The Tongue Hotel: Historic Highland Charm on Scotland’s North Coast
Historic charm, cozy comfort, and stunning Highland views converge at The Tongue Hotel on Scotland’s scenic North Coast 500 route.
Nestled in the tranquil village of Tongue in Sutherland, Scotland, The Tongue Hotel is a beautifully restored former sporting lodge offering cozy rooms, exceptional Scottish cuisine, and stunning views of the Kyle of Tongue and Castle Varrich. With its rich history dating back to the mid-1800s and warm Highland hospitality, it serves as a perfect stop on the North Coast 500 route for travelers seeking comfort, character, and scenic surroundings.
A brief summary to Tongue Hotel
- Sutherland, A838, Lairg, Tongue, IV27 4XD, GB
- +441847611206
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book in advance during peak tourist seasons to secure rooms with views of Castle Varrich and the Kyle of Tongue.
- Try the full Scottish breakfast and sample local seafood dishes at the Varrich Restaurant for an authentic Highland dining experience.
- Pack comfortable shoes for hiking nearby trails and exploring the scenic landscapes surrounding the village.
- Ask for a room away from the main road to enjoy a quieter stay in this peaceful village setting.
- Take advantage of the bar’s whisky selection to sample some of Scotland’s finest single malts in a cozy atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Tongue Hotel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tongue Hotel
A Storied Past in the Scottish Highlands
The Tongue Hotel stands as a testament to Highland heritage, originally built in the mid-1800s by the Duke of Sutherland as a sporting lodge. This historic building has been thoughtfully refurbished to blend its original character with modern comforts. Many rooms retain period features such as wood panelling, antique furnishings, and authentic paintings, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a bygone era while enjoying contemporary amenities.Comfort and Character in Every Room
The hotel offers a range of cozy, well-appointed rooms that combine traditional charm with modern standards of cleanliness and comfort. Guests often appreciate the spacious bathrooms, some featuring large vintage-style tubs, and the inviting beds that promise restful nights. Small touches like complimentary sherry decanters add to the welcoming feel. While some public areas and bathrooms may show signs of needing updates, the overall ambiance remains warm and homely.Exceptional Dining with a Highland Flair
The Varrich Restaurant & Bar is a highlight, serving locally sourced Scottish cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and Highland meats. Breakfasts are hearty and well-regarded, offering traditional Scottish options alongside vegetarian choices. The bar provides a cozy setting to unwind, featuring an extensive whisky selection that appeals to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. Friendly and attentive staff enhance the dining experience, contributing to the hotel’s reputation for excellent hospitality.Scenic Surroundings and Outdoor Adventures
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Kyle of Tongue, Ben Loyal, and Castle Varrich, the hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the natural beauty of the North Highlands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, cycling, and birdwatching in the nearby wilderness. The peaceful village setting offers a tranquil retreat from busier tourist spots, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature.A Welcoming Highland Retreat
The Tongue Hotel prides itself on its friendly, professional staff who provide warm and genuine Scottish hospitality. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with communal spaces like the lounge and bar fostering a sense of community. Whether you’re on a road trip along the NC500 or looking for a quiet getaway, the hotel offers a charming base with a blend of historic ambiance and modern comfort.Practical Amenities and Accessibility
Though the hotel is situated in a small village, it offers essential amenities including free private parking, Wi-Fi in public areas, and a range of activities such as massage and live entertainment. Note that there are no ground-floor rooms, and some stairs may be involved in accessing accommodations. The hotel is best suited for travelers who appreciate characterful lodging with a touch of rustic elegance in a remote Highland setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Braal Castle
54.6 km
A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
60.1 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
61.5 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
62.1 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Stoer Lighthouse
63.2 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Above and Beyond Tours
63.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Caithness.Org
64.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
66.7 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Ackergill Tower
75.9 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning beauty of Ackergill Tower, a magnificent castle in the heart of Caithness, Scotland, perfect for your next getaway.
Whitegate broch
76.2 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Old Keiss Castle
76.5 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Mackays Hotel
77.1 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Caithness Inn
77.3 km
A welcoming 4-star inn in Wick offering clean rooms, attentive service, and a perfect base for exploring the rugged Scottish Highlands.
The Wick Heritage Museum
77.4 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant history and rich culture of Wick at the Wick Heritage Museum, a must-see destination for every traveler.
John O’Groats Trail - Wick to Keiss
77.4 km
Discover the breathtaking John O’Groats Trail, where stunning coastal views and rich Scottish heritage await every hiker.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tongue Causeway
2.2 km
Scenic 3.8 km causeway and bridge crossing the Kyle of Tongue, offering stunning Highland views and wildlife encounters.
Norse Bakehouse
2.5 km
A cozy family-run cafe in Rhitongue serving artisan focaccia, pizzas, and cakes with friendly service and stunning Highland views.
Torrisdale beach
11.0 km
A pristine mile of golden sand and dunes on Scotland's wild north coast, where rivers meet the sea and history whispers through ancient stones.
Farr Beach Bettyhill
13.1 km
Secluded golden sands and rugged headlands meet serene waters at Farr Beach, a tranquil coastal gem near Bettyhill in northern Scotland.
Strathnaver Museum
13.4 km
Explore 8,000 years of Highland history and the poignant story of the Clearances in the historic Strathnaver Museum near Bettyhill.
