EXPLORE
The coastal road to Applecross was completed in 1975 and provided much needed access to the Applecross Peninsula, renowned for its spectacular views over Loch Torridon, The Inner Sound and the Hebridean islands. From Applecross, the road meanders over the Bealach na Ba or Pass of the Cattle which is the biggest road ascent in the United Kingdom rising from sea level to 626m, enjoying views over Loch Kishorn, the Outer Hebrides and south to The Kintail Mountains. The Net Store provides a luxurious base from which to explore this very special corner of Scotland.
WILDLIFE
The Highlands of Scotland are home to a huge diversity of flora and fauna and the sheltered waters of Loch Beag, combined with a waterfront location, make The Net Store an ideal spot for watching otters, seals and seabirds. Binoculars are provided for a closer look.
ACTIVITIES
The Net Store is an ideal base for hill walking in the Torridon mountains as well as a number of shorter, low level and coastal walks. These are well documented on the Walk Highlands website.
If you are feeling adventurous, Shieldaig Outdoor Adventures operate from the Kayak Shack in the pier in Shieldaig, Torridon Activities at The Torridon Hotel and Mountain and Sea Guides in Applecross cater for a range of activities from canoe hire to archery.
Fishing and deer stalking are available on the Ben Damph Estate and the River Carron on the Attadale Estate can also be fished.
Golfers might like to visit Lochcarron Golf Club.
ART
Lisa O’Brien is a contemporary artist based in Shieldaig at the Blue Roof Studio.
The Carron Pottery is a family run craft shop, pottery studio and gallery just beyond the village of Strathcarron.
Jack Marris is a landscape photographer based at the Applecross Photographic Gallery.
Gairloch Museum showcases the history, culture and natural heritage of the north west highlands.
Loch Torridon Community Centre showcases and sells the work of many local artists. The gallery stocks an extensive selection of artists’ cards, prints and local interest publications.
EAT OUT
The Applecross Walled Garden is set in the walled garden of Applecross House which has been restored and is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Applecross Inn and The Inn Outside are at the heart of the village, serving generous pub fare with superb views over the Inner Sound to Raasay and Skye.
If you make it over the Bealach na Ba, The Bealach Cafe is a great place to unwind whilst enjoying home baking and local arts and crafts displayed in their gallery. A short drive south from there takes you to the Kishorn Seafood Bar, which is renowned for fresh, locally sourced shellfish.
Closer to home is the village of Shieldaig where you will find Nanny’s Cafe, built on the site of the original village store and serving a selection of light lunches and home baking . The Coastal Kitchen and Tigh an Eilean are both situated on the main street and offer pub or restaurant dining with fabulous views over the Ba?ds make freshly baked goods from organic and local produce which are sold in an honesty cupboard in Shieldaig.
The 1887 restaurant at The Torridon boasts three AA Rosettes and is a beautiful setting for a fine dining dinner. Bo and Muck Bar and Restaurant can be found beside the old stables, 100m from the hotel and offers a more casual dining experience. Jo, at the Torridon Stores and Cafe in the main village of Torridon prepares homemade lunches and baking. She also sells a selection of groceries and books about the local area. The Loch Torridon Community Hall in Torridon is home to The Wee Whistle Stop Cafe where Lis serves delicious breakfast, lunch and cakes. She also open on Friday evenings for a fish night.
Lochcarron Bistro, located next door to Lochcarron Food Centre, is a cosy Bistro with a one man kitchen serving freshly prepared, daily changing seasonal menus. Drive a little further through the village and you will find The Old Butcher’s Cafe for breakfast, lunch coffee and cakes. Waterside Cafe also serves locally sourced and seasonal light bites, hearty breakfast dishes as well as a wide range of delicious baking.
A little further afield is the award winning Gille Brighde at the end of the road in Diabaig.
EAT IN
If you would prefer to eat in, The Kishorn Kitchen offer a range of catering options. A mobile butcher, Kenneth Morrison and a mobile fishmonger, Loopy’s Fish Van, both pass on a Tuesday (contact both in advance to request a stop). Loch Torridon Smokehouse in Shieldaig and Applecross Smokehouse in Kenmore both offer locally smoked fish products.