The Gairloch Calendar: Activities & Events in Wester Ross
Gairloch is more than just a stop on the map; it is a gateway to the wild heart of Scotland. At Gairloch Highland Lodge, we want you to experience the area like a local. Whether you are looking for things to do in Gairloch and the surrounding area, planning your NC500 activities, or seeking a quiet week of mountain air, use this Gairloch events calendar to discover what’s happening in our vibrant community.
🗓️ Featured Events
Live Music: Durango Blue at The Old Inn
Date: Saturday, 21st March 2026 If you are looking for live music in Gairloch, kick off the spring season at our sister property, The Old Inn. They are hosting Durango Blue, a talented Americana and Acoustic Rock duo. It’s an ideal opportunity for guests at the Lodge to wander down the road for a night of soulful music and local hospitality.
- More Info: The Old Inn Events
🥾 Year-Round Adventures
The Gairloch Highland Lodge “Walking Wall”
Walking in Gairloch is world-class, and to help you find your feet, we have installed the Walking Wall at the Lodge. This resource features 30 hand-picked routes ranging from low-level forest paths to the formidable peaks of the Torridon giants.
- Guest Perk: We provide our residents with complimentary OS maplets to ensure a safe journey into the wild.
Our dedicated ‘Walking Wall’ makes us one of the most walker-friendly hotels in Gairloch, offering 30 hand-picked routes for all abilities.
Highland Crafts & Culture
The dramatic scenery of Wester Ross has long been a muse for artists. The Old Inn frequently organises Arts and Crafts Fayres, where you can meet local makers and watch traditional techniques in action. It’s the perfect place to find a meaningful memento of your stay.
- Local Makers: View Upcoming Fayres
Gairloch Golf Club
Experience a round of golf unlike any other at Gairloch Golf Club. This scenic 9-hole course sits right on the edge of the Minch, offering panoramic views of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. It is a welcoming club that offers a scenic challenge for all abilities.
Expert Mountain Guiding
- Climb Torridon: If you want to tackle the legendary ridges of Liathach or An Teallach, these are the experts to call. They offer year-round guiding, from summer Munro bagging to technical winter mountaineering.
- Climb Ride Explore: A fantastic choice for family activities in Gairloch. They lead everything from mountain biking and canyoning to winter skiing.
Gairloch Leisure Centre & Poolewe Pool
For indoor family activities in Gairloch, the Leisure Centre features a climbing wall and Saturday morning soft play. Nearby, the community-run Poolewe Swimming Pool is open year-round—perfect for a morning swim if the Highland weather proves a little too “atmospheric” for outdoor adventures.
🌸 Spring & Summer Highlights
Gairloch Museum
- Season: 30th March – 31st October 2026 (Mon–Sat) A must-visit for anyone seeking things to do in Gairloch, this award-winning museum is housed in a former Cold War bunker. It offers a deep dive into Gaelic heritage and the natural history of the area.
Russian Arctic Convoy Museum (Loch Ewe)
- Reopening: 30th March 2026 Loch Ewe played a pivotal role in WWII. This museum, located just a few miles from the Lodge, tells the heroic stories of the sailors who braved the “worst journey in the world.”
Gairloch Boat Trips & Marine Wildlife
Wester Ross is a haven for wildlife. For more details, visit our dedicated West Coast Exploration page.
- Shellfish Safari: Experience sustainable fishing on a traditional boat. You’ll get hands-on with the day’s catch, from lobsters to starfish, while learning from a local skipper.
- Ewe Canoe: Conor provides bespoke, private kayaking and canoeing sessions, allowing your family to explore hidden bays at your own pace.
- Gairloch Kayak Hire & Bike Hire: Whether you want to paddle the glass-like waters of Loch Maree or explore the coastal roads on an E-bike, this team provides the gear and expertise.
- Gairloch Trekking Centre: Experience pony trekking in Gairloch with a ride across the stunning sands of Red Point. It’s an unforgettable way to take in the views of the Inner Seas.
Historic Gardens & Estates
- Inverewe Garden: A miracle of horticulture where the North Atlantic Drift allows exotic plants to flourish in the far north.
- Pool House: This character-filled historic home served as a naval headquarters during WWII and offers fascinating guided tours.
❄️ Winter: The “Secret Season”
Winter activities in the Scottish Highlands offer a different kind of magic. During the colder months, The Old Inn acts as a Winter Activities Hub. Guests at the Lodge can take part in seasonal workshops ranging from artisan baking to traditional weaving.
- Winter Schedule: Explore Workshops at The Old Inn
Stay With Us
Experience the best of Wester Ross from the comfort of Gairloch Highland Lodge.