Assynt and neighbouring Coigach in the northwest Highlands is one of the UK’s favourite scenic destinations, according to a new survey.
Consumer group Which? asked thousands of its readers about areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) across the UK.
Cornwall’s Isles of Scilly came out on top for the second year running for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
But in Scotland, which doesn't have official AONBs, they were asked to rate 40 different national scenic locations with Assynt and Coigach coming out on top.
Its stunning landscape features cliffs, sea stacks and wild moorlands. The area was given an overall score of 92 percent, with five stars for scenery, and peace and quiet, and four stars for walks.
One visitor described it as “wild, spectacular and unique”.
The Causeway Coast was the highest-scoring AONB in Northern Ireland, with 84 percent, with one fan stating that the Giant’s Causeway alone is reason enough to visit.
Wales’s top-scoring AONB was the Gower Peninsula (82%), where Rhossili Bay was hugely popular with respondents.
Editor of magazine Which? Travel Rory Boland said: “During the pandemic, many of us discovered the joys of a British holiday and our survey findings show that areas of outstanding natural beauty and national scenic areas have plenty to offer, with stiff competition between the nation’s favourites.
“The best news from the survey is just how many highly-rated destinations we have to choose from, including many little-known destinations that you’ll be able to enjoy without crowds.”
Don't miss the top culture and heritage stories from around Scotland. Sign up to our twice weekly Scotland Now newsletter here.
