Clachtoll Beach: A Highland Coastal Gem
Discover the serene white sands and turquoise waters of Clachtoll Beach, a pristine Highland paradise rich in wildlife and ancient history.
Clachtoll Beach, located near Lairg in the Scottish Highlands, is a stunning coastal destination known for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and rugged natural beauty. With dramatic rock formations like the Split Rocks and panoramic mountain views, it offers a tranquil escape rich in wildlife and geological interest. The beach is part of a protected snorkel trail and whale and dolphin watching route, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Clachtoll Beach
- Lairg, IV27 4JD, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the ranger’s hut to learn about the local wildlife, geology, and history for a richer experience.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the clear waters along the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s snorkel trail.
- Check out the nearby Iron Age broch for a glimpse into the area's ancient past.
- Use the free car park and accessible boardwalks for easy beach access, including for those with mobility challenges.
- Consider staying at the nearby Clachtoll Beach Campsite for a peaceful overnight experience with stunning sea views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Lochinver, the nearest village about 5 miles south, takes approximately 15 minutes via single-track roads with passing places. Parking is available in a free council car park near the beach. Note that road conditions can be narrow and winding, so cautious driving is advised.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Lochinver to surrounding areas, but direct public transport to Clachtoll Beach is limited. From Lochinver, a taxi or bike rental is recommended for the 5-mile journey to the beach, which can take around 15–20 minutes.
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Walking
For the adventurous, walking from Lochinver to Clachtoll Beach is possible but involves navigating rural and uneven terrain over approximately 8 km, requiring good fitness and proper footwear. The route offers scenic Highland views but is not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Clachtoll Beach location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Clachtoll Beach
Unspoiled Coastal Beauty in the Scottish Highlands
Clachtoll Beach is a breathtaking stretch of white sand nestled on the northwest coast of Scotland near the village of Lairg. Its sparkling turquoise waters and clean, light sands create an atmosphere often compared to tropical paradises, despite its northern latitude. The beach is framed by rugged headlands and the iconic Split Rocks—large, broken rock formations that are remnants of a natural arch, lending the area a dramatic and ancient character. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of surrounding mountains from the headlands, including the distant peaks of Suilven and others in the Assynt region.Rich Geological and Historical Significance
The name Clachtoll derives from Gaelic, meaning "stone hole" or "rock cavity," a reference to the notable Split Rock formation. Nearby, an Iron Age broch stands as a testament to the area's long human history. This double-walled stone tower, dating back to between 400 and 250 BC, once stood taller than its current three-meter remains and is a remarkable archaeological site. The beach area also features a ranger’s hut where visitors can learn about the local wildlife, geology, and history, enriching the experience with educational insights.A Sanctuary for Wildlife and Outdoor Activities
Clachtoll Beach is part of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s snorkel trail, renowned for its exceptionally clear waters that reveal an underwater world teeming with marine life. The beach lies on the whale and dolphin trail, with frequent sightings of porpoises, dolphins, minke whales, otters, and sea eagles. This makes it a prime location for wildlife watching, snorkeling, and water sports. The surrounding landscape offers excellent opportunities for hill walking, fishing, and beachcombing, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors to Clachtoll Beach can enjoy easy access via a free council car park with boardwalks leading to the beach, accommodating visitors with mobility challenges. The area is peaceful and relatively uncrowded, offering a serene environment for picnics, swimming, paddleboarding, and even beach fires. Nearby, the Clachtoll Beach Campsite provides well-maintained grass pitches with sea views, catering to tents, caravans, and campervans, and welcomes dogs. Facilities include clean restrooms and a ranger’s hut, ensuring a comfortable and informative visit.Connection to Local Culture and Surroundings
The beach is situated within the historic parish of Assynt and the wider region of Sutherland, known for its crofting and fishing heritage. A memorial to Reverend Norman Macleod, a notable evangelical minister born in the area, adds cultural depth. The nearby village of Lochinver serves as a hub for exploring the region’s natural and cultural attractions. The Clachtoll Peat Road hiking trail starts just south of the village, offering extended exploration into the Highlands with spectacular mountain vistas.Preserving a Natural Highland Treasure
Clachtoll Beach remains an unspoiled natural haven, carefully managed to protect its unique environment and wildlife. Its inclusion in protected snorkel and marine wildlife trails reflects ongoing conservation efforts. Visitors are encouraged to respect the pristine conditions by following Leave No Trace principles, ensuring this Highland gem remains vibrant and beautiful for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
6.9 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Walkhighlands
62.3 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
65.0 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
67.0 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
historic scotland
75.9 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Old Ruins
79.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Rogie Falls
79.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rogie Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Fyrish Monument
80.5 km
Historic stone monument atop Fyrish Hill blending Scottish resilience with colonial Indian inspiration and offering stunning Highland views.
Rubha Hunish
80.5 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Castle Leod
81.0 km
Explore Castle Leod, a stunning Scottish castle in Strathpeffer, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
81.5 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Clach an Tiompain
81.6 km
Explore Clach an Tiompain, a historic stone landmark in Strathpeffer, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Scotland's ancient past amidst stunning landscapes.
Eagle Stone Path
81.7 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
The Brother's Point
82.2 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Calanais Standing Stones
82.6 km
Discover the ancient mystique of the Calanais Standing Stones, an extraordinary historical landmark on the Isle of Lewis, steeped in culture and beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clachtoll Broch
0.8 km
Explore Clachtoll Broch, a remarkable Iron Age drystone tower on Scotland’s coast, preserved by fire and time with stunning sea views.
