Scotland's Haven

The far north of Scotland holds few surprises, but Scotland's Haven near Thurso is worth the drive if you're already this far up. It's a modest landmark - more of a stopping point than a destination - that gives you a sense of just how remote this corner of the Highlands really is. The spot itself feels windswept and proper isolated, which is half the appeal. You get dramatic views across the Caithness coast and a genuine sense of standing at the edge of somewhere wild.

Walkers and photography types will get more from it than families with young children. There's not much to do beyond looking at the landscape and taking photos, so don't expect to spend hours here. Best visited as part of a broader drive around the north coast rather than as a dedicated trip. The light changes constantly up here - bright one minute, brooding the next.

If you're staying at Little Croft Highlands nearby, it's a reasonable half-hour jaunt to stretch your legs and feel the Atlantic wind properly. Go on a clear day if you can; mist rolls in fast and kills the whole point of being there. Free to visit, though there's nowhere to park formally, so pull carefully off the road. Allow twenty minutes to half an hour, and don't expect facilities - bring a flask.