Sutherland
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Positives
- Uncrowded or empty waves
- North swells and SW winds
- Midsummer midnight surfing
- Fantastic Highland scenery
Negatives
- Tidally sensitive reefs and rivermouths
- Very cold, wet and windy conditions
- Few facilities
- Slow, narrow coast road
Sutherland surf travel guide
The Scottish Highlands sprawl across the NW corner of the country and some of the most stunning scenery anywhere can be found in the underpopulated county of Sutherland. Raw, wild, ancient mountains soak their toes in the equally raw, wild North Atlantic that hurls itself onto the Pre-Cambrian cliffs on 3 distinct coasts. It lacks the flat reefs and famous spots of neighbouring Caithness, but has a number of rivermouth and beachbreak set-ups right along the slow, twisting north coast road.
Surf spots in Sutherland
Research the 10 surf breaks in Sutherland and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 10 breaks in Sutherland.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Sutherland
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Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 3,400,000
- Population
- 5,454,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- GBP
- Exchange rate
- $1 = £0.7 GBP
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +44
- Dialing out
- 00
- Emergencies
- 112
- Language
- English, Scots, Scottish Gaelic.
Electricity
- Plug Type
- g
Visas
Since Brexit, unrestricted travel between the UK and the EU is over. The current system allows for visa free travel for up to 90/180 days a year. Beyond 90 days things get very complicated so check online for the details. US, Canada, OZ, NZ and some others follow the same 90-180 day rules. Most other countries need a visa before arrival. more info here
Getting Around
The North Coast 500 meanders along the whole Sutherland coastline and is one of the best roads you'll ever cruise along. It's 1.30 hours from Melvich to Sango Bay and if you're planning to explore from Thurso it'll take about 30 minutes to reach Melvich. Petrol stations are not abundant so fill up before any longer journeys. Prices are around $2 a litre.
Accommodation
Options are sparse along the Sutherland coastline and in the summer season can get booked out. Surf season is better but best to book in advance. Camping and camper vans are good options with various campsites along the coast.