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  1. Home
  2. Things to do
  3. Touring & Escorted Tours
  4. Scotland's UNESCO Trail
  5. North West Highlands Geopark

North West Highlands Geopark

Stretching over 2,000 square kilometres in the far corner of mainland Scotland, the North West Highlands Geopark is a spectacular example of different rock geologies. Starting at 3 billion years old, the Lewisian Gneiss is the oldest rock in Europe. It’s also home to the earliest evidence of life to be found anywhere in Europe.

But the geopark is not just about incredible science. It’s also about beauty. Think white sandy beaches, rocky mountain ridges and atmospheric rock caves, alongside grass, peatland, moors and forest. Then there’s the wildlife – not just the current seabirds, eagles and sealife, but also the evidence of creatures that once walked this land, hidden deep in caves.

Stac Pollaidh - a mountain located amongst The North West Highlands Geopark

© Kim Walton

Why are the North West Highlands so special

Did you know the geopark is home to 3-billion-year-old rocks?

Loch na Gainmhich Waterfall

Where else can you experience two-thirds of the history of the Earth, in a quiet and beautiful but accessible spot of Scotland?

The North West Highlands Geopark is UNESCO-recognised because of the unimaginable age of the rocks along the coastline, as well as the incredible complexity of the landscape. Visit the Moine Thrust Zone to learn more about just one of the many scientific discoveries the landscape has created - stand where geologists finally discovered that continents had collided together, thanks to the presence of old rock above new.

You’ll also find each type of rock produces its own unique and evocative habitat, providing you with a diverse array of scenery to take in, wherever in the geopark you explore.

Get outdoors and explore the North West Highlands Geopark

This vast area of Scotland offers an array of outdoor experiences, from mountaineering and scrambling to trails, routes, foodie experiences and tours to follow along too.

Hamlet Mountaineering

Walk, climb or scramble your way through the North West Highlands with the experts by your side.

The Rock Stop Visitor Centre

This visitor and exhibition centre sells everything from books on the local geology to gifts and information packs.

The Seaforth

Tuck into delicious, fresh and locally sourced dishes.

Balnakeil Craft Village

Home to a range of local artists & businesses including a chocolatier, hairdresser, art galleries, paintings, ceramics, woodwork, and more.

Smoo Cave Tours

Venture underground in this spectacular experience.

Assynt and Coigach Creative Trails

Explore the arts and craft studios and shops, meet the makers themselves, and discover the essence of this corner of Scotland.

Exploring the local area

You won’t be lost for new areas to discover and places to visit in the geopark.

Sculpture in Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve, near Ullapool

Discover destinations across the park

Stretching thousands of square kilometres, you can visit significant sites, picturesque reserves, iconic mountains, stunning coastal spots and much more.

  • Ullapool
  • Achiltibuie
  • Lochinver
  • Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve
  • Durness
  • Stac Pollaidh
Find more destinations to visit

Camping responsibly in the North West Highlands Geopark

Sustainable local businesses

These Green Tourism businesses are assessed on everything from energy efficiency to biodiversity and awarded bronze, silver or gold. It is important to explore Scotland's UNESCO Trail in a sustainable and responsible way to help preserve the landscapes here for generations to come.

  • Croft 103
  • The Brochs of Coigach
  • Langridge Highland Home
Learn more about exploring Scotland sustainably

How to get here

“There's nowhere else on Earth like the North West Highlands. Time runs deep here, our mountains have witnessed three-quarters of Earth's history, come and hear their stories and take time to think about that!” - Laura, North West Highlands Geopark

Signage in the North West Highlands Geopark

Due to the secluded location on the north west corner of Scotland, the geopark is best explored using a private vehicle. However, there are lots of options to travel to Inverness using public transport including trains, buses or flights, as well as local buses to Ullapool, Scourie, Kinlochbervie and Durness.

Visit the North West Highlands Geopark for more details on travelling here, as well as useful information such as available petrol stations.

Find out more

The Scottish Highlands

Head north for a weekend break or longer holiday in the Highlands, and discover ancient castles, peaceful lochs, and unforgettable views.

Inverness

The capital of the Scottish Highlands sits on Scotland’s north east coast, where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth.

Scottish Fossil Code

Learn more about how to gather fossils safely and respectfully to prevent damage to the area.

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