With many foreign
destinations still being off the menu, travel photographer Jenny Anderson
shares her favourite Scottish
staycation spots…
Dunnet Bay
The romance of the far north
The very north of Scotland might seem as romantic as a trip to Paris, but it’s a perfect getaway for couples. Caithness is wild, dramatic and often you can feel like the only people in the world. Unlike Paris, the countryside round Dunnet offers mystical castles, towering sea stacks and bags of history. It feels like you’ve stepped into a real-life Outlander set and if you time it right, you might even see the fabulous aurora borealis.
Base yourself near Dunnet to explore the stunning North coastline. Stay at Dunnet Bay Escapes B&B and try the deliciously fresh seafood at The Captain’s Gallery.
With views to Orkney and easy ferry access for a day trip, your options really are endless. Be taken aback by unexpected sea stacks like those at Duncansby head and wander the grounds of ancient castles such as Sinclair Girnigoe. Don’t forget to pop past the Rock Rose Gin distillery for a fantastic tour and tasting! And if that’s not enough to satisfy your need for adventure take the short drive to the most northerly point of the UK – not John O’Groats like many think, but Dunnet Head Lighthouse.
Gairloch
Number one for family fun
The scenery around the small town of Gairloch is spectacular and Sands Campaign and Caravan Site is the perfect place for a family holiday that’s fun-packed and fuss-free. The camp site grounds cover 55 acres, so the kids can run wild. You can choose to bring your own tent, motorhome or touring caravan, or rent a heated wooden wigwam or a holiday cottage onsite. There’s a well-stocked shop, licensed café, children’s park and modern toilet blocks, if you’re not quite prepared to go back to basics!
There are plenty of superb beaches in the area, as well as the Torridon Hills and the unmissable Applecross Inn, famed for its remoteness and local ales.
All bookings must be in advance at present.
Mallaig
Marvellous for mates
Fancy a wild weekend with your pals? The try Mallaig, the gateway to the isles and one of Scotland’s wild western gems. Getting to Mallaig is easy. You can drive via Inverness and some spectacular scenery, or go by train via Fort William. Time it right and you might find yourself going over the Glenfinnan Viaduct aboard the Hogwarts Express – keep your eyes peeled for flying cars!
Mallaig is a small but bustling town with plenty of atmospheric pubs and friendly locals to enjoy a drink with. You can go island hopping as Rum, Eigg, Muck and Skye are all just a ferry ride away. Stay in luxury at Driftwood House, with spectacular views over Camusdarach beach from your balcony hot-tub.
Go out of your way to visit The Old Forge, which is on the Knoydart Peninsula. It’s the UK’s most remote pub. It can only be reached by an 18 mile mountain trek that takes a couple of days or a seven mile sea crossing from Mallaig. No contest! With fantastic local ales, a charismatic bar, limited Wi-Fi and no phone reception you’ll feel as though you’ve taken a step back in time.
Keep in mind that there’s still some uncertainty about when many holiday venues, hotels, restaurants and cafes will reopen, so be sure to check ahead before booking a trip.