History and Archaeology

Dun Dornaigil on the eastern bank of the Strathmore River

Neolithic, Pictish and Viking remains, evidence of very long term occupation in this fertile area dating back to the Bronze Age.

Stretched across the north coast of Scotland you will find anything from Souterrains (from French sous terrain, meaning "under ground"), Brochs, Wheelhouses and historic villages, along with multiple signs of the horiffic Highland Clearnces.

The church ruins at Balnakeil was originally built as a Celtic Foundation, founded in 722 by St. Maelrubha. The famous Gaelic poet Rob Donn is burried here.

On the beaches you may find fossils dating back 150-200 million years.

Interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the geology of the local landscape, Dr. Björn Hardarson offers a range of guided walks tailored to all ages and levels of knowledge.

Balnakeil House - site of a much older castle, the current mansion house was rebuilt in 1744. Originally a stronghold of the Mackay Clan Chief; though is thought to originally be a palace of the Bishops of Caithness.

Heading south - Ardvreck Castle, a lochside ruin connected to the Mackenzies and the Macleods.