Noss Head Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage

The highlights

• Incredible views surround this property, with Sinclair Bay and the North Sea on three sides and a glimpse of the ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe across the headland.
• See if you’re lucky enough to experience the Northern Lights, often visible between the months of September and March.
• Take a local boat tour to spot puffins, dolphins and orca, and see the spectacular cliffs of the Caithness coast.
• Visit the Queen Mother’s Castle of Mey – now a favourite home of the King.

You should know

• The Lighthouse Keepers Cottage is available for bookings from three nights to three weeks at any time of the year.
• Dogs are welcome for an additional £20; please keep them on a lead at all times outside the property.
• Children must be supervised outside due to the low sea wall.

The detail

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage is a dream come true for families, couples or friends looking to get away from it all on their own Highland adventure. With breathtaking views and more wildlife than you can shake a stick at (although please don’t shake any sticks at the wildlife). Head out on foot to discover spectacular castle ruins and a hidden secret beach. Take a boat trip to spot dolphins and orcas. And if the heavens shine down on your stay, then just look up and take in the Northern Lights. A magical holiday awaits.

The cottage itself is simply charming. Newly decorated throughout, and sleeping up to six guests, it’s the perfect Scottish retreat for friends or families alike. The three bedrooms all boast spectacular views and are tastefully dressed with organic fair-trade bed linen. The third bedroom has bunk beds suitable for children and adults - so feel free to unleash your inner child.

There’s a well-equipped kitchen for all your culinary needs - although you may just want to feast your eyes on the ever-changing views of Sinclair Bay and Orkney beyond. There’s also a large dining/family room and a cozy lounge, perfect for nights in playing board games or watching DVD’s.

Outside, parking is provided for up to two cars. There's no access to the actual lighthouse as it's maintained remotely by the Northern Lighthouse Board.

When you tire of the view, the local area has something for everyone. Let your imagination run free as you revisit the past, taking in castles, stately homes and brochs (prehistoric circular stone towers to you and me). Visit the bird centre at Forsinard or take a boat tour to check out the local marine life.

The lighthouse cottage is only three miles from the town of Wick where you can buy food and provisions. For the thirsty amongst us, a visit to Old Pulteney Distillery is a must for their whisky. Or if you want to sample a different tipple, head to Dunnet Bay Distillery to sample their Rock Rose gin. And be sure to snap a photo at the famous sign at John o’Groats. With so much to see and do, this lighthouse cottage is definitely a keeper.

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