Rubha Reidh Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse B&B offering remote tranquility, stunning coastal views, and incredible wildlife encounters on Scotland's rugged west coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Rubha Reidh Lighthouse
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic lighthouse B&B offering remote tranquility, stunning coastal views, and incredible wildlife encounters on Scotland's rugged west coast.
"Completely fabulous! Spectacular setting, cosy and artfully decorated, warm due to wood burning stove."
🚗 Drive with Caution
Narrow roads & 7.5-ton bridges! Small cars are best. Avoid large RVs.
🍎 Pack All Your Supplies
It's remote! Bring food & drinks. Shops are far away.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Lighthouse
Rubha Reidh
A historic 1912 lighthouse offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Wildlife Encounters
Coastal waters
Keep an eye out for dolphins, basking sharks, and even Orcas in the surrounding seas.
The Hide Accommodation
Adjacent to the lighthouse
Cozy, artfully decorated accommodation with a wood-burning stove and spectacular sea views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Remote Adventure
Wildlife and Weather Watch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
Narrow roads & 7.5-ton bridges! Small cars are best. Avoid large RVs.
🍎 Pack All Your Supplies
It's remote! Bring food & drinks. Shops are far away.
🐳 Wildlife Spotting
Dolphins, sharks, Orcas! Keep binoculars handy.
🧥 Weather Ready
Layers & waterproofs are essential for unpredictable Scottish weather.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Narrow roads & 7.5-ton bridges! Small cars are best. Avoid large RVs.
🍎 Pack All Your Supplies
It's remote! Bring food & drinks. Shops are far away.
🐳 Wildlife Spotting
Dolphins, sharks, Orcas! Keep binoculars handy.
🧥 Weather Ready
Layers & waterproofs are essential for unpredictable Scottish weather.
🐶 Dog Owner Alert
Lots of sheep around. Be mindful if your dog is reactive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rubha Reidh Lighthouse for its breathtakingly beautiful and remote location, offering incredible wildlife spotting opportunities and a peaceful escape. The owner's hospitality and the cozy accommodation are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a truly memorable experience for those who embrace the journey and the isolation.
"Amazing historic lighthouse, well worth a sightseeing drive to this beautiful vista, stop breath and watch the dolphins & basking sharks. Difficult drive for large vehicles, there are many weight restricted narrow bridges on route, not ideal for large campervans, small cars will be fine."
Brian Daye
"Completely fabulous! We stayed in the Hide, alongside the Lighthouse. Spectacular setting, cosy and artfully decorated, warm due to wood burning stove and plentiful supply of fuel. It's wonderfully remote with great walks and the chance to see special wildlife (for us, a small pod of Orcas). Susan, the owner, could not have been kinder, or more helpful and welcoming (thank you!). First night supper was waiting for us in the slow cooker plus all the food we would need for breakfast. We also had a look at the apartments in the main house - which are great too. Take all the supplies you'll need for your stay (it is a long way from shops), don't get in the car till you have to leave, and immerse yourself in sea views to remember forever."
Michael Day
"I didn’t stay at hotel came for a walk there are 3 parking areas 2.6 miles away 1.3 away and just up from the light house great views to isle of skye and just see apple cross on a clear day. If you go at dusk you can see the light house in operation. Theres a walk up the cliffs and back via the weather station but its very boggy. The road was is flat and good view be warned the 2 small bridges are only rated 7.5 ton so wouldn’t bring large RV and motorhomes down to far as the road doesn’t cater for them. Also lots of sheep if your dog is reactive be weary"
Sean Cartwright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive to Rubha Reidh Lighthouse involves navigating narrow roads with weight restrictions on two small bridges (7.5 tons max). This makes it unsuitable for large motorhomes or RVs. Smaller cars are recommended. There are parking areas at 2.6 miles, 1.3 miles, and closer to the lighthouse itself.
No, the road is not ideal for large vehicles due to narrow sections and weight-restricted bridges. Travelers with large campervans or motorhomes should be aware of these limitations.
Yes, there are parking areas located a few miles away, allowing for a scenic walk to the lighthouse. This is a great option for those with smaller vehicles or who enjoy a hike.
The nearest town is Gairloch, which offers amenities like shops and accommodation. However, once you start the drive towards the lighthouse, it's best to have all your supplies with you.
Public transport options are very limited due to the remote location. It is highly recommended to travel by car, preferably a smaller one, to access the lighthouse.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visiting the lighthouse grounds for sightseeing does not typically require tickets. However, if you plan to stay at the accommodation, booking in advance is essential.
The lighthouse itself is an active navigational aid. The grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours for visitors. The accommodation has its own check-in times.
