Ullapool is known as a great base for walking, and there is certainly a lot to discover. Within a short drive north of Ullapool you can visit "Eas a' Chual Aluinn" Britain's highest waterfall or explore the bone caves of Inchnadamph. Inchnadamph caves involve a gentle walk through the limestone country and offer spectacular views. The caves provided evidence of animals that once meandered through Scotland's glens and mountains. This evidence has now been removed but the caves nevertheless provide a worthwhile trip.
The east coast has a small collection of beaches that are well worth a visit. Take the A837 to discover five coves that are clustered around Enard Bay. Here you will also see the impressive Falls of Kirkaig and if you drive further south you will discover the Achiltibuie Hydroponicum - Britain's first soil-less indoor garden. In here you will discover a different world of lush sub-tropical fruit trees, orchids and flowers.
Driving further north you will pass various natural features and one of the most magnificent highlight is the Smoo Caves at Durness. You can access the caves down a fairly steep stepped path and then crossing over some stones to reach the mouth of the cave. You can walk deep into the cave using a wooden walkway and during the summer months there is also a boat trip that will take you into the waterfall cave - a truly magical experience.
Continuing your drive on the northern coast you will pass by various amazing beaches between the stretch of Tongue and Thurso and as you continue you will approach your destination of John O'Groats.
John O'Groats is famous for being the most northern point in Britain. The name "John O'Groats" originated from a Dutch gentleman called Jan de Groot. He used to run a ferry to the Orkney Islands and charged 2p. The coin denomination for 2p was called a "Groat." Jan de Groot also built his house in the reign of James IV. This house attracts attention because it was built to overcome a family feud about the precedence of the family inheritance. Jan de Groot solved this problem by building an octagonal house with eight doors and an octagonal table. The purpose of this was that each of his seven sons had their own entrance to the house, and that no one would be head of the table. His grave lies in Canisbay Churchyard.
