Dunbeath, Caithness

Flower Delivery to Caithness by Clare Florist

A largely unspoilt and dramatic scenery in the northern tip of Scotland is where this historic county lies. It boasts of majestic coasts up north and low-lying ones on the east with offshore stacks and high cliffs abundantly distributed throughout. Going inland, one can find an inhospitable stretch of moorland endearingly called by locals as Flow Country, undeniably one of Europe's last true wilderness. Although the said area is sparsely populated as of the moment, it has become home to several rare fauna as well as extraordinary plants and flowers in Caithness.

Today, the main settlements in the county are in Wick and Thurso, which are both built around harbours. The location of the said burghs may be why the local economy is thriving on a mix of tourism and fishing. To get to know Caithness, let us briefly look into the county's humble beginnings.

Caithness' Origin

When one explores the county, it may not be uncommon to see several castle ruins lying on different coasts – many of which have Norse foundations. Despite such an influence, Norsemen arrived proximately around the 10th century and some historians argue that the area was Pictish with Goidelic influence from the Celtic Church at that time.

Nevertheless, several bands of Norse settlers landed in Caithness in succession and they established themselves along various coasts that covers from Latheron on the South to the Berriedale. This may be why many names of lowland places in the county, along with a few local surnames, have Norse origin. Centuries after, sovereignty over Caithness was disputed between the Norwegian Earldom of Orkney and Scotland. Eventually, Earl Harald Maddadsson agreed to pay tribute for the county to William I of Scotland around 1196. By 1266, Norway recognised Caithness as Scottish as stipulated in the Treaty of Perth.

Originally, Caithness was part of the shire of Inverness but it gained independence by 1455 as the county's earl acquired a grant of justiciary and sheriffdom from the Sheriff of Inverness. This separation of jurisdiction was then made formal in 1503 through an act of the Parliament of Scotland

Local Adventures

Whether you want to relax or go on an adventure, you are sure to find a suitable activity for you in Caithness. Speaking of which, here are some you might want to try on your next or upcoming visit to the locality:

Flying Lessons – If you're not afraid to conquer the skies over Caithness, it certainly would be fun signing up for a trial flying lesson at Wick Airport. Plus, you get to see the county from quite an exciting vantage point.

Cultural Tours – With quite a colourful history, it would be a shame not to visit the countless heritage centres, archeaological sites, and castles in the county. And the good news is that many of these can be visited free of charge.

Nature Walks – Hire a tour guide and explore the breathtaking views around the county on foot. This will certainly give you tons of opportunities to take timeless photographs of rare birds and exquisite Caithness flowers that aren't found anywhere else in the world.

Camping – Camping sites can be found in different areas in the county and these may just be the perfect venue for you and your family to unwind, relax, and get disconnected from your busy everyday schedules.

When you want to dance to the tune from a pipe band, explore the coastline from a clifftop, participate in the annual agricultural show, celebrate with a Highland dance, or send flowers in Caithness to a loved one, the county is certainly worth the visit.

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