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Assynt-Coigach NSA, Visitor & Tourism Guide

Oldest rocks in the world
In north west Scotland. The Western Isles lie across The Minch.

Within the Highland unitary authority.

The North West Sutherland NSA is to the north and the Wester Ross NSA lies to the south. ‘Coigach’ is a peninsula north of Ullapool. Off the coast of 'Coigach' are the Summer Isles. ‘Assynt’ is north of that.

Extraordinary landscape and famous mountains
This is an extraodinary place of exceptional beauty. The rocky fin of Suilven (732m) is one of the most famous sites in Scotland if you're into mountains.

Within the National Scenic Area, you'll also find Cul Beag (769m) and Stac Pollaidh (612m), Cul Mor (849m) and Canisp (847m).

Towards the eastern boundary of the area are its two munros, Ben More Assynt (998m) and Conival (987m).

On Loch Assynt, explore the ruins of Ardvreck Castle begun by the Clan MacLeod. The A837 cuts through Assynt-Coigach following the north shore of Loch Assynt on its way to the coast where there are views across to the Western Isles.

Sea and beaches
For beaches, try the long sand beach at Brae of Achnahaird. Clearly, given the NSA's extensive coastline, there are fine views west to the Western Isles. Moving north into Assynt, try the beaches at Achmelvich, Clashnessie and Clachtoll.

National Nature Reserve
If taking a break from walking the hills, try Inchnadamph National Nature Reserve and the Bone Caves. Human beings lived in the latter up to 7000 years ago.

The Geopark
The Assynt-Coigach NSA is part of the North West Highlands Geopark, home to some of the oldest rocks in the world.

Starting at the Summer Isles off the Coigach coast north west of Ullapool, the Geopark pushes north through the North West Sutherland NSA to Cape Wrath all the way at the top of north west mainland Scotland.

Heading east, the Geopark runs to the area around Loch Eriboll on the northern coast by the Kyle of Tongue NSA.

Visit the Knockan Crag Visitor Centre to the south of the NSA to learn more about the area's geology.

External Links
www.northwest-highlands-geopark.org.uk

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