Sports and the Outdoors

Stac Pollaidh. For a great afternoon of walking, ascend the dramatic hill of Stac Pollaidh (pronounced "stack polly"), about 14 miles north of Ullapool. The clearly marked path climbs for a bit and then curves around to the right and takes you on a loop with incredible views over Sutherland, north to Suilven, and west to the Summer Isles. About halfway around the hill, a steeper path takes you to the start of the ridge. Only very experienced rock climbers should continue from here, as the route requires rock climbing in very exposed conditions. But not to worry, because from the west side of the looped path, you can see the pinnacled pitch of Stac Pollaidh. To get here take the A835 to Drumrunie, then a minor road off to the west (there's a sign for "Achiltibuie"). Five miles along the road, there's a car park; start your walk from here. Off A835, Dornie, Highland.