There is no specific entrance fee for the grounds. However, the drive can be challenging, and visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the private accommodation.
The lighthouse is primarily a private residence and B&B. While you can admire it from the outside and enjoy the views, interior tours are not typically offered to the general public.
Given its popularity and remote nature, it's advisable to book accommodation well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the spectacular coastal views, go for walks along the cliffs, spot wildlife like dolphins and basking sharks, and experience the tranquility of this remote location.
Yes, there are walks up the cliffs and back via the weather station, though parts can be very boggy. The road itself offers good views and a flatter walk.
Visitors have reported seeing dolphins, basking sharks, and even small pods of Orcas. The area is rich in marine life.
Absolutely! The dramatic coastal scenery, the lighthouse itself, and the potential for wildlife sightings make it a photographer's paradise.
It's described as wonderfully remote, peaceful, and a place to relax and immerse yourself in nature and sea views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at the lighthouse. Visitors staying in the accommodation may have options for pre-arranged meals, like a slow cooker supper.
If you stay at the B&B or apartments, you can arrange for dinner, and breakfast provisions are typically supplied. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, you can bring your own food for a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery. Just be sure to take all your rubbish with you.
The nearest significant shops are in Gairloch. It's crucial to stock up on all your food and drink needs before heading to the lighthouse due to its remote location.
Due to the extreme remoteness and challenging access road, takeaway food delivery is highly unlikely to be an option. Planning your own meals is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
Summer mornings offer the best light for capturing the dramatic coastal landscapes. Dusk is also a great time to see the lighthouse in operation.
The lighthouse itself, the rugged coastline, sea views towards the Isle of Skye and Applecross (on clear days), and any wildlife sightings are popular subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The areas around the lighthouse offer numerous viewpoints. Walking up the cliffs provides elevated perspectives of the coastline and sea.
The main challenges are the unpredictable weather, which can change rapidly, and the remote location requiring careful planning for gear and power.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once there, the expansive views and the chance to spot wildlife like dolphins can be incredibly engaging for children. The walks along the coast, while potentially boggy in places, offer opportunities for exploration. Consider booking accommodation in advance, as it provides a cozy base with amenities like wood-burning stoves, making it a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
This destination is perfect for those who appreciate remote locations and don't mind a bit of an adventure to get there. The drive is part of the experience, rewarding you with unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking views upon arrival. It’s a chance to test your driving skills on some of Scotland's most dramatic routes.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Lovers
The area is also ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The remote setting ensures a peaceful experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural environment. Pack your binoculars and camera for an unforgettable encounter with the wild.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Remote Access Road
It's crucial to be aware of these access limitations before you set off. Attempting to drive a vehicle that exceeds the weight limit could lead to damage or safety issues. Many visitors opt to park further away and enjoy the scenic walk, which also allows for a more immersive experience of the surrounding landscape. Remember to drive slowly, be prepared to pull over for oncoming traffic, and be mindful of sheep that often roam freely along the roadside.
For those staying at the lighthouse accommodation, the owner is a valuable resource for the latest road conditions and advice. However, the general consensus is that preparation is key. If you're planning a visit, ensure your vehicle is appropriate for the journey, or be ready to embrace the walk from one of the designated parking spots. This unique access road is part of what makes Rubha Reidh Lighthouse such a special and secluded destination.
Embracing the Remote Stay
The remoteness is a significant part of its charm. Visitors are strongly advised to bring all their food and supplies with them, as the nearest shops are a considerable distance away. This encourages guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The owner, Susan, is frequently praised for her kindness, helpfulness, and welcoming nature, often going the extra mile to ensure guests have a memorable stay, sometimes even leaving a slow-cooked supper ready for arrival.
This is a place to relax, enjoy the dramatic sea views, and connect with nature. The opportunity to witness incredible wildlife, from dolphins to Orcas, adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. For those seeking peace, stunning scenery, and a break from the ordinary, a stay at Rubha Reidh Lighthouse is highly recommended.
Wildlife Wonders of Rubha Reidh
Perhaps the most exciting wildlife encounters reported are sightings of Orcas. While less common, small pods of these magnificent creatures have been observed, turning a visit into an unforgettable adventure. The remote location and clear waters make it an ideal spot for marine mammal watching. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars and keep a keen eye on the sea, especially during the summer months.
Beyond the marine life, the area is also home to various seabirds. The dramatic cliffs and open sea provide nesting grounds and feeding areas for numerous species. The chance to observe such diverse wildlife in a relatively untouched environment is a major draw for many visitors to Rubha Reidh Lighthouse.
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