Strathy Point projects far to the north of the surrounding coastline. Visiting its lighthouse makes for a straightforward walk with excellent seascapes.
Summary
Tarmac road (private); optional variation on return across pathless but short-cropped grassy pastures.
Terrain
Parking at end of public road near Strathy Point
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1. The crofting township of Strathy is scattered along the roads near a fine sandy beach. For Strathy Point, there is parking at the end of the public road (marked Totegan on OS maps). A sign indicates that the cliffs near this walk are unfenced - so care needed - and requests that dogs are not taken to avoid sheep being chased over the edge. Continue along the tarred but private road towards the lighthouse. There is a good view to the left at one point of a great ravine in the cliffs.
2. The road leads past Lochan nam Faoileag to end at Strathy Point lighthouse. Completed in 1958 it was the first electric lighthouse in Scotland and filled a long, dark gap in the lighthouse system across the north coast. Today the lighthouse is automated; do not ascent the steps as it is private property. It is possible to visit the point by passing just to the right of the lighthouse. The easiest return is back along the road, but it is possible to vary the way back by turning right at the lighthouse just beyond the loch and heading up towards the concrete lookout post.
3. From the lookout - now used as a tiny store - there are stunning views along the coastline, with Dounreay clearly visible and Dunnet Head beyond. Walk along the grassy ridge back towards the start of the walk. When a fence is seen barring the way ahead bear right to rejoin the tarmac road and follow this back to the car park.
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