It is being billed as one of Scotland’s most spectacular, daring and shortest flights.
A zip wire has been built at the country’s most north westerly mainland village – with stunning views over the Atlantic.
The unusual tourist venture will see people suspended up to 95 feet above Ceannabeinne near Durness in Sutherland – reaching speeds of over 40 mph.
The 745 feet long wire is not only the most northerly on mainland UK but also in such an exposed position that its operation is both weather dependent and seasonal.
It is the brainchild of Estonian-born businessman Aro Kaljuste who moved to Durness with his family two years ago and has sunk around £20,000 into the venture.
The ride is alongside – and partly over – one of the country’s most picturesque beaches, with stunning views over the Atlantic on one side and rocky outcrops on the other. People will also fly over a small waterfall.
Mr Kaljuste, 40, is hoping to cash in on the boom in visitors using the North Coast 500 – Scotland’s answer to America’s Route 66.
Adults will be charged £12 and children £10 for the experience.
“It is starting to look good and we hope to launch in a few days,” said Mr Kaljuste. “This is the most northerly long zip wire we know of – the next nearest being in Aviemore and Loch Ness.
“About a year ago I started to wonder what was missing from the area – what would work. I knew nothing about zip wires, but I thought it could be a success here.
“The number of tourists on the NC500 are growing all the time and there are not too many attractions here.
“I have had good professional help from Skyline Ziplines, who are the country’s leading zipline builders, and this will create four jobs.
“During construction I have also had good help from local builders.
“I hope the venture will be a success and it gives people an experience they will not forget.”
