Things to see and do Highlands

Created in 1825, this small distillery is named after its famous neighbour, the giant Ben Nevis. It does not really offer the longest and most complete visit of Scotland, but still has the advantage of being in the city centre of a tourist destination. The 10 years of age is the lighthouse malt. It's 46% percent, is pretty rounded, soft and dry.

It overlooks the River Ness. The Jacobites seized it in 1746. Its present pink appearance dates from a refurbishment from 1837 to 1847. It now houses a court of justice and a military garrison. The statue of Flora MacDonald, the heroine who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie in his escape, adorns its front and was sculpted by Andrew Davidson, a native of Inverness. If the visit of the castle is not possible, its top is however accessible to the public (Castle Viewpoint). From there, you can enjoy a 360 degree view on the city and the hinterland of the Highlands.

You can't miss this castle if you follow the A837 and the North Coast 500. Its ruins, at the end of Loch Assynt, have an undeniable romantic appeal. The remains as much as the site are worth a stop, and a car park is just the place to be. There are information boards with some of its secrets. Built in 1597 by the McLeod clan, it is the former prison of the Marquis of Montrose in 1650 and is linked to a dark history of betrayal. Burned down in 1745, it was never rebuilt and has remained as a haunted ruin?

The Singleton of Glen Ord is the miraculous meeting between the barley of Black Isle and the water of White Burn. The Glen Ord distillery, set in a green setting, tells the story of its whisky and its particularities through an exhibition (with multilingual translations) and guided tours, ranging from the simplest with tasting, to those for the most passionate and expert: with tutored tasting live from the casks, with tasting of 6 different whiskies... The bar, accessible to all, overlooks the barrels and is beautiful.

The Beauly Priory is currently a ruin, but these remains, on the riverside, are a very pleasant visit for those who love religious heritage and mystical places, full of history and haloed with a certain magic. This priory is one of the three priories founded in Scotland around 1230 by the Valliscaulian order. This little-known order of monks originated in Dijon. He advocated poverty, chastity and obedience. Today, the walls of the abbey church remain, housing beautiful funerary monuments.

Rogie Falls is an impressive waterfall, which can be overlooked from a wooden and rope bridge. The waterfall is famous as a spot to watch the salmon as they swim up the Black Water River. In addition to the magnificent waterfall, several walking routes - including one of 1.5 km, to be done in one hour, with a slight difference in height - are accessible from the car park for a discovery of the rich forest landscape of the surroundings, but also beautiful viewpoints and panoramas of the waterfalls and the surrounding nature.

This site is to be discovered both as a cultural place and as a space of artisanal and alternative stores. A heritage site, it is the former Victorian railway station that has been perfectly renovated. An exhibition with explanatory panels is held in the open air to tell the story of the station in its splendid period, when Strathpeffer was an international resort, as well as its role during the wars, then its abandonment and its new life, starting in the 1990s.

When passing through the Tongue area, don't miss the short walk to Castle Varrick Hill, which dominates the surroundings. It's not as long as it looks when you can see the castle in the distance! This fortress of the MacKay clan was built in the 14th century. Its remains offer beautiful views (it is possible to climb up the tower) and give a glimpse of the former glory of the site. The trail starts next to the RBS Bank at the corner of the A838. It is about 3 km long, with an easy ascent.

The waterfalls in the village of Clashnessie are a pure gem. From the beach, it takes about 45 minutes round trip. It is not far, but the path is muddy and close to a river. The waterfall is about 15 meters high and is worth a visit. From Lochinver, you have a loop to drive around the peninsula. Many stops are to be expected, including Clashnessie Waterfall. After the waterfalls, you can drive down to the beach. Strategic place to park your car.

This space, which also serves as a tourist office, is freely accessible and free of charge. It offers curious visitors the opportunity to discover the history of the Caledonian Canal, but also the particularities of the region and its great sites, such as the Great Glen or Loch Ness, of course. You will learn all about the construction of the canal and Queen Victoria's passage. In fact, the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Fountain, just a few steps away, is a testament to the village's sympathy for her. The Caledonian Canal Centre also has a shop and a very friendly café.

