north scotland best places to visit

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Scottish Highlands

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022

Encompassing a broad swath of Scotland that stretches from Inverness north to Thurso, Scotland's spectacular Highlands are separated from the rest of the country by the Great Glen: Glen More. This ancient fault line was used to create the remarkable Caledonian Canal, a unique waterway that extends from the west coast to the east, from Loch Linnhe to the Moray Firth, taking in magnificent Loch Ness along the way.

While much of this mountainous region is uninhabited and therefore excellent for hiking and biking adventures, it does boast many lovely small towns and villages. In fact, one of the top things to do in the Highlands of Scotland is to take a scenic drive along what is one of the. country's most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Along the way, you'll see many fine Scottish castles , which together comprise some of the most popular tourist attractions in the country . At the top end is John o'Groats , home to Scotland's most photographed signpost. It famously includes distances from here to Lands End in Cornwall at the southernmost tip of England, some 1,406 kilometers away.

You can find the best places to visit in this ruggedly beautiful region with our list of the top attractions in the Scottish Highlands.

The City of Inverness

Urqhuart castle, loch ness, culloden battlefield and visitors centre, inverness, cawdor castle and gardens, nairn, historic fort george, inverness, the lantern of the north: elgin and its historic cathedral, hike loch maree: mother nature at her best, take a drive to the seaside town of dornoch, inverewe garden and estate, loch assynt and ardvreck castle, the clo mor cliffs and cape wrath, dunrobin castle, john o' groats, the orkney isles, the shetland islands, map of tourist attractions in the scottish highlands.

The beautiful city of Inverness is a great place to begin exploring the Scottish Highlands. Start your adventure in the grounds of lovely Inverness Castle . Although only the north tower of the castle is open to the public, this old sandstone building does provide an imposing and photo-worthy backdrop overlooking the River Ness.

After sightseeing, head to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery with its displays about the city's rich cultural heritage, as well as the history of the Highlands. The late 19th-century Neo-Gothic St. Andrew's Cathedral stands opposite Castle Hill on the banks of the River Ness and is well worth a visit.

Another notable attraction is Abertarff House , Inverness's oldest building dating from 1592. Also worth a visit is the pleasant Inverness Botanic Gardens.

Finally, wrap up your walking tour of Inverness with a little shopping or a beverage at the attractive old Victorian Market . This historic Victorian-era indoor shopping arcade was built in 1890.

Located an easy and extremely scenic 30-minute drive southeast of Inverness city center, Loch Ness is a must-visit when exploring the Scottish Highlands. Famous the world over as the supposed home of Nessie the Loch Ness monster, this picture-perfect freshwater lake is also home to Urquhart Castle, one of the country's most iconic fortresses.

To learn more about the mythical beast that inhabits the lake, visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition . This fun attraction features fascinating displays relating to the monster and the surrounding area.

Given its popularity as a major Scottish tourist destination, Loch Ness is also well served by organized tour operators.

Highlights of this great trip north include a visit to Fort William; Linlithgow Palace; the country's tallest mountain, Ben Nevis; and, of course, Loch Ness itself. Once at the loch, you'll have the chance to hop aboard a boat and explore the lake from the water.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do at Loch Ness

Once the scene of numerous conflicts between the English and Scots, it's easy to picture just how magnificent Urqhuart Castle once must have been. Dating as far back as the 13th century, the castle's role in Scotland's rich history is well documented and presented in the visitor's center.

Although now just ruins, it's well worth wandering around to get a true sense of its former significance. Its commanding views over Loch Ness are simply breathtaking, with panoramic views along the lake's full length. You'll also have partial access to the Great Tower, and can also visit the dungeons where famous and infamous prisoners alike were once held captive.

In addition to superb exhibits dealing with the castle's rich history, the site also boasts a great café with stunning views over Loch Ness, as well as a gift shop. Given the castle's immense popularity among tourists, admission tickets, as well as parking, must be purchased in advance from its official website (see link below).

Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/urquhart-castle/

It was in Culloden on April 16, 1746, that the last great battle was fought on Scottish soil and the fate of the Stuarts, and of Scotland, was determined. The historic site's visitor center is a must-see, with its first-hand accounts of the battle, a 360-degree film realistically portraying the day's events. Be sure to also check out the spectacular rooftop views of the battlefield .

