Our hotel in Wick, Caithness is the perfect base for weekend escapes in Scotland. Where better to get away from it all for a few days than the magnificent far north of Scotland? With breathtaking scenery, a rich and fascinating history and so much to see and do! Weekend breaks with Mackays If you’re looking […]
So, you’re looking for a little Wick history? And you want to enjoy dramatic scenery and coastlines? Well, look no further than the walk Old Castle Wick, just 8 minutes from our hotel doorstep. Wick History and Castle This is a first stop when on holiday in the Scottish Highlands! And as one of Scotland’s […]
Exploring Scotland mean experiencing our Scottish weather! But don’t let this dampen your fun…
We love shining a spotlight on local suppliers and here’s one for the beer lovers amongst us – John o’ Groats brewery! At Mackays Hotel, we are biased towards a dram of locally distilled whisky, but our bar is always stocked with John o’ Groats Brewery beer. They are an artisan craft brewery, taking pride […]
Hogmanay or is a big celebration in Scotland and the perfect way to welcome the New Year. There are traditions lost to time and some that families across the country keep to this day! First-footing One of the most traditional parts of Hogmanay, the ritual starts at the bells, when Scots head to the front […]
When you see the words Scottish Cuisine, images of deep-fried battered Mars bars might come to mind. But there’s so much more, rooted in tradition and locally sourced food. And don’t worry, we’re saving the haggis for Burn’s Night in January! The Full Scottish Breakfast Scotland takes pride in its breakfast. It’s the only place […]
Scotland may not be the first place you think of for a winter getaway, but we’re here to change your mind! The days may be shorter, and you’ll have to wear a couple of layers during your adventures, but there’s still so much fun to be had. There are sights and experiences that you won’t […]
Happy St Andrew’s Day! We know Andrew as the patron saint of Scotland, but did you know he’s also the patron saint of more countries including Romania, Barbados, Greece, Russia, Ukraine and Poland? He’s a busy man! The origins of St Andrew’s connection to Scotland is speculated, especially since he never stepped foot in the […]
Christmas can be overwhelming, and no one wants to be rushing around on the 23rd December trying to find the perfect gifts. That’s why we’re thinking about it early and thinking local. Christmas gifts should be meaningful and high quality for your nearest and dearest and there’s no better way to ensure that than buying […]
This month at Mackays’ Bar we’re highlighting a smoky, sweet Highland Single Malt; Tomatin Cù Bòcan. It’s an experimental spirit from the taste, the distilling process, the company behind it and even the bottle branding. The malt gets its name from the legendary hound that is said to have stalked the Highland village of Tomatin […]
If you are looking for some Hidden Gems in Caithness, Mackays Hotel offers the perfect place to rest up between explorations. So read on for our latest blog on what to do when visiting the North Coast of Scotland on holiday. Sometimes, the most memorable parts of a holiday are places off the beaten track, […]
Thinking of exploring the North Coast 500? Our Scottish hotel offers a welcoming experience right on the North Coast 500 route. So explore our rooms, then join us for the most memorable of Scottish holidays! And now is the time to explore more on our recommended Caithness and North Coast Boat Trips. Seacoast Caithness Boat […]
Old Pulteney Distillery is just a stone’s throw from Mackays hotel, which makes us even more proud to have their famous malt whisky sitting on our bar shelf. Our favourite, the 12-year-old, has an intense aroma with a hint of sea air. A taste of the sweet, spicy and faintly salty whisky will always bring […]
Autumn is a beautiful season in the Highlands, so if you’re thinking about planning a trip there’s no need to wait! We’ve compiled a few of the best things about the North of Scotland this time of year: Autumn walks The days may be getting shorter but that doesn’t mean the sun won’t make an […]
Can you hear the sleigh bells ringing? Probably not yet, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the most important meal of the year – the Christmas roast! If those words bring panicked visions of basting a turkey, slaving away in the kitchen all morning and some dreaded Brussels sprouts, fear not. At […]
