A tiny village houses what visitors regard as one of the UK’s best cafés. Despite requiring a lengthy drive covering several miles to reach this establishment, it has earned descriptions as “flawless” with tourists dubbing it a “treasure of a location”.
Gille Brighde, situated in Torridon within the Northwest Highlands of Scotland, boasts a five-star rating and secured a Travellers Choice accolade in 2022. Whilst residents are well aware of its exceptional quality, the establishment has also garnered favour amongst visitors exploring the region.
Nevertheless, numerous visitors have experienced disappointment upon arrival after completing a nine-mile journey, only to find the venue at capacity and face rejection – a clear indication of its remarkable popularity, reports the Scottish Daily Express.
One delighted patron penned on travel platform TripAdvisor that the effort required to reach the destination was thoroughly justified.
They said: “This is such a fabulous restaurant. The food, the service and the welcome are excellent. It is well worth the fantastic trip from Torridon over the mountain pass. This our second visit (we came on holiday here two years ago) so we’d booked well ahead of time. It did not disappoint.”
A recent visitor this month commented: “A truly idyllic spot by the sea ideal for dinner with great views of the harbour. Friendly owner and food excellent. Nearby Skye ales and excellent scallops and a good sticky toffee pud for dessert. Stop at the viewpoint on the drive back to Torridon – stunning.”
Another visitor commented: “Outstanding food and drink all locally sourced and unique. A warm welcome and personalised service. Gluten free options available. All in a tranquil and beautiful setting.”
When exploring the locality, the village provides a haven of calm and tranquillity.
Positioned along a picturesque minor road that meanders beside the northern shores of Upper Loch Torridon, ascending and curving past small lochs, precipices, ravines and verdant forested hillsides, the settlement serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the surrounding landscape.
The region boasts an abundance of superb hiking trails, including the spectacular ridge trek across the Liathach massif, or the challenging crossing of Beinn Eighe.
Should you be planning a trip to this corner of the Highlands in the near future, ensure Gille Brighde features on your itinerary – though only with a prior reservation secured.