Applecross Tour Review: Loch Carron & Wild Highlands (from Inverness)

Alright, so you’re thinking about checking out the Applecross, Loch Carron, and Wild Highlands tour from Inverness, huh? Very good. I get it. It really is one of those Scottish adventures that kinda grabs your attention with talk of stunning landscapes and picturesque villages. That being said, to get the most out of your trip, getting the lowdown from someone who’s actually experienced it can be a good idea, too. I’m just saying, before you decide if this tour’s your cup of tea, have a gander at my experiences, the good and the not-so-good!

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What’s the Applecross Tour All About?

Basically, the Applecross, Loch Carron, and Wild Highlands tour out of Inverness intends to show you some of the very gorgeous parts of the Scottish Highlands. You can expect spectacular views of mountains, picturesque coastal scenery, and the charming, practically sleepy village of Applecross. Now, very often, these tours hit spots like Loch Carron, the Bealach na Bà (the Pass of the Cattle), and the Applecross Peninsula. As a matter of fact, depending on the tour company, the stops might change a bit, yet you’re generally looking at a full-day outing. It is kind of designed to give you a flavor of the wild, pretty undeveloped areas of Scotland. Getting to these places on your own steam isn’t always simple, you know, which really is why a tour is just the ticket for many folk.

The Scenic Route: Loch Carron and Beyond

The drive, right from Inverness, seriously sets the scene for this tour, as it gives you a flavor of what you’re in for as the Highlands roll by. I thought Loch Carron was more or less the standout, so imagine a long stretch of shimmering water framed by these brooding mountains, is that not lovely? If the weather’s being kind – and, I’m saying that like a true Scot, ‘cos you just can’t ever rely on the weather! – the reflections are truly postcard-worthy. Also, that being said, the route just onwards to Applecross is quite exciting.

Bealach na Bà: A Road Unlike Any Other

The Bealach na Bà, it really is one of the UK’s steepest and most winding roads, as I can confirm. In some respects, calling it “dramatic” seems like quite an understatement. Now, you’re twisting and turning up this mountain pass, kind of with hairpin bends that wouldn’t seem out of place in the Alps, as I felt while we crept higher and higher in the tour bus. Is that exhilarating? Or a bit hair-raising? Depending on how you feel about heights and drops. It also boasts, very often, breathtaking views. Weather can play havoc there; I was advised that the pass is sometimes shut in poor conditions. Do take note if you’re not one for steep drops as, I will say, it really isn’t for the faint of heart.

Applecross Village: A Tranquil Escape

Applecross Village itself feels very different the moment you drop in; after all, it’s such a calm little place. To be honest, you’ll locate a cluster of houses huddling around a bay, is that lovely or what? There’s also a lovely feel of remote serenity. Many tourists grab the chance to just unwind a bit, wander along the shore, and enjoy the peace. The Applecross Inn has somewhat of a name for, it turns out, some tasty seafood, and the walled garden, in some respects, it really is an unexpected little gem, if that takes your fancy. I really thought that spending a bit of time here just wandering, having a bit of food, kind of gives you a good slice of Highland life, too it’s almost.

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The Tour Guides: Knowledgeable or Just Going Through the Motions?

How well-informed and interesting your tour guide really is can make all the difference, of course. Look for a guide who knows what they’re talking about and can bring the place alive by talking about the history, telling quirky stories and facts, and that kind of thing. So, do they really give you an enhanced understanding of the Highlands? Or simply state facts without actually knowing what they mean? It can, naturally, very seriously affect the vibe of your trip, very seriously!

The Ups and Downs of the Applecross Tour

• The Good Bits: The landscapes, those stunning landscapes! You can see postcard views just around any corner. And really having a professional driver get you safely up and over the Bealach na Bà, instead of you needing to brave it. Also, having the stories, facts, and a wee bit of Highland culture dropped in along the way adds to the enjoyment, too.
• The Not-So-Good Bits: All the tours, of course, will have days when the weather’s just dreich (that’s Scottish for wet and gloomy) as I understand. This just isn’t the tour for you if you don’t fancy being on a coach for a large chunk of the day; factor that in! Similarly to some of the busier spots, you just get a quick look. Also, is that tour actually good value? You’ve to decide, too.

Is the Applecross Tour Worth It?

So, after taking all of it in, would I suggest the Applecross Tour from Inverness? You know, I very seriously think it depends upon what you’re seeking to get out of it. If you seriously fancy experiencing some awesome Highland scenery, don’t wish to drive those very high roads yourself, or just want to sit back and be entertained, then you just might seriously like it. That being said, it probably is not ideal if you dislike long coach rides or desire loads of time at each stop. Think of it almost like an “overview” tour – it can show you just enough to make you intend to come back and check out a specific place at your own steam another day.

To be honest, is that fair? Is that what I was hoping to find? Pretty much, yes!

Top Tips for the Applecross Tour

• Wear the proper clothes: Layering clothing is a good option! You really should also pack a waterproof coat – that is very sensible in Scotland.
• Charge everything: Charge your phone and cameras ahead of time, as there will be opportunities galore for fantastic photos. You probably need to also bring a portable charger just in case.
• Snacks and Drinks: As I was saying, stock up on refreshments for the ride. It is vital, because there is, maybe, a lengthy bit of travel involved.
• Be Flexible: Because the Scottish weather has a mind all of its own, just be set for sudden changes to your schedule. It is Scotland!