Top Of The Highlands Tour: John O' Groats, Caithness and More

John O’ Groats, often considered the northernmost point of mainland Britain, is a famous coastal village in the Scottish Highlands. Located at the north-eastern tip of Scotland, it serves as the starting or finishing point for the iconic Land’s End to John O’ Groats journey, which spans the entire length of Britain. The village is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, with rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and stunning views across the Pentland Firth towards the Orkney Islands. Visitors have their photo at the John O’ Groats signpost, a popular photo spot. Puffins, seals, and even whaleshave been seen at John O’ Groats although depending on time of year it is not guaranteed. Though small, John O’ Groats is rich in history, adventure, and natural beauty, the local council has invested in lots of attractions for visitors to enjoy at this edge of the world.

Duncansby Stacks, located just a short distance from John O’ Groats, are some of Scotland’s most breath-taking sea stacks, rising dramatically from the waters of the North Sea. These towering rock formations, sculpted by centuries of wind and waves, stand as a testament to the raw power of nature. The walk to the stacks as well as being seen from a distance offers stunning coastal views, along dramatic cliffs teeming with seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. The two largest stacks, with their pointed, almost triangular shapes, create a striking and otherworldly scene, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Duncansby Head, perched on the north-eastern tip of mainland Scotland, is a striking landmark that has guided sailors through the unpredictable waters of the Pentland Firth for nearly a century. Built in 1924 by David Alan Stevenson, a member of the famous Stevenson family of lighthouse engineers, the lighthouse stands as a beacon of safety for vessels navigating this often-turbulent stretch of sea. Though the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, it remains an essential part of Scotland’s maritime heritage, with its white tower standing stark against the dramatic coastal backdrop. The journey to Duncansby Head Lighthouse is an experience in itself, with a scenic drive leading through open moorland before revealing breathtaking views of the North Sea and the rugged cliffs that define this remote landscape. The surrounding coastline is a haven for wildlife, attracting birdwatchers eager to spot puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes, and razorbills nesting along the towering cliffs.

The former Viking settlement of Wick, a historic coastal town in the far north of Scotland, is known for its rich maritime heritage, stunning coastal scenery, and connections to the once-thriving herring fishing industry. Located in Caithness, Wick was one of the busiest fishing ports in Europe during the 19th century, and remnants of this past can still be seen in the town’s harbour. The town is also home to the famous Old Pulteney WhiskyDistillery, as of now Wick holds the Guinness world record of having the shortest street in the world. With its mix of history, whisky, and breath-taking coastal landscapes, Wick serves as a gateway to exploring the wild beauty of Scotland’s northern coastline

Whaligoe Steps, a remarkable hidden gem on Scotland’s northe-astern coast, the stone staircase of around 365 steps that descends dramatically down the cliffs to a historic harbour although for those less mobile they can viewed from above. Nestled between towering sea cliffs, this man-made marvel was originally constructed in the 17th to 18th century to provide access to a small but thriving fishing port, where local women would haul heavy baskets of herring up the steps. Today, the Steps offer visitors a breath-taking and rugged coastal experience, with stunning views that no camera can exhibit its grand size of its cliffs and the area of the North Sea. Seabirds, seals, whales and even dolphins have been spotted here though there is never a guarantee. The descent provides a glimpse into Scotland’s fishing heritage, while the peaceful yet dramatic setting makes it a must-visit destination for hikers, history enthusiasts, and photographers looking to capture the raw beauty of Caithness.

Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, offers breath-taking panoramic views over the Pentland Firth and, on a clear day, all the way to the Orkney Islands. This dramatic headland, located in Caithness, is home to the Dunnet Head Lighthouse, built in 1831 by the renowned Scottish engineer Robert Stevenson. The area’s beauty speaks for itself and is a haven for wildlife, with towering cliffs providing nesting sites for puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors here can officially say they have been to the very top of the UK mainland.

Dunrobin Castle is a stately home in Sutherland, in the Highland area of Scotland, as well as the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland, Chief of the Clan Sutherland. The décor inside the castle is truly outstanding. Their museum displays a vast collection of the trophy heads of animals shot by family members on safari, ethnographic items from around the world and an important collection of archaeological artefacts. The museum retains its Victorian-Edwardian arrangement and is housed in an 18th-century summerhouse adjoining the formal gardens.

Please note Dunrobin will only be visited when the tour departs from Inverness

The Castle of Mey, located on the northern coast of Scotland near John O’ Groats, is a beautiful and historic estate with a strong royal connection. Originally built in the 16th century, the castle was saved from ruin and lovingly restored by Queen Elizabeth(The Queen Mother) in 1952. She used it as her beloved holiday retreat for nearly 50 years, and today, it remains a cherished part of Scotland’s royal heritage. Surrounded by stunning gardens and overlooking the wild waters of the Pentland Firth, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into royal life and its charming interiors. With its fascinating history, breathtaking scenery, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, the Castle of Mey is a beautiful experience for those exploring Scotland’s far north.

Please note Castle of Mey will only be visited when the tour departs from Scrabster, Open May – September, Wednesday – Sundays. A replacement stop will be added on closed days.