Take a bite into the NC500 tourist trail at Achnasheen

A roadside cafe in the Scottish Highlands
The Midge Bite Cafe, Achnasheen

Sitting on a prominent roadside plot on the busy NC500 route, Achnasheen’s Midge Bite Café is known for being a good pit stop for tourists and locals alike, with a Scandinavian feel and outstanding views across the Highlands.

Described as a ‘fantastic destination business with a warm inviting atmosphere’, the Midge Bite Café is now up for sale via Graham + Sibbald.

Chairs and tables inside a small Highland Scotland cafe
The Midge Bite interior is said to have a ‘Scandinavian feel’

The café sits on a prominent, triangular plot with room for development – the current owners had plans drawn up for a bunkhouse, but the space could also accommodate some glamping pods.

Inside, the cafe enjoys a ‘modern rustic feel’ with a blend of natural wooden fixtures and fittings bringing the outside in, although there is also outdoor seating on the terrace for sunny Highland days. There’s a sales/service counter, a well-equipped galley kitchen and an accessible W.C.

The business is said to be profitable, benefiting from local trade throughout the year and an influx of tourists in the summer months. The café is currently only open until 5pm, however there is scope to increase trading hours to provide meals at night.

A cafe counter with lots of cakes
The Midge Bite Cafe counter – and its impressive selection of traybake and cakes

Hazel Boswell, the current owner of the café, commented: The Midge Bite has been the stand-out best chapter of my 20 odd year career in hospitality. This is the perfect location!

“It’s a joy to serve customers who come from near and far, ranging from our neighbours and year-round regulars to visitors from far flung reaches of the world,” said Hazel.

“It is a busy & happy place, a real oasis on people’s long journeys. I hope to help the new proprietor make the  best possible transition to seamlessly trade.”

A cup of coffee against a Scottish Highlands sunrise
A brew with a view on the Midge Bite Cafe terrace

Emily Hewitson of Graham + Sibbald commented: “Hazel and her team have created a fantastic destination business with a warm inviting atmosphere in a truly remarkable location. The new owner would have a great opportunity to build upon the stellar reputation and established trade to create a perfect lifestyle business.”

Graham + Sibbald are inviting offers in the region of £325,000 for the freehold interest.