Farr Bay, Bettyhill
13.4 km
Discover the wild, peaceful shores of Farr Bay near Bettyhill—where dramatic sea views and rich wildlife create a perfect Highland escape.
Golden Eagle Zip Line in Durness
16.9 km
Britain's most northerly zipline: 37 meters of pure adrenaline above the Atlantic.
Broch Dun Dornaigil
17.8 km
Explore Broch Dun Dornaigil, a stunning Iron Age monument in the Scottish Highlands, blending rich history with breathtaking natural beauty.
Smoo Cave
20.0 km
Explore Britain’s largest sea cave with a stunning waterfall, hidden chambers, and rich history in Scotland’s wild North West Highlands.
Durness Beach
21.3 km
Discover the wild, golden sands and tranquil beauty of Durness Beach, a remote Highland gem where sea meets rugged cliffs.
Balnakeil Church
23.2 km
A windswept 17th-century church ruin above Balnakeil Bay, with a haunting graveyard, Gaelic bard’s memorial, and a highwayman buried in the wall.
Strathy Point Lighthouse
26.8 km
Experience Scotland’s wild north coast from a historic lighthouse perched on a rugged peninsula with panoramic sea views and rich wildlife.
North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
30.7 km
Explore ancient landscapes, rich wildlife, and rugged beauty in Scotland’s North West Sutherland National Scenic Area.
RSPB Forsinard Flows
32.8 km
Explore one of the world's largest blanket bogs with rare wildlife, scenic trails, and a unique visitor centre in the heart of Scotland’s Flow Country.
Mackay Country Landmark
33.6 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Mackay Country Landmark in the Scottish Highlands, a must-visit for culture and nature enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Tongue Hotel
0.0 km
Historic Highland lodge with modern luxury, stunning views, and authentic Scottish hospitality on the NC500.
The Store Bistro & Bar
12.7 km
Charming Highland bistro with diverse menus, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in scenic Bettyhill, perfect for all-day dining and local flavors.
Halladale Inn
30.5 km
Cozy Highland inn and bistro in Melvich offering hearty Scottish fare, welcoming hospitality, and excellent touring park facilities.
The Crask Inn
32.7 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
Kylesku Hotel
42.7 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
Shorehouse Restaurant
43.3 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Scourie Hotel
45.0 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Eddrachilles Hotel
45.1 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
The Pier
50.0 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ferry Inn Scrabster
52.5 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Scrabster offering hearty Scottish fare, cozy rooms, and stunning views of the bustling northern port.
Capilla Tapas Restaurant
52.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of Scrabster, offering a cozy taste of Spain in northern Scotland.
Captain's Galley Restaurant
52.7 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a charming harbour-side setting in Scotland’s northernmost reaches.
The Blue Door Coffee Shop & Diner
53.3 km
Classic American diner charm meets hearty comfort food in the heart of Thurso’s welcoming community.
Pride of Bengal Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
53.4 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Thurso, offering fresh, robust dishes and a welcoming casual dining and takeaway experience.
Spice Tandoori
53.6 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with friendly hospitality in the heart of Thurso.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
35.0 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Spellbound Caithness
52.7 km
Discover Spellbound Caithness, Thurso’s magical gift shop blending Highland enchantment, artisan crafts, and spiritual community in a unique creative haven.
Hallmark
53.5 km
Charming Hallmark gift shop in Thurso offering quality cards and thoughtful gifts in a historic setting at Sir John's Square.
The Cave
53.5 km
Discover The Cave in Thurso, a vibrant comic book shop offering graphic novels, collectibles, and a welcoming atmosphere for fans and newcomers alike.
The Kiln Store
53.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Thurso at The Kiln Store, a family-run treasure trove of northern Scottish heritage.
Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
53.8 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
Buttress's
53.8 km
Discover unique fashion at Buttress's in Thurso, where style meets exceptional service in a cozy boutique setting.
Eye Candy
53.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Thurso’s historic High Street at Eye Candy.
Nickel & Dime
53.8 km
Discover Nickel & Dime in Thurso: Your essential convenience store for snacks, drinks, and local flavors in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
53.8 km
Discover unbeatable deals on branded fashion, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in Thurso’s bustling High Street.
Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
61.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Brora, the perfect stop for all your travel essentials and local products.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
64.8 km
Discover authentic Highland artistry and unique handcrafted gifts at Caithness Gifts & Crafts in Thurso, celebrating the spirit of northern Scotland.
Jail Dornoch
70.2 km
Discover a historic former jail transformed into a charming gift shop with authentic Highland spirit and unique local treasures.
Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
70.3 km
Discover ethically crafted fair trade gifts supporting global artisans in the heart of Dornoch Retail Park.
Tesco Superstore
76.7 km
Experience the convenience of Tesco Superstore in Tain, where quality groceries meet friendly service in a welcoming environment.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr C's Bar
53.6 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Top Joe's
53.7 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
The Grove Lounge
53.8 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
64.2 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Mey Hotel
71.1 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Village Inn
75.5 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
Platform 1864
76.7 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
Harpers Bar
77.2 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
77.4 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
77.5 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
77.6 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
The Inver Inn
78.9 km
Cozy, dog-friendly pub in Tain’s Inver village serving fresh Scottish fare with warm hospitality and scenic Highland charm.
The Ship Inn
89.1 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
The Fishertown Inn
91.4 km
A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
93.0 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly