Martin Dorey, author and photographer, shares details of his recent stay at Melvich Bay Caravan Park and where him and his wife went next….

Where have you been and where are you going next? 

I spent 2025 travelling around Scotland going to places that are out of the way and off the radar for a lot of people. It was for a new book project called ‘Off The beaten Track: Scotland’. That meant coming up north, of course, and exploring a little of the Flow Country, plus Cape Wrath and walking to Sandwood Bay. We went fishing in Forsinard, at one of the tiny lochs, and based ourselves at Melvich for the time we were there. We also went surfing at Farr Bay and bellyboarded at Melvich as the waves were small.

We loved our trips to explore Scotland’s lesser known places and found ourselves in Orkney and on St Kilda as well as the Outer Hebrides. It was such a great excuse to spend time in our van in a place we love. 

In 2026 we will be travelling around the coast of Britain for another book in the ‘Take The Slow Road’ series, so we’ll be back to Melvich at some point. Can’t wait.

What’s the best thing about your trip? 

Seeing the northern lights from Melvich Bay Caravan Park was really, really special. We were stunned by it as we live in Cornwall and don’t get to see it very often. We loved driving around The Flow Country on the smaller roads – and even some forest tracks to go fishing. It is a very special place.

   
Best thing about at Melvich Beach and the Melvich bay caravan park? 

I have surfed at Melvich, and along the north coast, many times over the years so its’ special to me. Melvich is perfectly placed to head east or west. Great food at the pub too, and nice people all round. 

    
IMAGES: The Aurora over Melvich plus my wife skinny dipping at Sandwood Bay, plus surfing on Orkney

SOCIAL MEDIA: @martindorey and @taketheslowroad.guides on Instagram, or visit www.martindorey.com