The Kildonan Gold Rush was at its height in the late 1860’s. Alluvial Gold can still be found and each year hardy tourists still pan. In 2007 the owner of WoodPool visited Australia and brought back several gold pans that are available at Wood Pool. Permission can be sought from the local landlord to pan in local burns.

To the right is the old Gold Rush village…one mile from Wood Pool.

About half a mile from the cottage is the stone circle at the top of Learable Hill. This is well worth the trek and is popular on midsummer’s morning when sunrise lines with the stones.

The Timespan themed local museum, in Helmsdale, has won awards featuring much of the above. This is one the best wet day locations north of Edinburgh.

The Flow Country is the largest peat land in Europe and offers possibilities in spotting rare birds.

There is a 9 hole golf course in Helmsdale and a 18 hole course at Golspie and Brora plus a championship course in Dornoch. The hinterland is perfect for mountain biking and there is a high mountain pass over the hills to the coast at Loth.

Head north from Inverness on the A9 to Helmsdale, 10 miles up Strath of Kildonan.