Visit Caithness sea coast - steeped in history
Full of wonders with something for everyone
A trip along Caithness sea coast is full of wonders. There is something to do or see everywhere that you go. Whether you’re just admiring the view out across the North Sea, or spending time in a museum or a historic site. Whilst you’re in Wick, it would be a missed opportunity not to explore along the Caithness sea coast. There’s so much to see!
On a 14-day NC500 trip staying in 10 different hotels, this one stood out food wise as the best, including over some more expensive accommodation. We had a DBB rate. Usually hotels only provide a table d’hote menu if dinner is included but McKays allowed us full range of the menu. Our dinner was perfect even without a glass of wine to go with our steaks due to covid regs in Scotland. The breakfast was also the best on our trip. Top marks to the kitchen staff. I gather the hotel is family run over a couple of generations and it shows. Friendly, attentive staff at reception and restaurant. Warm and welcoming.
Ruins to explore
Those more intrigued by ruins and raw history can take a trip along to the Castle of Old Wick. It is a short, 2-mile journey along the Caithness sea coast. The castle is truly a sight to behold. Sat on top of a narrow peak, surrounded by sheer cliff drops. These ruins castle are by far one of the most dramatic in the Highlands. They should be on everybody’s Wick to-do list. Historians aren’t sure of the exact era that the castle was built. But it is suspected to have been built in the 14th century!
Museum or beach?
Wick Heritage
Anyone interested in the history of Caithness and Wick should definitely make the short trip to the Wick Heritage Museum. And, it’s just across the road from us. The museum is the place to go to learn all about what life was like in the Highlands. Explore completely furnished rooms with examples of historic clothing. The museum promises to educate everyone who visits. You’ll leave with brilliant memories from centuries past.
Keiss Beach
Or maybe you are looking for something more relaxing to do? Drive 13 minutes down to Sinclair’s Bay, also known as Keiss Beach. The beach has incredible golden sand and is one of the best places to sit and enjoy the sunset or sunrise. With 16th-century castles at both ends, it allows you to relax whilst surrounded by the classic dramatic Highland sights.
If you’re brave enough, you can even take a dip in the North Sea. And what could be better than warming up in a fabulous room here at Mackays before heading for a bite to eat at the No 1 Bistro?
The harbour
If you’re not up for a walk around a museum or the ruins of an old castle, why not head to Wick Harbour and catch a boat? There are plenty of boat tours running out of Wick Harbour, hosted by Caithness Seacoast. Head to the harbour (only a 2-minute walk from the hotel!) and enjoy a journey out on one of the company’s three routes.
Caithness sea coast really does have something for everyone! When will you be visiting?
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