Gairloch Carn Dearg, Gairloch, Schotland

Cozy former hunting lodge on the northern shore of Loch Gairloch, Carn Dearg has magnificent sea and mountain views.

Excellent sandy beaches are only a 5-minute walk away. An ideal place to stop and explore the beautiful west coast, with easy access to many fine mountains. Boat trips to watch whales and dolphins are available nearby in Gairloch, which also boasts fine pubs, coffee shops and local seafood , as well as its own heritage museum. The famous Inverewe Garden is just 9 miles away.

Plentiful wildlife - including dolphins, whales & otters sometimes glimpsed from the Youth Hostel. We are one of the Scottish Marine Life Watch destinations. Last year Basking Sharks were spotted from the hostel. Excellent for bird watching. Black and Red Throated and Great Northern Divers all spotted from hostel as well as Puffins, Golden Eagles, Skuas. Watching the Gannets dive in early summer is spectacular.

Please note: Reception closed between 10:00am & 5:00pm

By Bus:

From Inverness Bus Station , Westerbus - one bus daily (except Sunday) at 1720. D+E Coaches - one bus daily (including Sunday) at 0740. Ask for Strath Post Office. Hostel 2.5 miles along road towards Melvaig.

From Ullapool Pier, Rapsons Coaches - one bus daily (Mon - Fri) at 1100. Ask for Gairloch Pier.

By Train:

Closest rail station – Inverness, then take bus as above.

By Car:

Take the B8021 (opposite Grocery Store) for 3 miles towards Melvaig. Hostel is next to the road.