Ben Loyal, image by Colin Campbell Photography
Sutherland: North Coast
North Sutherland offers visitors a landscape rich in history and striking natural beauty. Explore far-north villages like Bettyhill, Strathy, and Tongue, where the stories of the Highland Clearances are still visible. Discover ancient settlements, brochs, and impressive castles, including Castle Varrich atop a Norse fort, all set against the region’s dramatic, windswept scenery.
North Sutherland is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The vast Flow Country World Heritage Site, including the Forsinard Flows, is one of Europe’s most important peatlands, home to rare birds like golden plovers and greenshanks. Red deer roam the hills, while otters, seals, and eagles can be spotted along the rugged coastline, offering unforgettable encounters with Scotland’s wild, untamed nature.
Highlights of the region
A Region Teeming with History
Unforgotten tales that are woven through the landscapes are continued to be shared thanks to likes of Strathnaver Museum, ensuring stories of clearances, past clans and communities are still told to visitors today.
A Landscape alive with Nature
Explore the Flow Country in North Sutherland, where visitors can spot rare birds and other fascinating species, while wandering among cotton grass, heather, and bog myrtle in this wild, untouched landscape.
Activities to Suit Everyone
From hill walking and cycling to paddle boarding and surfing, North Sutherland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Whether you’re diving into a favourite activity or trying something completely new, the only limit is the landscape itself.
Connect with Nature
North Sutherland is teeming with nature and wildlife, from the peaks of Ben Hope to the lowlands at Forsinard, all forming part of the newly inscribed Flow Country World Heritage Site.
Visitors can explore the Forsinard Flows along boardwalks and interpretive trails, immersing themselves in its unique peatland habitats. The visitor centre provides fascinating insights into the area’s rare birds, red deer, otters, and distinctive flora. With every turn, the region offers a chance to connect with Scotland’s wild, unspoiled landscapes.
Places to stay
In North Sutherland, every stay comes with unforgettable views, whether it’s dramatic peaks like Ben Loyal, sandy beaches such as Farr Bay, or rolling peatlands that shift with the light.
From luxurious hotels to well-equipped campsites, there’s accommodation to suit every style of holiday, ensuring your time here is as memorable as the breathtaking landscapes that surround you.
Discover Outdoor Activities in North Sutherland
From challenging hikes up iconic Munros like Ben Hope and Ben Loyal to leisurely strolls along Talmine Bay, North Sutherland offers outdoor adventures for every ability.
Families can explore the Borgie Forest Walk in search of the “Unknown” statue, while water lovers can swim, surf, or paddleboard at the golden sands Melvich Beach. Whether on land or in the water, the only challenge is choosing where to start in this breathtaking landscape.
Ben Loyal, Tongue
Bettyhill, image by Angus Mackay Photography
Getting here
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Getting around North Sutherland
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Interest groups
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Shopping
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From ruins of castles, to clearance villages to ancient brochs, the landscape is treasured with stories of times gone by.
The Flow Country, image by Susan Barrie A Highland Blend
