Wester Ross & Sutherland

Wester Ross and Sutherland make up the wild, thinly populated north-west of the Scottish Highlands, a land of towering sandstone mountains, single-track roads and beaches so remote you may have them entirely to yourself. Much of the celebrated North Coast 500 winds through here, past thundering waterfalls, sea lochs and pale sands like Achmelvich. Our guides gather the region's best beaches, waterfalls and family-friendly cascades, hidden gems and must-see places, helping you navigate one of Britain's last great wildernesses.

Best Beaches in Wester Ross & Sutherland

Scotland's northwest holds its emptiest shores, and Wester Ross and Sutherland gather the finest, from Sandwood Bay to Achmelvich and Mellon Udrigle Beach.

Best Hidden Gems in Wester Ross & Sutherland

In Scotland's far north-west, Wester Ross and Sutherland hide gems where mountains fall to sea lochs: Kylesku Bridge, the Old Man of Stoer and Clachtoll broch.

Best Places to Visit in Wester Ross & Sutherland

Smoo Cave, the tiny Hermit's Castle and the sands of Big Sand are among the best places to visit in Wester Ross and Sutherland, the wild, empty far north-west.

Best Waterfalls in Wester Ross & Sutherland

Wester Ross and Sutherland fill the wild, empty far north-west, where the waterfalls match the land, from the Falls of Measach to towering Eas a' Chual Aluinn.

Family Waterfalls in Wester Ross & Sutherland

Wester Ross and Sutherland hold family waterfalls from roadside Victoria Falls and Ardessie to Clashnessie, across empty hills, sea lochs and peaty rivers.

What are the best beaches in Wester Ross and Sutherland?

The far north-west hides some of Scotland's most beautiful and remote beaches, from Achmelvich's white sand to wild, walk-in Sandwood Bay. Our beaches guide highlights the finest, with notes on access, as many reward a short hike and stay blissfully empty even in summer.

Is this area part of the North Coast 500?

Yes. The North Coast 500 route runs through much of Wester Ross and Sutherland, taking in dramatic mountains, sea lochs and coastal villages. Our places-to-visit and waterfalls guides help you plan worthwhile stops along the way, rather than simply driving straight through.

Are there family-friendly waterfalls in the area?

Yes. Several Highland waterfalls sit close to roadside car parks or along gentle paths suitable for children. Our family waterfalls guide picks the easiest to reach, avoiding steep or exposed ground, so younger walkers can enjoy the region's spectacular cascades safely.