Croick Manse is situated in the spectacularly rugged surroundings of the 12,000-acre Croick Estate, an area of Sutherland rich in dramatic landscapes and fascinating wildlife.

There are excellent walking and mountain bike tracks in this estate, including, if you’re looking for a two-wheeled challenge, the track that runs by Croick Manse and goes from Bonar Bridge (7 miles) to Loch Broom, by Ullapool (27 miles). For a good day’s hiking, follow the track west for 7 miles to Creag Mhor Bothy, a lovely destination for a picnic.

A few hundred yards away lies Croick Church, historic workplace of the former residents of Croick Manse. Currently closed for worship, in 1845, desperate crofters sheltered in the church graveyard after being cleared from their land – a tragedy which features in Sally Magnusson’s latest novel: ‘Music in The Dark’.

For those who enjoy country pursuits, stalking can be arranged by Croick Estate during the season and there is also excellent salmon and trout fishing in the nearby rivers and hill lochs.

Bonar Bridge (7 miles), which is at the very end of the Dornoch Firth, offers an impressive selection of places to eat and drink, and has a well-regarded 9-hole golf course. Loch Migdale, a peaceful freshwater loch near Bonar Bridge, is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and wild swimming. Alternatively, drive/cycle/walk to Ledmore and Migdale Wood at Spinningdale (8 miles) for breathtaking views of Migdale Loch and the chance to glimpse recently re-introduced red squirrels scampering around the trees.

Within 20 miles of Croick Manse is the delightful town of Dornoch, with its cathedral, excellent eating and drinking places, superb beaches and championship golf course. North of Dornoch, Falls of Shin Visitor Centre (12 miles) is one of the best places in the UK to watch salmon leap while imposing Dunrobin Castle (30 miles) is well worth a visit.

Fancy a very special dram? 13 miles away, on the shores of the Dornoch Firth, lies Glenmorangie Distillery, which offers ‘Distillery Experiences’, including tastings of its famous single malt.

Slightly further afield, the mountains of Torridon, the UNESCO-recognised Flow Country and the stunning scenery of Scotland’s north-west and far north coasts are within easy driving distance of Croick Manse. Take a trip to John O’Groats (89 miles), where it’s possible to catch the ferry to Orkney.

Guests keen for the bright lights can head to Inverness (45 miles), either by car or, from Bonar Bridge, by train or bus. With a good selection of high street and independent shops, Inverness has a theatre, cinemas, night clubs, pubs and excellent music venues.