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 the bay's resident otter family, 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 would like to explore Loch Torridon and beyond under sail, Torridon Sailing Tours run skippered tours, for up to 4 people, on the beautiful Temptress.
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.
ART
Janene Waudby is a ceramic artist and welcomes visitors to her studio in Shieldaig.
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.
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 Stovold’s, built on the site of the original village store and serving a selection of light lunches, home baking and evening meals . Coastal Kitchen and Tigh an Eilean are both situated on the main street and offer pub or restaurant dining with fabulous views over the Bay. Little Swallow Foods 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. Afternoon tea is also served in the hotel and is a great way to spend a rainy afternoon. 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 now home to The Wee Whistle Stop Cafe where Lis serves delicious breakfast, lunch, home baking and fish nights on Friday.
A little further afield are the award winning Gille Brighde at the end of the road in Diabaig and The Gorse Bush in Kinlochewe.
EAT IN
If you would prefer to eat in, The Kishorn Kitchen offer a range of catering options.