Pitch & Putt Play Area

The Pitch & Putt Play Area near Gairloch is a modest nature reserve that punches above its weight if you're after a proper walk with actual wildlife spotting rather than manicured gardens. It's genuinely wild - the kind of place where you'll see golden eagles if you're patient, and the moorland opens up to views across Loch Gairloch that make you understand why people chose to live here centuries ago.

What you're really doing is walking through natural Highland habitat. The paths are straightforward enough for families with older kids, though younger ones might find the terrain a bit rough underfoot. The reserve itself is small enough to cover in an hour, but the light changes here constantly, and you'll likely find yourself lingering. Early morning or late afternoon is when the place truly comes alive - the midges are less vicious too.

This isn't a ticketed attraction with facilities or visitor centres. It's free to roam, and that's rather the point. Go in spring when the moorland flowers start showing themselves, or autumn when the light gets properly golden. Winter's too wet and boggy unless you're genuinely keen.

If you're staying at Sands Caravan & Camping just down the road, this makes a solid morning addition to a Gairloch day. It won't consume your whole visit, but it gives you genuine Highland atmosphere without the tourist crowds that gather at the bigger attractions. That's worth the short drive.