My Scotland: White sands, towering peaks and wedding memories with Edinburgh-based Louise Gillespie

Louise hiking in Glencoe. Image: Louise Gillespie

Louise Gillespie is a foodie based in Edinburgh.

When she isn’t scouting out the best places to eat and drink across the city, she is heading further afield for a wild swim, paddleboard or hike.

We asked for her top three spots to visit across Scotland and she provided inspiration for future adventures.

Louise Gillespie is based in Edinburgh. Image: Louise Gillespie

Achmelvich Bay

Achmelvich Bay is home to my favourite beach anywhere in the world. Achmelvich lies three miles north-west of Lochinver, 40 miles north of Ullapool, and can be accessed by single track road.

The large crescent of white sands is edged with rocks and grassland with a mountain backdrop. The water is reminiscent of the Caribbean (minus the temperature) and is my favourite place to paddleboard.

Just to the side of the main beach is another smaller sandy cove which can be reached with a bit of a scramble. If you are planning a trip, I would highly recommend the North Coast 500 Pods which are perfectly appointed and just a stone’s throw away from the main beach.

You wouldn’t believe you were in Scotland if it weren’t for the temperatures. Image: Louise Gillespie

Glencoe

Glencoe is situated in the Lochaber area of the southern Highlands and is approximately a three-hour drive from Edinburgh. I like to hike through the various trails, the Lost Valley, in particular.

The landscape is truly spectacular with panoramic views, towering peaks and endless green glens. There are a couple of small car parks off the A82 but you need to arrive early to guarantee a spot.

Restoration Yard

The perfect place to spend the day… or tie the knot. Image: Louise Gillespie

Restoration Yard will always have a special place in my heart as I got married there last summer. The venue comprises a contemporary fashion and lifestyle store, restaurant, coffee shop and wellbeing studio. It is housed within the refurbed stables of Dalkeith Palace in the grounds of Dalkeith country park.

It’s a really lovely place to spend an afternoon, strolling through the grounds followed by a browse in the boutique and a slice of cake, overlooking the beautiful Georgian orangerie.

For more travel tips, follow Louise at @letitbefoodedinburgh on Instagram.