To visit Lochalsh is to tour a region of rugged beauty, with magnificent mountain ranges descending abruptly into sparkling waters, steep-sided glens where red deer roam freely, and intimate fishing villages with traditional white cottages. Here is a land of west coast culture, with wonderful food and a warm welcome, the relaxed attitude to life makes this a place to linger in.

Driving from the south, the visitor's first landmarks are the Cluanie Dam and the Inn, a resting place for mountaineers amid one of the wildest areas of Lochalsh. A descent of Glen Shiel, one of the finest drives in Scotland, leads to the site of a great Jacobite battle, where the magnificent Five Sisters of Kintail soar skywards. Here is famous Glomach Falls, and an abundance of local walks - Morvich Ranger Station is here too, should you need advice. Take a drive on the old drovers road to Glenelg, where a (summer) ferry crosses the sea to Skye. Beyond the village is Bernera Barracks, a ruined monument to a troubled past, and the ancient Pictish brochs, thought to be 2500 years old. A little further on the delightful woodland walks and the picturesque Sandaig Islands adorn the splendidly remote setting of Gavin Maxwell's 'Ring of Bright Water'. Continue to Arnisdale for refreshments, and see the boat leave for Knoydart, one of Europe's last wilderness areas.

Shiel Bridge and the causeway lead to Dornie and famous Eilean Donan Castle, where Loch Long, Loch Alsh and Loch Duich all converge. This is now a Special Area of Conservation, where marine life thrives in the depths and 150 meter underwater cliffs shelter ghostly seaweeds. Visit the beautiful Lochalsh Woodland Gardens, lochside at Balmacara, and the old road to Kyle offering spectacular vistas of sea and mountain. The small town of Kyle has all visitor amenities, including a tourist information centre, where everything from local attractions to accommodation can be booked.

To the north, the road passes through small crofting villages where Highland Cattle and sheep appear to have right of way! Be sure to visit picture postcard Plockton, with its scenic boat trips and relaxing walks. View the many arts and crafts galleries, then take supper at one of the inns and hotels, great food and drink to the sounds of traditional music.

How appropriate that one of Michael Palin's "Great Train Journeys of the World" from Inverness to Kyle, terminates in Lochalsh, undoubtedly one of Scotland's best kept secrets, certainly an unforgettable Highland experience.