Cape Wrath is the north-western tip of Scotland, delivered to the power of the elements. Here are some of the most striking coastal landscapes in the country. Its end is topped by a lighthouse built in 1828 by Robert Stevenson, grandfather of the famous author, and all around are stacks and cliffs, including the highest on the island of Great Britain: Clo Mor (281 m). Cape Wrath is separated from the rest of the region by the Kyle of Durness and there are no roads leading to it. You can get there by ferry and minibus, or by following the end of the Cape Wrath Trail.

The steps of Whaligoe lead to a rather amazing old harbour. It's hard to imagine it used to be a harbour, but in the mid-1800s there were over 20 fishing boats using this anchorage every day during the herring season. The many steps probably date back to 1792. Their descent (and ascent!) can be quite strenuous, which is not surprising when you consider that the harbour is below three cliffs almost 80 m high. A nice coffee next door will help you regain your strength.

This museum traces the life of Durnoch and, through this local prism, immerses the visitor in the history of Scotland. It looks back over the episodes of the Clearances, crofting, but also the town's airfield, used in the 1930s and still trodden by light aircraft and microlight aircraft, the anti-invasive measures taken to prevent German landings, the presence of the Canadian Forestry Corps during the Second World War... Among other curiosities, you can see a Viking treasure and a bottle of whisky from 1840.

Just as Thurso is the most northerly town in Britain, Dunnet Head is the land's end, from the top of its high vertical cliffs. Take a detour to this magical place: you will walk along the impressive dunes of Dunnet Bay, before reaching the lighthouse that stands at the very end, facing the Orkney Islands. It was built, like many others, by Robert Stevenson, the grandfather of the famous author. The area is an RSPB bird reserve and bird lovers will be delighted to observe their winged friends.

The "stone of the eagle" is a very beautiful Pictish carved stone. It can be discovered on foot, from the train station (it is indicated) by taking the height in the city. Its present location is not its original one: once situated lower down the valley, it was placed there in 1411 to commemorate the victory of the Munros over the MacDonalds, unless it was against the MacKenzies. There are many legends and stories to discover about this stone..

As well as Orkney crossings and guided day trips, John O'Groats Ferries organises Wildlife Cruises to see the huge and beautiful coastline of the surrounding area up close. Many marine animals will meet your path and you will approach the gigantic Stacks of Duncansby. The day tours also allow you to visit Orkney and its heritage, with bus transport between the different sites. It is also possible to simply take the ferry, without a guided tour.

Founded in 1819, this famous distillery supplies a lot the blended whisky industry but also produces its single malts. Its name means "green pasture" in Gaelic and the visit should interest all the fans of water of life. The original Clynelish was created by the Marquis of Stafford who wanted an outlet for the barley produced on his lands. The building which can be visited is from 1968: located in front of the first distillery, it replaced it. The 14 years old is quite floral, fruity and slightly smoky, thanks to the waters of the region.

Cruise Loch Ness embarks its clients for several types of cruises, the main one lasts 1 hour to the south of the loch, to explore its beauty and track down Nessie. Indeed, the boat is equipped with a high-end sonar that broadcasts live images of the bottom of the loch: if the monster is around, no doubt you will surprise it! Other outings in the evening or to Uquhart Castle are also organised. The boat is equipped with toilets. Snacks are available. Good to know: when you book online, you get a 10% discount.

Loch Ness Cruises takes you for an hour on the waters of the mysterious loch in search of the very discreet monster. What's the name of the boat? The Nessie Hunter! Quite a program... The ride on the water goes to the deepest point of the loch, where it is most likely that the monster has found refuge. It is also an opportunity to learn more about the magnificent Urquhart castle. Commentary is available in 20 languages (including French) on the history of the Nessie phenomenon and departures are every hour except at 1pm.

