Sutherland: The Complete Guide

Experience the most incredible landscapes and seascapes. Sutherland makes up a large part of the North Coast 500, and will leave a lasting memory too. From the dramatic north-western scenery, where the mountains meet the sea, to the varied lands of the east – with scattered fishing communities, award winning golf courses, fairy tale castles, archaeological wonders and quaint harbours. Unspoilt, naturally stunning landscapes and seascapes with stretches of sand to rival those abroad, welcome to Sutherland.
Sutherland is a historic county, registration county and lieutenancy area in the Highlands of Scotland. Its county town is Dornoch. Sutherland borders Caithness and Moray Firth to the east, Ross-shire and Cromartyshire (later combined into Ross and Cromarty) to the south and the Atlantic to the north and west. Like its southern neighbour Ross-shire, Sutherland has some of the most dramatic scenery in the whole of Europe, especially on its western fringe where the mountains meet the sea. These include high sea cliffs, and very old mountains composed of Precambrian and Cambrian rocks.
The name Sutherland dates from the era of Norwegian Viking rule and settlement over much of the Highlands and Islands, under the rule of the jarl of Orkney. Although it contains some of the northernmost land in the island of Great Britain, it was called Suðrland (“southern land”) from the standpoint of Orkney and Caithness. In Gaelic, the area is referred to according to its traditional areas: Dùthaich MhicAoidh (or Dùthaich ‘IcAoidh) in the northeast, Asainte (Assynt) in the west, and Cataibh in the east. Cataibh is also sometimes used to refer to the area as a whole. The northeast corner of Sutherland, traditionally known as the Province of Strathnaver, was not incorporated into Sutherland until 1601. This was the home of the powerful and warlike Clan Mackay, and as such was named in Gaelic, Dùthaich ‘Ic Aoidh, the Homeland of Mackay. Even today this part of Sutherland is known as Mackay Country, and, unlike other areas of Scotland where the names traditionally associated with the area have become diluted, there is still a preponderance of Mackays in the Dùthaich.
Much of the population of approximately 13,000 inhabitants are situated in small coastal towns, such as Helmsdale and Lochinver, which until very recently made much of their living from the rich fishing of the waters around the British Isles. Much of Sutherland is poor relative to the rest of Scotland, with few job opportunities beyond government-funded employment, agriculture and seasonal tourism. Further education is provided by North Highland College, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands. The Ross House Campus in Dornoch was the first establishment in the United Kingdom to provide a degree in golf management. The Burghfield House Campus, also in Dornoch, is the home for the Centre for History teaching undergraduate and postgraduate history degrees to students around the UHI network and worldwide.
Table of Contents
- History of Sutherland
- Sutherland: Ancient Beginnings
- Sutherland: Viking Influence
- Sutherland: Clans and Castles
- Sutherland: Modern Era
- 18 Best places to See in Sutherland
- Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve
- Dunrobin Castle
- Timespan, Helmsdale
- Skelbo Castle
- Falls of Shin
- Torrisdale Bay and Broch, Invernaver
- Castle Varrich
- Strathnaver Museum
- Loch Glencoul
- Ardvreck Castle
- Balnakeil Beach & Faraid Head
- Knockan Crag
- Falls of Kirkaig
- Handa Island
- Sandwood Bay
- Achmelvich Beach
- Achnahaird Bay
- Stoer Head Lighthouse
- Where to Stay in Sutherland
- Best Time to Visit Sutherland
- Visiting Sutherland in Spring
- Visiting Sutherland in Summer
- Visiting Sutherland in Autumn
- Visiting Sutherland in Winter
- How to get to Sutherland
History of Sutherland
Sutherland: Ancient Beginnings
Sutherland’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of ancient settlements and stone circles scattered across the region.
Sutherland: Viking Influence
During the early medieval period, Sutherland was significantly influenced by Norse settlers. The region’s name, derived from Old Norse, means “Southern Land.”
Sutherland: Clans and Castles
The area became a stronghold for powerful Scottish clans such as the Mackays and the Sutherlands. Numerous castles and historic sites from this period still stand today.
Sutherland: Modern Era
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Sutherland underwent significant changes due to the Highland Clearances and later developments in transportation and tourism.
Visiting Sutherland for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Sutherland on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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18 Best places to See in Sutherland
This complete guide to Sutherland not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Sutherland and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve

