Where to Eat in and Around Stoer & Lochinver
Where to Eat in and Around Stoer & Lochinver – Cafés, Restaurants & Honesty Boxes
Exploring the rugged beauty of the Assynt coast? Whether you’re staying in Stoer or passing through Lochinver, the area offers a delightful range of places to eat — from cosy cafés to honesty boxes full of homemade goodies. Here’s our local guide to the best food stops nearby, including some real hidden gems.
Lochinver Larder
Famous for: Legendary pies – sweet and savoury
No visit to the area is complete without sampling Lochinver Larder’s famous pies. With flavours ranging from venison & cranberry to apple & blackcurrant, these hearty delights are perfect for dining in or taking away.
Peet’s Restaurant & Takeaway
Famous for: Fresh seafood & generous portions
A popular choice for sit-down meals or takeaway classics like fish and chips. Often features locally caught haddock, prawns, and langoustines. A proper Highland feed!
An Cala Café
Famous for: Homemade baking & peaceful views
Close to the harbour in Lochinver, An Cala is ideal for a light lunch, soup, or a slice of homemade cake. A lovely place to watch the world go by with a cuppa.
Delilah’s Restaurant & Bar
Famous for: Contemporary Scottish cuisine & cocktails
Delilah’s offer a modern take on Highland fare with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include Panko & Sesame Haddock Goujons, Lobster Linguine, and their signature Delilah’s Burger topped with smoked cheddar and dry-cured bacon. Vegetarian options are just as tempting. It’s dog-friendly too, with indoor and outdoor seating and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect after a day of exploring.
Flossie’s Beach Store (Clachtoll)
Famous for: Ice cream & beach snacks
Set just steps from Clachtoll beach, Flossie’s is a seasonal favourite for hot drinks, hot dogs, ice cream, and local crafts. A great pit stop during coastal walks or beach days.
Honesty Boxes – A Taste of Highland Hospitality
No visit to the Highlands is complete without stopping at a few roadside honesty boxes — simple wooden stalls or sheds filled with home baking, preserves, and sometimes even seafood or eggs. You pay what’s asked, pop your money in a tin or jar, and continue on your way.
Bo’s Bakery (Clachtoll)
A brand new addition, Bo’s Bakery offers delicious homemade traybakes, cookies, and other sweet treats. It’s a lovely find for anyone staying nearby or passing through.
Stoer Village Hall Honesty Box
Often filled with jams, chutneys & eggs.
Top Tips for Foodies Visiting the Area
- Cash is essential for honesty boxes — not many accept cards.
• Seasonal hours vary, so it’s wise to check opening times ahead, especially in spring and autumn.
• Bring a cool bag if you’re planning to stock up on seafood or pies — many spots offer takeaway portions great for freezing.
Come Hungry, Leave Happy
Whether it’s a flaky fish pie, a pint and a plate of venison stew, or a homemade brownie from a roadside stall, Stoer and Lochinver offer something special for every kind of foodie. Tuck in — and support our wonderful local businesses while you’re at it!
Wildfire Warning: Why Open Fires Are a No-Go in Assynt Right Now
You may have seen or heard about the devastating wildfire at Stac Pollaidh recently – a horrible reminder of how vulnerable our beautiful landscape is. With dry grasses, strong winds, and a remote landscape, it doesn’t take much for a small spark to become a serious emergency.
What Caused the Fire?
While the exact cause of the Stac Pollaidh fire hasn’t been officially confirmed, it’s widely believed to have started from an uncontrolled fire or BBQ. Sadly, this isn’t a one-off—Scotland sees numerous wildfires every year during dry spells, most of which are entirely preventable.
As a local business based here in Assynt, we see the impact first-hand. These fires not only destroy delicate ecosystems and wildlife habitats – they also threaten homes, livelihoods, and the safety of both locals and visitors. The recent blaze could be seen from miles around, with firefighters from all over the highlands working tirelessly together for 2 days to bring it under control.