Also of interest are the gravestones of the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle. Other landmarks include Old Leanach Cottage and the Cumberland Stone commemorating the spot where the Duke of Cumberland issued orders to his troops.

The battlefield is strewn with memorials bearing witness to the dead, including the Keppoch Stone indicating the location where Alastair MacDonell, head of the Keppoch clan, fell. Another recalls the Irish Wild Geese, a group of mercenaries in the service of the French crown, who fought on the side of the Highlanders. The "English Stone" commemorates those who fought alongside Cumberland.

Address: Visitor Centre, Culloden Moor, Inverness, Highlands, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/culloden/

Cawdor Castle, just 16 kilometers northeast of Culloden, is famous as the place where the Scottish King Duncan was murdered in William Shakespeare's version of Macbeth . Although not historically accurate as Duncan was in fact murdered by Macbeth at the Battle of Elgin, it's a wonderful place to visit with its large collection of Shakespearean literature and fine period furniture.

A hawthorn tree dating from 1370 acted as a sign to the first Thane to build a castle here, and today the lovely grounds of this fairy-tale garden, with its colorful flowerbeds, are well worth a visit. Also fun to explore are the nature trails and nine-hole golf course. A quaint cottage on the grounds is available for rent for those looking to really soak up the ambience of this historic castle and estate.

Address: B9090, Cawdor, Nairn, Scotland

Official site: www.cawdorcastle.com

Also of interest for those making the journey to Culloden is nearby Fort George . This huge artillery fortress was built soon after the Battle of Culloden as a means to keep the defeated Highlanders in check. It also served as a constant reminder of the English domination over Scotland.

Besides extensive military installations, including the armoury and barracks, the fort also houses the regimental museum of the Queen's Own Highlanders. The visitor center is also well worth exploring, and puts the fort's role in perspective. A gift shop is also located on the premises. Tickets are bookable in advance from the attraction's official website (see link below).

Address: Ardersier, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/fort-george/

Located about 61 kilometers east of Inverness on the road to Aberdeen, Elgin has a number of historic attractions worthy of a visit. After centuries of plundering, what's left of Elgin Cathedral's tower hints at the former splendor of the 95-meter-long "Lantern of the North," as the church was known.

Other features still visible include the west facade, the 13th-century choir, the great east rose window, and the octagonal chapter house. Daily guided tours are available and are well worth joining. Elgin is also home to Scotland's oldest church, Birnie Church, which dates from 1140.

Other tourist sites of interest are Spynie Palace, with its massive David's Tower built in 1470; Duffus Castle, a fine example of a Norman motte and bailey castle; and Brodie Castle and Country Park .

Seat of the Brodie family since 1160, it's home to fine French furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, Chinese porcelain, and a notable collection of paintings. The collection includes works by French Impressionists and English and Dutch artists.

Your tour around the extensive grounds should include a visit to the 1.8-meter-high Pictish Rodney Stone, carved with Celtic animal symbols and inscriptions.

Address: King Street, Elgin, Moray, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/elgin-cathedral/

Loch Maree is a deep Pleistocene valley that serves as a habitat for otters and black-throated divers, and is a big draw for hikers due to its nature trails and campsites. The more demanding mountain trail, a six-kilometer circular tour, offers an unforgettable view over Loch Maree and the majestic mountains that make this part of the Highlands so popular.

Other nearby highlights include Victoria Falls , a waterfall near Shatterdale named after Queen Victoria, who visited the loch in 1877. It's also a popular fishing location, too, with fun excursions along with scenic boat rides available to tourists.

The attractive village of Gairloch is another scenic stop on the Highlands' tourist route and lies in a sheltered sandy bay. Along with its nine-hole golf course, there's also the Gairloch Heritage Museum with its displays detailing the cultural and economic development of the area from the Stone Age to the present day.

A scenic one-hour drive north of Inverness, the seaside town of Dornoch is one of the best places to visit in the Highlands of Scotland for those wanting a fun small-town getaway . Its coastal setting also makes Dornoch the perfect place to sample Scottish seafood, with great eateries such as the Highland Larder offering fresh fare caught that day.

For such a small town (its population is just shy of 1,500 souls), Dornoch also boasts a surprisingly diverse array of fun things to do. Topping the list of attractions to visit is Dornoch Cathedral. Built in 1224, it's an impressive structure that adjoins Dornoch Castle, a 16th-century mansion that now houses a hotel. Other points of interest include the old Witch's Stone, the sandy and sheltered Dornoch Beach, and the nearby Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve.

