Helmsdale - once home to one of the largest herring fleets in Europe

Helmsdale is the larger of many villages along the beautiful East Caithness coastline – an uninterrupted coast of cliffs, interrupted only by sandy beaches. Views out to the Moray Firth are spectacular, and the coastal land is lush and green – making for a stunning drive along the entire coast. Helmsdale is an attractive, traditional fishing village that dates back to Viking occupation – they used the River Ullie (now the River Helmsdale) as a shelter for their boats.

A museum and heritage centre showcases the area’s rich history, from Viking occupation to an 1800s gold rush and its later heyday as one of Europe’s largest herring ports. Other attractions in the village include the war memorial and clock tower and the ‘emigrants statue’, erected in honour of those who left Scotland during the Highland Clearances – not only to remember the loss of the people but also the huge contribution that they made in the countries they arrived in.

The River Helmsdale is a salmon fishing river, and permits can be bought for the fishing season (January to August). An altogether different treasure is said to be found in the river too – gold! Once the site of a gold rush, the owners of Suisgill Estate allow free panning – you never know!

The ‘Berriedale Braes’ section of the A9 north of Helmsdale is a notorious series of hairpin bends – take great care here and make full use of your low gears!

If you’re driving to the north coast, don’t miss a visit to Helmsdale – take in the spectacular coastline as far as the eye can see in both directions, visit the museum or even take some time for a spot of fishing!