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Conservation Areas

Because of its outstanding scenic interest, the eastern portion of the Applecross peninsula is designated a National Scenic Area. Within this lies the Beinn Bhan massif, views of which can be obtained from the Bealach pass. This mountainous area of cliffs and high altitude plateau is designated both a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The underlying rocks comprise Torridonian Sandstone, and a range of upland plant communities are supported, including alpine heath and acidic screes.

One of the most characteristic plants of the alpine heath is the woolly hair-moss (Racomitrium lanuginosum). In places, dwarf mats of juniper (Juniperus communis) dominate the ground, especially near the top of the main ridge. The Beinn Bhan juniper heath is one of the highest altitude and the most southerly examples of this formation in Scotland. These upland habitats support a wide variety of animals including mountain hares (Lepus timidus), red deer (Cervus elaphus), the Eurasian Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria), Ptarmigan (Lagopus mutus) and the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos).

The western part of the peninsula supports two sites of Local nature Conservation Interest. These are Loch a Mhuillinn (Milton Loch), a water body influenced by higher levels of nutrients due to the local presence of limestone, and River Toscaig Woods, an area of oak and birch woodland.

For further information on conservation areas in Scotland click here to be taken to be taken to the relevant page of Scottish Natural Heritage.

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