Dornoch is also something of a mecca for golfers, too. Here the big draw is Royal Dornoch. As old but not quite as famous as the golf courses of St. Andrews (except among golfers), Royal Dornoch boasts two championship 18-hole courses overlooking the Dornoch Firth, making them among the most picturesque in the UK.

The subtropical Inverewe Garden and Estate overlooks a sheltered bay by Loch Ewe near Poolewe, eight kilometers north of Gairloch. It has thrived here thanks to the area's mild climate. Osgood Mackenzie was only 20 years old when, in 1862, he proved that plants from distant lands could survive on the poor Torridon sandstone and acid peaty soil if it is enriched by loam from the coast and the wet peat was drained.

Highlights include rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias, eucalyptus from New Zealand, Japanese ferns, Himalayan lilies, South American water lilies, giant forget-me-nots from the South Pacific, rock gardens, ponds, Scotch pines, and rare varieties of palms. Guided walking tours are available weekdays. Be sure to also pop into the Sawyer Gallery, which hosts art and crafts-related exhibits throughout the year.

Address: Inverewe, Poolewe, Wester Ross

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/Property/Inverewe-Garden-and-Estate/

Some of the Highlands' most stunning scenery is to be found 35 kilometers north of Ullapool around beautiful Loch Assynt. This unforgettable picture-book landscape is famous among anglers for its salmon and trout fishing, as well as its majestic mountain panoramas. At the eastern end of the loch stand the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, built in 1590 for the MacLeods and later run by the MacKenzies and Sutherlands.

Other historic ruins include a kiln barn and mill, as well as the remains of an ancient chambered cairn. Also nearby is Inchnadamph Nature Reserve, home to Scotland's largest network of caves ; Loch a'Chairn Bhain's seal colony; and the 200-meter-high Eas a Chual Aluinn Falls, Britain's highest waterfalls.

Address: Lairg, Sutherland, Scotland

Mainland Scotland's most northwesterly point, Cape Wrath offers up some of the most remarkable views over the North Atlantic toward the Orkney Isles. It's also one of the wildest parts of the Highlands, full of interesting geological features and steeped in maritime history.

One of the few man-made structures in the area is the lighthouse built by Robert Stevenson in 1827 on the spectacular Clo Mor Cliffs . The area is also popular among bird-watchers, and for hikers, numerous trails crisscross the area, including some leading to lovely Loch Nevis .

Only a mile northeast of Golspie stands imposing Dunrobin Castle. It served as the seat of the influential counts and dukes of Sutherland who, by the end of the 19th century, owned more land than any other landowner in Europe.

The castle itself was begun in 1275, although much of the neo-Baronial style seen today dates from the mid-19th century. The attractive corner towers with their conical slate roofs lend a distinct fairy-tale look reminiscent of the famous Loire Valley chateaux in France.

Of the castle's 189 rooms, the Drawing Room stands out as a highlight, with its Louis XV-style furniture, fine portraits, and 18th-century tapestries. The extensive Italian-style gardens are ideal for a stroll and also offer fine views over the Dornoch Firth.

If there's time available in your Highlands travel itinerary, linger a little longer for one of the castle's regular falconry shows. There's also a first-rate tea shop on-site serving traditional high tea.

Location: Golspie, Sutherland, Scotland

Official site: www.dunrobincastle.co.uk

Famous as the northernmost community on the mainland, the village of John o' Groats is well worth visiting. Legend has it this small village was named in the 1400s after a Dutchman, Jan de Groot, who was well-known in the area for the ferry service he provided, connecting the mainland to the Orkney Islands some 40 miles away to the north.

As legendary as the name is the famous signpost that stands overlooking the coast. For decades, hikers, adventurers, and tourists have stood next to the sign for a photo opportunity, often after having made an epic cross-country journey from Lands' End, the UK's most southerly point.

Traveling from Lands' End, some 847 miles to the south, to John o' Groats by bike takes around 14 days, and is a bucket-list item for many cyclists. However you get here, you can even put up a name of your own choosing, adding letters to spell out the name and mileage to your hometown.

