Easy hikes and walks around Aultbea
4.6
(237)
1,257
hikers
23
hikes
Hiking around Aultbea offers access to a landscape characterized by a dramatic coastline, sandy beaches, and numerous lochs. The region is nestled on the shores of Loch Ewe, providing views of surrounding mountains and rugged coastal features. Inland, the terrain transitions to rolling hills and significant woodland areas, including Laide Wood. This diverse geography provides varied easy hiking trails suitable for different preferences.
Best easy hiking trails around Aultbea
- The most popular easy hiking route is Rubha Mòr Peninsula loop from Mellon Udrigle, a 2.4 miles (3.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 4 minutes to complete. This route offers coastal paths with expansive sea views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Inverewe Gardens loop from Poolewe, an easy 1.7 miles (2.7 km) path. It leads through a botanical garden showcasing exotic plants and woodland trails overlooking Loch Ewe.
- Local hikers also love the Rubha nan Sasan War Memorial loop from Sgeir Maol Mhoraidh Shuas, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail leading through coastal terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 49 minutes.
- Hiking around Aultbea is defined by dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches, and woodland paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, focusing on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Aultbea are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 210 reviews. More than 1,100 hikers have used komoot to explore Aultbea's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.8
(56)
199
hikers
3.94km
01:04
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(15)
134
hikers
2.67km
00:43
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Inverewe Gardens loop from Poolewe, a delightful route that combines coastal scenery with world-renowned horticulture. This trail stretches for 1.7 miles (2.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 104 feet (32 metres), making it suitable for all fitness levels and typically completed in about 42 minutes. You will enjoy coastal views of Loch Ewe as you approach the gardens, then immerse yourself in a lush, tropical oasis filled with exotic plants like Australian tree ferns and Chinese rhododendrons, thriving thanks to the Gulf Stream.
As you plan your visit, know that the trail from Poolewe to Inverewe Gardens features straightforward walking on pavements, and paths within the estate are easily accessible. The gardens themselves offer varied terrain, including a walled garden, a rock garden, and woodland walks around ponds. This route is generally open year-round, but checking the Inverewe Gardens website for specific opening times and any potential entry fees is a good idea before you set out.
This loop is particularly notable for the Inverewe Gardens, a horticultural marvel created by Osgood Mackenzie starting in 1862, transforming a barren outcrop into a vibrant collection of plants from across the globe. The gardens' unique setting on a peninsula on Loch Ewe provides a special microclimate and offers stunning viewpoints of the surrounding mountains. Beyond the gardens, the Inverewe Estate encompasses over 809 hectares managed for conservation, adding to the natural appeal of the area.
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3.8
(5)
18
hikers
6.79km
01:49
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
21
hikers
3.85km
01:01
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The whole segment between the lighthouse and the old army base is NOT suitable for bikes. There is no clear path and it is a 10km scramble between rocks and bogs. Very beautiful views but better to approach as a hike rather than pushing the bike across!!!
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Paths are clearly visible and easy to hike. The piles of stones and the occasional posts help with orientation. Sturdy shoes are a must in heavy rain.
1
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Around ten seals were relaxing below the hiking trail…
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Beautiful gardens created by the visionary Osgood Mackenzie in the mid nineteenth century, these gardens have a woodland shelter belt to protect the main gardens from the worst of the wind and weather. Always worth a visit, they are now well maintained by the National Trust for Scotland.
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Rubha nan Sasan is a place of historical and scenic interest in Scotland. It is located on the western tip of Loch Ewe, a natural deep water sea loch that was used as a convoy collecting point during World War II. Rubha nan Sasan was the site of a coastal battery that defended the loch from possible German invasion. The battery had two 6-inch guns and several other structures, such as observation posts, searchlight batteries, magazines, and engine houses. Some of these ruins can still be seen today, along with a war memorial to the crews lost on the Arctic convoys that sailed from Loch Ewe to Russia. Rubha nan Sasan is also a beautiful spot to enjoy the views of the loch and the surrounding hills.
1
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If you don't want to walk that far, you can climb up here from the beach, planning about 20 minutes each way.
1
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Here you will find the café, toilets and an art exhibition.
2
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Aultbea?
Aultbea offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 10 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 24 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes around Aultbea?
Easy hikes in Aultbea showcase the region's diverse natural beauty. You can expect dramatic coastlines with expansive sea views, sandy beaches, tranquil lochs, and significant woodland areas like Laide Wood. The landscape is often backed by majestic mountains, offering a picturesque experience.
Are there any easy circular walks in Aultbea?
Yes, Aultbea features several easy circular walks. A popular option is the Rubha Mòr Peninsula loop from Mellon Udrigle, which offers coastal paths and takes about an hour to complete. Another is the Rubha nan Sasan War Memorial loop from Sgeir Maol Mhoraidh Shuas, providing a longer coastal experience.
Are the easy hiking trails in Aultbea suitable for families with children?
Many easy trails in Aultbea are well-suited for families. Routes that are shorter, relatively flat, and offer interesting sights like beaches or woodlands are ideal. For instance, the Inverewe Gardens loop from Poolewe is a gentle path through a botanical garden, perfect for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Aultbea?
Aultbea is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Many coastal and woodland paths are suitable for dogs, provided they are well-behaved and waste is picked up.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along easy hikes?
Along easy hikes, you can discover several points of interest. The Inverewe Gardens loop takes you through the renowned Inverewe Garden. Coastal walks might lead you to beautiful spots like Slaggan Bay Beach or Gruinard Beach. You might also spot the Rubha Reidh Lighthouse in the distance from certain coastal vantage points.
Are there any easy coastal walks in Aultbea?
Aultbea is renowned for its stunning coastline, and several easy walks offer fantastic sea views. The Rubha Mòr Peninsula loop and the Rubha nan Sasan War Memorial loop are excellent choices for experiencing the rugged beauty of the coast and its beaches.
Where can I find parking for easy hikes near Aultbea?
Parking is generally available at the starting points of many popular trails. For instance, the Rubha Mòr Peninsula loop starts from Mellon Udrigle, and the Inverewe Gardens loop begins near Poolewe, both typically having designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.
Can I reach easy hiking trails in Aultbea using public transport?
While Aultbea is a rural area, some local bus services connect villages. However, direct public transport access to specific trailheads can be limited. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules is recommended if you intend to rely on public transport for reaching hiking starting points.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Aultbea?
The easy trails in Aultbea are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 210 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the tranquility of the woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and accessible outdoor experience.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Aultbea?
The best time for easy hikes in Aultbea is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder, and daylight hours are longer. This period offers the best chance for clear views and comfortable walking conditions, though the Scottish weather can be unpredictable year-round.
Are there any easy walks through woodlands in Aultbea?
Yes, Aultbea offers easy walks through its woodlands. Laide Wood, for example, features several trails and diverse flora, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and wildlife spotting. The Wildlife Observation Hide loop from Laide is another easy option that takes you through a wooded area.
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