The Year of Scotland’s Coasts and Waters

The Coasts and Waters of Caithness and Sutherland 

(Image by Maciej Winiarczyk)

In 2020, Scotland celebrates its Coasts and Waters with a year-long programme of events and activities which will shine a spotlight on these vital elements of our landscape.

Caithness and Sutherland boasts a hugely varied coastline and a rich offering of inland waters for both visitors and locals to enjoy. From the views from Duncansby out over its famous Stacks to coastal walks with breathtaking views.

(Image by Ken Crossan)

Our Coasts and Waters are host to an amazing array of riches, come in all shapes and sizes, and are greatly valued and cherished by communities and visitors alike, indeed, the beaches of Caithness and Sutherland are some of the most beautiful and unspoilt in the country.

(Image by Wendy Sutherland)

Our coasts, lochs and rivers play an important part in the visitor experience, offering boat trips, fishing opportunities and activity holidays including fantastic surfing, while the tremendous variety of flora and fauna will impress nature lovers. Around the Coasts and Waters of Caithness and Sutherland, a number of sites of archaeological interest can be discovered too – just take a look at our heritage map.

(Image by Ken Crossan)

The Coasts and Waters of Caithness and Sutherland have shaped our history: from fishing and textiles to whisky and wave power they have influenced our culture, our stories, our way of life. So, whether you want to navigate your way to distant beaches, experience maritime heritage at a visitor attraction, enjoy our abundant natural larder or discover wildlife on a local boat trip - our coasts and waters are perfect for get-away-from-it-all adventures. So, what are you waiting for – come on in, the water’s lovely!

(Image by Ken Crossan)