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The Mermaid of Dunnet Head

There was once a beautiful Mermaid frequently spotted around Caithness, appearing on the beaches near Dunnet Head. She would just sit quietly on the rocks, combing her long blonde hair and minding her own business. If anybody tried to approach, the mysterious figure would quickly slip into the water and disappear without a trace.

One afternoon, a young lad turned a corner on the beach and stumbled upon the mermaid while she was daydreaming. Nobody had ever been this close and before she could escape, the boy managed to strike up a conversation. It went against all of her instincts, but something convinced the mermaid to stay and talk.

The intruder turned out to be very charming indeed and the pair made an agreement to meet at that same spot every day. Over time, they grew close and the mermaid began bringing gifts along to impress her human companion. There were countless shipwrecks along this coast and she had built up a stash of shiny artefacts from their cargo.

Little did the Mermaid know that her lover was using her gifts of gold and jewellery to woo the girls on shore. The man started to forget about meeting the mermaid some days and when he actually was there, seemed more interested in what she had brought than actually spending time with her.

When she eventually discovered what her gifts were being used for, the Mermaid was furious. She waited until the man came to visit her and began his usual questions about what presents she had for him today. This time, the mermaid asked if he’d like to see where she kept these treasures.

He was delighted at the thought. This way he could help himself whenever he pleased rather than relying on the mermaid to bring them to him. He was going to be rich!

The mermaid led him in a little boat around the coast to a tiny cave, hidden away near Dwarwick. Inside, the man was gazing at the enormous stash of wealth before him with eyes wide and mouth open. He didn’t even notice when the mermaid clasped a solid chain around him until it was too late.

There she cursed him for his greed. He would forever be a prisoner there, surrounded by all the gold and jewels he could ever want, but never able to leave. When the seas were calm and the tide was low, the foolish boy could peer out and catch a glimpse of his hometown that he would never walk in again.

Article by Graeme Johncock Photographs Simon Hird

Falls of Falloch

Near Crianlarich

Just three miles from Crianlarich in Scotland's Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, the 30-foot Falls of Falloch offer a spectacular pause for travelers on the A82 or the West Highland Way. This waterfall, rich in history and natural beauty, has captivated writers like Dorothy Wordsworth since the early 19th century. Easily accessible via a well-made path, the site also features Woven Sound, a purpose-built viewpoint for safely enjoying the falls.

Loch Lubnaig

Callander

Loch Lubnaig is no ordinary stretch of water. Framed by the imposing Ben Ledi and Ben Vorlich mountains, this Scottish loch draws the eye and captures the imagination. With the A84 making it effortlessly reachable, the site offers something for every outdoor enthusiast—from serene cycling trails to thrilling kayak adventures. The loch also appeals to open water swimmers and fishing aficionados, who'll find diverse fish populations beneath its depths. Nearby Strathyre is your gateway to several scenic walks, and don't miss the local pit stop, The Cabin, for permits and provisions. Whether you opt for an adrenaline-packed day or a tranquil escape, Loch Lubnaig serves as your perfect backdrop.

Fearn Abey

Easter Ross

Sitting isolated on the Easter Ross peninsula, The Lamp of the North – the nickname for Fearn Abbey – is one of the oldest pre-Reformation churches in Scotland. It takes its nickname from its location and history, being the most northerly church on the mainland. During the Dark Ages, it was where early Christians worked to bring light to hidden history.

5 Cafes to Try in Edinburgh

Craving a cuppa or in search of the perfect espresso? Edinburgh's diverse cafes offer something for everyone. Join us as we highlight a few worth visiting.

Cairngorm Coffee

With two central outlets, this is where to come for a caffeine fix that puts quality first. As its name suggests, the business began life in the Cairngorms. With two central outlets, this is where to come for a caffeine fix that puts quality first. As its name suggests, the business began life in the Cairngorms.

Fortitude Coffee Stockbridge

Looking out onto the Water of Leith, Fortitude’s second location in Stockbridge brings all the space and light of its flagship here. Take in their original tiled walls while you sip on a delicious espresso, pairing it with one of their freshly made morning buns, pastries and cakes – perfect for a mid-morning perk-up.

Wellington Coffee

Nestled discreetly on the corner of Hanover and George Street, Wellington Coffee is a subterranean haven for coffee lovers. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, this charming spot serves exceptional brews from Square Mile and features delightful doorstop scones. It's a must-visit for coffee aficionados in Edinburgh

The Pastry Section

Set up in Stockbridge, Edinburgh’s home for independents, The Pastry Section is all about incredible sweet treats. Everything served here, from their cinnamon buns to snickerdoodles, is made fresh every morning on-site and is best enjoyed at their casual, relaxing homestead with a cup of local tea or coffee.

Twelve Triangles

Creating their bread and pastries with a slow-fermented sourdough, Twelve Triangles prides itself on simple things that are given the time they need to glow. Using flour milled locally, their seven scratch bakeries across Edinburgh make everything in-house and fresh on the day you visit.

Two Wester Delfour Cottage

Nestled within the enchanting landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, Two Wester Delfour Cottage invites you in with the promise of a truly idyllic holiday retreat. This charming cottage, accommodating four guests across two bedrooms, encapsulates everything that you could want from a Highland getaway.

Dating back to the turn of the twentieth century, Two Wester Delfour Cottage has undergone a recent renovation on Alvie Estate, the property owner and interior designer wanted to safeguard and restore as many original features as possible during the project whilst harmonising the interior with its external surroundings using a soft natural colour palette throughout.

Locally made artwork and prints, as well as a collection of historic family artefacts, contribute to the cottage's distinctive ambience whilst the windows in each room frame panoramic views of the surrounding Cairngorms outside. While the cottage extends a warm welcome, the allure of the outdoors is irresistible. The garden boasts sweeping views of the Cairngorms, Alvie Estate, and the Monadhliath Mountains. An outdoor wood-fired hot tub invites the ultimate unwinding, while ample seating and a barbecue beckon for relaxation and al fresco dining and if you’re lucky enough an encounter with red deer, osprey, and red squirrels - a testament to the estate's vibrant wildlife.

Despite its immersion in nature, Two Wester Delfour Cottage remains well-connected. A brief ten-minute journey lands you in Aviemore, while Cairngorm Mountain, Loch Morlich, and the Highland Wildlife Park are also within easy reach. Alvie Estate itself presents a treasure trove of activities, from zip wires and clay pigeon shooting to archery, horse riding, and fishing - an abundance of choices that might make decision-making the most challenging part of your stay.

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The Hidden Scotland Promise
We will only showcase the most remarkable Scottish accommodations to our community. Each accommodation spotlight is carefully considered, underpinned by a commitment to presenting options that provide a high-quality quality experience.

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