Sightseeing in what has been described as 'Britain's last great wilderness' provides an exhilarating experience no matter where you go. Within a short distance from Benmore cottage it is possible to see impressive mountains, deserted beaches, ancient forests, lochs and rivers, wild seas, geological features, archaeological sites and fascinating wildlife. This is an area of unspoilt, beautiful wilderness, where you can escape from day-to-day routine and enjoy nature at its purist.
Walking
Sutherland and Caithness offer tremendous opportunities to explore wild landscapes, sheltered woodland and deserted beaches. Routes are suitable for all abilities, from simple to strenuous, coast, forest or mountain, short strolls or long distance hikes. Woodland walks are available just steps away from Benmore cottage in Gunn's plantation.
Cycling/Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking and Road Cycling routes for all abilities are available locally from dedicated trails 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 Benmore Cottage! The trails at Balblair and Carbisdale, just a few minutes away, are graded blue, red and black and are rated amongst the most exhilerating in the UK. Other trails include the excellent (and almost unknown) Sika trail at Rosehall and the Wildcat trails at Golspie, which provides the longest continuous mountain bike descent in the UK,... after the longest climb! If you have a mountain bike, Sutherland is a very special destination not to be missed. Close by, Strathpeffer holds the (in)famous annual Strathpuffer 24-hour mountain bike race in winter. A small part of the Wild Cat trails at Golspie is available to view here:
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 Craggie are well worth a visit.
Golf
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, Thurso, Ullapool and Wick.
Benmore Cottage - Quality Self Catering Accommodation in Lairg the Northern Highlands of Scotland