Top 5 Things to Do in Sutherland - A Curated Guide by Phil Scott
Discover the Magic of Sutherland: A Personal Journey Through the North
Living in Dornoch for over 5 years now, I have had the pleasure of exploring every corner of this stunning region. Here are my top five recommendations for making the most of your visit to Sutherland, ensuring a blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
1. Family Walk to the Big Burn, Golspie
One of my favourite activities is taking a scenic drive from Dornoch to Golspie for a family walk to the Big Burn. After parking behind the exquisite craftsmanship of Sutherland Stoneworks, we enjoy a leisurely stroll under the historic viaduct to the waterfall. During the spring, the wild garlic grows abundantly here, providing a perfect opportunity for foraging, which directly influences the seasonal menu at our restaurant, MARA.
2. Explore Smoo Cave & Durness Beach
For the more adventurous, a day trip to Smoo Cave and Durness Beach is a must. Starting early, we drive from Dornoch towards the mesmerizing landscapes of the North West. The cave offers a fascinating walk and free access to the waterfall chamber, but for a deeper exploration, Smoo Cave Tours offers raft excursions that delve into both the natural and human history of the area. Nearby, the pristine sands of Durness are ideal for a leisurely stroll, and if you've brought your clubs, squeezing in nine holes at the unique Durness Golf Club is highly recommended.
3. Tarbet Ness Peninsula: Lighthouses and Lobsters
Though slightly off the beaten track and not directly on the NC500 route, a visit to the Tarbet Ness Peninsula is well worth the detour. A walk around the lighthouse, built by Robert Stevenson, is always enlightening. But the highlight for me is the fresh lobster, sourced from our friends at Surf & Turf, who harvest these delicacies right out of Rockfield. Wrapping up the day with fish & chips and a lobster roll back home is the perfect way to enjoy the local catch.
4. Ullapool and Beyond: Cross-Country Adventures
While the peripheral of the NC500 is popular, I often prefer a more cross-country route, zigzagging through the breathtaking landscapes between Dornoch and Ullapool. Depending on how adventurous we feel, we might take the longer route past Loch Shin, through Scourie, and down to Ullapool, or the shorter route past Rosehall and Oykel Bridge. Both routes offer stunning contrasts between the lush east and the rugged west coast. In Ullapool, a meal at the Seafood Shack is always a highlight, followed by a walk along the shore.
5. Journey to John O'Groats and The Flow Country
No visit to the north of Scotland is complete without a trip to John O'Groats. Driving up from Dornoch along the coast, past historical landmarks like Dunrobin Castle and the distilleries of Brora and Clynelish. The vast, open landscapes of The Flow Country offer a serene drive back and is a journey through the heart of the north Highlands, ensuring you experience the tranquil beauty of the region in full.
Embrace the Highlands at Links House
At Links House, we pride ourselves on offering more than just a place to stay. Each experience is curated to ensure our guests discover the passion and beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you're here for relaxation or adventure, let us help you create a bespoke itinerary that captures the essence of this magnificent land.
