The Old Gymnasium, Helmsdale, Sutherland, Scotland

Set in the scenic coastal village of Helmsdale in the far north east of Scotland, the property is an ideal base to explore the NC500 route as well as day trips to Orkney. The property has six en-suite bedrooms - each sleeping up to four people; a combination of double beds and comfortable adult sized bunks. There is a well equipped kitchen with spacious open plan dining/lounge area with a cosy log burning stove. The lounge has the original high ceiling beams exposed, creating a light and airy atmosphere. There are two drying rooms as well as a utility room with washer, dryer. Central heating and free WIFI throughout. There is a large seated garden area with a drying green and a secure cycle shed.

The property is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and is within range of some of the most challenging hills such as Morven, Scaraben and Bhein Dhorain. You can also access stages of the new John O'Groats trail - returning via public transport.

Popular day trips include Dunrobin Castle in Golspie, Castle Mey near John o' Groats, Clynelish Distillery in Brora and Gold Panning at Baile an Or. There are spectacular beaches nearby where you can regularly spot dolphins, porpoises, seals and birds of prey. The area is also surrounded by fascinating archaeological sites where the remains of over 5000 years of human activity are visible throughout the landscape.

A few minutes walk from the property you will find a small supermarket, gift shop, bistro, fish and chip shop, pub, museum and fishing tackle shop. There is also the renowned Helmsdale River, Thomas Telford Bridge, harbour, beach and 9-hole golf course. The village is located on the main bus and train routes north and south and there are airports in Inverness and Wick.