Spring & Summer = High Risk
From March through October, the risk of wildfires in the Highlands is very real. Dead vegetation left over from winter dries out quickly
(even if the weather feels damp) and becomes tinder-dry fuel for fire.
That means things like:
Campfires
Disposable BBQs
Cigarettes
Even stove sparks
can easily ignite the hillside.
Please Avoid All Open Fires
We love when visitors enjoy the outdoors, but we’re strongly asking everyone to avoid using disposable BBQs, open fires, or even gas stoves in dry or exposed areas.
Even where fires might normally be legal under Scotland’s Outdoor Access Code, it is not responsible to light one during dry spells or near vulnerable habitats like moorland and peat.
Here’s what the Code says:
“Never light an open fire during prolonged dry periods or in sensitive places such as forests, peaty ground, or near buildings or croft land.”
In reality, during dry spells like we’re seeing now, lighting a fire in open countryside is not responsible access—and could be seen as reckless or even criminal if it leads to damage.
So while access rights do allow you to enjoy the countryside, they come with the responsibility to protect it.
What You Can Do Instead
Pack a picnic or bring a flask of tea or coffee instead of cooking on the hill.
If you’re camping, choose your spot carefully and skip the fire altogether.
Stay informed—check local fire risk notices, ranger advice, or NatureScot’s fire danger rating.
Let’s work together to protect this stunning landscape.
If the Stac Pollaidh fire teaches us anything, it’s that our small choices can have big consequences.
Sunday lunch time Stac Pollaidh, the smoke becoming visible from Stoer.
About an hour later most of our iconic hills invisible due to the thick smoke
The hills will still be here to enjoy tomorrow-if we take care of them today.
“Assynt’s beauty is worth protecting – let’s leave no trace and keep it wild.”
Navigating Scotland’s Single-Track Roads: Laws & Etiquette
Scotland’s single-track roads are some of the most scenic in the world, winding through breathtaking landscapes of mountains, lochs, and glens. However, for visitors unfamiliar with them, they can also be a bit daunting. Understanding both the legal requirements and the unwritten rules of courtesy can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone on the road.
Legal Rules of the Road
- Drive on the Left – It may sound obvious, but for visitors from right-hand drive countries, it’s an important reminder.
- Use Passing Places Correctly – These designated spots are there to allow vehicles to pass safely. Always use them when necessary and never park in them.
- Give Way to Oncoming Traffic When Necessary – If the passing place is on your left, pull in. If it’s on your right, the oncoming vehicle should use it – you should stop opposite it if you reach it first to allow the oncoming vehicle to pass.
- Let Faster Vehicles Pass – Legally, drivers must use passing places to allow faster vehicles behind them to overtake when safe. The Highway Code (Rule 155) advises drivers to pull into a passing place on the left or wait opposite a passing place on the right to maintain traffic flow. Failing to allow others to pass when safe could be considered inconsiderate driving under Rule 147.
- Speed Limits Still Apply – Many single-track roads are in national speed limit areas (60 mph), but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive at that speed. Adjust your speed to road conditions.
- Be Aware of Livestock and Wildlife – Many single-track roads pass through open grazing land, meaning sheep, deer, and other animals may be on the road.
- Use Your Lights Wisely – Headlights can help you be seen but avoid dazzling oncoming drivers.
Single-Track Road Etiquette
- Be Considerate and Patient – These roads are used by locals and tourists alike. If you’re sightseeing, be mindful of other road users who may be commuting or working.
- Acknowledge Courtesy – A friendly wave or nod when someone gives way goes a long way in keeping the roads friendly.
- Don’t Block the Road – If you want to stop for photos or to take in the view, find a proper layby, not a passing place.
Watch for Cyclists and Walkers – Many single-track roads are also popular with cyclists and hikers, so give them plenty of space.- Plan ahead – Mobile signal can be patchy in rural areas, so plan your route in advance and be prepared for narrow, winding roads.
By following these simple laws and etiquette tips, you can enjoy Scotland’s stunning landscapes while keeping the roads safe and pleasant for everyone. Happy driving!