John o' Groats still acts as a jumping-off point for adventurers and travelers to the Orkneys, with a summer ferry service that connects the mainland to the communities of South Ronaldsay and Burwick. But stick around long enough to sample other fun things to do in John o' Groats, including visiting during its annual book festival, popping into nearby Mey Castle, and Castle Sinclair Girnigoe.

While the Orkneys are popular with walkers, nature lovers, bird-watchers and anglers, there's also plenty of interest for more traditional tourists, including its famous prehistoric sites. Two of the most famous are Maes Howe Chambered Cairn , Britain's best-preserved Stone Age burial chamber dating from 2500 BC, and the Skara Brae Prehistoric Village , an open-air museum with well-preserved houses and remnants of Stone Age furnishings.

Of the 67 Orkney islands, only 18 are inhabited, and many of the others serve as breeding grounds for seabirds, kestrels, peregrine falcons, sparrow hawks, and golden eagles. Kirkwall , the largest town, has a number of historic sites of interest, including St. Magnus Cathedral , reminiscent of the cathedral in the Norwegian city of Trondheim (Norway once owned these islands).

Also worth seeing is the 12th-century Bishop's Palace, in which Norway's most famous King, Haakon, died in 1263, and the ruins of Earl Patrick's Palace, one of the finest examples of 16th-century Scottish secular architecture.

Hikers and mountain bikers alike enjoy exploring the Shetland Islands, as do water sports enthusiasts, who can choose to play on more than 350 lakes or the vast Atlantic Ocean. The lochs, well stocked with brown and rainbow trout, are a paradise for fly fishermen, and there are also many opportunities for deep-sea fishing.

For golfers, the chance of a round at midnight on Britain's northernmost golf course is irresistible, and bird-watchers are drawn to Fair Isle, Mousa, Noss, and near Herma Ness to watch Arctic terns; shearwaters; razorbills; gannets; and the amusing puffins, known here as "Tammy Noirie."

Shetland consists of nearly 100 islands, together forming the northernmost outposts of the British Isles (it's 160 kilometers from the mainland and on the same latitude as the Norwegian city of Bergen). Other top things to do on the Shetland Islands is visit the many spectacular Stone Age sites, the best of which is the Jarlshof Prehistoric Settlement , a fascinating complex that includes Bronze Age roundhouses alongside Viking longhouses.

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The Best of Bonnie Scotland : The stunning Isle of Skye is the easiest of Scotland's islands to access. Connected to the mainland by road, it's definitely worth spending a few days exploring its many old castles, prehistoric sites, stunning scenery, and ample wildlife. So, too, is lovely Loch Lomond , home to countless great hiking trails through the Trossachs National Park. The town of Oban is also a magnate for hikers and climbers, drawn here to scale the impressive Mount Etive overlooking pretty Loch Etive.

Scottish City Experiences : The Scottish capital of Edinburgh offers no end of fun attractions for tourists including the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Queen's Royal Yacht Britannia. The industrial and cultural city of Glasgow is also worth visiting, and is home to a stunning cathedral and many fine art galleries and museums. Closer to Inverness is Aberdeen , a scenic two-hour drive away but well worth it for its ancient cathedral and splendid historic architecture.

Scotland Vacation Ideas : Tucked away in the southwest of Scotland, the cities of Ayr and Dumfries are best known for their connections to the famed Scottish poet Robbie Burns, where a museum has been set up in his birthplace. Other top-rated destinations to include in your Scotland itinerary include Dundee , popular for its amazing rail bridge and marine museum, and St. Andrews , home to the world's best known golf course.

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Filled with more natural and historical mystique than people, the region is a nature lover’s paradise for those that are willing to travel through its mist, mountains, rocks, and heather. Here you’ll find chambered cairns that are a testament to the skills of prehistoric builders and crag top castles with broken walls that tell the history of the Highlands’ turbulent past. Or you could explore the bigger cities, like Aberdeen, which was fuelled by the riches of North Sea oil and the dozens of whisky distilleries that dot the region.

Adding to the stunning scenery is a warm culture with friendly and engaging people. It is no wonder the northern Scotland region rarely fails to charm its visitors.

Visitors to the region will be welcomed with an array of activities and sights to see from woodland strolls, beachcombing, birdwatching, or sea kayaking – all finished off with an evening of relaxing by the crackling fire of a Highland pub at the end of the day. This region is sure to give you the best look at traditional Scotland and fulfil your dreams of this enchanting land.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week, or longer, here are eight great places to visit in northern Scotland to experience the best this region has to offer  as recommended by fellow travel bloggers.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our   full disclosure policy here .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in northern scotland.

