Preparing the 3D flyover…
The Area
Sinclair's Bay,
Caithness
The Herons sits on the shore of Sinclair's Bay, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the Scottish Highlands. Approximately 17 miles from Dunnet Head — the northernmost point of mainland Scotland — this is a place of dramatic cliffs, sweeping sandy beaches, historic castles, and abundant wildlife.
It is not a case of where do we start, but where do we stop. This corner of North East Scotland is home to so much — from world-class birdwatching and whale spotting to ancient castles and the Northern Lights.
Things to Do
Activities & Attractions
Birdwatching
The rocky shore attracts waders, rock pipits, wagtails and herons, with seasonal Curlew and Lapwing. Summer brings Great Skua overhead. At sea, spot guillemots, terns — including Little Tern — and divers such as Black Throated and Great Northern. Easterly winds bring occasional Manx and Sooty Shearwaters, plus sea ducks like Eider and Scoter. The coastal heath nurtures Scottish Primrose and broad-leaved Helleborine. The Flow Country — one of the world's largest blanket bogs — is home to the RSPB's Forsinard nature reserve.
Seawatching & Wildlife
Orca, minke and humpback whales can be seen off the coast, with seals basking in the bay. Watch from the shoreline or take a trip out with Caithness Seacoast for an unforgettable experience.
Northern Lights
Caithness is one of the best places in mainland Britain to see the Aurora Borealis. The dark night skies are ideal for stargazing — check with the Caithness Astronomy Group and Wild North Skies for viewing forecasts. The Northern Lights over Sinclair's Bay will blow you away.
Historic Castles
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe and Old Keiss Castle are minutes away — dramatic ruins perched on the clifftops. Don't miss the Castle and Gardens of Mey, the Queen Mother's beloved Highland retreat.
Surfing & Watersports
The beaches at Keiss, Dunnet and Thurso are perfect for surfing, kiteboarding and angling. Flatfish and sea trout fishing can be done right from the beach in Sinclair's Bay, with loch fishing for brown trout nearby. Sea fishing boat trips run from Wick Harbour — tackle and permits from Hugo Ross in Wick.
Orkney Day Trips
Our nearest neighbours across the Pentland Skerries host world-renowned archaeological sites. Car ferries run from Scrabster with NorthLink Ferries and from Gills Bay with Pentland Ferries, with day tours from John o' Groats.
More to Explore
Getting Here
Planning the Drive North?
Turn-by-turn directions from Inverness and the north coast, plus travel by air and rail — postcode for the sat nav included.