Caithness has some of the most spectacular scenery in the United Kingdom with a huge variety of outdoor activities available in the county including Horse riding, Cycling, Canoeing and some superb Surfing. Indeed Caithness is home to the annual O'Neill Highland Championship - drawing in world-class competitors from all over the globe to see who can tame the wilds of the Pentland Firth.

There are 18-hole Golf courses at Reay, Thurso and Wick and, for the fishermen and women a choice of Salmon fishing on the Thurso and Wick Rivers, Sea angling (from shore and boat), and Fly fishing on Loch Watten for Brown Trout.

Caithness also abounds with sites and stories of historical interest. From the Neolithic era of Camster Cairns, through the history of Wick at its Heritage Museum (it is said that Robert Louis Stevenson wrote Treasure Island while staying here!), to Mary Ann’s Cottage - a window on the crofting past, and, of course, the Castle of Mey - the late Queen Mother's holiday home.

You can visit Dunnet Head (the most Northerly point on the UK mainland) or John o'Groats (the start or finish of many an end-to-end journey), or can sample the delights of our very own Old Pulteney whisky at the Pulteneytown Distillery in Wick.

There are Ferry trips to Orkney as well as short trips around the craggy & natural wonders of the Caithness coast - taking in the sights and wildlife in the air, on the cliffs, and in the water.

However there are plenty of choices for those looking for a relaxing break too! Ladies may well enjoy a visit to Katrina Sutherland's Country Spa.

For the traditionalists visiting during the summer you can see Highland Games and experience pipe bands, highland dancers, strong-man events and more. Many of the towns and villages also hold Gala Weeks at this time with events to interest all ages. There are also annual events such as the Northern Nashville Country Music Festival and the Caithness County Show which are worth seeing.

Finally, of course, there are myriad shops of all different types for those looking to do some retail therapy, while numerous cafes, bistros, restaurants and pubs cater for anyone in need of a meal and a dram!

For more information on Caithness then visit our community website Caithness.org