Attractions and Places To See around Tongue - Top 20

Tongue is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy the scenic views of the Kyle of Tongue, a shallow sea loch, or challenge yourself with a climb up Ben Hope Summit, Scotland's most northerly Munro, which offers magical coastal views. The area also boasts beautiful beaches like Coldbackie Beach and Strathy Beach. Don't miss the impressive Smoo Cave, a geological marvel featuring an underground waterfall, located a short drive away.

Yes, Tongue is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Castle Varrich, which offers breathtaking views over the Kyle of Tongue and the surrounding mountains. Another significant historical site is Dun Dornaigil, an impressive and well-preserved ancient broch. The poignant remains of Rosal Township provide a stark reminder of the Highland Clearances, offering a glimpse into the region's past. For more local history, the Strathnaver Museum in Bettyhill is also nearby.

The Tongue area offers extensive opportunities for hiking and walking, from coastal paths to mountain climbs. You can tackle the challenging ascent of Ben Loyal or Ben Hope Summit for rewarding views. For easier options, consider the Castle Varrich Trail or the Tongue to Castle Varrich loop. Many trails explore ancient sites around the Kyle of Tongue, including parts of the Strathnaver Trail. Find more routes in the Hiking around Tongue guide.

Tongue offers several family-friendly options. The beautiful beaches like Coldbackie Beach are suitable for swimming and playing. Wildlife spotting is a popular activity, with opportunities to see seals, various bird species, deer, and even Highland Cows. The River Naver is a scenic spot where families can enjoy the views. While not directly in Tongue, Smoo Cave can also be an exciting visit for families, with its impressive waterfall.

The Tongue area is abundant with diverse wildlife. You can spot grey and common seals around the Kyle of Tongue, Rabbit Islands, and Eilan Nan Ron. Birdwatchers will enjoy seeing red and green shank, curlew, terns, fulmars, eagles, and ospreys. On land, deer, otters, and Highland Cows are common. Borgie Forest is another good spot for observing local wildlife, including leaping salmon and roe deer. Keep an eye out for rare plants like the Primula Scotica.

Beyond hiking, the Tongue area is excellent for various outdoor activities. The many inlets and coves make the local waters popular for kayaking and surfing during the summer months. The River Naver is well-known for salmon fishing, and both freshwater and sea trout fishing are available in the Kyle of Tongue. For cyclists, there are several road cycling routes, including loops around Ben Hope and Loch Loyal. You can also find running trails for different difficulty levels.

Tongue offers options for refreshments and stays. The Altnaharra Hotel, though a bit of a drive, provides a welcome shelter with a restaurant, bar, and comfortable rooms amidst beautiful wilderness. Within Tongue itself, you can find local cafes and pubs. The Weaver's Cafe & Gift Shop is a convenient stop for refreshments and local souvenirs.

Yes, Tongue is a key stop along the renowned North Coast 500 (NC500) scenic driving route. Its location offers magnificent coastal vistas and serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse landscapes and attractions of the northern Highlands.

The best time to visit Tongue largely depends on your preferred activities. The summer months (June to August) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the beaches. This is also when Ranger Walks are available. Spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds, though the weather can be more unpredictable. Winter offers a stark, dramatic landscape for those seeking solitude and challenging walks.

Yes, the area around Tongue is part of the North West Highlands Geopark, recognized for its exceptional geological features. A prime example is Smoo Cave, located a short drive away in Durness. This impressive cave features a unique underground waterfall and showcases the powerful forces of both sea and rainwater erosion.

Visitors particularly enjoy the breathtaking views from historical sites like Castle Varrich, overlooking the Kyle of Tongue and mountains. The dramatic landscapes, including the majestic Ben Loyal and Ben Hope Summit, are highly appreciated. The unique experience of Smoo Cave and the serene beauty of the River Naver also receive positive feedback for their natural appeal.