Valhalla, Helmsdale

28/08/2024

🥰🥰🥰 ... BIG thank you to our lovely guests from booking.com this year who gave us 10 / 10 for their stays ... we are super grateful for the feedback and the ratings!

23/06/2024

Escape to Sutherland & Caithness for a dog-friendly holiday in our cosy self-catering 4 bedroom home 🐾 Unwind with your four-legged friend and explore the stunning surroundings! 🏞️ Book now
https://www.valhallarental.co.uk/post/why-choose-a-dog-friendly-holiday-in-helmsdale

22/06/2024

🥰✔️Many thanks to our latest guests who left the following review on Booking.com 🎉

🏡'I recently stayed at the property with my family of 7 as we were celebrating my mom’s 50th birthday. The property is absolutely beautiful and has a really nice and big garden that was perfect for our two dogs to run and play around in. The garden is maintained and kept very clean. The house was perfect we were all able to have showers without running out of hot water which was a massive bonus. The dining room and kitchen are also open plan so it’s perfect for families who like to cook on holiday but still be able to spend time with the rest of the family while cooking. I definitely would stay here again'

It is always amazing to read these positive reviews and helps us keep improving and making the best experiences for our guests! 🥰

06/05/2024

So excited to be sharing this!‼️

Ladies day is back by popular demand🎣🙋‍♀️🙌

Ladies, it's time to grab your fishing rods and join us for an amazing day on the Helmsdale River! Our ladies day event is coming up on Saturday 18th May from 10am - 4pm.
You will have the opportunity to learn about spey casting and switch casting with fly casting demos and tuition, and enjoy guided fishing on one of Scotland's premier salmon fishing rivers. Plus, we'll provide a delicious lunch and finish off the day with some gin tasting at Glencoast Tackle shop. The cost is just £50 per person for tuition, fishing, lunch, and gin tasting.
Local accommodation is available, but space is limited, so RSVP with Glencoast reserve your spot today!

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to connect with fellow female anglers and have an unforgettable day on the river.

TwinPeakes Fly Fishing Loop Tackle

21/04/2024

🦈🥃Ⓜ️ For those on the lookout for the best activities to do in an area here we list the top 3 Tripadvisor Traveler's Choice recommended activities to do from the town of Wick, just 50 mins north of Helmsdale 🚗.

1. The Seacoast Explorer🦅, a 5 star experience based from Wick harbour, offering exciting and popular tours of the East Caithness coastline; exploring caves, Whaligoe Haven, castles, geos, natural arches, close up views of seasonal nesting birds and marine wildlife. Definitely an activity not to be missed if you are in the area!
https://www.caithness-seacoast.co.uk
Whaligoe steps youtube trip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4w_eeQKnII
Windfarm youtube trip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96VJpRYQn4w

2. Wick Heritage Museum, 🌟✔️another 5 Star tripadvisor experience from the east coast of Scotland! Just one review from Tripadvisor - ' Amazingly good! This is an absolute gem in the lovely town of Wick and an absolute ‘must’ if you are in the area. A most delightful array of ‘everyday’ items from yesteryear. So impressed with the amazing knowledge and enthusiasm of the volunteers who make sure that visitors enjoy their visits. Highly recommended.' This is a collection clearly created with passion by the Wick Heritage society and again not to be missed.
https://www.wickheritage.org/

3. 🥃Pulteney Whisky Distillery Visitor Centre: what visit to the Highlands would be complete without a distillery visit 🥰 - 3 words to sum it all up from its visitors - traditional, friendly and knowledgeable 😊. Tours start from £20 and be prepared to make a few purchases after the tour!

https://oldpulteney.com/visit-pulteney-distillery/
https://oldpulteney.com/whiskies

13/04/2024

We are starting a new series on our blog looking at great places to eat and drink in Sutherland & Caithness - starting with a short post kindly shared by our family foodie expert, Chelsey Boyd, from her popular instagram account 'CookedbyChels', showcasing an amazing afternoon tea with drinks from the River Bothy, Berriedale.

https://www.valhallarental.co.uk/post/local-places-to-eat-series

1. River Bothy, Berriedale by Chelsey BoydA regular blogpost series we will be running for readers & guests will focus on local places to eat and there is no one better who can contribute our first recommendation than our professional family foodie, Chelsey Boyd. Chelsey Boyd is the daughter of owne...