Wild Swimming in Assyny
Wild swimming in Asssynt
Assynt, is a haven for wild swimming enthusiasts, offering a variety of beautiful lochs, rivers, and beaches set against an amazing, rugged landscape. Here are some notable spots to consider not to far from Stoer Bay Chalets.
Stoer Bay (just across the road 2 min walk)
Offers stunning scenery and clear waters, making it a beautiful spot for wild swimming if conditions are right. Stoer Bay is quite an exposed beach so can at times be a large swell but on a calm day is in our (totally nonbiased opinion) the best beach on the west.
Achmelvich Beach (20 min drive)
One of the west’s most famous beaches, with turquoise water and white sand. Fairly sheltered, making it one of the best swimming-friendly beaches in the area. Achmelvich Beach is renowned for its white sands and clear turquoise waters. The gentle slope makes it suitable for both casual dips and longer swims though it can be very crowded in the summer months. Keep an eye out for dolphins, which are occasionally spotted in the bay.
Clachtoll Beach (5 min drive)
A smaller but in many people’s opinion equally stunning beach (if not nicer but ssshhhhh don’t tell Achmelvich that), Clachtoll boasts mountain views and unique geological features, such as Split Rock. Its clear waters provide an enticing swim for those looking for a more secluded spot.
Clashnessie Bay (10 min drive)
A gorgeous sandy beach with clear waters and a waterfall nearby. Generally sheltered, making it a safe swimming option. Keep an eye on the tide—at low tide, there’s a lot of shallow water…. believe me it’s a long walk out for a swim at low tide.
Please note the bottom of the waterfall is rocky and too shallow for even a dook far less a swim.
Sandwood Bay (1.5-hour walk from the car park)
A remote and stunning beach, Sandwood Bay offers a two-mile stretch of pink-tinged sands surrounded by grassy dunes. Only accessible by a 4-mile walk. Crystal-clear waters but can have very strong currents – best left for the experienced swimmers. The remote location requires a hike or bike to access, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of peace.
Loch Airigh na Beinne (30 mins drive)
This mountain lochan, situated on the slopes of Quinag, sits at 130 meters. Its name translates to “Loch of the Mountain Shieling” in Gaelic. The loch is home to aquatic plants like the white water-lily and water lobelia, making it an interesting spot for a freshwater swim amidst serene surroundings.
River Inver (20 mins drive)
A four-mile loop near Lochinver follows fishing paths along the River Inver, winding through scenic woodlands. The gentle ascent offers views of Suilven, and the route finishes at Glencanisp Lodge. The river’s clear waters provide spots for refreshing swims in a woodland setting.
The Wailing Widow Falls (30 mins drive)
Also known as Loch na Gainmhich Waterfall, is a striking 30-meter (approximately 100 feet) waterfall located in Assynt, Scotland. The falls cascade from Loch na Gainmhich into a narrow gorge, creating a picturesque spot that has attracted wild swimming enthusiasts but if you are looking for seclusion you probably best going out of summer. The area is in rugged terrain, and the water can be cold and subject to strong currents, especially after rainfall. The path leading to the base of the falls is rough and rocky, becoming particularly muddy and very slippery in wet conditions.
Safety Tips for Wild Swimming 
Check the Weather & Tides
The weather in the Highlands changes quickly—avoid swimming in strong winds or rough seas. Always check tide times to avoid strong currents or being cut off.
Be Aware of Cold-Water Shock
Even in summer, the water is cold (usually between 10-15°C in summer, 5-10°C in winter). Get in slowly to let your body adjust and don’t stay in too long—hypothermia is a risk. Consider a wetsuit if you’re swimming for more than a few minutes.
Know Your Exit Point
Before getting in, plan where you’ll get out—some rocky areas can be tricky to climb out of. Avoid areas with strong waves pushing you onto rocks.
Swim with a Buddy
If possible, don’t swim alone. If you do, tell someone your plan and estimated return time. Carry a bright tow float so you’re visible to others.
