Tucked away in one of the most remote and untamed parts of the UK lies a region that defies expectations and rewards the adventurous: Sutherland, in Scotland’s spectacular north west. This area is a hiker’s dream, a paradise for lovers of wide open spaces, dramatic coastlines, and haunting natural beauty. If you're yearning for a walking experience that feels like stepping back in time—or into a fantasy novel—Sutherland might just be your perfect escape.
The Allure of the North West Highlands
The North West Highlands of Scotland are among the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, if not the world. Towering mountains rise abruptly from moorland plains, their peaks weathered and raw. Sea lochs snake inland from a rugged coast, and narrow single-track roads wind through lonely glens and past mirror-like lochans.
This is Scotland at its wildest and most elemental. In Sutherland, the pace of life slows, the skies feel bigger, and nature is front and center. It’s not hard to see why this region is a haven for walkers, photographers, and seekers of solitude.
Walking in Sutherland: Where Nature Meets Legend
Sutherland offers walking opportunities for every kind of explorer—from leisurely coastal rambles to challenging climbs. Here are a few of the standout walking destinations in the area:
1. Sandwood Bay
A remote, wind-swept beach only accessible by foot, Sandwood Bay is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain. The 8-mile round-trip walk starts near Blairmore and takes you across open moorland with incredible views. When you finally reach the beach, you’re greeted by a mile-long stretch of golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic sea stack, Am Buachaille.
2. Suilven
Perhaps the most iconic mountain in Sutherland, Suilven rises like a giant sleeping beast from the surrounding wilderness. The hike to the summit is demanding—around 12-15 miles depending on the route—but the panoramic views from the top are truly unforgettable. It’s a mountain that feels both ancient and mystical, often shrouded in low cloud or glowing in the golden light of evening.
3. Quinag
This multi-summit mountain offers a more manageable climb than some of the region's giants, but with no less impressive rewards. The route along its ridges provides spectacular views over Loch Assynt and the surrounding peaks. Quinag is managed by the John Muir Trust, which ensures the area remains pristine for future generations.
4. The Assynt Trail
This is a long-distance route (approximately 70 miles) that weaves through some of the most extraordinary terrain in the Highlands. You'll pass lochs, waterfalls, mountains, and tiny crofting communities. It’s ideal for more seasoned hikers who want to fully immerse themselves in the region over several days.
Wildlife and Wilderness
Sutherland is not just about landscapes—it’s a place teeming with life. Red deer roam the hills, golden eagles soar overhead, and otters slip through coastal waters. In spring and summer, the wildflowers burst into color, and the air is filled with birdsong.
You might walk for hours without seeing another person, but the wildlife will keep you company. There’s a profound sense of connection here between land, sea, and sky—and those who walk these trails often return changed.
Practical Tips for Visiting
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Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) offers the best weather and longer daylight hours for walking.
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Accommodation: Options range from cozy B&Bs and traditional inns to wild camping and remote bothies.
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Gear: Be prepared for changeable weather. Waterproof boots, a quality map, compass, and layered clothing are essential.
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Leave No Trace: Help preserve this special environment by sticking to paths, taking litter with you, and respecting local wildlife and communities.
Sutherland isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you experience deeply. The walks here are more than hikes; they are journeys through ancient landscapes, across glacial valleys and forgotten paths, guided by the whisper of the wind and the call of the wild.
If you’re looking for a part of the world where you can reconnect with nature and discover a sense of wonder, Scotland’s North West and the walks of Sutherland should be at the very top of your list.