The shop at Sands is possibly the most remarkably stocked campsite store in the country. So much so that, as you check in, you might think the owners James and Marie have gone a wee bit over the top. But then you pitch your tent, breathe in the sea air, look out through the dune grass at the islands and mountains and realise that venison steaks, champagne and colourful kites are EXACTLY what you need right now.
That’s the thing about Sands, it keeps surprising you. The winding road that leads north out of Gairloch seems to be heading nowhere, then a sliver of grassy land gradually unfolds into a wide and welcoming apron bordered by swooping dunes and an epic seascape. Driving in, your first impressions are of a large caravan site, but campers have their own area of rolling duneland with plenty of tent-sized pockets for you to hide away in. This starts just down a winding track from the shop, and it’s worth continuing along to check out the whole site before choosing your spot. Pitches range from secluded hollows to breezy eyries, while the spots in the southern corner are ideally placed by the site’s own slipway – perfect for launching kayaks and other watery adventures.
There are also 12 heated wooden pods should you fancy taking it a little easier. These come with firepits (campfires are not allowed anywhere else on the campsite; though right down by the waterside is fine) and sublime views of the sunset as standard. Wherever you are, though, it won’t be long before you’re winding your way through the dunes and down on to the beach to paddle in the irresistibly turquoise water. And even if this is surprisingly cold, don’t worry – the shop sells wetsuits, too.
The beach, of course, is the campsite’s glory. During the day its gently sloping sands call one-and-all for a happy shift of castle-building, swimming and general larking about. Then, when your work is done, you can perch in the grass at the top of the dunes, taking pride in your achievements and watching the blazing sunset over the far tip of Skye. This is a dreamer’s place, and as the sun finally slides into the western ocean, the island of Longa drops into shadow, becoming a humpbacked sea monster, settling down to rest for the night.
With a beach to dig up, dunes to jump down, rocks to graze knees on and woods to go heffalump-hunting in, it’s ironic that the campsite also has an adventure playground – it’s not like it needs one. However, it’s a beauty, and is set right in the middle of the site, forming the perfect spot for young teens to gather and eye each other sheepishly while their parents read the paper. Arrive when the sun is shining and you might also wonder why there is a games room. Well, it has been known to rain in the north-west of Scotland, and you may find yourself very glad of the owners’ foresight. There is also a large indoor cooking and washing-up area, complete with several benches, and a small on-site café where you can pick up your morning cuppa. James and Marie are also planning to lay out a few mountain-bike tracks on some adjacent land. Like there isn’t enough to do here already....