Be Aware of Wildlife
Seals may approach out of curiosity—don’t panic, just stay calm and keep your distance. Avoid swimming near nesting seabirds or disturbing marine life.
The best time to go sea swimming
Low to Mid Tide: Depending on the location, mid-tide is safest—check tide charts before swimming.
Short Walks in Assynt for a Quick Adventure
Last weeks blog cover some of our iconic mountains walks so this week I thought we could cover some easier lower level walks.
Assynt is known for its wild and rugged landscapes, but not every adventure here needs to be an all-day trek. Whether you’re short on time, have little ones in tow, or simply want to soak in the scenery without a hard hike, there are plenty of rewarding short walks to enjoy. Here are some of the best shorter walks in Assynt, each offering a taste of the area’s breathtaking beauty and unique history.
- Clachtoll to Stoer Bay (or visa versa)
Stoer Bay
Distance: 2.5 km (1.5 miles)
Time: 30–45 minutes one way
Difficulty: Easy
This gentle coastal walk takes you from the stunning white sands of Clachtoll Beach to the equally beautiful Stoer Bay. Along the way, enjoy panoramic sea views, spot seabirds, and take in the rugged coastline. The route is mostly flat, making it ideal for a relaxed outing and can be made circular by coming back along the road– stopping at Flossies shop for a delicious hot chocolate.
- Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve
Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
Time: 30–45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Perfect for geology enthusiasts, this short but fascinating walk takes you through one of Scotland’s most famous geological sites. Here you will also learn the incredible story of the Moine Thrust, where ancient rock formations reveal billions of years of Earth’s history. The walk offers stunning views over Lochan an Ais and the surrounding hills.
- Achmelvich Bay to Alltan’abradhan
Achmelvich Beach
Distance: 3 km (1.8 miles)
Time: 45 minutes–1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Starting at the white sands of Achmelvich Bay, this walk follows a coastal path past rocky outcrops and small inlets, eventually leading to the old mill at Alltan’abradhan…. Just outside of Clachtoll – so the walk could be done either way or there and back
4. The Bone Caves
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) round trip
Time: 1.5–2 hours
The Bone Caves
Difficulty: Moderate
This short but rewarding walk takes you to the famous Bone Caves, where remains of ancient animals such as lynx, reindeer, and even polar bears have been discovered. The route follows the Allt nan Uamh river and its underground springs before climbing up to the caves, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. While not an overly hard walk, the path can be uneven in places so good footwear is essential.
- Ardvreck Castle
Distance: 1 km (0.6 miles) round trip
Ardvreck Castle, Loch Assynt
Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
A visit to Assynt wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the beautiful ruins of Ardvreck Castle, on the shores of Loch Assynt. A short walk from the car park takes you to the ruins, where you can explore the remains of this 16th-century stronghold and take in the dramatic setting.
Each of these short walks offers something special—whether it’s coastal waters, geological wonders, or a step back in time. They are perfect for those who want to experience Assynt’s magic without committing to a lengthy hike. Have you tried any of these walks? Let us know your favourite on our facebook page @stoerbaychalets
Mountains to Climb in Assynt
Mountains to climb in Assynt: A climbers Paradise
Tucked away in the northwest Highlands of Scotland, Assynt is a dream location for walkers and climbers. With its unique landscape of rugged peaks, lochs, and vast wilderness, this region offers some of the most striking mountain ascents in the country. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a rewarding viewpoint, Assynt has something to offer. Here are some of the must-climb mountains in this breathtaking part of Scotland.
Suilven (731m)
Sulliven
One of the most iconic mountains in Scotland, Suilven’s unmistakable outline dominates the surrounding landscape. Though not the highest peak, its sheer isolation and dramatic profile make it a rewarding challenge. The standard approach from Glencanisp Lodge takes climbers through a long and scenic trek before the final steep ascent. The walk in is further than the climb and is often done on mountain bike. From the summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views of lochs, coastline, and rolling hills stretching far beyond the horizon.
