Top ten things to DO in Dornoch!
There is so much to do in and around Dornoch…….Take a look at our top ten list for some ideas of what to do when you next visit!
History Links 5* Museum
Historylinks is one of the very few 5 star museums in the Highlands. Dedicated to the history of Dornoch parish, current displays include a golf professional’s workshop where Donald Ross honed his skills, Carnegie at home at Skibo, the shameful burning of Scotland’s last condemned witch and the impact of the Picts and the Vikings. Films include Sutherland in 1950 and the Dornoch Light Railway.
Visitor translations in German, French, Italian, Spanish and Swedish.
Dornoch Beach
Dornoch’s safe, Blue Flag beach, is ideal for families with its gentle shallows, sheltering dunes and miles of golden sands. Perfect for paddling and swimming on warm summer days. Throughout the year it is popular for walkers taking a gentle stroll or carrying on north to Embo.
Dornoch Cathedral
This beautiful Cathedral was built in the 13th century and was made famous in when Madonna and Guy Ritchie baptised their son Rocco here in 2000. Each year many couples from around the world want to be married in historic and lovely Dornoch Cathedral which combines both grandeur and intimacy.
Horse Riding at Achavandra Stables
Why not come and view the magnificent scenery that the Highlands has to offer from the saddle of a horse?!
Whether, it’s a leisurely stroll through ancient pine forests, a wander along majestic Glens or a gallop across sandy beaches, we can cater rides to suit all preferences and abilities. Give them a call on 07712 165 306. Or visit their website www.dornochhorseriding.co.uk. Opening hours 9am to 4pm daily but you need to book in advance.
Cycling
The Dornoch area offers varied terrain for cyclists of all standards. There are many excellent road routes and recommended is the 34 mile trip from Dornoch to Spinningdale and then round by Loch Buidhe to the Mound and back to Dornoch via Embo. This route is hilly and passes through wonderful scenery. Cycle hire is available at Sam’s Bike Shed in the centre of Dornoch.
Loch Fleet Nature Reserve
Loch Fleet, a sea loch, lies just north of Dornoch and is a haven for fauna and flora. It has a variety of species including otters and seals, wild fowl and sea birds, orchids and butterflies. The loch is a large tidal basin with sand dunes, coastal heath and pine woods. The woodland supports species such as Scottish crossbills, crested tits and pine marten.
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle is the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and the largest in the Northern Highlands. It is also one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s, home to the Earls and later, the Dukes of Sutherland. Enjoy a wonderful day out here exploring the house and its treasures, the gardens and museum. The bird of prey displays are always very impressive and contribute to an enjoyable visit for the whoel family.
Kyle of Sutherland
The Kyle of Sutherland offers a wealth of activities including: mountain-bike trails, fishing, walking and golf. The area boasts historical sites such as Croick Church as well as dramatic scenery stretching from virtually East to West coasts and an abundance of wildlife and birdlife including golden eagles, otters and red deer.
Golf
Dornoch is home to the Championship Course which is ranked 2nd best in the world as well as the Struie Course which is the 50th best links course in the UK. Both courses welcome visiting golfers 7 days a week, as does their clubhouse which provides high quality cuisine and refreshments. Why not enrich your visit to Dornoch and play our neighbouring courses whilst you are here? All of these friendly courses welcome players of all standards: Golspie, Tain and Bonar Bridge.
Explore the Whisky Trail
Lovers of single malts or those keen to learn about Scotland’s national drink can visit 4 famous distilleries within just a few miles of Dornoch. Clynelish, Balblair, Glenmorangie and Dalmore are all close by so there is every opportunity to raise a glass to your holiday in Scotland.
Wildlife Watching
Ospreys, red deer, sea birds, seals, dolphins and ducks are all to be found in and around the Dornoch Firth. Our natural landscape is rich in habitats and provides safe havens for many resident and migratory species.
Hope to see you here soon!
