Scotland's larder

Scotland larder

The West coast of Scotland is our most popular route. Customers over the years feedback to us that they truly love this route and they keep coming back and doing it again. Why? It really is superb and there is something for everyone and always something you missed the last time. The west coast is full of hidden gems from beaches, walks, cycle route, activities a plenty but also their food and drinks are second to none. There really is nothing better than buying local and eating fresh food. It takes your motorhome holiday to another level and makes memories even more special. 

What can I buy and cook?

• Starting in Perth you do not have to look far for homemade, fresh local produce. Some of our favourites were mentioned in last weeks blog including Strathearn cheese and Wallace Gin located in Crieff. Even better if you are feeling you want some meals ready to go on holiday contact MyPassion located in Scone, Sarah provides meals ready to cook and they are simply divine. She offers a wonderful tapas range of food with locally sourced products and this would set you up on the right track for you departing with Scottish Tourer in Perth. Home (my-passion.co.uk) 

• Setting off up the A9 towards Pitlochry you will come across the Breadalbane Bakery, here you will find a treat of freshly made breads, rolls, cakes and doughnuts. There is also a small shop attached to the bakery which provides you with local fresh fruit, vegetables and pantry products. A local burger cooked up on your BBQ then on one of these rolls with fill both your heart and tummy. 

• House of Bruar is very popular with tourists however we do recommend you stop in here. There is a lovely large carpark suitable for parking and the hall has an array of fine clothing, homeware and of course the food hall. We highly recommend the local rib of beef, this is quite unique on the BBQ. There are some lovely woodland walks here to be found and a playpark for the children. 

• Heading into Aviemore the farmers markets are not to be missed. Here you can sample the very best in local meats, venison, beef, game and fish. Whatever tickles your taste buds here you will not leave with an empty stomach or hands. If it’s a cheese board your after be sure to head over to Cambus O’May Cheese Co. Scottish Cheese, handmade cheese from Royal Deeside - Cambus O'May Cheese Co. . Here you will find an array of artisanal cheese made from a special family recipe. These cheeses are hand crafted and the recipe remains the same as it did 50 years ago. One of our favourites for a cheeseboard is a smoked cheese. The Auld Reekie ticks every box and more. This cheese leaves you with a wood/whiskey finish and washed down with a fine red wine will fulfil your evening in our motorhome. 

• Inverness also host farmers markets on the first Sunday of each month. These are a really great way to sample different products and meet all the local producers. The Crown Deli in particular stocks some outstanding local cheeses, vegetables and fresh baking. Meanwhile over at the Forbes Farm they sell their own wares and have their own shop The Country Larder which stocks pies, meats, eggs, preserves and milk. You really are supporting local when you buy from these companies and each sale is truly appreciated.

• Ullapool is perhaps not as on the map as its predecessors however if you crave a steak for your BBQ please don’t pass the Butchers here. You get the best there is to find locally here alongside some beautiful fresh scallops. We are always happy to share recipes and the best way to cook whilst on the road. or if you like seafood try the Seafood Shack the food here is delicious and you can eat outside or take it back to the motorhome to enjoy it.

• Shieldaig is on the map as selling some of the best seafood you will ever taste. They serve up platters , light bites and specials daily. The fish is all freshly caught and the menu will reflect the time of year and what is available. We highly recommend sampling as many of the menu as you can. Whilst you are here the views really are spectacular as you look up at Beinn Eigne. 

• Applecross simply must be visited, this remote location is part of its attraction. The locals are friendly, cheerful and the local Inn will not disappoint. Our favourite here is the squat lobster and the crab dishes. Again the menu is very much dependant on what is caught that day so they have specials on the board. Please ask if you are unsure about taking the motorhome up the pass and we will happily provide extra information. The views at the top will take your breath away. 

• Kishorn Seafood Bar is very popular and is known for its highly rated dishes. You will find breakfast lunch or dinner here. Like Applecross all the fish is caught fresh and the scallops taste outstanding. Kishorn Seafood Bar will give you some more information on their menu and opening times.
   

• Over to the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye stop in at the oldest bakery in Dunvegan. All produce is made on site by owner Johnny and the adjoining coffee shop will provide you with light bites to sit in or takeaway. The bonus is this is open all year round for visitors and customers. The Oyster Shed is topped up daily from their farm in Loch Harport. There is also a farm shop to top up on what you fancy for dinner that evening including mussels, venison, lobster, crab and cheeses. 
• Moving across to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, be sure to book this well in advance to not be disappointed, this often books up months in advance. For a truly unique dining experience have  a night off cooking and head to the Glenfinnan Station Museum Dining Car. This makes for a truly special and romantic meal you wont forget. As with the local produce here we stay on the seafood side of things and we highly recommend the salmon. 
• The Caledonian Canal on our west coast route is a lovely day out. Here you can see the 8 locks which were built between 1803-1822, it is the longest lock staircase In the UK built by Tomas Telford. The Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus is a fabulous little gem. Here you will be able to grab fresh coffee and for the small and large children a locally produced ice cream from the Black Isle Dairy. 
• Oban has so many local delicacies to sample. Head to the Jacksons Butchers shop for delicious vension, or over to Watts for more fresh seafood if you have enjoyed the seafood along your holiday. If you nip into Taste of Argyll you will be able to pick up produce form many of the local farms including preserves, cheeses and crafts. The Mull of Kintryre cheddar should be on everyone’s list to find and taste. The Green Shack is a very popular spot for locals and visitors to pick up fresh seafood, scallops, crab and lobster. 

• Blair Drummond Safari Park is a great stop for the route home to Perth. Here you will get up close and personal to the animals and tire everyone out exploring. There are plenty of lovely picnic spots and BBQ areas for you to cook at. 

This is a very small list of places to try on the West Coast Route with Scottish Tourer. There are a few pointers we always share with our customers especially when wild camping. Please only leave footprints behind so all rubbish and debris must be taken with you or placed in bins. Please leave these local beauty spots as you found them and would want to find them (even if the litter isn’t yours we would encourage you to pick it up). Shop local and support local businesses, they will truly appreciate this and any feedback we also appreciate so we can recommend in the future. Please head over to our main website for more information  www.scottishtourer.co.uk