Interiors throughout are Scandi-influenced– think copper pendant lights, Scottish Larch timber and neat, Ercol-style sofas topped with cosy tartan rugs and chic cushions. The idea behind the development isthat visitors will be tempted to lingerin John O’Groats longer than the time it takes to Instagram themselves next to the famous signpost.

And there are some truly spectacular sights. John O’Groats is a prime spot to glimpse the northern lights and see killer whales in their natural habitat. So on our firstmorning, after a breakfast of fresh eggs on toast courtesy of our welcome hamper, we clamber into a 12-seater inflatable rib for a sea safari. The sun is shining and we’re soon photographing seals basking in thewarmth, before we speed past uninhabited islands and rugged cliffs. When we slow down to snap the ‘The Stacks’, three towering rock formations at Duncansby Head, they’re so breathtaking no filter is required.

For lunch, we head to The Storehouse, The Inn’s inviting cafe-bar serving locally-brewed beer, organic wines and a well-judged menu of sandwiches and platters (I went for the local speciality Caithness Salmon Taster Plate). The one snag is the 8pm closingtime, but the Seaview Hotel halfa mile up the road has a whiskyshelf that’s worth the walk.

I made my trip to John O’Groats over a weekend, but given the journey time from London next time I’ll makeit part of a dream Scottish road tripfrom Inverness to Orkney. Crossing Land’s End off my list of travels might have to wait.

A one-bedroom apartment at The Inn at John O’Groats costs from £90 per night, naturalretreats.co.uk. Easyjet flies from London Gatwick to Inverness from £60 return; visitscotland.com

Discover Scotland’s Hidden Haven