Stac Pollaidh (612m)
Stac Pollaidh
Despite its relatively modest height, Stac Pollaidh is one of the most popular and rewarding climbs in Assynt. Its distinctive jagged ridgeline gives it an Alpine feel, and though reaching the true summit requires some scrambling, the well-maintained paths make it accessible for most walkers. The views from the top are truly breathtaking, offering a sweeping vista over Loch Lurgainn and the surrounding wilderness.
Quinag (808m)
Quinag is a collection of three Corbetts, making it an exciting and varied climb. The main peaks—Sàil Gharbh, Sàil Ghorm, and Spidean Coinich—offer an exhilarating ridge walk with stunning views at every turn. The ascent can be done in a loop, giving climbers a full experience of this rugged and beautiful mountain. With itsmix of steep climbs and relatively easy ridges, Quinag is an excellent choice for those looking for a full day of adventure and is most defiantly my top favourite….so far!
Quinag
Quinag
Ben More Assynt (998m) and Conival (987m)
For those seeking a Munro challenge, Ben More Assynt and its neighbouring peak, Conival, provide a fantastic high-level ridge walk. Starting from Inchnadamph, the route takes walkers through rocky terrain, leading to the summit of Conival before continuing along a boulder-strewn ridge to Ben More Assynt. On a clear day, the views stretch across the entirety of Assynt and beyond.
Canisp (847m)
Less frequented than its famous neighbour Suilven, Canisp offers a quieter but equally rewarding climb. The ascent is relatively straightforward, following a long but gradual approach from Loch Awe. The summit provides outstanding views of Suilven’s imposing ridgeline as well as the surrounding mountains and lochs, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for solitude in a spectacular setting.
Conclusion
Assynt is a paradise for mountain lovers, offering a variety of climbs that cater to all levels of hikers. Whether you’re looking for a short but exhilarating scramble or a long, challenging Munro hike, these mountains provide unforgettable experiences. With stunning landscapes, remote beauty, and diverse terrain, climbing in Assynt is an adventure you won’t forget. So, pack your boots, prepare your map, and set off to explore one of Scotland’s most magical regions….and best of all they are all within easy reach by car of Stoer Bay Chalets.
The view from Quinag
A misty Stac Pollaidh
Why take out travel Insurance?
………it can cost less than £10 upwards dependant on the cover you require and minimal effort to cover your holiday should you unexpectedly need to cancel your holiday booking.
This blog covers the importance of taking out cover even if you are on a staycation
This is because it is something just about everyone takes out when traveling abroad but for some reason seem to forget that even a cancelled holiday in your own home country with no cover will more than likely leave you out of pocket.
Even when you’re taking a break in your home country, many of the holiday risks remain the same as if going abroad. No-one wants to be reminded that they may fall ill, have an accident or be otherwise prevented from travelling before their holiday. However, it could happen to you and if it does you may lose everything that you’ve already paid.
Travel insurance can protect you against unexpected cancelations as well as the many other things that can go wrong cutting short your trip for reasons beyond your control.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that although any medical treatment you need in the UK (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) would still be covered by the NHS if you are a UK resident, insurance may still be needed if you want to be transferred to a hospital that’s closer to your home, which isn’t usually be covered by the NHS.
Did you know many of the big high street banks offer packaged current accounts. In return for a monthly fee, accountholders get a package of perks or benefits such as car breakdown, gadget cover and travel insurance…. but do check what cover you get from this if you think you have these deals – makes sure it covers everything you may need. It may be worth checking with your bank. If not, you can find cover in all the usual places where you would find cover if looking for a holiday abroad.
We are very lucky to love our business very much and want our guests to love our lets and the surrounding area as much as we do which is why we feel so bad for guests who lose due to not having taken out insurance cover but we cannot be thought of as an unregistered insurance company for someone else’s cancelled holiday.
Always check your holidays Terms & Conditions cancelation Policy and please remember if you sadly must cancel your holiday for any reason, it is your responsibility to have adequate insurance cover for this.
