Sandwood Bay from Blairmore

Sandwood Bay is reached only on foot, a 9 km walk across open Sutherland moorland from the car park at Blairmore, and that inaccessibility is precisely why it remains one of the wildest and most magnificent beaches in Britain. The bay curves for almost 2 km between two headlands, backed by a loch and dunes and presided over by the 65-metre sea stack of Am Buachaille at the southern end. The sand is pale pink from crushed shell and the water, when calm, takes on extraordinary tropical blue tones entirely at odds with the latitude of 58 degrees north. The moorland approach is gently rolling with a good track for most of the distance.

For dog owners this is a walk that demands planning but delivers an experience with few equals. The 18 km return distance rules out shorter-legged or less fit dogs, and the full commitment of a day should be made. Those who make the trip will find a beach with no restrictions, no facilities, no crowds and as much space as any dog could want. Off-lead running across the sand and into the Atlantic is the main event, and the burns on the moorland approach provide ample water. Come fully self-sufficient. The walk is best in settled weather but the moorland light on Sandwood Bay even in grey conditions is something to experience.