There is no shortage of activities in the area, whether you want a relaxing holiday or an active break.

Sightseeing in what has been described as 'Britain's last great wilderness' provides an exhilerating experience no matter where you go. Within a short distance from the cottage it is possible to see impressive mountains, deserted beaches, ancient forests, lochs and rivers, wild seas, geological features, archeological sites and fascinating wildlife. This is an area of unspoilt, beautiful, wilderness, where you can escape and enjoy nature.

Walking routes are suitable for all abilities, from simple to strenuous, coast or mountain, short strolls or long distance hikes. Woodland walks are available just seconds away from Benmore cottage in Gunn's plantation.

Mountain Biking routes for all abilities are available locally from dedicated MTB tracks to quiet country lanes and of course the great wilderness. There are many forestry commission tracks too, including Gunn's plantation which is adjacent to the cottage, meaning you can be cycling within seconds from your door! The trails at Balblair and Carbisdale, just a few minutes away, are graded red and black and are rated amongst the most exhilerating in the UK. Other trails are located at Rosehall and Golspie. If you have a mountain bike, Sutherland is a destination not to be missed.

Bird Watching enthusiasts should be able to view a wide array of birds including Eagles, Buzzards and possibly Osprey as well as other raptors and summer breeding species including Black and Red throated divers. Comical Puffins and other Auks can be seen in coastal areas. Daily visitors to the cottage include large numbers of chaffinch, tits, woodpecker, robin, siskin, blackbird and many others!

Fishing - Lairg is an excellent trout fishing centre, situated at the south end of Loch Shin and surrounded by a number of excellent trout lochs. The Lairg Angling Club manages much of the fishing and sells permits for the lochs under their control. One or two excellent hill lochs like Beannach and Graggie are well worth a visit.

Wildlife is abundant! You may be fortunate enough to see wild deer, pine martin, otters and maybe even a scottish wildcat.

Climbing Several challenging mountains are close by including Ben Stack, Foinaven, Arkle and Ben Hope.

Food & Drink from locally sourced ingredients is delicious and the area has a variety of restaurants to choose from.

Cultural Events throughout the year in Lairg and neighbouring towns and village provide a unique insight into life in the highlands. Inverness provides a broad range of cultural activities.

Golf courses are available in many locations. From the mainland's most northerly course at Durness and the nearby Bonar Bridge/Ardgay course described as one of the most beautiful courses in the highlands. Other courses are located at Brora, Dornoch, Golspie, Helmsdale, Lybster, Reay, Thursao, Ullapool and Wick.

Visit Inverness - Scotland's newest city and Europe's fastest growing city. Ideal for shopping and nightlife. The capital of the Highlands.

Or simply Relax in the peaceful surroundings and take in the beautiful views around the cottage.

Copyright (c) 2009 Benmore Self Catering Cottage, Lairg, Sutherland, Scotland.