Do you know in the last year alone we have had 9 cancelled holidays, all due to unforeseen circumstances in each family’s lives, if we had had to reimburse all of them how much income we would have lost? Our lets are first & foremost a business, and like all businesses have many overheads and what’s left is what partially feeds and clothes a family.
We will always always try our best to resell a cancelled holiday so we are able to refund as much as possible due to a cancelation but sometimes a rebooking just doesn’t happen.
So please always take out insurance.
A booking through our website cannot be sent unless you have ticked to say you have read our terms & conditions. A copy is also attached to every email from our booking system to you throughout your booking and payment process.
Photos curtesy of David Haines
Labour of Love
Over the last 6 years since we first fell in love with and bought these chalets we have been upgrading and making improvements to them.
Originally built early 1960,s. Zoom in on those amazing windows! Other locals thought they were mad building holiday accommodation in such a remote location but they were always busy and still continue to be so.
Circa 1980,s (paint colour is newer circa 2010) The 2nd Owners did many upgrades and refurbishments when they first purchased the chalets.
Present Day and us only the 3rd owners, each have loved these chalets just as we do. They are in such a special spot and something about them just steals your heart.- Lots of changes internal and external but they still have their same charm and tranquillity. 60 plus years later and still going strong – with 5th generation of several families still making Stoer Bay Chalets their favourite holiday destination.
SLOW TRAVEL
SLOW TRAVEL
Welcome to Stoer Bay Chalets
Why should I slow travel & what is it?
At Stoer Bay Chalets we actively encourage slow travel to destress and relax, giving yourself a proper break from the continual stress of our sometimes-hectic day to day modern lifestyles. This is one of the reasons we encourage our 7+ night stays and one of the reasons why they are discounted in comparison to shorter stays.
Staying longer in each place
Stunning views from each chalet
Extend your stay to immerse yourself in the destination. It’s hard to get the feel of a place if you are just passing through.
Have some “chill” days with no plans or travel. It is easy to get caught up in seeing ‘everything’. When planning your slow adventure, plan some down days to sit back and relax.
Be Flexible
Overplanning can restrict opportunities. Have a loose list of what you want to see in a destination but leave some room for the hidden gems not mentioned in any tourist information…….believe me there are so many not on the “tick lists” as worthy if not more so.
Wave watching – the best form of relaxation
Ask for local recommendations!
Ask around when you arrive at a destination.
Local people know the hidden gems to discover authentic experiences. Ask more than one person too, each local will have different tips. We have so many beautiful sights to see, they can never be fitted into a week never mind a couple of days.
Eat like a local to get the best foody delights possible. Find out where we eat, and what dishes you should try.
Shop at local markets and shops to support the community.
Buy local artisan products. Ask locally where the best market is to buy the ‘genuine’ local handicrafts. Visit the local cottage businesses dotted around the area.
Book Direct
Stoer Bay Chalets only take direct booking
Why do we only take Direct Bookings and how does this benefit our Guests?
1. Saves you money
Split Rock Clachtoll
Booking directly with the us rather than through third party booking platforms can save both us and guests money on fees and commissions that you would otherwise pay to a booking platform. This can be especially beneficial if you are booking a longer stay or multiple properties. This is why we only take direct bookings. We want all our guests to get the best price we can offer. It means all our guests are paying the same for their holiday. The prices on our website are the prices for all – no hidden charges.
2. Builds a Rapport
When you book directly with us, you have the opportunity to speak directly with us. This can be helpful if you have any special requests or need assistance during your stay, especially when travelling with children. It can help to build rapport and create a more personal experience for your holiday.
3. Get All the Information
Stoer Bay Chalets
Owners are the most knowledgeable about their holiday home and the surrounding area. When you book directly, you can ask us for recommendations on things to see and do. This can help to make your holiday as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
4. Support Small Businesses
Ardvreck Castle, Loch Assynt
Support Small Businesses By booking directly with the owner, you are supporting small businesses and helping to keep money in the local community. This can be a great way to make a positive impact on the place you are visiting, especially for guests who want to give back to the community during their holiday.