Ceannabeinne

The ruins of Ceannabeinne sit on a windswept headland near Durness, and honestly, the walk to get there is half the appeal. You're looking at the remains of what was once a significant settlement - stone foundations, the odd wall still standing, all slowly being reclaimed by the Highland moorland. It's the kind of place where you can actually feel history underfoot rather than read about it behind glass.

This is firmly one for walkers and history types rather than casual visitors. The site itself won't keep you for more than an hour, but the trek across rough terrain to reach it - maybe 30 minutes each way depending on your pace and the weather - demands proper boots and an ounce of determination. The views across the north coast as you approach make it worthwhile though. On a clear day you can see across to the summer isles.

If you're based at Sango Sands Oasis, just down the road, Ceannabeinne works as a proper morning walk. Pack a packed lunch, bring a decent camera, and give yourself two hours total. The site is free and accessible year-round, though winter gales can make it a fairly grim proposition. Go in late spring or early autumn when the weather's more forgiving and the midges are less of a nuisance. It's not a mainstream attraction - you won't find crowds here - which is exactly why it's worth the effort.