Quirky & Unusual Stays, Historic Hideaways and Coastal Escapes in the North Highlands.
The North Highlands of Scotland is a place where every turn reveals a new story, and finding the perfect place to stay is a big part of the adventure!
Wake up in a lighthouse cottage to the sound crashing waves, relax in a luxury pod with panoramic coastal views, or pitch your tent under endless, star filled skies. What the North Highlands lacks in chains and big brands, it makes up for tenfold in authentic, family-owned accommodation where a warm Highland welcome is always guaranteed. Find boutique hotels steeped in heritage, ecofriendly campsites, and romantic hideaways that combine comfort with character and plenty of personality.
If you are here to ensure your journey along the NC500 and beyond is truly extraordinary, take a minute to be inspired by our list of unique places to stay that showcase the best of Highland hospitality. Expect quirky design, thoughtful details, and hosts who know the land, the weather, stories you won’t read in the guidebooks, and the best places to watch the sunset!
Quirky Camping and Glamping Along the NC500
Dornoch Caravan and Camping Site (seasonal)
Set beside golden sands and the Royal Dornoch Golf Course, this family-friendly site offers a playground, games room, and mini golf to keep kids entertained, while the beach is perfect for walks and wildlife spotting. Its location makes it an excellent base for exploring Sutherland’s coast and historic Dornoch town centre. Pitch up your tent, park your caravan, or choose a magical handcrafted Rainbow’s End Yurt to rest your head after a busy day!
Wick Campsite (seasonal)
Wick’s community-operated campsite offers first-rate modern facilities and a sustainable ethos, with all profits reinvested to improve site facilities or used to fund community projects around the historic town of Wick. Perfect for tents and motorhomes, it’s close to town yet surrounded by nature with the river a stone’s throw from the pitches. A peaceful and socially conscious choice for campers exploring the far north.
Fiddler’s Green Highlands (seasonal)
Located near Dornoch, Fiddler’s Green Highlands is a handcrafted shepherd hut retreat designed for slow tourism and mindful living. Guests can immerse themselves in craft workshops; Woolly weekends of weaving or rug-making. Or, simply relax by the wood-burning stove with views of open skies. With off-grid features, organic linens, and a compost loo, sustainability is central here. Evenings invite stargazing by the campfire, while days can be spent exploring local trails or learning traditional crafts. Perfect for those seeking relaxation, creativity, and a deeper connection to Highland life.
Historic Hotels and B&Bs in Caithness and Sutherland
Dornoch Station
A stylish hotel blending heritage and modern design, guests of Dornoch Station enjoy elegant rooms filled with Highland character, authentic Scottish dishes in the Golden Gorse restaurant, and a cosy bar named after locally born Donald Ross, apprentice to Old Tom Morris and who became America’s best known golf course architect. You’ll witness the finest golfing prowess as the first hole of Royal Dornoch Golf Club’s Championship Course is located at the front door!
Eddrachilles Hotel, nr Scourie (seasonal)
Overlooking Badcall Bay, this boutique and award-winning hotel at Eddrachilles was once a church manse, and combines historic charm with generous hospitality. Guests dining in the Glebe Kitchen restaurant can enjoy menus shaped by fresh and seasonal ingredients including locally landed crab. The stunning panoramic sea views are your companion while tasting complimentary afternoon bakes in the lounge. Its serene setting and romantic atmosphere make it a standout stay, ideal for couples, foodies and nature lovers; borrow the hotel’s binoculars and add nature sightings to the hotel’s logbook. To encourage slow tourism, reduced rates are offered for two nights or more, and you can even arrive by yacht, docking at the hotel’s guest mooring.
The Granary Lodge, Castle of Mey (seasonal)
This luxury B&B was included in the sale of the Castle of Mey, purchased by Queen Elizabeth, The late Queen Mother in 1952. Once a multi-purpose agricultural building, the Granary houses elegant rooms and suites with coastal views across the Pentland Firth. Guests can enjoy breakfast in a stylish dining room and relax in a drawing room filled with antiques. A refined retreat for those seeking estate ambiance with a truly royal connection!
