The little crofting community of Elphin can be found in south west Sutherland near the border with the
neighbouring county of Ross-shire.
For the visitor, one of the main attractions in this area are the mountains. Walkers and climbers are drawn to the
dramatic peaks of the likes of Canisp, Suilven, Cul Mor and Ben More Assynt. As with most of Sutherland, the area
around Elphin also has some excellent hill loch fishing.
Much of the local area is part of the Inverpolly National Nature Reserve. Indeed the entire west coast of Sutherland
is the location of the North West Highlands Geopark. The Geopark recognises and celebrates the fact that this part
of Scotland has some of the most ancient and unique geology in Europe.
Just to the south of Elphin is the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. The visitor centre - a unique open-sided
construction with a turf roof - explains the local geology and how it has shaped the landscape we see today. There
are hands-on displays and a touch screen computer for visitors to explore. There are also marked trails around the
reserve and as you explore the landscape you will come across various pieces of rock art and sculptures.
