Crossing the Kessock Bridge

As I embarked on the Wild West Coast Adventure, the journey began with a drive north out of Inverness, crossing the Kessock Bridge. The bridge itself is a marvel, offering dramatic views of The Moray Firth to the right and The Beauly Firth to the left. The gentle hum of the car engine was a comforting reminder of the many train journeys I’ve taken across Europe, where the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks would lull me into a state of peaceful reflection. Here, the open road stretched before me, promising new vistas and the thrill of discovery.

The landscape began to change as we headed west through Achanalt. The scenery became more rugged, with the rolling hills and distant mountains painting a picture of untamed beauty. It reminded me of the many times I’ve gazed out of a train window, watching the world unfold like a living tapestry. The anticipation of what lay ahead was palpable, and I felt a familiar sense of excitement that only travel can bring.

The Charm of Lochcarron

Our first stop was the charming village of Lochcarron, where we visited the Lochcarron Weavers Heritage Shop. The shop was a delightful treasure trove of tartans, knitwear, kilts, and giftware. I couldn’t resist the temptation to design my own tartan, a nod to my Scottish heritage. The experience was akin to discovering a hidden gem on a train journey, where a small, unassuming station might reveal a quaint village or a stunning landscape.

As we continued our journey, the road took us to Kishorn and the Bealach na Ba, a dramatic mountain pass that is one of the most scenic drives in the world. The road, with its sharp hairpin turns and steep gradients, was reminiscent of the Alpine passes I’ve traversed by train. The ascent to over 2,000 feet offered breathtaking views, and I was reminded of the awe-inspiring vistas seen from the windows of a train climbing through the Swiss Alps.

A Taste of Applecross

Descending back to the shore, we arrived at Applecross, a quaint village where the Applecross Inn beckoned with the promise of a delicious seafood lunch. The inn, with its warm, welcoming atmosphere, was the perfect place to pause and savor the flavors of the sea. It was a moment of indulgence, much like enjoying a leisurely meal in a dining car as the countryside rolls by.

The journey continued along the coast road to Shieldaig, where the views to Skye, the Isles of Rona & Raasay, and a glimpse of Harris in the distance were simply breathtaking. The ever-changing scenery was a reminder of the joy of slow travel, where each moment is savored and every view is a masterpiece.

As we made our way through the majestic Torridon mountains to Kinlochewe, the landscape was a testament to the timeless beauty of nature. The route back to Inverness took us through Glen Docherty, offering a favorite view of Loch Maree. It was a fitting end to a journey that had captured the essence of exploration and the romance of travel.