The road from Lairg to Lochinver shows once again the vast landscape that is Sutherland.  Extremely empty roads at certain times of year.

On this road you will travel up Strath Oykel for part of the way to the junction at Ledmore.
The River Cassley passes under the road bridge at Invercassley.  The wide open lanscape offers long views of the magnificent and empty countryside. 
On the way there are  hotels - Oykel Bridge and Altnacealgach along the way.

Ardvreck Castle stands near the start of Loch Assynt and the road runs along the full length of it.  As you approach loch Assynt you will have superb views depending on the weather of Cul mor (849m) on the left and Quiinag (808m) on the right and often lost in the mist or clouds pointing upwards with very steep sides.

Near Ardvreck Castle is Calda House  - an 18th century Laird's House of the Mackenzie's of Assynt.   Ardvreck Castle itself is also a ruin and was the 15th century seat of the MacLeods of Assynt
 

At the junction for Ledmore you have the choice of heading for Lochinver or turning right to head north towards Kinlochbervie or southwards  for Ullapool.  Northwards will  eventually take you round the coast o John O'Groats approximately 130 miles away.  But there are many small roads on the coast to take you on interesting excursions long before you get there so leave plenty of time.  And remember most of it is on single track roads adding to the sense of being far far away in Europe's Last Wilderness.  Along the way are several places to get out and try one of the marked walking routes that vary in length.

This is of course a wildlife paradise with many animals and birds to see.  Deer are common and it is advisable to watch your speed at dusk when many deer may be close to roads and jump out unexpectedly.  Watch out for magnificent stags leaping the fences with ease.

Photo Gallery

Lairg

Lochinver