Walks

• Castle Varrich (ruin) which overlooks the Kyle.  Approximately 30 minutes each way
• Cliff top walks on Melness & Skerray peninsulars
• Lovely walk to ruined village of Sleteil from Strathan near Skerray.  Approximately two hours return.
• Climb Ben Tongue and neighbouring Cnoc an Ehreiceadain for great views.  Approximately four - five hours return from the hostel
• For more serious hillwalkers, Ben Hope, Ben Kilbreck, Ben Loyal and Foinaven are all within an hours’ drive of the hostel.  (Ben Loyal can be reached on foot from hostel)
• Occasional Highland Countryside Ranger lead walks in surrounding area for more info please e-mail  paul.castle@highland.gov.uk

Cycling
Located on the Sustrans National Cycle Route 1, Tongue Youth Hostel is a popular stop over for the Land’s End to John O’Groats Challenge.  Numerous short and long rides are possible from the hostel.  This is a superb way to appreciate the scenery and explore the nearby beaches, lochs, historic sites etc.  At present you will need to bring your own bike as there is no bike hire available locally.

Horse Riding
Located at Bettyhill, twelve miles from the hostel.  Torrisdale Trekking, phone 01641 521 472.

Fishing
Permits available from both hotels in the village.

Local Amenities/Services

Post Office (ATM, groceries & coffee shop) Mon-Sat 9am-17.30
Spar shop & petrol station, located between hostel and village.  Open Mon-Fri 8:00-17:30 Sat 9:00-16:00 Sun 11:00-13:00
Royal Bank of Scotland (no ATM) Mon-Fri 9.15-12.30 & 13.30-16.45
Craft Shop & stable Art Studio in village
Doctor’s surgery
NB the nearest chemist shop is in Thurso (45 miles from hostel)

Eating out
The Craggan Hotel, Melness.  Located three miles from the hostel, serving food 11.00-21.30 (cash only). Phone 01847 601278.
Tongue Hotel, in the village, one mile from hostel -  01847 611206.
Ben Loyal Hotel, in village, one mile from hostel - 01847 611 216.
Sample menus on display at hostel

Click here for map showing the Hostel's location

The hostel is on the A838.  One mile west of village, towards Durness, just before the causeway.

Nearest train stations are Lairg (40 miles), Thurso (45 miles). 

Download detailed PublicTransport Information for Tongue