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Dunbeath - Dunbeath offers easy access to many of the varied habitats of Caithness. A walk from the shore, along the strath to the top of Cnoc na Maranaich hill, allows you to experience the rugged rocky coastline, a delightful wooded strath, and moor and bog in the upper strath with the hill offering exceptional views over the County. 

Dunbeath Bay offers a lower relief to the cliffs to the north and south, with the harbour playing host to hundreds if not thousands of Kittiwakes during the breeding season with birds flocking to the river from nearby nesting sites. 

Seals and cetaceans are commonly spotted in the Bay, with porpoise being particularly frequent in the late summer/early autumn. The strath, with its native woodland of hazel, birch and aspen acts as an oasis for woodland birds, roe deer, Pipistrelle and Daubentons bats and reptiles such as the slowworm and the common lizard. Both arctic and great skuas can be spotted overhead travelling to and from their nesting sites inland. The open moor offers the chance to see hen harriers and if lucky - merlins - along with many other moorland species of the far north.

Housed in the old village school, the refurbished Dunbeath Heritage Centre offers a wealth of history and local information, presented by innovated means. The centre is the meeting place for 'Wednesday Wanders' through out the summer months.

The path along the strath is largely unsuitable for those with mobility problems.

Sturdy shoes/walking boots essential

Best time to visit - year round (Strath has variety wildlife and offers degree of shelter)