Walking in Dunnet Forest

Dunnet Community Forest offers the perfect escape for visitors to the far north of Scotland. Wildife abounds, and the gentle peace and stillness of the woods makes it a wonderful place to find yourself. Managed by the Dunnet Forestry Trust, this woodland near Thurso offers plenty of open space for kids, dogs and those keen on walking and hiking to explore in safety.

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A deer in a forest looking at the camera.

Woodland walks for all abilities

Thanks to a series of marked trails, walkers in Dunnet Forest will be able to map out their journey in advance to suit their available time and abilities. Choose from long trails, or one suitable for all. There are also mountain bike and horse trails, as well as a myriad of other paths criss-crossing the woodland.  Dunnet Forest boasts an extensive network of well-maintained trails suitable for all abilities.

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A forrest path.

Orienteering

The forest features an orienteering course with marker poles placed both in accessible spots and more secluded locations. Exploring these markers is a fantastic way to discover the forest, whether you’re an experienced orienteerer or just starting out. Select a few markers to practice your map reading skills.

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A serene forrest of pine.

Wildlife encounters

Dunnet Forest is teeming with wildlife, and getting up close in a safe and practical way is encouraged. Deep in the woods you’ll find a bird hide where you can watch Scotland’s wildlife getting about their daily business. Also keep a careful eye out for for red squirrels, roe deer, and perhaps even some elusive pine martins.

As you walk around the forest, look out for some fascinating sculptures and activities. For example, somewhere there’s a giant wooden xylophone to make wonderful woodland music! There are also sculptures to enjoy and kids will love finding them all.

Such extensive woodland which the public can access 24/7 of this type is rare in this part of the world, so it’s definitely worth a trip when you are nearby. Check out our special offers and book your stay at Ulbster Arms Hotel today to start enjoying this special part of the world.

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A pine martin in a woodland.

Keep exploring

There is so much more to see and do around Caithness in Scotland. Explore our things to do guide for more ideas, from outdoor adventures to travelling the North Coast 500. Base yourself at the Ulbster Arms Hotel and all this is on your doorstep!

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Book your stay in Caithness

Book your stay at the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk. It’s the perfect base for walking and hiking in the far north of Scotland. Call us today on 01847 831 641 or contact us for more information.

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Testimonials

Lovely stay at Ulbster arms. Room was comfortable, staff were welcoming and the restaurant was great! Exceptional value for money, cannot recommend enough.
The hotel was well located, with ample parking and easy to find. All the staff were lovely and welcoming. It had a nice outside area and lots of lovely common spaces – including a library area and both a reception/lounge and bar. Our triple en-suite room was very clean, beds comfy and excellent value for money. Breakfast was included in the price, and had both a continental and cooked to order options- both of which was great. The evening of our stay we had dinner in the restaurant part of the lounge bar’ (not the Beat 4 restaurant) however the food was still hearty and delicious, the setting was nice and prices were very reasonable. Couldn’t fault it!

Rooms5.0

Service5.0

Location5.0

Hotel highlightsQuiet · Great value

RoomsVery comfortable rooms (although a little small), the bathroom was a little dated and the shower curtain needed changing but it was all very clean.

WalkabilityWalkable although not suitable for disabled people. Lovely surroundings so great for a walk in nature.

Food and drinksGreat food!

Noteworthy detailsExceptional value for money, very comfortable rooms and great common areas which were very tastefully decorated. The breakfast was included and very very nice, choice of continental or cooked to order. We ate in the restaurant which was also VERY nice!

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