ACTIVITIES for kids
There are many great things to do for the whiole family in and around Dornoch
for the kids -Happy children, happy holiday
Dornoch Beach
Paddling, building sandcastles, rock pooling (there are lots of crabs hiding under the rocks when the tide is out) , beach art, kite flying, digging up the pole that sticks out of the sand as you head towards Embo and further adventures. And the kids will play all day if they have a bucket and spade.
We say :Rain or shine the beach is a great day out.
Play parks
There is a great play park just before you get to the beach car park. There is an even bigger, and better play park in Embo, at Grannies Heilan’ Hame caravan park. You don’t need to be a resident there to use it, and there’s a decent coffee shop on site. so you can have a hot drink.
We say: Sit back and relax with a coffee whilst the kids burn off some energy.
in dornoch
Dornoch Stores has an old fashioned type “Mr Whippy” machine with lots of choices of sauces to be added, as well as chocolate flakes.
St Finbarr’s Charity Shop, at the back of the cathedral, is a great place for children to rummage and find a new favourite toy, or a new holiday book to read.
We say: Grab yourselves an ice cream with a nice flake, you’re on holiday!
Camore woods
Towering pines and heather just ten minutes from the beach create a welcoming atmosphere at Camore. With its open pinewood setting, purple heather floor, and picturesque glimpses of the countryside, it’s perfect for children’s play and adults seeking peace. Buzzards hunt, deer roam, and birds enjoy wild berries in summer. Popular among children, horse riders, and dog walkers, this is a forest worth revisiting.
We say; A great place to go for a walk with children and dogs.
Loch fleet nature reserve
Loch Fleet is worth visiting at any time of year. Linger at the edge of the tidal basin at low tide, and watch hungry waders as they feed over the soft mud. Harbour seals bask on exposed sandbanks.
Walk along informal sand dune paths at Littleferry to enjoy wildflowers, bumblebees, butterflies and moths. Or wander along the old woodland path among pockets of rare pinewood plants.
We say: Take some binoculars for a closer encounter with seals.
Dalmore Farm
A warm welcome awaits you at Dalmore Farm. Carolyn and Warwick Wilson, along with their three children share the roles and responsibilities of managing a 200 acre farm, thriving Farm Shop & Restaurant. The Farm Shop is vibrant and thriving, with a reputation for quality. Dalmore has become a retail destination in Highland where you can find the finest food and drink Scotland has to offer.
We say: Less that 30 minutes from Dornoch, a children’s farm, playpark, restaurant and gift shop. Plenty to do.
Sutherland Swimming Pool
Sutherland Swimming Pool in Golspie.now provides a first class environment for swimming, health and fitness which is fully accessible to all.
The swim centre now boasts a fully refurbished 25 metre swimming pool, including a new sauna and steam room to relax in. And there are great gym facilities and cafe.
We say; Only 15 minutes from Dornoch. download the latest timetable here.
Soft play
The soft play facility at the Kyle of Sutherland Hub makes for a great day out whatever the weather. Children can burn off energy, play hide and seek and meet new friends. All situated in a bright, clean inviting room with seating and a toilet for children and baby changing facilities. They also have an outdoor soft play area where children can run around in the fresh air or kick a ball about.
We say: Just turn up, £5 for as long as you like, and the cafe is good too.
Paddle Boarding
Experience the waters, hills, landscapes and culture of Sutherland with the Sutherland Adventure Company. Learn how to paddle board safely at a lesson. Usually held at Loch Brora in Brora and by request can delivered at other locations
Lessons are available for absolute beginners through to intermediate and can deliver lessons for kids (8+), adults and families.
We say: This can be a lot of fun if you don’t mind getting wet.
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holiday Home
Tasteful modernised properties, Balloan combines clean, fresh and contemporary touches with a solid and very real sense of the past, creating an authentic yet
up-to-date properties to relax and unwind in.