Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TORRIDON & AROUND
The road southwest from Kinlochewe passes through
Glen Torridon
, amid some of the
most beautiful scenery in Britain. Carved by ice from massive layers of the ancient sand-
stone that takes its name from the region, the mountains here are steep, shapely and im-
posing, whether flirting with autumn mists, draped in dazzling winter snows, or reflected
in the calm blue waters of Loch Torridon on a summer day.
The road through the glen reaches the sea at spectacularly sited
Torridon
village, then
continues westwards to lovely
Shieldaig
, which boasts an attractive main street of white-
washed houses right on the water, before turning south to Applecross, Lochcarron and
Kyle of Lochalsh.
Sights & Activities
The Torridon Munros -
Liathach
(1054m; pronounced
'lee
-agakh', Gaelic for 'the Grey
One'),
Beinn Eighe
(1010m; 'ben
ay'
, 'the File') and
Beinn Alligin
(986m; 'the Jewelled
Mountain') - are big, serious mountains for experienced hill walkers only. Though not
technically difficult, their ascents are long and committing, often over rough and rocky
terrain. Information is available at the
NTS Countryside Centre
(NTS; 01445-791221;
www.nts.org.uk
;
Torridon Village; adult/child £3.50/2.50; 10am-5pm Sun-Fri Easter-
Sep)
in Torridon; the NTS rangers also offer
guided mountain walks
(£25 per person,
weekdays only, advance booking necessary) in July and August.
Sleeping & Eating
HOTEL
The Torridon£££
(
01445-791242;
www.thetorridon.com
;
Annat; r standard/superior/master £220/275/
425; closed Jan, closed Mon & Tue Nov, Dec, Feb & Mar; )
If you prefer
the lap of luxury to the sound of rain beating on your tent, head for the Torridon, a lavish
Victorian shooting lodge with a romantic lochside location. Sumptuous contemporary
rooms with awe-inspiring views, top bathrooms and a cheery stuffed Highland coo (cow)
atop the counterpane couldn't be more inviting. Master suites are lavish in size and com-
fort, with a more classic decor and bay windows making the most of the panoramas. Ser-
vice is excellent, with muddy boots positively welcomed, and dinners are sumptuous af-
fairs, also open to nonresidents (£55). Friendly staff can organise any number of activities
on land or water. This is one of Scotland's top country hotels, always luxurious but never
pretentious.