• Isle of Skye
• Drumnadrochit

Places to Visit in Northern Scotland Map

Ullapool is a small picturesque village on the northwest coast of Scotland. It sits in the shores of Loch Broom, surrounded by some of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. The current layout of the original part of the village was designed by Thomas Telford in 1788 at a time when fishing was expanding as the main industry.

Today Ullapool is a popular tourist stop, although it is still renowned for its locally caught seafood. While many use it as a holiday base for exploring the Highlands, others only stop briefly as they make their way around the famous NC500 road route. The village is also home to the ferry port that connects the Scottish Mainland with the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

Its growth as a tourist destination has led to the creation of many independent galleries, shops and cafes. However, it still retains its historical charm.

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SCOTLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• Want to visit castles in Scotland? Check out   The Complete Illustrated Guide to Castles, Palaces, and Stately House of Britain and Ireland   and you’re sure to find plenty to explore!
• The Most Amazing Royal Places in Britain   brings British heritage to life with hundreds of ideas for days out to discover castles, grand estates, and the secret hideaways of kings and queens.
• For all things Scotland, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   Scotland travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

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Guide to Scotland's North-West Highlands: where to stay, places to visit and great walks

With sparkling snowscapes, majestic peaks, epic views and warm hearths, the north-west Highlands is a truly thrilling experience – escape to this remote corner of Britain with our holiday guide.

Chris Townsend

The landscapes of the north-west Highlands are glorious all year. In this remote region, you’ll find the highest waterfalls, biggest sea cliffs and the most unusual and spectacular mountains in Britain, along with beautiful lochs (both sea and freshwater), golden-sand beaches and some of the oldest rocks in the world.

From Loch Duich and the familiar sight of Eilean Donan Castle all the way to Cape Wrath at the north-west corner of mainland Scotland, this is a land of wonders.

Our guide to the North-West Highlands of Scotland, including where to stay, wildlife highlights, places to visit and the best walking route.

Geology of the North-West Highlands

A geological curiosity in this region is a strip of limestone running across the landscape. This gives rise to the lush green fields around Elphin and results in some big caves – a rarity in the Highlands – in the Inchnadamph area.

A round trip of 2.75 miles (4.5km) leads to the Bone Caves, so called because, when excavated, the bones of animals that once lived here – including wolves, lynx, Arctic foxes, reindeer and polar bears – were found. When the area is snow-covered, it’s not hard to visualise these large predators roaming here in search of the next meal. Although short, this walk does cross a steep slope and the caves can be slippery inside, so explore with care.

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Wildlife to see

There is a wealth of wildlife in the north-west Highlands. Red deer, the largest mammal in the Highlands, come down from snow-covered hills in search of food and may be seen in glens and even close to roads, often congregating in large herds.

Look out for otters in sea lochs. About the size of a small dog, these graceful, playful animals are active by day and can be seen swimming or foraging along the tide line.

If you’re lucky you may spot a white-tailed eagle flying slowly over the landscape. These magnificent eagles are the largest bird of prey in the UK.

Places to visit

Beinn eighe national nature reserve.

To the north-east is little Kinlochewe at the head of beautiful freshwater Loch Maree, which stretches 12.5 miles (20km) almost to the sea. Just along the loch from Kinlochewe are the ancient pinewoods of Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, the first such reserve in Britain. Under snow, the forest is magical, shimmering and glistening – a white wonderland.

A path, the Mountain Trail, winds up through the trees to the big Conservation Cairn. It’s a wonderful walk but steep in places, so great care is needed when it’s icy. It ends well above the trees, too, where you’ll be exposed to the full blast of the winter weather. The views across the dark waters of Loch Maree far below to the rugged wedge of Slioch mountain are tremendous. visitscotland.com/beinn-eighe-national-nature-reserve

Coigach and Assynt

North of Ullapool are the mountains in the districts of Coigach and Assynt, the strangest and most distinctive peaks in Britain. Rising steeply out of a low undulating land of little lochs and knolls – known as a cnoc and lochan landscape – each mountain is separate and unique. When snow-covered, they look like great white monsters rearing into the sky – primeval beasts from another time. From Ben More Coigach over Stac Pollaidh and Suilven to Quinag and Foinaven, they are all marvellous, and steep – not for the inexperienced climber.

