Discover Dornoch for your next Holiday or Short Break in the Scottish Highlands
Here’s why Dornoch is the best place to take a short break or holiday in the Scottish Highlands.
Historical Richness
Dornoch’s rich history makes it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the past. The town is built in golden sandstone and is home to the ancient Dornoch Cathedral.
Museum and Trail
For a deep dive into local history, Historylinks Museum offers a range of exhibits that chronicle Dornoch’s turbulent past. There is also the town’s heritage trail, where you can follow a tour around 15 key historical points.
Natural Beauty
Dornoch’s pristine beaches are perfect for a relaxing stroll, building sandcastles, and enjoying a picnic on the golden sands, no matter the season.
Outdoor Activities
There's miles of woodland trails and heather-clad hills to hike. Cyclists can take advantage of both quiet roads and challenging mountain bike runs, whilst bird watchers are treated to both the Loch Fleet Nature Reserve and Dornoch Point, in the Dornoch Firth SSSI.
Cultural Experiences
Dornoch’s vibrant cultural scene is another reason why it’s the perfect place for a holiday or short break in the Scottish Highlands. The town hosts events throughout the year, such as the New Year ‘Hogmanay’ street party.
Great Houses
A little further afield, you'll discovery the beautiful Dunrobin Castle. The most northerly of Scotland’s great houses, it's also one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited homes dating back to the early 1300s.
World-Class Golf
Royal Dornoch Golf Club’s Championship course is ranked among the top 3 courses in the world. Its sister course, Struie, also offers an enjoyable and testing 18-holes. Other local courses such as Brora, Golspie and Tain make Dornoch perfect for your next golfing holiday.
Delicious Dining
Visit some of the excellent restaurants and cafes dotted around the town to sample everything from fresh seafood to traditional Scottish baking.
Excellent Shopping
Dornoch features charming, independent shops and boutiques where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. Whether it’s a fabulous new outfit, Scottish jewellery or a bottle of locally distilled whisky, these shops offer memorable keepsakes of your holiday in the Highlands.
Warming Whisky
Lovers of single malts or those keen to learn about Scotland’s national drink can visit 4 famous distilleries within a few miles of Dornoch. Clynelish, Brora, Balblair and Glenmorangie are all close by so you can raise a glass to your holiday in Scotland.
A Perfect Base for Exploration
Dornoch is an ideal spot to explore the wider Sutherland area. Head west to The Kyle of Sutherland, which offers a wealth of activities including: mountain-bike trails, fishing, walking and golf, as well as historical Croick Church.