This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Sutherland.
Sutherland, Scotland, is a remote county in the Scottish Highlands, the far northern part of the country. It is an approximately three-hour drive north of Inverness and has access to the sea. Visitors come to Sutherland for the rugged and unspoilt landscape. It is one of the most sparsely populated areas of the United Kingdom and this is what many tourists want to experience -- a sense of isolation and peace. Public transport is possible, but it is not the most comfortable option. There is no airport in the area. There are train connections from Inverness to Sunderland available, but for most towns only once a day. Therefore, the best option to get to this region is by car. Car hire is possible in various locations such as Inverness.
In summer, travelers can expect average maximum temperatures ranging from fifteen to seventeen degrees Celsius. The location up in the north gives a lot of more daylight -- approximately four hours more daylight compared to London -- during midsummer. Rain showers are frequent throughout the year, so do not forget suitable waterproof clothes.
Despite the remote location, there are numerous budget options available. Holiday apartments, guesthouses and several hostels in Sutherland, Scotland, can be booked depending on personal preferences. Try to check in advance if your Sutherland, Scotland hostel has enough free beds for your travel group or is even open during your travel period. Even if it's a remote area, it is popular with tourists especially in the summer holiday period. Generally, the hostels in Sutherland, Scotland, are well maintained and of good quality.
County Sutherland has a stunning and wild landscape to offer with white sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, if you reach the northern coast. The most famous and most remote beach is located at Sandwood Bay. Outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and biking are very popular. The well-known Smoo Cave is a spectacular sea cave set into the massive limestone caves near Durnes. It is one of the most-visited attractions in the Highlands. One of the most famous castles is Ardvreck Castle at Loch Assynt. The fortified tower house was built in the sixteenth century by the Clan MacLeod family. The abandoned ruins near the loch are perfect for beautiful landscape pictures.
Written by local enthusiast for Sutherland hostels
Flo