Farm
The estate manages a herd of pedigree Luing Cattle which are just as comfortable grazing the lush grass on the flats as they are pushing through woodland or scaling the hillside. They calve in the Spring and spend their time on the hill and roaming the glen throughout the year. We also breed North country cheviot sheep, a hardy hill flock which is kept to a density that benefit both the ground and the livestock.
Woodland
The woodland in the glen largely comprises downy birch, alder, rowan, aspen and ancient Caledonian pine. The estate is active in replanting native trees and, in particular, the Caledonian pines: Rhidorroch is home to the most north-westerly native Caledonian pines in the country and is continuing to germinate and grow these rare and beautiful trees from their own seed source.
Deer Management
While deer are an important part of our biodiversity, in high numbers they can have a negative impact on woodlands, peatlands and other habitats. Sustainable deer management is vital to help protect and restore nature and tackle climate change. As a member of the North Ross deer management group we are constantly reviewing data from HIA surveys, recruitment counts and cull records to manage our deer population in the most effective way.
Photography, Drawing & Painting
The ever changing light, abundant wildlife and dramatic scenery make Rhidorroch an incredible place to photograph, draw or paint.
Bird Watching
Rhidorroch and its surrounding area offer the chance for plentiful sightings of many varieties of resident and migratory birds. Golden eagles use the glen as a hunting ground and nesting area (seen from Cadubh’s sun porch) Sea eagles and ospreys. To name only a very few more, Sea eagles, ospreys, black throated divers, whooper swans, woodpeckers, redwings, siskins, dippers, hen harriers and peregrines, bring your binoculars!
Fishing
Day tickets are available on river and loch for both salmon and trout. Fishermen staying at the cottages are welcome to fish the west end of Loch Achall from the bank at any time. Loch Achall is the perfect place for kids to learn to fish and gives the opportunity for a basket of trout. Hill lochs can be fickle but if the stars align and fished right the rewards can be exceptional. The Ullapool River produces good runs and salmon and grilse from April through to October.
Wildlife
Grazed farmland, open moor, rocky hillside, peat bog, woodland, sand, shingle – such variety within the estate is more than matched by the multitude of flora and fauna that the land supports. All the colours of the Highlands can be seen at Rhidorroch. White-topped cotton grasses, butterwort and sweet-smelling bog myrtle thrive in the rain-fed peat bogs. Native red deer command the hills, otters play along the loch side. Heathers, wild berries, foxgloves, wild roses, bright yellow gorse and broom, rare orchids, alpines and mosses.
Cycling
The estate road is perfect for a leisurely bike ride and more experienced bikers may take on the challenge over the eastward hill track towards Oykel Bridge. Bring your own mountain bike or hire one from the village.
Walking/Running
The estates 8 mile road is perfect from easy walking and running while the surrounding hill paths like Ullapool hill give a bit more of a challenge and panoramic views of Loch Broom and the Summer Isles.