Clachtoll Brach

The beach at Clachtoll is one of those stretches of Highland coast that stops you dead. White sand, proper turquoise water, and barely another soul in sight - it's the kind of place that makes you wonder why everyone's queuing for Skye instead.

It's a working fishing village first, tourist spot second. You park near the handful of cottages and walk down to find golden sand backed by low cliffs, with the Atlantic doing its thing a few metres away. The water's cold - shockingly so - but the beach itself is brilliant for a proper wander, collecting shells, or just sitting on the sand with a flask and watching the light change across the water.

Walkers will get the most from it, especially those happy to pick their way along the shore at low tide to explore caves and rock formations. Kids enjoy the rock pools and the novelty of a beach where you might see more seals than people. It's not a place for a quick snap and go - you need time to absorb it.

Free to access, and honestly, the real bonus is staying at Clachtoll Beach Campsite just above. Pitch yourself there and you're waking to this view for a week. It's a proper base for exploring Sutherland's coastline without the summer crowds that clog up the more famous spots. Allow a couple of hours minimum, longer if you're the contemplative type.