This is a geologically fascinating region, important in the discoveries of how the world was formed, and home to some of the oldest rocks in the world. In winter, with snow covering the ground, it’s easy to see how the melting of the glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age shaped this landscape, carving hollows that became lochs, ripping off the sides of the mountains, and dumping boulders – glacial erratics – and vast areas of sand and gravel. The whole area, from Ben More Coigach to Cape Wrath, makes up the North West Highlands Geopark.

There is a superb cross-country walk through the region, from the little hamlet of Elphin to the fishing port of Lochinver, where you can restore your strength with a marvellous pie from Lochinver Larder. This 12-mile (20km) walk passes below the peaks of Canisp and fantastic-looking Suilven, perhaps the most impressive peak in the region. While not a mountaineering route, it does cross rough remote country and should not be taken lightly in winter. ullapool.com

Falls of Kirkaig

Just along the coast from Lochinver is Inverkirkaig where you’ll find the wonderful Achins Book and Coffee Shop, perhaps the most remote bookshop on mainland Britain. From here, there’s a lovely walk up a wooded glen to the Falls of Kirkaig , where the river plunges 18 metres down a cleft in sheer cliffs between wooded buttresses into a deep pool. The path down to the falls is steep and rocky; avoid it if icy.

Another lower-level walk that doesn’t require mountaineering skills is the eight-mile (13km) circuit of Cam Loch just south of Elphin. ‘Cam’ means crooked, or distorted, and the loch has a shoreline that twists and turns round many bays and promontories, making for an interesting walk, especially as there are splendid views of the mountains rising all around.

Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve

To learn more about the fascinating geology of the area, visit Knockan Crag, a national nature reserve 12.5 miles (21km) north of Ullapool, where there’s a visitor centre and several trails with interpretive signs, poetry and sculpture. The Crag Top Trail is the longest; it takes about an hour and offers superb views of the surrounding landscape. A line of snow-capped hills rises out of a watery land replete with lochans as far as the eye can see. nature.scot/knockan-crag-national-nature-reserve

Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – Britain's highest waterfalls

Further north past the Inchnadamph Hotel (closed in winter) is Loch na Gainmhich; from here you can walk across rough ground for four miles (6.5km) to the top of the highest waterfall in Britain, Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – the Splendid Falls of Coul – that crash 200 metres into the glen below.

Only rarely does this impressive and powerful waterfall freeze but it’s still worth a visit in winter as the snow-covered surroundings enhance its dramatic setting. Ice climbers have ascended the waterfall on occasions when it has frozen, which must have been an amazing spectacle. The area at the top of the falls can be slippery in places so go carefully.

Sandwood Bay

Not far from the latter is the start of the four-mile (6.5km) walk to lovely Sandwood Bay – a curving sweep of pink-hued sand backed by big dunes and flanked by towering cliffs, owned and protected by the John Muir Trust. This is arguably the finest beach in Britain.

The whole coast north to Cape Wrath is remarkable, with huge cliffs, tottering sea stacks, wave-lashed skerries, hidden coves and pebble beaches. The screaming of seabirds is a constant accompaniment. In winter, watching the grey sea crashing on the rocks, it’s easy to imagine the Viking longboats coming around Cape Wrath. The name Wrath comes from the Norse hvarf , meaning headland; Cape Wrath was a major navigational feature for the Vikings.

The route from Sandwood Bay to Cape Wrath is a 12-mile (19km) walk. Awaiting you is Cape Wrath Lighthouse’s Ozone Café, which – remarkably – is open 24 hours aday, 365 days a year. You can stay at the lighthouse, where a bunkhouse sleeps eight. If you don’t fancy the walk, café owner John Ure says he will happily drop or collect customers from the nearby village of Durness, until the regular minibus service resumes at Easter (and continues until mid-October).

