Springtime in Sutherland: Your NC500 Easter Egg-xtraordinaire!

perfect pies and Awe inspiring Adventures on the NC500

Spring paints the Sutherland landscapes in vibrant hues, beckoning families, hikers, and road trippers with promises of adventure. From dramatic coastlines to charming villages and Lochinver Larder's magical pies, your Easter break on the NC500 promises unforgettable moments. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to discover the magic of Sutherland this Easter!

Your Home Base: Inchnadamph Explorers Lodge - Comfort & Adventure Await

Nestled amidst the Assynt hills, Inchnadamph Explorers Lodge is your haven for relaxation and exploration. Cosy rooms, stunning views, and easy access to hiking trails make it the perfect basecamp for your NC500 adventure. Whip up family meals in the communal kitchen, unwind with a board game in its comfy lounge, and let the friendly team help you plan your Sutherland itinerary.

Fueling Up for Fun: Lochinver Larder - Your NC500 Pitstop of Deliciousness

No NC500 adventure is complete without a stop (or two) at Lochinver Larder! We're not just any pie shop; we're your one-stop shop for mouthwatering delights, local stories, and warm Highland hospitality. Savour our legendary pies – steak and ale, venison and cranberry, or melt-in-your-mouth apple crumble – while soaking in the panoramic views of Loch Assynt. Our riverside garden is perfect for family picnics, and our friendly staff can offer expert tips on your Sutherland exploration.

Unveiling Easter Egg-citement: Top Sutherland Stops for Every Explorer

1. Clachtoll Beach: Sun, Sand, and History

Stretch out on the golden sands of Clachtoll Beach, bask in the sunshine, and build sandcastles with the kids. Look out for Clachtoll’s famous geological feature, Split Rock; one of the many sights included in the North West Highlands Geopark. Explore the dramatic ruins of Clachtoll Broch, an Iron Age tower perched on a rocky outcrop, and let your imagination run wild with tales of ancient battles and hidden treasures.

2. Quinag: Hike to Heavenly Heights

Challenge yourself with a hike up the mighty Quinag, Sutherland's highest peak. Explore heather-clad slopes, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, and spot golden eagles soaring overhead. The name - pronounced ‘coo-nyang’ - comes from the Gaelic for milk pail, which the mountain resembles from one angle. With wonderful views of ‘cnoc and lochan’ landscape and seaward views over Stoer Point and beyond to the Outer Hebrides, Quinaig is a local favourite.

3. Assynt's Hidden Gems: Waterfalls & Wildlife

Embark on a waterfall adventure! Discover the cascading beauty of Eas a’ Chual Aluinn - Britain’s highest waterfall - Wailing Widow, and Kirkaig Falls, each offering unique vistas and opportunities to spot otters, red deer, and a variety of birdlife. Pack a picnic and make a day of exploring these natural wonders.

4. Smoo Cave: Nature's Secret Lair

Journey through time at Smoo Cave, a dramatic limestone cavern formed over millions of years. Embark on a guided boat tour into the heart of the cave, marvelling at its towering rock formations and hidden waterfalls. Keep an eye out for resident wildlife, including colonies of nesting seabirds and the occasional inquisitive seal.

5. Inverewe Gardens: A Botanical Bliss

Travel a little further afield to the enchanting world of Inverewe Gardens, a National Trust gem overlooking Loch Ewe. Wander through vibrant collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, and exotic plants, marvel at the Victorian glasshouses, and enjoy serene walks amidst the beauty of nature.

6. Biking, and Climbing, and Scrambling…OH MY!

For an adrenaline injection, check out the exciting outdoor activities at your disposal. Led by a collection of the region’s most respected providers, you and your gang can enjoy scrambling, biking, or ziplining. Keen geology fans? Take a tour of the UNESCO Geopark to learn more about our unique ancient landscape, or visit the Rock Stop information centre in Unapool, where you can experience hard-to-reach places in virtual reality. 

Beyond the Pies: Sweet Endings to Your Sutherland Adventure

As your Easter break on the NC500 draws to a close, remember that the memories will stay with you long after you return home. Missing those delicious Lochinver Larder pies? Our much loved Pies By Post service will deliver your favourite pies straight to your door, ready to fuel your next adventure.