This company proposes to make you discover the marvellous coast of Caithness by embarking with them for sea outings from 30 minutes to 3 hours. On the program: castles, stacks, lighthouses, cliffs and a rich maritime fauna. If you are with a family with young children, the 30-minute tour of the harbour at low speed will be particularly suitable. Depending on your desire for adventure, you can reach the picturesque village of Lybster, discover Keith's castle or the port and steps of Whaligoe.

Old Pulteney has been a mainstay of Highland single malts since 1826. The visit should fascinate all whisky fans in general, and of this distillery in particular, even if, seen from the outside, it may not be the most impressive. The classic visit allows to get acquainted with the history of this whisky and ends with a tasting. Its 12 years old is maritime, fresh and salty, with woody notes. The "enhanced" tour (£25) shows the full range of whiskies and includes three tasting dramas.

Formerly Summer Queen Cruises, the Shearwater Cruises operate at least two sea trips a day to meet the local wildlife and the small Summer Islands. These are located at the mouth of the Lochbroom in the Wester Ross. The cruise lasts 2h15. It takes you to see seals, porpoises, whales, but also to the Cathedral Cave (near Tanera Beag), the Tanera Mhor anchorage and the Coigach Peninsula. Reservation is mandatory and the wearing of warm clothing highly recommended and ideally binoculars.

Housed in the listed Thomas Telford Church, a small architectural gem, the Ullapool Museum explores the region's past, from the first inhabitants of the Ice Age to the present day. Clearances, the daily life of crofters and fishermen, family histories: the retrospective explores many aspects of the Loch Broom area. You will learn more about the klondykers, the ship Hector and the Melville guns. Special attention is given to the mass departures to Canadian Nova Scotia.

If you combine a taste for road trips with a taste for historical mysteries and want to get off the scenic trails, this route is for you. From Inverness (first spot: Knocknagael Boar Stone) to Golspie 85 km further on, you will meander through the countryside in search of 16 points of interest inviting you to discover pictorial vestiges, either in the middle of nature or in a museum, as in Portmahomack (at the Tabart Discovery Centre). The route is signposted, but GPS can be a good ally.

Rabbie's Tour proposes to discover the splendid landscapes of Scotland aboard a modern and comfortable minibus of 16 passengers maximum via numerous tours departing from Inverness. Visiting for one day or 3 days, the company offers a range of choices to discover the country off the beaten track. The passionate driver-guides will take you on a fabulous adventure to little-known sites, far from the tourist attractions. Regardless of the number of participants, the departure is guaranteed and the experience is guaranteed or refunded.

This distillery is new, having opened in 2014. In 2016, the first bottle was launched. In 2016, 2,500 bottles were then produced and sold in record time. Similarly in 2017, with the same success. In 2018, the distillery doubled its production and released its third bottle, this time at 5,000, and still with resounding success. The last bottle was created in 2022 with 13,000 copies. You can discover the secrets of the distillery and taste its production in its store and bar area.

Why don't you meet Elizabeth and Margaret, the two stills from that distillery? It is possible to visit this Scottish gin and vodka distillery and discover the secrets of its production, from the choice of flowers and plants to a tasting of a Rock Rose gin and tonic, with a surprise at the end. Visits last one hour and are only open to adults. The shop is accessible to all, and you can bring back one or more exceptional spirits, born of the sea spray of Dunnet Bay and its strong character.

Abertaff House is gradually opening to the public. The site presents exhibitions in a space which, in 2019, was still modest, but which should evolve rapidly over the months and years to become a cultural Mecca in Inverness. Abertaff House is a superb townhouse built on two and a half floors, built in 1593 and which, after being owned by a bank, came under the yoke of the National Trust for Scotland in 1963. Since 2022, there is a cosy tea room. Discover the history of Inverness and the National Trust sites.

