Plockton

Plockton and Loch Carron

At the seaward end of Loch Carron lies the picturesque village of Plockton. Those choosing the coastal route from Stromeferry to Kyle of Lochalsh via Plockton take longer to reach their destination than those who take the more direct inland road: but the scenery is superb and Plockton is the highlight.

Harbour at Low Tide Main Street Railway Station

This small lochside hamlet is an idyllic place, taken straight off a chocolate box lid. A row of neatly painted cottages hugs the shoreline following the curve of the tiny harbour. Palm trees line the main street and the whole picture is framed by a craggy landscape of heather and pine.

Plockton is a haven for artists, for whom it is a favourite haunt in summer when the light seems to have a magical quality. Visiting pleasure craft and well-manicured flower gardens provide seasonal detail to the scene.

Seafront

Plockton Pier

Although it may seem as if time has stood still, Plockton wasn't always like it is today. Originally called Am Ploc, the settlement was a crofting hamlet until the end of the 1700s; and later an embarkation centre for those displaced to make room for sheep during the clearances. But then an enthusiastic local laird transformed it into a prosperous fishery and renamed it Plocktown.

Though the fishing boats have long gone, Plockton is still a lively place. Its place on the tourist map was well and truly marked when, in the mid-1990s, the BBC chose to film a drama series - Hamish Macbeth - here. Three series were made and tourists flocked to see its setting. Though the TV effect has diminished, summers remain very busy here.

For those wishing to stay awhile, Plockton has a number of good hotels, bed and breakfast establishments and self-catering options. All the hotels serve non-residents and there are other businesses serving snacks and takeaways.

Things to do include summer boat trips. These are advertised by the harbour and available for fishing or seal spotting. During the busiest months pleasure trips depart several times a day.

Craig Rare Breeds Farm, midway between Plockton and Stromeferry, has ancient breeds of Scottish farm animals as well as llamas and peacocks. Also close by is Lochalsh Woodland Garden, maintained by the National Trust for Scotland. Here visitors are welcome throughout the year. The gardens are pleasantly sheltered and a walk by the lochside reveals new developments as well as many tree specimens over 100 years old.

Plockton Main Street