The stunning, secluded beach near the NC500 named the best for walks in Scotland

A GORGEOUS coastal hiking spot has been named the best in Scotland.

Adventure apparel retailer GO outdoors released their list of 15 must-try beach hikes in the UK.

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And taking top spot in Scotland the gorgeous beach trail of Sandwood Bay.

Found at the north-western edge of the serene historic highland county of Sutherland, outdoor experts have dubbed the coastal jaunt among the best for those who seek an easy, peaceful walk away from the bustle of crowds and difficulty of the hills.

Georgina Eastabrook, content executive for GO Outdoors, said:  “Coastal walks aren’t just relaxing, they’re a nice break from the mountains and hills.

“A walk in the sea air is said to make you sleep for longer and feel more relaxed, whilst offering up some stunning views that are hard to beat.” 

The beach at Sandwood Bay is among the most peaceful in the UK, tucked away roughly four miles north of Blairmore village.

It largely owes its solitude to the lack of facilities nearby and the fact there are no direct roads leading to the bay itself. 

Wanderers who are keen to take in the sights here will have to leave their cars at Blairmore car park and make the two-hour walk north along moorland track.  

Visitors will then be rewarded with the refreshing coastal air and stunning views of the north-western sea upon arrival. Nature-lovers can look out for fulmars, puffins and shags on the sea cliffs while some of the rocks in the area are among the oldest in the world.

The seaside walk is a short detour from the famed North Coast 500 scenic car route, making it a must-see for holidaymakers touring their way around the highland hotspots.

The gorgeous Sandwood Bay is not the only Scottish spot represented in the 15-strong list.

The Bullers of Buchan walking route is the second Scottish entry into the top 10.

Located just six miles south of Peterhead, the stunning Aberdeenshire trail offers a more accessible option for moderate-level walkers.

With parking options at either end, tourists can take the almost three-hour walk in either direction, accompanied by scores of sea stacks, caves and wildlife. 

A number of sea birds are visible from the trail as well as seals and porpoise in the choppy waters of the North Sea.

Ramblers will also be able to visit the haunting ruins of Boddam Castle as well as the stand-out Buchanness Lighthouse.

The Mull of Galloway, south of Stranraer sits at number 11 on the Go Outdoors list.

Hanging onto the south-western corner of Dumfries and Galloway, the six-hour jaunt offers another option for walkers to take in the dramatic Irish Channel along with the birdlife that goes with it.

St Abbs Head, Berwickshire, is the last of the Scottish routes in the top 15 list.

A half-an-hour drive from Berwick-upon-Tweed, it is described as a ‘bracing but simple’ walk.

Known for the abundance of guillemot birds inhabiting the area, this nature spot is a must-see for wildlife lovers.

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