Cocoa Mountain- my favourite chocolate shop in Scotland

Truffles from Cocoa Mountain

Cocoa Mountain is probably the remotest chocolate shop in all of Europe. Located in the far north-west Highlands I became an instant fan when sampling their truffles and hot chocolates. I was a frequent customer whilst waiting for the ferry across to Cape Wrath, an area of Scotland known as "Europe's last great wilderness."

I had travelled to Durness with the dream of taking my bike across to Cape Wrath and cycling the road to the lighthouse. As there is no proper road with vehicle access on the Cape this was going to be cycling heaven and I would probably be completely on my own.

The dream didn't quite work out because of the notorious Scottish weather. It was too windy for the ferry to operate. I waited for three days, checking each morning if the ferry would run, but I was out of luck. I consoled myself with frequent visits to Cocoa Mountain.

Cocoa Mountain is in Balnakeil Craft Village, a collection of artists workshops. The chocolate shop also has a cafe with indoor and outdoor seating.

The outdoor seating area of Cocoa Mountain, Durness

They serve superb coffee and you can select a little dish of truffles to go with it. The innovative flavours used in the truffles makes Cocoa Mountain stand out from other chocolate producers. Chilli lemongrass, peanut butter and cranberry, and whisky caramel are some of my favourites. If you are a true chocolate addict then the luxury hot chocolate is a must, especially on a cold and windy day.

If Durness is too far to travel for your chocolates they also have a shop and cafe in Aucheterarder, the town that is near to Gleneagles, the famous luxury hotel. I have written about a cycle route starting at Gleneagles train station that includes a visit to Cocoa Mountain in Auchterarder.

And if you can't make it to either shop then swing by their website and order online. I guarantee that you will not be disappointed. The chocolates are ideal as a gift as they are a bit different to the usual. I also love the packaging- simple, rustic cardboard boxes.