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. Tigh Beag provides the prefect base from which to explore this very special corner of Scotland.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES
Tigh Beag is ideal for hill walking in the Torridon mountains as well as low level and coastal walks. These are well documented on the Walk Highlands website.
Direct access from the house to the sea makes Tigh Beag appeal to wild swimmers and kayakers or you can explore the Rhuroin promontory underfoot, comprising open heather, coastline and woodland.
If you are feeling adventurous, Shieldaig Outdoor Adventures, Torridon Activities at The Torridon Hotel and Mountain and Sea Guides in Applecross provide 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 & CULTURE
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.
WILDLIFE
The Applecross peninsula is home to a huge diversity of flora and fauna. The sheltered bay in front of the house and surrounding woodland make Tigh Beag an ideal spot for watching deer, otters, seals, woodland and sea birds - even sea eagles! A fox has been spotted from the house! Binoculars are provided for a closer look.
EAT OUT
Applecross is a scenic forty five minute drive from Tigh Beag and has two popular restaurants. 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 is 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, home baking and evening meals. 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 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 Hotel boasts three AA Rosettes and is a beautiful setting for fine dining. The grounds of the hotel are home to a herd of highland cattle. For a more informal meal there is the Bo and Muck restaurant which is just a short walk from the hotel.
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 Wee Whistle Stop Cafe, within the Torridon Community Centre, is well worth a visit, after which you can browse the gallery which stocks local artists’ paintings and photographs together with greetings cards and local interest publications.
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 offers a range of catering options. A mobile butcher, Kenneth Morrison and a mobile fish monger, 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.