Neptune's Staircase is a set of 8 locks linking the Caledonian Canal. It will be a curiosity for anyone interested in engineering: a 19-metre climb! It is the largest lock complex in Scotland. It takes 90 minutes for a boat to pass through the 8 gates. The place is also very pleasant and lends itself to walking. Make a stop at theMooring Hotel: it's also a very pleasant restaurant and bar, and it's possible to have a drink or eat with the view of the water.

There are two Inverlochy Castles: the recent one, which has become a luxury hotel, and the old one, in ruins, which can be discovered freely, a little away from the city. Old Inverlochy Castle is located in a strategic defensive position in relation to the river Lochy. It dates back to the 13th century and played a key role in 1645 when the Earl of Montrose, Royalist, defeated the forces of the chief of the Campbell clan, the Duke of Argyll: this was the second battle of Inverlochy. In 1654 it was abandoned in favour of a wooden fort, replaced by a stone fort, and named Fort William.

This lighthouse is located at the westernmost point of Great Britain. It has been guiding ships through the waters off the coast since 1849. A café and an exhibition area welcome you. The former keeper's house has been transformed and allows you to discover the history of the building. The engine room can also be visited, as well as a restored workshop. It is possible to go up to the top of the lighthouse. It is not accessible to children under 5 years old.

This museum is best suited for young children. The exhibition is rather kitschy and that's what makes it so charming: a cheerful mess, a pleasant jumble of information, a world to explore, panels and texts everywhere, objects galore. While the adults will decode the Nessie mystery through real information and documents, children will have something to play with and awaken their imagination. Selfie with Nessie is irresistible: you've been warned! Count about an hour and a half visit. A play area is available outside.

The subject is a very specialized one, and you'll have to have a certain appetite for history and the nuclear industry to go and discover this museum. If you tick these two boxes, go and visit it without hesitation. It brings together the archives of the British civil nuclear industry for more than 70 years. He has set up a new exhibition for 2020 on the pioneers of transatlantic flight, recounting all the adventures of this extraordinary technical and human adventure.

Chanonry Point offers an extraordinary view. Its pointed location, opposite Fort George, at the mouth of the Moray Firth, allows you to observe bottlenose dolphins and grey seals at leisure. You will also discover the story of Coinneach Odhar, a 17th century seer who could predict the future by looking through a pierced stone. His predictions remained famous, such as anticipating the construction of the Caledonian Canal. The Chanonry Point stone commemorates his atrocious death, burnt in a barrel, accused of witchcraft.

The Glenfinann Viaduct was made famous by the Harry Potter saga. If the place is unavoidable for the fans, it gains to be seen by all, for its magnificent landscapes. The monument is impressive: a railway with a span of 1,000 feet (305 m), 100 feet (30.50 m) above the ground. A short hike, the Glenfinann Viaduct trail, allows you to discover it: 4 km (3 miles) in 1 to 2 hours, with a sometimes steep path (free route on walkhighlands.co.uk or in Visitor Centre). Take advantage of your excursion to visit the Glenfinann Monument.

Always in the north, you will reach the breathtaking solitudes of Loch Maree and its untouched islands.

South of Gairloch, in this small village, where it - seem-T- them Vikings never set foot, are the most beautiful beaches in the area.

Reopened after renovation in July 2019, the Gairloch Heritage Museum will explore the historical, cultural and social past of the region. Its exhibition looks at the customs, traditions and daily life of the local people, as well as the events that have marked their lives, from the Bronze Age to the present day, including the Jacobites and the work of the crofters. If you're looking for original souvenirs, books on the region or local authors, stop by the shop: it's a real nugget!

Helmsdale, located in the Highlands of Scotland, is a tourist destination not to be missed. The town offers a variety of activities and sites to visit. Among the must-sees is the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre, featuring local history and contemporary art. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Helmsdale River for fishing or relax on Helmsdale beach. Whisky lovers shouldn't miss the Clynelish distillery for a tour and tasting. For dining, Helmsdale offers a selection of restaurants serving Scottish and British dishes, such as Thyme and Plaice and La Mirage. Accommodation options range from hotels like The Belgrave Arms Hotel to vacation rentals like Kate's Croft.

