The Northern Highlands

The Empty Lands are that great area of northern Scotland between Ullapool and Cape Wrath, and between Bonar Bridge and John O' Groats. It is truly the Land of the Mountain and the Flood, where land and sea mingle in unsurpassed glory.

For the pier-head at Ullapool to the Smoo Caves at Durness, and from Dornoch Cathedral to Dounreay Nuclear Establishment, Tom Atkinson describes it all, with his usual deep love for the land and its people. Myths and legends, history, poetry, and a keen eye for the landscape and all its creatures make this book an essential companion for all who travel to that magnificent part of Scotland.
"The essence of Scotland's far north and west is emptiness. Emptiness of people, that is, but of nothing else that brings delight to any tired soul," writes Atkinson, "I have tried to convey something of the sheer magic of the Highlands, something of the joy that comes from such a cornucopia of loveliness, for the Highlands are lovely beyond words."

A guide book to the north of Scotland, from Ullapool to Bettyhill and from Bonar Bridge to John O' Groats. Not only does the author describe the scenery, but with love, compassion and some anger, he places the landscape into its historical context and traces how it has become what it is today. Essential reading for everyone who has ever dreamed of the Highlands.