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Whisky, Gin, Food and Drink
Caithness is home to several whisky distilleries, offering visitors a chance to explore the craftsmanship behind Scotland's most famous export. Each distillery provides unique tours, tastings, and insights into the whisky-making process. In the village of Dunnet, the world-renowned Dunnet Bay Distillery produces award-winning gin, known for its smooth flavour and local botanical ingredients.
Dunnet Bay Distillery
Dunnet Bay Distillery has put our village of Dunnet on the global stage with its award-winning gin, famously served at Harry and Meghan’s wedding. Located next to the Northern Sands hotel, the distillery offers visitors the chance to enjoy on-site gin tastings and explore the flavours crafted from botanicals sourced from our own estate. A bottle of their distinctive gin makes a perfect souvenir, capturing the essence of the area in every sip.
The Northern Sands Hotel
The Northern Sands Hotel, located very close to the house in the village of Dunnet offers warm hospitality, and delicious meals in the hotel's restaurant. They offer a variety of menus are available throughout the day, all year round, using an extensive list of local produce. Best to book ahead.
They also offer rooms if the house isn't big enough for you!
Old Pulteney
Old Pulteney Distillery, located in Wick, is renowned for its rich heritage and exceptional single malt whiskies which are sold worldwide. This historic distillery has been crafting its distinctive maritime-influenced whiskies since 1826. Visitors can explore the traditional distillation process through guided tours, sampling a range of their celebrated expressions while learning about the distillery's storied past.
Olive café
Olive Café in Thurso is a cozy haven renowned for serving the best coffee in the area. This charming café offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy expertly brewed coffee, alongside a selection of delicious pastries and light meals. With its warm, inviting decor and friendly service, Olive Café provides a perfect spot to relax and savour high-quality coffee.
8 Doors Distillery
The 8 Doors Distillery is a great place to visit while at John O'Groats. Opened in 2022 and the most northerly whisky distillery on the UK mainland. The name is inspired by the legend surrounding Jan De Groot - the man that John O’Groats takes it’s name from - and the story behind the 8-sided house he built near the shore (with an eight-sided table so there were no arguments among his seven sons as to who sat at the head of the table).
They offer distillery tours, a shop and a restaurant.
Captain’s Galley
The Captain’s Galley in Scrabster is a renowned seafood restaurant celebrated for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and stunning views over the harbour. With a menu including daily catches and expertly prepared dishes, the restaurant’s relaxed, maritime-themed ambiance complements its high-quality cuisine.
Bord de l'Eau Restaurant
This serene, relaxed French restaurant is Wick's best place to eat. It overlooks the river and serves a changing menu of mostly meat and game French classics, backed up by daily fish specials. Starters are great value, and mains include a huge assortment of vegetables. The conservatory dining room with water views is lovely on a sunny evening.
Wolfburn
Wolfburn Distillery in Thurso is celebrated for its high-quality single malt whiskies, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Revived in recent years, Wolfburn combines traditional methods with modern techniques to produce a range of exceptional whiskies with rich, complex flavours. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the distillery, where they’ll learn about the time-honoured processes and sample some of their distinguished expressions.
Cocoa Mountain
Cocoa Mountain in Durness is a delightful destination for chocolate lovers if you are heading west from the house to explore. Renowned for its exquisite handcrafted chocolates and cozy atmosphere in the scenic village of Durness, you can indulge in rich, creamy confections or enjoy a cup of expertly crafted hot chocolate while taking in the beautiful Highland surroundings.
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