About Castle Varrich
Castle Varrich is a ruined 15th-century tower on a prominent hillock directly above Tongue village, offering what many consider the finest short-walk viewpoint on the entire NC500. The climb from the village takes about 20–25 minutes and the reward is breathtaking — a 360-degree panorama encompassing the Kyle of Tongue (a tidal estuary of great beauty), Ben Hope (Scotland's most northerly Munro), Ben Loyal (the "Queen of Mountains"), and the open sea to the north. The castle itself was a stronghold of the Mackay clan. The ruin is open and accessible, with modest remaining walling. The combination of walk, ruin, and view makes this one of the most satisfying short excursions on the route.
Highlights
Getting There
Park in Tongue village. The signed path to Castle Varrich starts at the village hall. 20-minute walk uphill.