Gairloch Beach, Scotland

Point your sporran north for a wintry getaway at Gairloch Beach on the coast of the romantic Scottish Highlands.

Way up on the craggy northwest coastline, Gairloch is an undiscovered British beach beaut. Swap the long haul for a quick flight to Inverness (you can get there in 90 minutes from London), and settle into your rental wheels for the spellbinding drive through the dramatic postcard-perfect landscape of the Highlands.

Take in stunning views of the nearby islands from the sandy shore, not to mention awe-inspiring Scottish sunsets from its westerly position. This wide stretch of beach is practically untouched by travellers, and the sand’s smoothness (protected by natural dunes; Devon, eat your heart out) is offset by the rugged backdrop of wild heather and jagged rocks.

We’re not going to sugar coat this one though – you don’t have to be a geography expert to appreciate that it’s going to be pretty nippy up there and you’re going to need to pack your woollies and exercise a bit of practical packing. Thermals might be a good idea in between now and, well, June. That said, Gairloch Beach is a firm favourite with us and thinking up novel ways to stay warm is part of the fun.

WHEN: Go now for romantically bracing walks along the beach before a long pub dinners and hours spent in front of the fire. Alternatively, rain cheque this one until summer, when you’ll be able to work on your tan – yes, really – in between dips in the refreshingly brisk waters.

WHAT TO PACK:
Heading to the chilly Highlands at this time of year arm yourself with Warehouse woollens and and protect your lips with Smith Rosebud Salve. 

the bag: YSL Roady leather and metallic shoulder bag, £1,290

the knitwear: Warehouse Cable and waffle hand warmer, £12 and headband, £10

the products: Smith Rosebud Salve, £5.75 and James Brown moisture locking leave-in conditioner, £6.12

the playlist:
Cut Copy, Where I’m Going
Morcheeba, The Sea
Coldplay, Swallowed in the Sea
Orbital, Style

the read: The Bay of Strangers by Lilian Beckwith

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