About Achmelvich Beach
Achmelvich beach is the proof that Scotland does not need the Mediterranean — on a clear summer day, the turquoise water and white shell sand of this small cove on the northwest Sutherland coast is genuinely breathtaking, more reminiscent of the Maldives than the Scottish Highlands. The beach sits in a sheltered bay surrounded by low rocky headlands of ancient Lewisian gneiss, some of the oldest rock on Earth at over 3 billion years old. The water is clear and clean, if cold — brave souls swim here, and wetsuits make the experience considerably more enjoyable. The beach is never crowded by comparison with popular southern beaches, though it does attract visitors on summer weekends.
Highlights
Getting There
From Lochinver, take the B869 north for 3 miles, then turn left onto the minor road to Achmelvich (1 mile). Road is narrow — take care.