moderate
8 hours
Participants should be in good health and comfortable sitting and walking moderately throughout the day.
Discover North West Sutherland on an exclusive 8-hour tour featuring Dunrobin Castle, Assynt’s dramatic peaks, and peaceful fishing villages. Perfect for those seeking Scotland's rugged landscapes with expert local insight.
8 hours | Max. 7 people
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour private tour of North West Sutherland, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich history. Explore the majestic Dunrobin Castle, the rugged beauty of Assynt, and the serene villages of Lochinver and Tongue. With a professional guide, enjoy bespoke experiences and stunning photo opportunities along this picturesque coastal route.
Private tour - One to three people: 8 hour tour: £550
Private tour - Four to seven people: 8 hour tour: £650
8 hours
The abiding memory of a visit to North West Sutherland will surely be the staggering beauty of the place.
This, however, is a county of contrasts and extremes. Where the railhead ends its Westward way at Lairg the mail is distributed onward by “post bus”. A destination fifty miles away can be quaintly described as “by” Lairg. All forms of marketing known to man, “population bricks” etc, are thrown into chaos and disarray. Postcode IV27 has probably one of the smallest populations of any in Europe but has a geographic area the size of a small country.
Contrast the sumptuous grandeur of Dunrobin Castle, home to the Dukes and Duchesses of Sutherland, their heirs and successors, to the humble crofts, many today in shameful rubble cleared by their factors to make way for sheep.
Consider then how in far-flung Assynt, in very recent times, collective action has enabled a “buy back” of land into ownership of the crofting community.
In common with much of the rest of Scotland the West has the most spectacular scenery. The mountains of Canisp and Suilven stand volcanic sentinels over the lovely village of Lochinver still clinging doggedly to its credentials as a fishing village. Kinlochbervie too features in this regard.
Foinaven, Arkle and Stack dominate the more northerly skyline, two of them lending their names to famous thoroughbred racehorses.
Ben Loyal serenely guards the idyllic village of Tongue. Many other peaks feature large in the landscape and delight the “Munro Baggers”.
Smoo Cave at Durness, Cape Wrath on the North West extremity of the mainland and the bird sanctuary of Handa Island off Scourie are all worthy contenders for some of your time.
The single track coastal route through Assynt is as picturesque as it is challenging to the motorist. Lochs More, Stack and Shin outline the homeward journey. All vie for and seek the attention of the visitor to complete a memorable day.
Departure/Return location: Destination of your choice in Scotland (supplement fee may apply for long distant pickup/drop off)
Group size maxes at seven, so reserving your spot well in advance ensures availability and a personalized experience.
North West Sutherland weather can change rapidly, so bring waterproof and insulating layers for comfort throughout the day.
Ample scenic stops mean plenty of photo opportunities; a charged battery and extra memory cards are recommended.
Though villages offer refreshment options, having your own snacks and hydration keeps you energized during remote stretches.
Dunrobin Castle dates back to the early 1300s and has been the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for centuries.
The tour emphasizes responsible travel practices to protect fragile coastal ecosystems and local wildlife habitats.
Protects against the unpredictable Highland weather during the coastal tour.
Needed for walking short distances during photo stops and site visits.
Capture memorable landscapes and historic sites throughout the day.
Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra clothing layers.