Tongue Hotel, North Sutherland
This former sporting lodge built in the mid-1800s overlooks the Kyle of Tongue and offers heritage interiors and hearty Highland dining, A prime location for hiking in North Sutherland, choose from Ben Loyal, Ben Hope, or a shorter climb up to Castle Varrich for views across the causeway. Part of the Highland Coast Hotels collection, the Tongue Hotel offers a blend of history and comfort for those seeking an authentic Highland stay.
Mackays Hotel, Wick
Located in the heart of historic Wick, this family-run Mackays Hotel is built at the junction of five roads, thought to be included in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. The claims to fame don’t end there; their No.1 Bistro is the only address on Ebenezer Place which is officially recognised in the Guinness Book of World Records as the Shortest Street in the World! Its award-winning bistro serves fresh local produce, and its central location makes it ideal for exploring Caithness.
Unique Self‑Catering & Special Stays in the North Highlands
Caithness View Luxury Farm Lodges, near Wick
Spacious lodges in the heart of Caithness offer guests an opportunity to experience the lifestyle of a working farm. Each lodge at Caithness View sleeps up to six and includes a fully equipped kitchen and private BBQ hut—perfect for family gatherings or stargazing nights. The setting is tranquil yet close to area highlights including John O’Groats and the Castle of Mey. Even your horse is welcome at Barrock Mains which can be kept in the adjacent field!
Migdale Heights, Ardgay
Perched above Loch Migdale, two luxurious cabins are designed for couples craving romance and relaxation at any time of year. Each cabin features a private hot tub, wood-burning stove, and chic interiors with sweeping views. Guests can explore local trails, paddleboard on local lochs, or simply unwind under the stars. A variety of top-class cafes, restaurants and activities nearby make this an indulgent Highland retreat.
The Lighthouse Keepers Cottage, near Wick
Noss Head’s working lighthouse overlooks the steep cliffs below, and the adjacent old Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage is perfect for families or couples wanting seclusion, peace and big Caithness skies. The cottage is plentifully and thoughtfully furnished with locally made art, interiors and a welcome hamper packed with local goodies. On foot, you can explore coastal paths, discover the ruins of nearby Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, spot wildlife, and soak up the history of the lighthouse setting—a truly unique Highland experience.
Helmsdale Station CIC
A restored stationmaster’s house turned community-run retreat, this property offers four bedrooms and railway charm – overlooking the comings and goings of trains at Helmsdale Station. The station also includes a re-opened waiting room and visitor reception centre and a multi-use space for the benefit of station volunteers – also available for use by residential photography and art courses which are based in the accommodation from time to time. Guests snap up discounted stays if arriving by transport other than private car, or by spending half a day during your stay maintaining the station grounds, the Station House garden and the station waiting room!
House of the Northern Gate, Dunnet
Perched on Dunnet Head – the UK mainland’s most northerly headland, the House of the Northern Gate is a grand baronial mansion offering exclusive-use stays for up to 18 guests. Once host to the late Queen Mother on her holidays with friends, the property combines period elegance with modern luxury—including a gym, library and a cinema room. Outdoors, guests enjoy private access to a sandy beach and panoramic views across Dunnet Bay and the Pentland Firth. Ideal for family gatherings, retreats, or intimate weddings, this property delivers privacy, heritage, and Highland drama in abundance.
Top Tips for Booking Accommodation in the North Highlands
Accommodation in Caithness and Sutherland can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. To avoid disappointment and secure the best options, plan ahead, and book as early as possible.
Visiting in winter, spring or autumn can be a fantastic way to experience the region. You’ll enjoy quieter roads, greater availability in accommodation, and often better rates, plus the landscapes are stunning year-round.
Think of your accommodation as your launchpad for adventure. From dramatic coastlines to historic sites and scenic walks, there’s plenty to discover within easy reach.
Make the most of your trip by checking out the rest of our site for insider tips on local food and drink, must-see attractions, and upcoming events. It’s the perfect way to plan what you’ll see and do during your stay.
Plan your North Highland Adventure!
Planning a trip to Caithness and Sutherland? Your adventure starts here! Whether you’re booking now or just dreaming, we’ve got all the inspiration you need for your trip to the far north.
