Coldbackie Beach

This wide stretch of near powdery-white sand lies near the mouth of the relatively sheltered of the Kyle of Tongue. Punctuated by a few rocky outcrops the beach is backed by grassy dunes. Throw in a splash of turquoise water and on a sunny day you’ll hear people talking about the Caribbean!

Coldbackie Beach is a little off the beaten track and while the A386 does pass within a whisker the beach is not visible from the road. As part of the North Coast 500 Route it is definitely worth making the effort to head down to the beach. There’s a good chance you’ll have the place to yourself, and even if you don’t there’s masses of space.

The views from Coldbackie alone are worth the effort. Looking out to sea are Rabbit Islands and the Orkneys, whilst inland it isn’t long before that terrain rises up into the mountains.

Although generally quite sheltered, when there is a big Atlantic swell running Coldbackie beach becomes one of the go to surfing spots in the Thurso area. Something that you’ll find hard to believe on a calm summer’s day.