Hermit's Castle
2.6 km
Discover the enigmatic Hermit's Castle, a tiny Brutalist bothy blending into Scotland’s rugged coast with a mysterious story and stunning views.
Achmelvich Beach
2.8 km
Discover Achmelvich Beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise with turquoise waters and rugged Highland beauty on Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500.
Achmelvich Bay
2.8 km
Discover Achmelvich Bay’s pristine white sands, vibrant watersports, and breathtaking Highland scenery on Scotland’s northern coast.
Clashnessie Falls
3.3 km
Discover the tranquil 15-meter Clashnessie Falls and its wild Highland surroundings, where rugged beauty meets serene coastal charm.
Old Man of Stoer
8.4 km
A towering Torridonian sandstone sea stack on Scotland’s wild northwest coast, famed for dramatic hikes, climbing, and stunning wildlife encounters.
Loch Assynt
18.0 km
A breathtaking freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, framed by rugged peaks and historic castle ruins, perfect for nature and history lovers.
Assynt Viewpoint
18.8 km
Dramatic Highland peaks frame an ancient loch and castle ruins in Scotland's remote geological wonderland.
Kylesku Bridge
19.8 km
A visually striking curved concrete bridge in the Scottish Highlands offering stunning views and rich history along the North Coast 500.
Ardvreck Castle
20.2 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle, a dramatic Highland landmark steeped in history, legend, and stunning lochside views.
North West Highlands Geopark
20.3 km
Explore ancient landscapes and geological wonders at Scotland’s North West Highlands UNESCO Global Geopark, where Earth’s history comes alive.
Allt Chranaidh Waterfall
20.3 km
Discover the dramatic beauty and serene wilderness of Allt Chranaidh Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading through the Scottish Highlands.
Ardvreck Castle Waterfall
20.4 km
Discover the haunting ruins and cascading waterfall of Ardvreck Castle, where Scottish history meets breathtaking Highland nature.
Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve
23.3 km
Explore three billion years of Earth’s history at Knockan Crag, where ancient rocks and breathtaking Highland vistas reveal Scotland’s geological story.
The Bone Caves
24.9 km
Explore ancient limestone caves high in the Scottish Highlands, where Ice Age animal bones and stunning views tell a story of prehistoric wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Lochinver Larder
6.9 km
Savor handcrafted Highland pies amid stunning Scottish scenery in the welcoming village of Lochinver.
Delilah's
7.1 km
A lively, family-friendly Highland restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning sea views and a buzzing atmosphere.
An Cala Café
7.2 km
Fresh seafood and hearty Scottish fare served year-round in a cozy café and bunkhouse nestled in Lochinver’s scenic Culag Park.
Eddrachilles Hotel
19.3 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
Kylesku Hotel
20.1 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
Scourie Hotel
21.1 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Shorehouse Restaurant
25.0 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Dipping Lugger
34.3 km
An intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant in an 18th-century harbour manse, serving inventive tasting menus of hyper-local seafood and game in the heart of Ullapool.
The Crask Inn
48.3 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
The Pier
57.6 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Eleven Restaurant & Bar
61.3 km
A welcoming bar and grill in Stornoway offering classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a cozy atmosphere from morning till night.
Caladh Inn
61.3 km
Comfortable and welcoming inn in central Stornoway, blending local charm with convenient access to the Isle of Lewis’s highlights.
The Park Guest House & Restaurant
61.3 km
Charming central guest house in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, local dining, and easy access to Isle of Lewis attractions.
La Balena - Italian Restaurant
61.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Hebridean seafood in a warm, family-run setting at La Balena in Stornoway.
Bridge Centre Cafe
61.7 km
Cozy cafe in Stornoway’s Bayhead serving fresh, hearty meals and local treats daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Captain's Cabin
34.2 km
Discover a cozy treasure trove of Scottish gifts, crafts, and friendly service at Ullapool’s charming Captain's Cabin.
London Stores
34.9 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Gairloch Gifts
56.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Gairloch Gifts, your charming Highland stop on the scenic North Coast 500.
Sileas She-Liss
61.3 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Sileas She-Liss, a charming boutique in Stornoway that celebrates local craftsmanship and style.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)
61.5 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, beauty, and homeware all under one roof in Stornoway’s popular department store.
Bayhead Gift House
61.6 km
Explore the charming Bayhead Gift House in Stornoway for unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Hebrides.
Hebridean Gifts
61.7 km
Discover authentic Hebridean crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant artisan scene.
Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock
61.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and exquisite SeaGlass jewellery inspired by the Isle of Lewis at Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock.
Celtic Clothing
61.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish heritage with bespoke kilts and Harris Tweed craftsmanship at Celtic Clothing in Stornoway.
Bonmarché
61.7 km
Bonmarché Stornoway offers stylish, affordable women's fashion in sizes 10-28, conveniently located on Cromwell Street in the town centre.
Peacocks
61.7 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family in the heart of Stornoway’s shopping district.
Nicolson & Co Ltd
61.7 km
Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Tweedtastic
61.7 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
Sardar & Sons
61.7 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
Harris Tweed Hebrides
61.7 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and heritage at Harris Tweed Hebrides in Stornoway, the heart of Scottish island weaving tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rip
55.1 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
The Badachro Inn
59.2 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
61.2 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
61.7 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
61.7 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Artizan
61.7 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
The Criterion Bar
61.8 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
THE HARBOUR BAR
61.8 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
63.7 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
63.7 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Beinn Bar
74.4 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Nanny's
76.7 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Platform 1864
86.4 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
87.9 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
The Ship Inn
88.6 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Ross Shire Club
85.0 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
The Scaladale Centre
86.5 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Number 5
92.3 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