12/04/2024

Some positive feedback from our latest guests:

'We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. It really is a very comfortable and well equipped house, and hopefully we can stay again next year!'

Of course! 😊

10/04/2024

Medieval Pilgrimage
Helmsdale Cemetery & St. John the Baptist Chapel and Hospice
Friday 26 April, 11.30am-12.30pm
Meet at Timespan, 11.20am
Easy; pavement and grass
After an easy 10-minute strength and balance exercise session with Simone, we will set off from Timespan, over the old Telford Bridge, gently down to the cemetery on the south side of the river, where accessible seating and hot chocolate will be provided. The Helsmdale cemetery was the site of the chapel and hospice dedicated to St. John the Baptist and founded in 1362 by the Earl of Sutherland. It was a place of pilgrimage and rest for weary travellers. We recommend comfortable footwear and a waterproof jacket, and we encourage walkers to bring reusable cups for refreshments. After the walk, we will screen a short archival film of the local area.
If you need help with accessibility, please contact us at 01431 821327 or email us at [email protected].

29/03/2024

Wishing everyone a lovely Easter weekend! Hope the weather and the Easter Bunny are kind to you! 🐰🐣🐰

12 new items · Memory by Jennifer Gordon

22/03/2024

Quick story time here in this video …. 👌 …. this lady sums it up perfectly about supporting our local business 🎣

21/03/2024

✌🏽😎The Real Meaning behind Valhalla and 6 Ways to Channel your Inner Viking! 🍖🚣🏽‍♀️

💪🏽Valhalla, as defined in Collins Dictionary, represents a glorious afterlife for warriors. a place of honour reserved for the courageous — a reflection of the Viking spirit's emphasis on strength and bravery.

💖But even though Valhalla is mythical, the Viking spirit is very much about living life to the fullest. It's about embracing challenges, finding joy in simple things, and cherishing those around you. So, here are 6 great ways, we think, to channel your inner Viking:

1. ️🍛Gather your loved ones for a grand feast! Vikings were known for their love of hearty meals and merrymaking. So, light a fire, cook a delicious meal, and raise a toast (with mead for extra authenticity!) to friendship and good times.

2.⛰️Test your courage and determination! Vikings were fearless explorers and raiders. Embody their bravery by taking on a new physical or mental challenge. Hike a mountain, take a cold-water plunge, or learn a new skill that pushes you outside your comfort zone.

3.🚣🏽‍♀️Be an insatiable adventurer! The Vikings were legendary explorers, venturing across vast oceans with nothing but the stars to guide them. Spark your own sense of adventure by taking a solo trip, exploring hidden corners of your city, or simply trying a new activity. The world is your oyster!

4.🌃 Embrace the harsh beauty of nature! Vikings had a deep respect for the natural world and its power. Go for a long walk in the woods, spend a night camping under the stars, or simply appreciate the beauty of a sunset. Reconnecting with nature will fill you with a sense of peace and wonder, just like it did the Vikings.

5.💯Value your crew! Family and friends were the bedrock of Viking society, their closest companions and fiercest protectors. Spend quality time with the people you care about, support them through thick and thin, and create lasting memories together.

6.📗Never stop learning! Vikings were a curious people, always eager to discover new lands and cultures. Keep your mind sharp by taking a class, reading a book, or simply striking up conversations with people from different backgrounds.

The Viking spirit is all about living a meaningful and fulfilling life. It's about courage, curiosity, and finding joy in the company of loved ones. So, here’s to exploring and challenging ourselves, and embracing life with the same zest as the legendary Vikings!