Location: Forsinard Flows, Forsinard KW13 6YT | Distance: 20.1km
Visiting Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve
Dunrobin Castle

Location: Dunrobin, Golspie, Sutherland, KW10 6SF | Hours: 10.30am-4.30pm Apr, May & Oct, 10am-5pm Jun-Sep | Price: adult/child £11.50/7 | Website | Distance: 26.8km
Visiting Dunrobin Castle
Timespan, Helmsdale
| Hours: Open Easter - October, 10am - 5pm | Website | Distance: 28.9km
Visiting Timespan, Helmsdale
Skelbo Castle

Visiting Skelbo Castle
Falls of Shin

Visiting Falls of Shin
Torrisdale Bay and Broch, Invernaver

Visiting Torrisdale Bay and Broch, Invernaver
Castle Varrich

Visiting Castle Varrich
Strathnaver Museum
Location: Clachan, Bettyhill, Thurso, Caithness, KW14 7SS | Hours: Museum opening hours April – Oct, 10am - 5pm, Monday - Saturday | Website | Distance: 35.9km
Visiting Strathnaver Museum
Loch Glencoul

Visiting Loch Glencoul
Ardvreck Castle

Visiting Ardvreck Castle
Balnakeil Beach & Faraid Head

Visiting Balnakeil Beach & Faraid Head
Knockan Crag

Visiting Knockan Crag
Falls of Kirkaig

Visiting Falls of Kirkaig
Handa Island

| Hours: Admission charge for ferry crossing Ferry runs from April - September, Monday to Saturday - last departure to Handa at 1400 hours. | Distance: 65.5km
Visiting Handa Island
Sandwood Bay

| Website | Distance: 66.1km
Visiting Sandwood Bay
Achmelvich Beach

Visiting Achmelvich Beach
Achnahaird Bay

Visiting Achnahaird Bay
Stoer Head Lighthouse

Visiting Stoer Head Lighthouse
Where to Stay in Sutherland
Staying in Dornoch provides charming accommodations near the Royal Dornoch Golf Club and historic sites like Dornoch Cathedral. For a more remote experience, staying in a coastal cottage or lodge offers unparalleled access to rugged landscapes and wildlife.
A 3 to 4-day stay is ideal for exploring the North Coast 500 route, hiking along stunning cliffs, and visiting hidden beaches. A 5-day stay allows for venturing into remote glens, fishing, and experiencing true Scottish wilderness.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Sutherland. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Sutherland Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Sutherland
Visiting Sutherland in Spring
Spring in Sutherland offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for exploring its vast countryside, hiking trails, and witnessing the region’s wildlife awakening.
Visiting Sutherland in Summer
Summer brings long daylight hours and warmer weather, ideal for outdoor activities such as beach visits, hiking, and exploring Sutherland’s historic sites and natural beauty.
Visiting Sutherland in Autumn
Autumn in Sutherland is characterized by vibrant foliage, providing a stunning backdrop for scenic drives, hikes, and enjoying the region’s tranquil atmosphere.
Visiting Sutherland in Winter
Winter transforms Sutherland into a peaceful retreat with its snow-capped landscapes and cozy villages. It’s a perfect time for a quiet escape and experiencing the Northern Lights.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 5°C 44°F
- February 6°C 46°F
- March 8°C 50°F
- April 10°C 53°F
- May 14°C 60°F
- June 16°C 64°F
- July 16°C 65°F
- August 14°C 61°F
- September 13°C 59°F
- October 10°C 54°F
- November 8°C 49°F
- December 6°C 46°F
How to get to Sutherland
Traveling to Sutherland by Car
Driving to Sutherland is convenient via the A9 and A836 roads. This mode of travel allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore remote areas.
Traveling to Sutherland by Train
Train services to Sutherland are available with connections from Inverness to Thurso and Wick. This scenic route offers beautiful views of the Scottish Highlands.
Traveling to Sutherland by Bus
Bus services connect Sutherland with major cities like Inverness. This budget-friendly option provides an easy way to reach the region.