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.”