To learn more about our connection with Vikings:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tK4tFx7-sg

Photos are not representative of Helmsdale or the local population 😁


'

12/03/2024

🚗 🍦☕️So for guests traveling to Valhalla, Helmsdale's on the A9 which is Scotland's longest road stretching from Falkirk to Thurso, passing by places like Stirling, Perth, and Inverness. With 273 miles (439 km) of road, it's a marathon, not a sprint, so here are some recommended refreshment stops together with some places for exploring, if you have the time! 🗺️

📸 Photo Op No. 1: First up, Falkirk! Check out the jaw-dropping sculptures of 'The Kelpies’ these horse-head wonders are worth the pit stop! 🐴

🍔 McDonald's Pit Stop: Roll into Perth, hit the drive-thru, and get your fast-food fix at the A9 Broxden roundabout - who doesn't love a burger break on the go? 🍟

☕ Coffee & Dog Walks: Swing by Dunkeld for a caffeine fix and a riverside stroll. It's the paw-fect spot to stretch those legs and grab a cuppa! 🐾

🌊 Waterfall Wonders: Dunkeld's Hermitage Woodland offers more than just trees; it's a waterfall paradise for some Insta-worthy pics! 📸

🌄 Mountain Views & Cake: Aviemore's Explorer Cafe serves up mountain views and mouthwatering cakes which are a treat for your taste buds and your eyes! 🍰

☕ Caffeine Fix in Inverness: Need a quick pick-me-up? Costa's got you covered in Inverness because who can resist a coffee break, right? ☕

🍽️ Lunch with a View: Head to The Storehouse at Foulis for a roast lunch with stunning sea views. They offer a feast for your belly and your eyes! 🌊

🍦 Ice Cream Tradition: Remember to stop at Capaldis in Brora for a scoop of their famous ice cream. Still a family tradition for a reason! 🍨

☕ Coffee Boost in Helmsdale: Finally, recharge at Thyme & Plaice with a cup of their finest brew. It's like rocket fuel for tired travelers! 🚀

Google map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jXkEc2hMgEJu2a5v5


&plaice

05/03/2024

🌱 💚 Spring refresh for our kitchen
at Valhalla Rental ☀️🤩

29/02/2024

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿✨ Discover the unique allure of Clynelish Distillery in Brora, where history meets innovation and every dram tells a tale. 🥃 Dive into the immersive experience that transformed a cold February day into an unexpected adventure awakening the spirit of whisky within. From secret rooms to centuries-old traditions, our blog unveils hidden gems of Scotland's Highland liquid treasure. Don't miss out on this latest blog story from Valhalla Rental – link below!

🌟🏞️🥃

On a recent cold winter’s day in February day little did I know that I would embark on a journey to a nearby Distillery that would forever change my perception of Scotland's liquid gold and ignite an enthusiasm I was not certainly not expecting. Sadly through all the years on my journeys north to ...

19/02/2024

🌱😃 Looks like spring is coming in the stunning Highlands of Scotland, 🏞️ Dust off those hiking boots and get ready to explore the nearby breathtaking landscapes as nature comes to life around us. From spring blooms to cascading waterfalls, there’s beauty to discover all around! . Book your spring getaway now and let the adventure begin! 🌿✨

13/02/2024

🏡😃 Welcome to your home from home in the Highlands - here are some updated photos showing our comfortable lounge and wood burner, our fully equipped kitchen with dining area (currently being redecorated but not yet finished), 4 x cosy bedrooms, 1 x upstairs shower & bathroom, 1 x downstairs shower room and 1 x wc.