If you have other plans for the night, even a simple walk part-way to Cape Wrath from Sandwood Bay is very worthwhile. The lighthouse, built in 1828 by Robert Stevenson, grandfather of author Robert Louis Stevenson (of Treasure Island and Kidnapped fame ) , is visible from far down the coast, and makes a spectacular ending to your journey through this wildly beautiful, rugged landscape. capewrath.org.uk

Villages and towns

Further north, past sharp-fanged An Teallach (its alpine conditions in winter also require mountaineering skills to ascend), is Little Loch Broom, then Loch Broom itself and the town of Ullapool, the biggest settlement in the north-west Highlands and a lovely fishing port with all the facilities you’d need. ullapool.com

Gairloch and Poolewe

To the north-west of Loch Maree are the lovely coastal villages of Gairloch and Poolewe, both good bases for combining coastal and hill walks, and excellent for warming food and coastal strolls when the mountains are wrapped in blizzards.

Kylesku, Rhiconich and Kinlochbervie

There are few settlements north of Ullapool. Kylesku is the main village, situated at the junction of the sea lochs Glencoul and Gleann Dubh. A dramatic 276-metre bridge crosses the narrows between the two lochs. Further north on the coast are the hamlets of Rhiconich and Kinlochbervie.

Places to stay

Gerry’s hostel, strathcarron.

A long-established hillwalking hostel surrounded by mountains. There’s a dormitory as well as family rooms, and a wood fire keeps the common room warm after a cold day out. From £20 per person per night. 01520 766232, gerryshostel.com

Cape Wrath Bunkhouse

Cape Wrath Bunkhouse sleeps eight, beds are £5 a night; 01971 511314, visitscotland.com

Ferry Boat Inn, Ullapool

This small, comfortable and traditional hotel sits on the shores of Loch Broom. As well as wonderful views, it has a seafood restaurant and bar, and is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town. Double rooms from £65. 01854 612431, fbiullapool.com

The Torridon

Located on the shores of Loch Torridon, this sumptuous hotel has wonderful views across the loch to the mountains. The building, dating back to the 1860s, is magnificent and the personal service exemplary. Don’t miss its award-winning whisky bar with over 365 malts. Double rooms from £165. 01445 791242, thetorridon.com

Where to eat

After a bracing day in the cold, a bowl of hearty soup is a great way to warm up. Scotch broth and lentil soup are traditional Highland favourites. If you’re still not full, a rich clootie dumpling packed with oatmeal and dried fruit will take care of that.

Lochinver Larder, Lochinver

A marvellous place with absolutely amazing pies. 01571 844356, piesbypost.co.uk/lochlarder

The Ceilidh Place, Ullapool

An excellent spot in Ullapool for an evening meal. There’s often live music, and a great bookshop and art gallery to browse in as well. 01854 612103, theceilidhplace.com

The Mountain Coffee Company, Gairloch

An interesting, quirky café, with an independent bookstore stocking local maps and guides. Superb coffee and giant homemade scones make for a great breakfast. 01445 712316

The Elphin Tearooms, Elphin

Tearooms with homemade soups, cakes and scones, and stunning views of Suilven; it’s dog-friendly, too. elphintearooms.co.uk

Visiting in winter?

Winter journeys require careful preparation. If you venture far from the roads, particularly if going up the hills, experience of winter walking is necessary. Alternatively, go with a local guide. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, too. Winter storms are fierce and exhilarating – but you don’t want to be caught in one in the hills.

The village of Lochinver, on the shore beneath the west face of Quinag (808 metres), Scotland ©Alamy

To escape the winter weather and the long hours of darkness, there are warm, friendly bars and cafés and many comfortable places to stay. But be sure to call ahead and check they’re open, because some places close in winter or have restricted opening hours. Sitting before a blazing log fire with a dram and listening to local musicians play is a wonderful way to end a winter’s day.

Walking advice

These websites offer information about walking routes low and high, local geology and facilities.

• Find hundreds of walking routes across the Highlands; walkhighlands.co.uk

• Discover maps and tools to help you make the most of your geopark visit; nwhgeopark.com

• For a wealth of information on all aspects of visiting Scotland; visitscotland.com

Find good advice on the skills and equipment you need in the winter hills on Mountaineering Scotland ( mountaineering.scot/safety-and-skills ) and Walk Highlands ( walkhighlands.co.uk/safety/winter-skills.shtml ).

Guided walks

A safe way to venture out is with a local guide.

• Hamlet Mountaineering A full guided day is £160, plus £20 per additional person. 01854 622754, hamletmountaineering.com

• Kintail Mountain Activities £130 a day for one person, £150 for two. Four or more is £50 per person a day. kintailmountainactivities.co.uk

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Craig Easton

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