Walking Routes for All

One of the questions we are asked most frequently by our holiday cottage guests is what are the best walking routes in Sutherland, and we are delighted to tell them that many of our favourite walks are right on the doorstep of Golspie and a mere stone’s throw from our luxury holiday cottages. Here you will find an overview of four of the best walks near Golspie, but if you need any more inspiration, we are always happy to help.

Ben Bhraggie

Distance: 9.5km
The steep pull up Ben Bhraggie (or Beinn a’Bhragaidh to give it its proper, Gaelic name) is well rewarded by excellent views over the coastline and inland hills – on a clear day, both coasts of Scotland can be seen. The massive Sutherland monument, locally known as the ‘The Mannie’, marks the top from where this circuit takes a gentler route down on forest tracks initially. The circuit is then extended by returning down the dramatic Big Burn gorge. Start the walk at the car park just off Golspie main street on Fountain Road.

Big Burn Walk

Distance: 3km
A spectacular short walk up a gorge crisscrossed by footbridges and ending in a waterfall. From the parking area beside Sutherland Stonework, you can view a map of the paths before setting off underneath the railway arch and following the path inland alongside the burn. Watch out for red squirrels, as they were re-introduced in this area last year and make regular appearances!

Loch Fleet Nature Reserve

Distance: 2.8km
The most northerly estuary on Scotland’s east coast, Loch Fleet is a large tidal basin surrounded by dunes, saltmarsh and pine woods. Whatever the season, the habitats support a wide variety of wildlife and make the perfect spot for a walk. The Balblair Wood Trail is a lovely gentle walk from the dunes at Littleferry to the bird hide at Balblair, with well signposted parking and route. More information on Loch Fleet Nature Reserve can be found here.

Brora To Golspie Coastal Path

Distance: 10km

Running along the coastline from Golspie to Brora, this stage of the John o’Groats Trail is shorter than other sections in Sutherland or Caithness. However, it has plenty of interest for walkers, passing the magnificent Dunrobin Castle [link to article] and the well-preserved Dun Liath broch. There is also the option to use public transport for the return leg with buses and trains running between Brora and Golspie. Even better, you can start this walk from outside Snowdrop and Bluebell Cottages – head down Duke Street and over the footbridge aiming straight for the sea.