Once the kitchen decor is finished we will be sharing some photos 🪴kitchen decor upgrade courtesy of Boyd Alex Boyd Faith & Ian

Provisional licence number: HI-00557-P

08/02/2024

Hey everyone! 👋 We've got something special for you from one of our family members who has written an incredible blogpost on the Valhalla website sharing family tips and must-see spots for your next adventure! 📝✨

A sneak peek at what you'll discover includes:

✔️Hidden gems and local secrets for an unforgettable Highland experience
✔️Expert advice on finding the perfect accommodation for your family retreat - yes that would be us!
✔️Exciting activities and outdoor adventures which await you in the northern highlands of Scotland

Click on the link and check out the blog post to start planning your Highland escape today! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💫

My husband’s family on his father’s side lived and worked in Helmsdale, Sutherland, Scotland, going back at least three generations, and a family tradition is to holiday there each August together with other relatives. Some years it was difficult to find a place to stay that was big enough to ac...

07/02/2024

Embracing winter today and its time for your hats and mittens folks, Helmsdale has been transformed into a snowy wonderland ready for a snowman or two thanks for the video of Valhalla garden being magically transformed! ☃️🌨️🏔️

31/01/2024

👮🏽🗝️Evening to everyone in Helmsdale, we would love to locate old photos of Valhalla when it was used as the village police station? If anyone has any vintage photos or funny stories to share on here from the 'old days' that would create a backdrop story for us it would be really appreciated! 😁🙏🏽

31/01/2024

🙌❤️Taking a look back at 2023, we have a guest review of Valhalla that stands out. This review was shared on Google by one of our valued guests, offering a sense of what makes up the Valhalla experience: ✨

'We've been coming to Valhalla ever since the owners placed it on the holiday rental market, both with our family & also friends. It's a lovely house with plenty of space for families and has a nice homely feel to it. The kitchen area is a good communal area and we've spent many hours around the large table playing games or just chatting.
There are also plenty of good walks to be had whether you just want a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river or a more strenuous hike in the hills.
If you've never been to the North of Scotland I'd highly recommend Valhalla as the perfect base to explore the area.'

If you're thinking about your holiday plans for the rest of 2024 and 2025, here's a quick update on our availability. We'd love to have you at our holiday let whenever you're ready! 👍

2024
18th Jan - 2nd February
25th Feb - 23rd March
14th April - 30th June
11th August - 6th September
30th Sept - 23rd Dec

2025
18th Jan - 27th June
14th Aug - 23rd Dec

We look forward to seeing you soon! 🥰

Please note during the high season of July and August there is a minimum booking required of 1 week, the rest of the year the minimum is 4 nights. 🙂

30/01/2024

The Archaeology of Kildonan and Loth: Protecting the Past
Saturday 10 February, 11am-1pm, Timespan
This presentation provides an overview of the sites and monuments in the hills and straths, villages, and coast, spanning the last 6000 years, with a discussion about the protection afforded archaeology and objects in Scotland and internationally. Over 1100 sites have been recorded, including brochs, hut circles, townships and shielings, buildings, bridges, and the more obscure, intangible, and commemorative sites. Are we doing enough to protect our archeology? What is the impact of climate change on vulnerable sites?
Attendees can use their community card to receive discounts at the Riverside Cafe and free entry to the museum and digital exhibits where you can travel back in time with our immersive reconstructions of an Iron Age roundhouse settlement and Clearances Township in Kildonan and Helmsdale at the height of the herring boom and old ruined castle. The People’s Mobile Archive and Youthy Library will be open for browsing and borrowing books. There is free entry to the museum and digital exhibits for local people.
For more information, please contact us at 01431 821327 or email [email protected]





Helmsdale, Land of The Helmies
Helmsdale Community Garden
Helmsdale & District Development Trust
Helmsdale Community Centre
The Helmsdale Village Hub
Highlands & Islands Climate Festival
Helmsdale Footpaths
Pylon Pressure To STOP SSEN
ARCH Highland
UHI Archaeology Institute
UHI Centre for History
North Atlantic Archaeology
Archaeology of the North
Open Virtual Worlds
Museums and Heritage Highland
John o'Groats Trail
Highland Historic Environment Record
Historic Environment Scotland