One of the great services offered to visitors in Wester Ross is a series of guided walks and nature events that take place throughout the year. Most are free to attend – although small donations are often welcomed & advance booking is sometimes required.

The events that I have seen publicised so far in the Achiltibuie, Ullapool and Lochinver areas are as follows:

Wednesday 27th May. 10.30 – 12.30 – Brochs and crofts in Achiltibuie. A coastal walk in the North West Highland Geopark with views of the Summer Isles. Discover the history and archaeology of the Brochs and Crofts. Booking is essential – Tel: 01854 613904 or 07881 502230. Start point will be advised on booking. (Walking over rough but fairly flat ground. Reasonable level of fitness required).

Wednesday 3rd June. 11.00 – 4.00 – Wildlife along the Torridonian Edge. Step back in time on this coastal walk to see a billion years of life and maybe some otters and seals. Bring a packed lunch and binoculars. Tel: 01854 613904 for more information. Meet at the Achnahaird – Achiltibuie junction. (Walking over rough and boggy ground with some hills. Reasonable level of fitness required).

Thursday 11th June. 11.00 – 2.00 – Wildlife wander up the Inverianvie river, Gruinard. Explore the waterfall and gorge of the Inverianvie river looking out for the flora and fauna including orchids and maybe a dipper or two. Bring a packed lunch. Meet at Gruniard Beach car park. Booking essential. Tel: 01854 613904. (Walking is over a rough path so please wear sturdy footwear).

Tuesday 23rd June. 11.00 – 2.00 – Wildlife wander at the Falls of Stroma, nr. Ullapool. Explore the waterfalls and gorge of Gleann Mor looking out for the flora and fauna including orchids and maybe a dipper or two. Bring a packed lunch. Booking essential. Meeting point advised on booking. Tel: 01854 613904. (Walking is over a rough path so please wear sturdy footwear).

Tuesday 4th August. 2.00 – 3.30 – Around the world in 80 minutes! Join the ranger at Lael Forest Garden and visit trees from around the world. This is orienteering for those with the travel bug. A fun trail for all the family. All children must be accompanied by an adult and wheelchair users can also join in. Meet at Lael Forest Garden West car park. Tel: 01854 613904.

Saturday 15th August. 2.00 – 4.00 & 8.00 – 10.00 pm – Go batty in Ullapool. An afternoon of batty fun activities for children – making bat badges & kites and listening to bat stories (2-4pm). Also an evening presentation and bat walk. Suitable for all ages. A torch is helpful. Adults £2, Children £1. Booking essential. Tel: 01854 613904 or 07881 502230.

Thursday 17th September. 7.30 pm – late – Creatures of the night! Ullapool. Discover the fascinating nightlife of Ullapool – moths, bats and anything else you find. Set up moth traps. Meet at Morefield play area car park, Ullapool. Bring a torch, hat and sunglasses. Suitable for all ages. Tel: 01854 613904.

Wednesday 23rd September. 11.00 – 4.00 – A billion years of life in Achnahaird. Explore the ancient rivers and lakes and get a glimpse of fossil records of the first life forces to appear on Earth. Part of Scottish Geology Month. Meet at Achnahaird / Achiltibuie junction. Tel: 01854 603 904.

Saturday 10th October. 11.00 – 3.00 – Ancient fort of Dun Canna. Join the ranger in a walk to the ancient fort of Dun Canna. Learn about the lives and times of the people who once lived in this stunning area. A highland Archaeology Festival event. Meet at Blughasary car park (near Strathcanaird), N of Ullapool off the A835. Tel: 01854 613904. (Walking over rough but fairly flat ground. Reasonable level of fitness required)

These are just a few of the events in the local area but many other walks, nature trails and educational gatherings are organised throughout the year. I’ll add further details as they are publicised.