The hidden gem Scottish Highlands village with pub that serves 'best ever' fish and chips

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The picturesque destination lies at the meeting point of three beautiful lochs.

If you are looking for a day-trip destination in Scotland , then you can't go wrong with the Highlands. As you move further north, there are countless villages and small towns worth a visit. One of the hidden gem destinations in the Highlands that you might not have even heard of is Dornie.

The small former fishing village, nestled in the Lochalsh district in western Ross-shire, is the Daily Record's latest Village of the Week . Due to its location close to the Skye Bridge, Dornie is often regarded as a stopping point for those heading to the Isle of Skye . However, it is well worth a visit in its own right.



Dornie is situated at the convergence of Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long . It benefits from spectacular views out across the water. Home to a population of around just 350, there isn't a lot of opportunity for shopping around the village.

However, it is a great place to clear your head and breathe in the fresh country air. Thankfully, there are a couple of spots for tasty food and drink . The Clachan pub and The Dornie Hotel both serve up delicious fresh meals, while the latter is a great place to stay the night if you don't want your trip to Dornie to end.

The village is also a short walk from the world-famous Eilean Donan Castle. Even if the name does not sound familiar, you will likely have seen it before—as it is one of the most photographed castles in the world. Continue reading for some photos showing some of Dornie's highlights.

You can also find a few of our past Towns and Villages of the Week below: Scotland's 'best wee village' with inn that serves up 'sumptuous' Easter Sunday roast The Scottish seaside resort town once named 'worst' that is perfect for day out The underrated Scottish seaside village with sandy beach and 'wonderful' seafood The Scottish Highlands village with 'perfect' fish and chip shop and Outlander abbey The peaceful Scottish town with 'best tea room' perfect for Mother's Day outing Scotland's 'most picturesque' village with cosy tea room and 'stunning' palace Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to the Scotland Now newsletter here . Dornie is known for its colourful houses along the waterfront. There may not be many shops to browse, but it is still worth taking a walk around the village and admiring the sights.

Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long dominate the vistas at Dornie. There are plenty of scenic spots around the village where you can sit and take in the views. The Clachan is the best place for a pint in Dornie, and serves up a range of yummy pub classic dishes as well.

It has an overall rating of 4.5 out of five on Google based on 640 reviews, with recent visitors describing the pub as having an "outstanding" whisky selection—and its fish and chips as "the best ever". Just a short distance from Dornie is Eilean Donan Castle, which is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland—if not the world.

Dating back to the 13th century, it is situated on a small tidal island overlooking the Isle of Skye. The Dornie Hotel is a B&B with nine cosy rooms that have all been individually designed with handpicked vintage and reclaimed furniture. It also features an on-site restaurant, with its new summer menu including dishes such as pan-fried Scottish scallops, lightly grilled sea bass fillets, and Loch Duich langoustines.

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