine on a table.

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Get Set-Jetting in the Highlands and Islands!

A Seaforth Highlander

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Three men in army uniforms and kilts along with a man in a suit, seated, pose for a photograph.

Peat and Our Heritage

Peatlands and the people of the Highlands and Islands have an unspoken, long standing connection. Learn more about this author's family ties to the peats and its lasting legacy.

Two men in a small boat rowing across a body of water.

Plan your visit

Places to Stay

Things to Do

Food and Drink