Drumbeg Beach

The moment you round the bend towards Drumbeg, you're confronted with one of those Scottish coastal views that makes you forget to breathe properly. A sweeping arc of pale sand backed by low dunes, with the Atlantic rollers coming in thick and grey, it's the kind of beach that looks simultaneously inviting and vaguely threatening depending on the weather.

It's a proper working beach - fishing boats still use it, and you'll see nets and buoys scattered about rather than neat rows of sunbeds. The sand is firm enough for a decent walk in either direction, and at low tide you get access to rock pools and harder-packed stretches that are brilliant for families who want something more interesting than just sand.

Drumbeg works best as a spot to break up a drive through Sutherland rather than a destination in itself. An hour's exploring is plenty. The beach pulls in photographers year-round because the light does something special here, particularly in early morning or late afternoon when you've got the whole place to yourself.

If you're based at Clachtoll Beach Campsite six miles away, Drumbeg makes an easy morning detour. Bring a windproof - it can get properly blustery - and check the tide times before you arrive. There's limited parking and nowhere to grab food, so come prepared. Worth the stop if you're in the area, though don't expect tropical Caribbean vibes.