Wester Ross

Rua Reidh sits amongst some of the finest mountain and coastal scenery in Britain, in a region with vast stretches of roadless countryside where deer and goats roam wild and where a variety of birdlife, including the rare and magnificent golden eagle, can be spotted.

The seas of the Minch, which pound dramatically against the rocks of Rua Reidh, team with life. Seals, dolphins, otters - even the occasional whale - are regularly seen from the lighthouse. Basking sharks are frequently seen in the summer months. Binoculars are available for your use if you'd like to watch the wildlife.

The moors behind the lighthouse are home to a wealth of seabirds, wading birds, flora and fauna. There are a couple of deserted sandy beaches an hour's walk away and this makes a wonderful excursion (you will need good walking boots and outdoor clothing for this walk as it does cover some rough ground).

For those who'd prefer something more gentle, then a saunter along the cliffs gives breathtaking views of the birds nesting on magnificent sea stacks. White Tailed Sea Eagles may also be spotted in this area.
Visitors are recommended to take a copy of our interpretive walk leaflet which covers the area immediately surrounding the lighthouse.

The region also has plenty to offer those interested in history. From mesolithic caves to Bronze and Iron age hut circles, medieval forts to fortified islands, the whole of Wester Ross is an area is rich in archaelogical remains. Past struggles to make a living from this inhospitable land are also much in evidence with abandoned crofting hamlets and pastures left to return to heathland.

Gairloch itself is an attractive small town with several hotels, coffee shops, museum, a variety of activities, shops, etc. The famous Inverewe Gardens are 4 miles and well worth a visit. Pony trekking is also available locally.

There are several boats offering marine life watching trips from Gairloch – something to suit all tastes and interests.

• Gairloch Marine Life Centre & Cruises
• Hebridean Whale Cruises
• Sealife Glass Bottom Boat - daily cruises from Gairloch
• Shellfish Safaris - boat trips on Badachro Bay
• Torridon Sea Tours - cruises from Shieldaig pier to Loch Torridon or the Isle of Rona (near Skye)

For walking enthusiasts, the Torridon Mountains and An Teallach (pictured above) are all in easy reach for a day out.

Gairloch Wildlife festival 23 - 27 June 2011

Basking Shark seen from
the lighthouse walls in July 2006