An interactive museum has been set up in this old croft house, which presents the history of the port. The inhabitants who lived at one end of the house, built like the Viking longhouses, could observe the animals at the other end. Raise your head to look at the wooden structures on the roof. It was the first feat that men had to perform if they wanted to get married. Take advantage of being in Lybster to visit this picturesque and friendly village.

The Wick Heritage Museum brings the history of the town back to life and tells the story of its past, particularly in relation to fishing. The daily life of the men of the sea is detailed in detail, from the glory days of their profession to its decline. Numerous period objects are on display and reconstructions of a traditional house, a cannery and cooper and blacksmith workshops are also visited. There is even a small art gallery and a photo exhibition relating 150 years of social events. Also take a walk in the green haven of the garden.

At the eastern entrance to Durness, along the A838, these impressive caves, inhabited since the Neolithic period, offer a magical journey to the centre of the earth. We can enter their antechamber and see a first superb waterfall, the Smoo Burn. The paying ticket will allow you to board a boat for a tour, accompanied by a guide. You can get information at the tourist office or directly on the spot during visiting hours. Also take advantage of stops to go walking on the heights of the cliffs: they offer superb views.

This 200 m waterfall is the highest in Britain. It is about 5 km from the road.

Departing from the Lonchinver marina, the Cam-Mac Boat Trip company takes you on a one and a half hour cruise around the coast of Assynt. Reservations are not obligatory: just go to the marina. Don't forget to dress warmly and bring your binoculars. You will see Achmelvich Bay, Hermit's Castle and Split Rock. Other trips are possible, as well as private outings.

Under the auspices of the National Trust, the Glencoe Visitor Centre aims to provide a glimpse of the immense richness of the Glencoe Valley through its history, wildlife, geology and human occupation. The technology is at the service of nature and the whole thing is quite interactive and didactic. The Glencoe Massacre is not overlooked, but there is also talk of hiking and mountaineering. The site is also the starting point for hikes, hence a large car park, a snack bar, an information area and all the amenities.

The Mallaig Heritage Centre is a local museum about the history of West Lochaber, through stories, films, photos and exhibitions. From the Picts to contemporary history, to the Jacobites and the Clearances, you can learn more about the area's tumultuous past and its people. Among the exhibits, you'll learn about the arrival of the railroad in Mallaig and why its route is considered one of the most scenic in Scotland. Before it was installed, it took 7.5 hours by coach to get to Fort William!

Mallaig is a charming town in the Scottish Highlands. Known for its natural beauty and proximity to the islands, it is an ideal base from which to explore the region. Mallaig Tourist Office is a valuable resource for visitors, offering information on local attractions, outdoor activities and accommodation. Whether you want to hike in the surrounding mountains, explore the nearby islands or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area, the Mallaig Tourist Office is there to help you make the most of your visit.

In eight rooms and three floors, this local museum recounts the regional history of the western Highlands through its people and its significant events. The jacobite movement is particularly placed in honour, and one example is Bonnie Prince Charlie. There are many time items, reconstructions, exhibitions and photos: everything goes from Prehistory to the Victorian era. This is an interesting approach to the region and a visit adapted in bad weather or between two sports days.

The most beautiful views and the nicest sites around Loch Ness are accessible from the south shore of Loch Ness. This route is less touristy but narrower (only one lane at a time), but it offers magnificent views and allows you to reconnect with the wild side of the Highlands, a little lost in the tourist surf around Nessie. To be admired on the road: Loch Tarff, Glen Morh and Loch Morh and the Falls of Foyers.

The Strathnaver Trail offers a journey back in time, through fabulous scenery and on a little-used secondary road. It passes through superb landscapes and 16 points of interest, all accessible and commented on, thanks to panels placed on each of them. Some of them require a bit of walking, and others are close to the road, with direct access. You will make stops according to your curiosity and historical interest. The other attraction of this itinerary is in the frequentation of the hills: the deer are at home there, and in numbers!