The North Coast Trail is made up of a number of walks, passing through historic and idyllic places in Scotland. The walk from Duncansby Head to the Haven is the beginning of the North Coast Trail and gives just a taste of what there will be to come thereafter.

Duncansby Head

Starting from Duncansby Head, the most north-easterly part of the Scottish mainland. Sitting on the cliffs, Duncansby Head Lighthouse exposes you to the incredible beauty of the Stacks of Duncansby, which are cliffs standing separately to the North coast. The scenery and natural beauty is all of what you can only expect from the North of Scotland. Continuing the coastal walk you can experience views of the famous John O’Groats as well as a look back to the Duncansby Head Lighthouse and surroundings from the beach. Another highlight of the first leg of the North Coast Trail is the Ness of Duncansby plaque which gives you information on some of the wildlife you can expect to see along the way. Sea birds including puffins and Highland Cows are the most common.

John O’Groats

The trail then takes you along to the John O’Groats harbour. With views out towards Orkney, the village of John O’Groats creates a sense of locality still being surrounded by incredible landscape. Continuing the route in the North Coast Trail, a couple of miles from John O’Groats you reach Gills Bay which is again, a common spot for wildlife. Seals are frequently on the rocks surrounding. The trail then continues along with views towards the most northerly point of mainland Scotland, Dunnet Head. The Castle of Mey, rich in history, is the next highlight on the route. Famous for being the Queen mother’s home You will have the chance to see the surrounding gardens and landscapes of the Castle which also has a visitor and animal centre. The first leg of the North Coast Trail ends up at The Haven Scarfskerry another point on the coast which rounds off your walk.

The North Coast Trail with EasyWays

Duncansferry to the Haven is the first part to the North Coast Trail. This leg of the North Coast Trail is a great introduction to the North Scottish climate and habitat. When walking the North Coast Trail you will have the opportunity to embrace some of Scotland’s greatest landscapes from start to finish, with some unique highlights in each leg of the walk.
If you are interested in finding out more about the North Coast Trail contact us.