Murrays Plantation

The walk through Murrays Plantation is one of those quietly rewarding forest trails that doesn't announce itself loudly but absolutely delivers if you know where to look. It's proper woodland - tall Scots pines and a decent mix of conifers creating that deep green silence you come to the Highlands for, just outside Dornoch.

You're walking through working forestry, which means the landscape changes depending on the season and what's been harvested. Spring brings bluebell carpets and birdsong that'll make you forget the car park exists. Winter's stark and moody. Summer feels like you're in a cathedral of green. The forest floor is soft underfoot, mostly well-maintained paths, though it can get boggy after rain - hardly surprising in the Scottish Highlands.

This is a walker's forest rather than a stroll-around-and-take-photos sort of place. Give yourself at least two hours if you want to do it properly, longer if you're moving slowly or bringing kids who'll want to explore. The trees create their own gentle pace. Families get on fine here, though younger children might tire before the big loops are done.

It sits perfectly between Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park and Parkdean Resorts Grannie's Heilan' Hame if you're basing yourself in the area. Use it as a break from beach walks or golf - which Dornoch is famous for - and you've got a proper varied holiday. The Dornoch Firth views from the edge of the plantation remind you constantly where you are: proper north coast Scotland.