Sandside – Melvich (In time this stage will begin in Reay)
Currently, Stage 5 is the ultimate section of the North Coast Trail, finishing up in the small village of Melvich. Starting alongside the picturesque Sandside Bay Beach, the trail heads up to the cliff tops offering spectacular views up the coast. On a clear day even the tops of Ben Loyal and Ben Hope can be seen and over to Cape Wrath. This section features some of the most dramatic cliffs and sea stacks on the trail, so give yourself plenty of time to soak it all in. Although not on the route, on approach to Melvich you could do a short detour up to the trig point marking Rubha an Tuir before returning back to the trail.
When you finish in Melvich, there are some amenities such as a small local shop, and a few cafes where
you can pick up a bite to eat. In time, I am hopeful that Stage 4 will link up directly to Stage 5.
For more route information, including maps, please see our Walk Reports on Walkhighlands:
www.walkhighlands.co.uk