Attractions in Northern Highlands

Handa Island, By Scourie, Sutherland, Scotland, UK

This spectacular island with one of the largest seabird colonies in north-west Europe offers a superb wildlife experience. By ferry, 3 miles north of Scourie.

Braemore, By Ullapool, Wester Ross, Scotland, UK

Spectacular mile long 200 feet deep gorge which contains the 150 foot Falls of Measach. Suspension bridge and viewing platform.

Lochbroom, Ullapool, Scotland, UK

Planted in 1870, the arboretum is full of rare trees, specie rhododendrons, azaleas and shrubs. Also alpine garden. Paths lead down to sea.

Achiltibuie, Ullapool, Wester Ross, IV26 2YG

Unique modern growing houses where visitors learn the secret of growing plants without soil, everything from lettuces to bananas.

Golspie, Sutherland, KW10 6SF

This ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Sutherland is the largest house in the Scottish Highlands. Re-modelled in the 1840s, it has great formal gardens and a museum.

Thurso, Caithness, KW14 8XH

The most northerly castle on the Scottish mainland, for almost 50 years it was the summer residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Traditional two acre walled garden, with herbaceous borders and beds full of scented roses.

Forsinard, Sutherland, KW13 6YT

The place to experience the vastness of Scotland's 'Flow Country' and see some special birds and other wildlife. Visitor centre, nature trail and guided walks.

Achtercairn, Gairloch, Ross-shire, IV21 2BP

Open displays. The history of our area from the earliest times to the present day.

Portmahomack, By Tain, Ross-shire, IV20 1YA

Major visitor centre in the Highlands on the Picts and their lifestyle and culture linked to one of Europe's largest archaeological digs.

Elphin, Nr Ullapool, Sutherland, IV27 4HH

Conservation farm. Walk in beautiful highland setting with old animal breeds. Stroke the goats and scratch the pigs! For all ages, cloud or shine.

Nr Cannich, Inverness-shire, Scotland, UK

In a superb landscape, this reserve includes moorland, conifer plantations and some patches of Scots pine and birch. A long term aim is to gradually remove the plantations and restore the semi-natural woodland.

Nr Garve, Ross-shire, Scotland, UK

One of the highest mountains in Easter Ross, home to red deer, pine marten and golden eagle. Dwarf birch, cloudberry and dwarf cornel flourish here.

By Ullapool, Wester Ross, Scotland, UK

Caves, tunnels and underground streams are highlights of this limestone reserve. In the caves bones of animals long extinct in Scotland have been found, excellent for wildflowers.

Sutherland, Scotland, UK

Britain's most northerly native oakwood, some trees are reduced to a creeping form by the effect of the westerly gales. Track to reserve.

Nr Golspie, Sutherland, Scotland, UK

This large tidal basin with its surrounding pinewoods, coastal heath and sand dunes has a very special character. It is good for birds at all times of the year and has some very special plants.