At the foot of Watch Hill, this beautiful sandy beach boasts caves, rocks and shells, and amazing view of the Kyle of Tongue.
Head west on the A836, over the hills, through Borgie and continuing on past signs to Skerry and Modary towards the Kyle of Tongue. Soon you will see the prominent Watch Hill, which dominates the landscape in this area, made all the more beautiful by the lochans at its feet and sea views beyond. Pass signs to Skullomie and into Coldbackie.
As the road takes a bend to the left, you will see a small off-road parking area, often busy with people stopping to admire the view as well as parking for the beach. Park here and spend a moment looking at the information sign. The way down to the beach is not clearly marked but you will need to walk back towards the village, as the parking area trails away to find the rough track and steps that starts the walk down.
The walk is uneven and steep so remember to save some energy at the end of your visit to make the walk back up to your car. But, the view is beautiful and the walk through the dunes can offer glimpses of rare flowers, bees and other mini beasts.
When you arrive on the beach, you will need to decide if you wish to head off to the north or the south. The north end of the beach is rocky with pockets of sand. Towards the south you will see high dunes and caves in the cliffs. At low tide it is possible to walk around the rocky cliffs jutting out into the sea to a whole other beach beyond. Please keep an eye on the tide as it is very difficult to climb out of this secondary beach if you get cut off.
The rocks make a good place to set up camp to do a bit of sea fishing in the neck of the Kyle, if that takes your fancy, or, equally, a lovely place to sit and sketch.
Along the beach, depending on the recent weather and what has been washed up, you can find large dog whelk shells, razor shells, otter shells, and cockles.
Notes for visitors with limited mobility:
There is parking at the side of the road at Coldbackie Beach and from here there is a good view across the Kyle of Tongue to Melness and the islands. There is an information board here. The beach can be seen below but it is not possible to access this without a difficult and steep walk down.