Attractions and Places To See around Coigach - Top 20

Coigach is renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. Key features include distinctive mountains like Stac Pollaidh East Summit and Ben Mor Coigach, pristine coastlines, and the archipelago of the Summer Isles. You can also explore sandy beaches such as Achnahaird Sands, native woodlands like Inverpolly Forest, and the impressive Falls of Kirkaig.

Yes, Coigach offers several challenging mountain hikes. Stac Pollaidh East Summit provides a compact adventure with epic scrambling and magnificent views. Another iconic and challenging climb is the Suilven hike, known for its unique shape and isolated stature. Ben More Coigach also offers steep, scrambly ridgelines and incredible elevated ocean views.

Coigach has a rich cultural and historical heritage. The Coigach Community Hall in Achiltibuie serves as a hub for local events and heritage. You can also discover archaeological sites, including important prehistoric hut circles and field systems within the sand dunes of Achnahaird Sands, and the remains of the Achlochan broch. The movement of sands at Achnahaird has even revealed medieval, possibly Viking, buildings.

While many trails are challenging, Coigach does offer options for families. The circular path around the base of Stac Pollaidh is an easier alternative to the summit climb. Achnahaird Sands provides low-level walks with interesting geological features, and the Coigach Community Hall in Achiltibuie hosts local events that can be engaging for families. Ullapool Harbour, though slightly outside Coigach, is also considered family-friendly.

Coigach boasts several stunning sandy beaches. Achnahaird Sands, near Achiltibuie, is particularly notable for its long stretch of sand and views, retaining sand even at high tide. The region has at least seven sandy beaches, offering picturesque spots for walks and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Beyond hiking, Coigach is excellent for various outdoor pursuits. The Summer Isles archipelago is a popular spot for sea kayaking, diving, and island cruises. The Inverpolly Forest is ideal for bird and wildlife watching. Additionally, you can find numerous routes for running and road cycling throughout the region.

The best time to visit Coigach for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is more favorable for hiking, sea activities, and exploring the landscape. Salmon can be seen leaping at the Falls of Kirkaig in July or August.

Yes, there are easier options for those seeking less strenuous walks. An easier circular path is available around the base of Stac Pollaidh. The Coigach Geotrail offers geology walks with expert explanations, and some sections are suitable for beginners. For a gentle stroll, the low-level walks at Achnahaird Sands are also a good choice. You can find more easy routes in the hiking guide for Coigach.

Many outdoor areas and trails in Coigach are dog-friendly, especially for well-behaved dogs on leads. However, it's always advisable to check specific guidelines for nature reserves or protected areas, and be mindful of livestock on croft land. Always clean up after your dog to preserve the natural environment.

To learn about Coigach's unique geology, you can visit the Knockan Crag Visitor Centre, located slightly outside Coigach but within the wider Geopark. It features rock art, trails, and a turf-roofed rock room explaining 3000 million years of history. Additionally, the Coigach Geotrail offers a series of geology walks with downloadable guides.

The main settlement in Coigach is Achiltibuie, a traditional crofting and fishing community. It offers stunning views over the Summer Isles and serves as a local hub. The Coigach Community Hall in Achiltibuie provides a café, a local library, and hosts exhibitions and community events, making it a good place to find local information and services.

The summits in Coigach offer truly spectacular and unique views. From Stac Pollaidh East Summit, you can see thousands of small and large lochs sparkling, and the long back of Suilven. The Suilven summit itself provides panoramic views over other mountains like Stac Pollaidh, Cul Mor, Cul Beag, and Canisp. From Ben More Coigach, you'll enjoy incredible elevated ocean views over Little Loch Broom and the Summer Isles.

Yes, the Falls of Kirkaig are a notable natural attraction in Coigach. These impressive 20-meter falls are accessed by a path that also leads towards the mountain Suilven. In late summer, visitors might even witness salmon leaping in the gorge below, set within a landscape of ancient Lewisian Gneiss.