Croick Estate
Strathcarron, near Bonar Bridge, Sutherland
Located in the North West Highlands at the head of the River Carron, Croick Estate offers a peaceful retreat into Scotland’s natural beauty. Surrounded by rugged landscapes, the Estate is a haven for those seeking to experience the wilderness of the Highlands. With its central location, Croick Estate is an ideal base for exploring the wider region, yet it also offers plenty to discover within its grounds.
The Estate features recently refurbished cottages, beautifully decorated and decorated with contemporary artworks from the owner’s collection. These cottages provide the perfect spots to cosy up in nature, offering a comfortable spot to surround yourself in the tranquil setting.
Croick Estate is also next to one of the finest remaining areas of native Caledonian Forest, where ancient trees provide a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Red squirrels and deer are frequent visitors, while at certain times of the year, you might encounter a wildflower carpet underfoot, while overhead, eagles soar to the distinctive calls of curlews, lapwings, and plovers.
For those drawn to water, the nearby Croick Falls are a natural highlight, where salmon can be seen leaping as they make their way upstream.
Whether you’re wandering through the forest, exploring riverside paths, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere from your cottage, Croick Estate offers a memorable experience steeped in the natural splendour of the Scottish Highlands. The tranquil atmosphere will surely leave you feeling calm and relaxed.
Croick Manse
A superbly appointed single storey detached cottage which stands quite alone at the end of the little single track road with a cosy wood-burning stove.
The Mission Hall
A cosy retreat on Croick Estate with open-plan living, a wood-burning stove, a welcoming bedroom area and a fenced garden surrounded by wildlife.
Activities to Try
Heritage on Your Doorstep
Croick Estate is steeped in history, with over 5,000 years of human habitation. The Croick Heritage Tour invites you to explore this rich past, visiting the remains of a Pictish broch from the time of Christ, and Croick Church, a poignant site from the Highland Clearances. You’ll also see pre-clearance settlements and an untouched 19th-century shepherd’s cottage, offering a glimpse into life on this rugged land.
Beyond its historical treasures, Croick Estate boasts a significant art collection, curated by its owners and displayed on-site. Visitors can enjoy a cup of tea while touring the collection, which celebrates Scotland’s artistic heritage. For art enthusiasts, nearby galleries such as Brown’s in Tain or Inverness, and the Kilmorack Gallery near Beauly, offer further insights into the thriving Scottish art scene, making Croick a place where history and culture come together.
These tours and visits are chargeable and should ideally be arranged in advance.
Fun At the Farm
Croick Estate is not just a place of natural beauty and historical significance; it’s also a working farm that reflects an on-going commitment to sustainable practices.
Visitors are welcomed to see firsthand how the farm is managed, with a focus on preserving the land and caring for the livestock. Depending on the season, you might have the unique opportunity to witness these rhythms of farm life, such as the annual lambing and shearing, or perhaps meet the newest calves.
Nature At Its Finest
Croick Estate, situated in the heart of the North West Highlands, is the perfect place for those looking to reconnect with nature. The Estate is lucky include the River Blackwater, a tributary of the famed River Carron, known for its salmon runs. With about a mile of riverbank and several peaceful hill trout lochs, Croick offers a prime destination for anglers, whether you're a seasoned fisherman or casting a line for the first time. For those new to fishing, local instructors are available to introduce you to this Highland tradition.
Beyond fishing, Croick's scenic walking and cycling trails beckon visitors to explore the stunning surroundings at their own pace. These paths wind through unspoiled wilderness, revealing vistas and landscapes at every turn. For those who relish the joy of wild swimming, the Estate team can guide you to the best local spots to take a dip—though, unfortunately, they can't heat the water for you! Croick Estate's wide range of outdoor activities makes it the perfect retreat for anyone looking to experience nature at its finest.
Activities in the Local Area
While many guests find all they need within the surroundings of Croick Estate, the wider North West Highlands offer an array of activities for those wishing to venture out. Golfers can enjoy a leisurely round at the 9-hole course in Bonar Bridge, just 10 miles away, set against the backdrop of the stunning Highland scenery. For a more testing challenge, the renowned links course at Royal Dornoch, only 40 minutes away, promises an unforgettable experience on one of Scotland’s most celebrated courses.
Whisky enthusiasts will be delighted by the North Highlands’ rich distillery heritage. Glenmorangie Distillery, situated in Tain about 40 minutes from the Estate, provides an insightful distillery tour and a well-stocked shop where you can explore some of Scotland’s finest whiskies. Even closer is Balblair Distillery in Edderton, famed for its distinctive single malts, while Dalmore Distillery in Invergordon, also around 40 minutes away, offers another opportunity to delve into Scotland’s whisky traditions. Although you may need to save the tasting for later if you’re driving, you’ll undoubtedly discover a bottle to savour at home.
Whether you’re inclined to unwind and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the Estate or eager to explore the region’s historical and natural wonders, Croick Estate provides a perfect base.
To learn more about Croick Estate, please visit their website, Croick Estate.
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