Explore
Explore the Highlands
Cruachan Stoer B&B is perfectly placed for exploring one of the most inspiring and unspoilt parts of the Scottish Highlands.
From dramatic coastline and quiet lochs to hills, beaches and cultural gems, Assynt offers something for every pace of travel, whether you’re seeking adventure or simple stillness.
Where to Eat
Lochinver offers a range of excellent places to eat. For lunch, don’t miss the amazing homemade cakes in Inbhir Brunches, Driftwood Cafe and An Cala. The pies at Lochinver Larder are famous too. Visit Achmelvich Beach for Fish & Chips at the campsite.
The nearest food to Cruachan can be found at Flossie’s. Not to be missed for lovely rolls, cakes, hot drinks and shop for wine and groceries.
For dinner, Lochinver is the spot. Be sure to make a prior booking to avoid disappointment. We recommend Delilah´s for its delicious food, warm welcome, bar with a pool table, and outdoor terrace. It’s a great place to eat, drink well, and enjoy the relaxing local and stylish vibe.
We also recommend Peet’s by the harbour. Absolutely delicious home-cooked style food.
Lochinver & Local Life
Lochinver is a bustling and important fishing harbour. It is worth taking a walk to the breakwater to admire Lochinver with the mountains behind and the boats at the pier.
The village offers plenty to explore, including two food shops (Inver Park Stores and The Spar and Petrol Station), cafes, bars, restaurants, a post office, pottery, gift shops, a bookshop, and a hardware store.
Highland Stoneware
A visit to Assynt would not be complete without a visit to Highland Stoneware Pottery in Lochinver or Ullapool.
Noost
For knitwear made in Ullapool to the highest quality, visit Noost. A piece of the North West Highlands to cherish forever.
Sea Kayaking
The coastline and sea lochs around Stoer and Lochinver are ideal for kayaking, offering a unique way to experience the landscape from the water.
Calm conditions allow for gentle exploration, while more experienced paddlers can enjoy longer coastal routes with breathtaking views of cliffs, headlands and sea stacks.
Hill Walking & Climbing
Assynt is renowned for its distinctive mountains and wide open walking terrain. From gentle coastal walks to more challenging hill routes, the area offers rewarding climbs and panoramic views in every direction.
Whether you’re heading for a full day on the hills or a shorter wander, there’s no shortage of routes to explore.
Swimming & Messing About in the Water.
White-sand beaches and dramatic waterfalls are a defining feature of this area. Clashnessie Bay and Waterfall, Clachtoll Beach and Achmelvich Beach are all nearby, perfect for wild swimming, beach games, rock-pooling or simply enjoying time by the sea.
On warmer days, a dip in a freshwater loch or beneath a waterfall is hard to beat.
Surfing
Here, demonstrated by your host Brian, the beaches of Assynt offer excellent opportunities for swimming, boogie boarding and surfing, with Atlantic swells reaching wide stretches of these pristine sands.
Swell conditions vary for surfing, making it suitable for confident surfers and for novices.
With no crowds and dramatic coastal scenery, water sports here are as much about the environment as the thrill.
Cycling
Quiet roads and stunning scenery make Assynt a rewarding destination for cyclists.
The B869 and surrounding routes offer challenging climbs, sweeping descents, and unforgettable coastal views, best enjoyed at an unhurried pace.
A Landscape Shaped by Geology
Assynt’s ancient geology is world-famous, with dramatic rock formations that tell a story millions of years in the making.
The landscape is a draw for geologists, walkers and anyone curious about how this remarkable part of Scotland was formed.
For more information about the Geopark click here
Inspiration for Art, Photography & Writing
The changing light, big skies and raw beauty of the landscape have long inspired artists, photographers and writers.
Whether you’re capturing images, sketching, journalling or simply observing, this is a place that encourages creativity and reflection.
Don’t miss a visit to Lochinver Bookshop, especially for local interest book local authors
Fireside Reflection & Relaxation
Not every day needs to be filled with activity. After time outdoors, many guests choose to return to Cruachan Stoer B&B to relax by the fire, reflect on the day and enjoy the simple pleasure of being somewhere quiet and unhurried.
Whether your stay is shaped by adventure, creativity, or rest, Cruachan Stoer B&B offers a welcoming base from which to explore Assynt, and the freedom to enjoy it in your own way.