The restaurant in the Smoo Cave Hotel just 5 minutes’ walk away is a great place to head for a drink or a night off from cooking. The Smoo Cave sea cave less than half a mile away is fascinating to explore (bring sensible footwear) and is particularly beautiful where the waters of the Allt Smoo pour into the cave in a fantastic waterfall.

There are a couple of well-stocked shops in Durness (1 mile) where there is a 9 hole golf course that has two sets of tees so that 18 holes can be played.

The area is known for its mild microclimate which can be enjoyed on some of the magnificent beaches dotted along the coast. There is a beach in easy walking distance half a mile away and at Balnakeil beach (2.5 miles) you may be joined by the free roaming cows that like to visit.

A seasonal ferry service from the pier at Keoldale (4 miles) runs out to the well known Cape Wrath at Scotland’s most north westerly point. From the ferry drop-off it is an 11 mile (rather bumpy!) mini bus ride out to the Cape itself where there are absolutely stunning panoramic views to be admired all around and a fine lighthouse that dates back to 1828.

Ceannabeinne beach (2 miles) is very picturesque with its amazing white sand and turquoise waters and there is even a seasonal zipwire that sends the brave flying over the beach at speeds of up to 40 mph!

Walkers and hill climbers will find plenty to occupy them as there are lots of hill walks to try and the most northerly of all the munros, Ben Hope (26 miles) to tackle just an hour’s drive away. Try sea fishing off the coastline or brown trout fishing on one of the four nearby limestone lochs where boats can be hired.

As there is so little light pollution this far north you may even be lucky enough to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis or ‘Northern Lights’ during your stay.