Gruinard Bay & Measach Falls
-
Port
Ullapool, Scotland, United Kingdom
-
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Leave the pretty town of Ullapool, in the coastal Highlands, with its whitewashed houses huddling along the shoreline.
Your first stop is at Corrieshalloch Gorge. A National Nature Reserve, the gorge offers a truly exhilarating opportunity to view one of Scotland's finest waterfalls. Formed about 13,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age, the mile-long gorge terminates in the Measach Falls, which plunge almost 200 feet down into a dark chasm. A steep, 30-minute walk brings you the stunning waterfalls, which you can view from a viewing platform. Not for the faint of heart, a small Victorian-era suspension bridge soars high above the bottom of the gorge for even better viewing.
Back on the coach, you're headed through Dundonnell Forest and typical Northwest Highland scenery. The landscape often appears harsh and unforgiving, so it is surprising that there are many traces here of early human occupation. People lived along the coast more than 3,000 years ago, when the mountains were covered with a dense forest that was home to bears, wolves and wild boar.
Skirt the scenic Little Loch Broom and pass through quaint crofting villages. From the hilltops, take in truly stunning views over the Summer Isles, just off the coast. The unspoiled beach of Gruinard Bay beckons -- it is quite a sight with its dazzling pink sand. Take a stroll on the beach, to savor the best views of this spectacular landscape before you return to Ullapool along the scenic coastal road.
Please note: The walk from the transportation to the Measach Falls Bridge and viewpoint requires moderate agility and stamina. It is a zigzag path leading downhill approximately 800 feet (climbing uphill is required to return to the coach), steep in places, with hard-packed gravel and stones. Be prepared for the path to be somewhat muddy and slippery after rain. Wear comfortable walking shoes. The coach may or may not be equipped with a restroom. Please take this into consideration when booking.