About Dornoch

Dornoch has all you need for a wonderful highland break: long sandy beaches, historic castles, scenic golf courses and jaw-droppingly stunning countryside. Head off on romantic walks along the rugged coastline at sunset and bask in the serenity of it all. If you're into Scottish beauty, you can't go far wrong staying here. The best places to stay in Dornoch are great bases both for exploring the best that the surrounding area has got to offer or for the golfers, who are here to sample one of the finest courses in the country.

What not to miss

  • The 13th century Dornoch Cathedral is a must-see, with its glorious interior and lovely stained glass windows
  • Learn more about Dornoch's history by heading off on a walk through the town, led by a Historylinks Museum tour guide
  • Go whisky-tasting at the award-winning Carnegie Whisky Cellars
  • Explore the area by canoe with Go WIld Highlands - the ideal way to spend a family day out!
  • Or, play a round at the superb Royal Dornoch Golf Club: one of Scotland's finest championship courses

The Best Places to Stay in Dornoch

For the golf

  • The Links House is the perfect option. Set right on the Royal Dornoch's course, it's ideal for serious golfers - though with its smart rooms and distinctly Scottish feel, the appeal stretches beyond just its location.

For a b&b

  • 2 Quail is a quaint house in the heart of the town featuring three bedrooms with retro styled interiors. Devour a superb traditional Scottish breakfast before a day exploring the stunning surrounding area.

Travel information

  • The nearest airport is Inverness, some 50 miles south of Dornoch.
  • The best time to visit is during the warmer summer months, when average highs are around 19 degrees celcius. However, the weather can also be very pleasant in spring and early autumn.
  • If you plan to hire a car, which we strongly advise if you wish to explore the area fully, we recommend you check out the selection with Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in Dornoch

2 Quail

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.

  • Local exploring - Boasting a central location and with easy access to the town's sights and surrounding countryside.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Dunrobin Castle, part of which dates from the 14th century.
  • Great walks - Enjoy blustery walks along the picturesque beach.
  • Restrictions on children - Children over 10 are welcome
from $101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Royal Golf Hotel

Dornoch (Sutherland)

This stylish hotel, just steps from the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club, boasts views to the Dornoch Firth. Spacious rooms with touches of tartan overlook the fairway. There's a restaurant serving local fare, a cosy bar, and a lounge with open fire. All you need for a welcoming Highland retreat.

  • Local exploring - Explore the Highlands and discover unspoiled beaches, invigorating walks, fairytale castles, and local Scottish distilleries
  • Active Holiday - With heritage trails, coastal wanders, hill hikes and adventurous mountain treks, there is something for everyone
  • Golf - The perfect spot for a golfing adventure with many great courses in the area
  • Sights nearby - The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s answer to Route 66 - an incredible journey that takes you through vast and varied landscapes
from $159 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Dornoch Station

Dornoch (Sutherland)

A grand hotel overlooking the Dornoch Firth and one of Scotland’s finest golf courses. Characterful interiors radiate Highland charm with warm wood panelling, rich fabrics, and touches of tartan. There's a restaurant serving seasonal Scottish cuisine, plus a bar with snooker table. Coastal elegance.

  • Local exploring - Visit the old jail cells, the gardens of Dornoch Cathedral, plus Gallows Hill and alleged witchcraft locations
  • Romantic Break - Head to this romantic Highland spot for invigorating walks followed by a dram or two in the intimate bar
  • Active Holiday - Enjoy a range of activities, including archery, fishing and wildlife tours, in a spectacular setting
  • Sights nearby - The beautiful Dunrobin Castle is a Highland landmark. Tour the castle’s impressive interior and catch one of its falconry shows
from $260 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Links House

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.

  • Active Holiday - With golf on the doorstep, walking, shooting and fishing close by, it's the perfect spot for a weekend of country sports.
  • Country Escape - After a long day outdoors, head in to the roaring fires and cosy sofas of the library and sitting room.
  • Fishing - Great salmon fishing in the surrounding areas such as on the river Carron and Helmsdale.
  • Great walks - Beautiful walking in the surrounding Highland countryside.
from $323 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees