Things to Do in Plockton
A calm anchorage in the Northwest Highlands, our village is small in size but beautiful in appearance and abundant in experiences. Plockton has so many things to do and so much to offer.
You can discover much of Plockton’s charm right here on our doorstep. Just wander down the street from the Plockton Inn to Loch Carron for a gentle stroll along the bay, take in the view that stretches across the water towards Duncraig Castle, potted with docked sailing boats and thriving local wildlife – it’s picture perfect. If you’re lucky enough, you might even spot a Duirinish Highland cow or two wandering through the village.
So many of the best views and hidden gems don’t have names, so speak to our team who all live and work in the area for the best advice or mingle with the locals in our Bar in the evening to see if they’ll divulge a secret or two to you.
For the things to do in Plockton that can be named, keep reading below to find our favourites!
Hikes and Walks
With so much natural beauty to discover, Plockton is the perfect place to visit if you like exploring the outdoors on your own two feet, even better if you can bring your dog with you.
There are a variety of hills, woods, moorlands and coastlines to discover in and around Plockton, including several public gardens with beautiful displays of plants, flowers and wildlife including Balmacara Woodland Gardens, Armadale Castle Gardens and Attadale Gardens.
Guided walking tours also take place from April through to September so you can learn a little more about Plockton as you go.
If you’re new to Hillwalking check out Ian Oxton’s A Beginners Guide to Hillwalking in South West Ross. We have copies at Reception that you can purchase for a donation to charity.
Water Activities
Located right on the sheltered bay of Loch Carron, there’s no better thing to do in Plockton than to take to the water to explore.
Calum’s Seal Trips are a must do activity. Four trips leave from the harbour each day and he’s so confident that you’ll see seals, that he’ll give you the trip for free if you don’t! You might even spot some dolphins, and other local sealife while you’re out there.
Other water-based activities you can enjoy in Plockton are Sea Kayaking and Paddle Boarding. Both are a great activity for friends, families and couples alike and there’s no better way to take in the stunning views of the jagged mountains and rugged Northwest landscape.
Local Attractions
If you’re looking to enjoy a more leisurely afternoon, Plockton is full of incredible independent shops for groceries, specialist dairy products, arts, crafts, souvenirs and plants. For Gin lovers, the Plockton Tasting Room is a wonderful place to visit to savour the small batch gins and other spirits created by Isle of Skye Experimental Spirits. End it all with a delicious meal in our Seafood Restaurant, serving fresh seafood served straight from the west coast waters, including langoustines delivered daily by the local fishermen.
Things to Do Near Plockton
There’s also plenty of things to do near Plockton, making it the perfect base to explore more of the Northwest coast.
Day Trips
From Plockton you can easily travel to the Isle of Skye, Kintail and Torridon. All iconic destinations, they’re ideal places to visit for walking trips if you like a challenge.
The Five Sisters of Kintail are some of the highest mountains in the local area but make it to the top and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views out towards the Isle of Skye. On the Isle of Skye, you’ll find the Cuillin mountains, considered one of the hardest peaks to reach in Scotland but well worth the journey and the opportunity to explore more of Skye. Last but not least, is the ancient mountains of Torridon that date back 750 million years. This enchanting and unforgiving wilderness is said to embody the North Highland landscape and is a must visit destination whilst you’re in Plockton.
Nearby Landmarks
For those who aren’t able to reach these mighty peaks, there are still lots of other incredible places to visit and things to do near Plockton.
Close to home and only a five minute drive away, Craig Highland Farm is great for families and children who can meet many of the animals, including Dandy and Beano the donkeys.
The romantic and iconic Eilean Donan Castle is also only a short 15 minute drive away and is a must-visit with your camera. A short drive will take you to Skye Bridge and onto the Isle of Skye withmany other sites of history, fun and culture, including Skye Riding Centre, Dunvegan Castle, the Fairy Pools, the Talisker Distillery and more.
NC500
Last but not least, you can join the ever-popular North Coast 500, only a short drive away from Plockton. Our village is the perfect spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main route and venture off the beaten track for a couple of days of picture postcard rest and relaxation, before rejoining the main route heading toward Applecross and further North. Explore our other Highland Coast Hotels for accommodation and food along the route.
To discover more things to do in Plockton and the local area, get in touch with a member of our team or book your room at Plockton Inn today.