Ten Things to DO in Dornoch: Wellbeing

Wellbeing in Dornoch

Escape the daily grind by coming to rest and recuperate in Dornoch. The slow pace of life, miles of beaches and huge skies are a great place to start if you are wanting to have some time to focus on self-care. But that is not all Dornoch has to offer, take a look below to discover businesses in Dornoch who will help you create a bespoke wellbeing break which suits your needs and budget.

1. Aspen Spa
Your journey to total relaxation starts here. Aspen Spa at Carnegie Courthouse is a haven of calm and a perfect retreat after a day on the golf course, a break from a busy day or to meet up with friends for some spa therapy.
With a range of luxury face, body, massage, nail and grooming treatments available, as well as makeup applications and consultations, hair ups and blow-drys, find your perfect treatment for wedding parties, special occasions or just a treat.

2. CoCo Salon and Spa
Enjoy a relaxing day in a spacious and modern environment in the heart of Dornoch. Coco Salon has a team of professional and friendly stylists who specialise in a range of colouring, cutting, perming, hair ups, permanent hair extensions, waxing, make-up, massage and much more.  Treat yourself to a manicure at the nail bar or pedicure in one of the luxury pedi spa chairs. There is also a dedicated make-up artist to make you look and feel a million dollars and a fully licensed Coffee Bar so you can enjoy a fresh coffee with home-made tray bakes and cakes (exclusive to clients during their treatment).

3. Dornoch Hair & Beauty
Treat yourself to a hair or nail treatment at Hair & Beauty in Dornoch. Services include; cutting and colouring, perming, wedding and party hair, head massage, manicures and pedicures, waxing, facials and tanning.

4. Silverback Gym
Silverback Gym is a strength gym- You can bench, you can squat and you can deadlift here….or have some fun on the cardio equipment. You can register via their website www.silverbackgym.co.uk or pop in during staffed hours (Monday – Friday 8am-12pm and 4pm-8pm and Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm) You can buy a pass for a day or a week, so it is the perfect way to stay fit during your holiday.

5. Bike Hire in Dornoch
This part of Sutherland was made for cycling – quiet roads, gentle gradients, and just so much to see. All our cycle routes start from the centre of Dornoch, and they have been planned to avoid major roads and steep gradients wherever possible. They take in the most spectacular scenery, historical sites and places where you’re most likely to see some of our Highland wildlife. Please take care on A9 as traffic travels at speed. Bikes are available to hire from Heaven BikesSam’s Bike Shed or Dornoch Bike Hire.

6. Walking in Dornoch

No holiday in Scotland would be complete without a walk to enjoy our scenery and wildlife. You can do it all from Dornoch – woodland walks, hill walking or a stroll along our beautiful beaches each one building lasting memories you’ll treasure.

7. Take in the views by horseback or canoe!

Horse Riding at Achavandra Stables

Why not some 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.

Explore by Canoe

Go Wild Highlands is a small, family-run company running open canoe trips down the Kyle of Sutherland and other Sutherland locations. This slow-moving, easy river with its narrow creeks and wooded islands is ideal for the beginner or anyone looking for a relaxed adventure rich in wildlife, scenery and history.  You can choose from all day trips with a homemade lunch supplied, a Swallows and Amazons trip combining canoeing with bushcraft or an evening paddle looking for the local wildlife. Click here for more information.

8. PaddleBoarding
Stand-Up paddle boarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing watersports, combining the physical exercise and exploration of traditional paddle sports with a simplicity that makes it a sport accessible for everyone. Why not hire some boards and enjoy the many beautiful spots on a loch or in the sea around Dornoch?

9. Shopping
In Dornoch you won’t find a row of high street chain outlets but, spread around the town, you will find unique shops, filled with character and quality items. From craft butchers to high quality gift shops, enjoy browsing and indulge yourself.

10. Beaches
Walk the deserted beaches of Sutherland and soak up the peace and tranquility that our beautiful coastline has to offer. The Northern Highlands has a huge array of beaches waiting to be explored: from the craggy and stony to miles of golden sands or small coves with white sand and turquoise seas- there are so many to choose from and they are all equally special in their own way. Of course our favourite beach is our very own award winning Dornoch beach with a very close second place being our neighbour Embo but as there are so many other glorious beaches to visit whilst you are visiting Dornoch!