The west coast of Scotland and the Ardnamurchan peninsula is home to some of the UK’s most exciting wildlife and landscapes. Whether you are hoping to catch a glimpse of an otter on the shores of Loch Sunart, conquer Ben Resipole or Nevis, or simply looking for a scenic pit stop on the way over to Mull, Skye or Eigg – Heatherbank provides the perfect base for all that is on offer in this special corner of the Scottish Highlands.

Things to do: there is an excellent choice of walks and hikes that can be started from Heatherbank. Choose from a walk over to Polloch and around Loch Shiel, or through Phemies or the Ariundle Oakwood. Cycling and kayaking can be organised locally, and there is a great wildlife hide at Garbh Eilean.

Further afield, enjoy a trip to the Ardnamurchan Distillery, visit one of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland at Sanna Bay or spot the Jacobite steam train (voted one of the world’s greatest train journeys) as it crosses over the iconic Glenfinnan viaduct.

Spots to eat: there are a few great options in the village for an evening meal, which include the Ariundle Centre, the Bothy Bar at the Strontian Hotel and The Kilcamb for fine dining. If it’s a quick bite you’re looking for then the Jetty Shop at Salen do an excellent sausage roll!

A little further down the road, the pantry at the Ardshealach Smokehouse in Glenuig sells a tasty selection of smoked fish and cheeses, and for the best Venison this side of the Highlands, there is a great butcher and restaurant in Mingarry. For fresh seafood we like the Lochleven Seafood Cafe and The Crannog in Fort William.