Perched in the north of the Scottish Highlands, Sutherland is a nature lover’s paradise, with spectacular scenery — from craggy mountains to magnificent sandy beaches — and stacks of outdoor activities to enjoy. The region’s accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to gorgeous hotels with excellent restaurants, suited to a whole host of budgets. The best places to stay in Sutherland promise a warm Highland welcome and heaps of local recommendations for visitors eager to don their hiking boots, pick up their fishing rods or to take to the waters and explore the area.
At the heart of the hugely popular North Coast 500 route and including dramatic Cape Wrath, Sutherland makes for a a gorgeous stop on a longer Highland journey, as well as offering a wonderfully remote escape in its own right. Ramblers and families can stroll along picturesque beaches, circle lovely lochs and attempt sections of the Scottish National Trail — ideally armed with a terrific hotel picnic. Keen hikers, on the other hand, can clamber up the wild Assynt Hills, and will find the views from Suliven, the most famous of the mountains, particularly rewarding. Wherever you choose to stay, the team at your hotel or B&B will happily point you in the right direction for some seriously impressive on-foot exploring.
Golfers will be drawn to the seaside town of Dornoch, the largest in the region, which boasts the world-famous Royal Dornoch Golf Club, home to a highly regarded Championship Course featuring panoramic views of the hills and the sea. An appealing market town, Dornoch has some fantastic hotels, as well as sites of historic interest, including Dornoch Cathedral.
Alternatively, try kayaking, paddle boarding or canoeing on glassy lochs and calm seas, head out wildlife-spotting with an expert guide, catch salmon or sea trout in Sutherland’s rivers, or admire the unique landscape from atop a mountain bike or on horseback.
Whether you’re envisaging an active family holiday or dreaming of a quiet couples’ retreat, the best places to stay in Sutherland offer a magical blend of cosy beds, delicious dishes crafted from superb seasonal produce, and a vast array of things to see and do in a secluded and spell-binding region.
Mackay's Rooms is a luxurious seven-bedroom B&B set in beautiful Durness. Stay here for glorious coastal views, feather-topped beds and oversized baths, as well as fresh, flavourful breakfasts and picnic hampers perfect for exploring. A remote, romantic choice, great for getting lost in the north-west corner of the Scottish Highlands.
Kylesku Hotel offers charming boutique rooms on the shores of Loch Glendhu. The vibe is chic, contemporary and pared-back, with lots of creams and blue-grey tones. Explore this stunning region on foot, by boat, kayak or horseback, or try fishing and hit the beach with the kids before retiring to the atmospheric restaurant-with-views. Family suites make this a top pick if travelling with little ones, who will find so much to discover.
Inver Lodge boasts 21 well-appointed rooms with spectacular views. Nestled in the village of Lochinver, this is a top-notch base for salmon and sea trout fishing on the Rivers Inver and Kirkaig, as well as hiking in the Assynt Hills, stalking and and wildlife spotting aplenty. One for nature lovers in search of a striking setting and fantastic food, with much of the restaurant’s produce sourced from the owner’s private estates. Wonderful!
Links House offers eight elegant bedrooms in a striking location alongside the Royal Dornoch Golf Club. Think spacious, comfortable rooms with tweed headboards and lovely armchairs, roaring fires and excellent food in the fine-dining restaurant. There’s fishing, shooting, walking and horse-riding nearby, too. A smart, luxurious stay, especially suited to golfers.
2 Quail is a cosy, characterful B&B in Dornoch, with three tartan-clad bedrooms and hearty breakfasts perfect for big days of golf. Pick this place for its central Dornoch location, great value and friendly feel. A whisky in the book-lined lounge beckons!
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Dornoch (Dornoch)
A quaint town house in the heart of historic Donorch. Charming rooms are traditional in style with antique furniture and chintz fabrics. A cosy lounge complete with tartan carpets and open fireplace is the perfect spot to sip on a local whisky. A delightful stay.
Sutherland (Sutherland)
A charming rural hotel, and long a popular fishing destination, in a stunning spot on the west coast. Rooms are beautifully dressed with sink-into beds, antiques, and pretty fabrics. Hearty dinners are announced with a gong and the hosts are ever friendly. A characterful country hideaway.
Brora (Sutherland)
A charming boutique retreat set alongside stunning coastal scenery on the NC500. The hotel blends classic elegance with rich textures and modern comforts. Dine on locally sourced Scottish cuisine in two distinctive restaurants or unwind in the cosy bar. Perfect for a peaceful, luxurious escape.
Sutherland (Sutherland)
This welcoming retreat offers a perfect blend of history and luxury in the Scottish Highlands. Think period charm with wood panelling, cosy fireplaces, and elegant furnishings. With a fine-dining restaurant, relaxed bar, and outdoor activities on the doorstep, it’s an ideal getaway in a scenic spot.
Sutherland
A remote Scottish hideout with stunning coastal views and surroundings. Owner managed, this boutique B&B features seven individually designed bedrooms with merino blankets and hand crafted furniture. Locally sourced produce and hearty Scottish breakfasts. Bring walking boots!
Sutherland (Sutherland)
For a remote UK getaway, Smoo Lodge perfectly fits the bill. A small B&B set in the most north-westerly village on mainland UK. Quaint rooms have a boutique feel with pastel hues, simple modern furniture, & lovely views. Breakfasts are hearty & the hosts are very warm. A charming wilderness escape.
Sutherland (Sutherland)
Kylesku Hotel is a sublime establishment in the depths of the Scottish Highlands. It's hard to look past the hotel's magnificent setting overlooking Loch Glendhu. Inside you'll find excellent rooms, superb food and an atmospheric bar. A highland idyll.
Sutherland
Located on the West Coast, the intimate Highland retreat Inver Lodge Hotel overlooks the quaint fishing village of Lochinver. Boasting smart, boutique accommodation with plenty of tartan touches. Brilliant food is served up by Chef Albert Roux OBE. An upmarket rural retreat.
Dornoch
Delightful luxury hotel set on one of Scotland's most picturesque links golf courses. Rooms have a distinctly Scottish feel with tweed headboards and tartan patterned quilts. The fine dining restaurant serves an ever changing menu of locally sourced delights and an extensive range of wines.
Sutherland
Rustic and very chic; this small and remote property ticks all the boxes for an off-the-radar luxury break. Interiors are beautifully styled mixing Scandi furniture with traditional Scottish design. Contemporary Scottish cuisine is served (breakfasts are enjoyed over candlelight). Very spoiling.
