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Achentoul Forest

Downs, Moorland in Sutherland

Scotland

Achentoul Forest

Driveway to Greamachary, Sutherland The long moorland driveway leading from the A897 near Kinbrace out to the remote house at Greamachary, the trees around which are just visible here as a dark dot at the base of the right hand hill. The peak to the right is Ben Griam Beg, the summit of which is the site of Scotland's highest iron age hill fort.
Driveway to Greamachary, Sutherland Credit: Andrew Tryon

Achentoul Forest, located in Sutherland, Scotland, is a captivating natural wonder that encompasses a diverse range of landscapes including downs, moorland, and forested areas. Spanning over an area of approximately 2,000 hectares, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The forest is characterized by its rolling downs, which are covered in a lush carpet of heather and wildflowers during the summer months. These downs provide breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with their gentle slopes stretching as far as the eye can see.

The moorland within Achentoul Forest is a unique ecological habitat, consisting of vast expanses of heath and peatland. This area supports a variety of plant and animal species, including heather, cotton grass, and various species of birds such as the golden plover and the curlew. It is also home to a diverse range of insects and small mammals.

The forested areas of Achentoul are predominantly composed of native Scots pine trees, which provide a dense canopy and create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. These woodlands offer a tranquil retreat for visitors, with several walking trails winding through the trees, allowing for immersive experiences in nature.

Overall, Achentoul Forest is a captivating natural landscape that offers a unique blend of downs, moorland, and forested areas. Its diverse range of habitats supports a wide array of plant and animal life, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with the beauty of the natural world.

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Achentoul Forest Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.305618/-3.9288314 or Grid Reference NC8736. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Driveway to Greamachary, Sutherland The long moorland driveway leading from the A897 near Kinbrace out to the remote house at Greamachary, the trees around which are just visible here as a dark dot at the base of the right hand hill. The peak to the right is Ben Griam Beg, the summit of which is the site of Scotland's highest iron age hill fort.
Driveway to Greamachary, Sutherland
The long moorland driveway leading from the A897 near Kinbrace out to the remote house at Greamachary, the trees around which are just visible here as a dark dot at the base of the right hand hill. The peak to the right is Ben Griam Beg, the summit of which is the site of Scotland's highest iron age hill fort.
Loch an Ruathair with Ben Griam Mor and Ben Griam Beg A change in the weather as the North Highland train travels between Kinbrace and Forsinard.
Loch an Ruathair with Ben Griam Mor and Ben Griam Beg
A change in the weather as the North Highland train travels between Kinbrace and Forsinard.
Achentoul Forest
Achentoul Forest
Tree and Loch an Ruathair at Achentoul Lodge
Tree and Loch an Ruathair at Achentoul Lodge
Fresh Eggs For Sale At Lochside.
Fresh Eggs For Sale
At Lochside.
Lochan Dubh The high ridge that runs north from the edge the Knockfin Heights can be seen beyond.
Lochan Dubh
The high ridge that runs north from the edge the Knockfin Heights can be seen beyond.
Lochan Dubh In the distance, and to the left, Ben Griam Beg can be seen.
Lochan Dubh
In the distance, and to the left, Ben Griam Beg can be seen.
Loch an Ruathair This scene looks idyllic - but oh the midgies!!
Loch an Ruathair
This scene looks idyllic - but oh the midgies!!
Loch an Ruathair A large loch south of Forsinaird.
Loch an Ruathair
A large loch south of Forsinaird.
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
A897 northbound
Loch an Ruathair The peaks of Ben Griam Mor (590 m) and Ben Griam Beg (580 m) in the distance with the Kinbrace to Forsinard railway in the foreground, and the rounded hump of Achentoul Forest (406 m) in central middle distance
Loch an Ruathair
The peaks of Ben Griam Mor (590 m) and Ben Griam Beg (580 m) in the distance with the Kinbrace to Forsinard railway in the foreground, and the rounded hump of Achentoul Forest (406 m) in central middle distance
Knockfin Heights Bleak cotton grass bog leads east from the road to the soggy summit plateau of Knockfin Heights on the border of Sutherland and Caithness
Knockfin Heights
Bleak cotton grass bog leads east from the road to the soggy summit plateau of Knockfin Heights on the border of Sutherland and Caithness
Kinbrace: the railway passes Loch an Ruathair Photo taken from the A897 which runs right alongside the railway.
Kinbrace: the railway passes Loch an Ruathair
Photo taken from the A897 which runs right alongside the railway.
Railway by Lochside
Railway by Lochside
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Achentoul Forest is located at Grid Ref: NC8736 (Lat: 58.305618, Lng: -3.9288314)

Unitary Authority: Highland

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///tapes.moves.expectant. Near Kinbrace, Highland

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Achentoul Forest

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