About Gruinard Bay
Gruinard Bay is a spectacular sweeping bay on the A832 between Gairloch and Ullapool, with multiple sandy beaches and laybys offering magnificent coastal views. The bay is backed by the great peaks of An Teallach with Gruinard Island sitting in the middle — an island with a dark WWII history of secret anthrax experiments, only decontaminated in 1990. The views while driving around the bay are among the finest coastal panoramas on the entire route.
Highlights
Panoramic bay with multiple sandy spots
Views to Gruinard Island
An Teallach mountain backdrop
WWII anthrax island history
One of the most scenic drives on the NC500
🚐 Motorhome Tip
Large laybys along the A832 allow good pull-off parking for motorhomes as the road sweeps around the bay. No formal campsite in the bay — Poolewe Campsite is 5 miles south.
Getting There
On the A832 between Gairloch (12 miles south) and Ullapool (18 miles north). The road descends dramatically into the bay — unmissable.
Best Time to Visit
Year round. Autumn hillside colours are spectacular. Evening light on the bay with An Teallach as backdrop is world-class.