Explore Inverness and Loch Ness Guide 2014 by Explore Inverness

2014/2015

explore

www.explorescotland.net

Inverness & Loch Ness

Invergordon, Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD (NTS). The battle lines have been redrawn at the Culloden battlefield. With the Site restored as closely as possible to that seen on that fateful day in April 1746, Culloden now boasts a visitor centre and exciting interactive exhibition. Follow characters who were actually involved in the battle in the exhibition, experience the true horror of the battle in the 360 degree immersive film, take a battlefield tour, and watch the daily Living History presentations. Battlefield Visitor Centre Exhibition, Licensed restaurant, Shop: OPEN 1 Feb to 31 Mar daily 10 to 4pm, 1 Apr to 31 May daily 9 to 5.30pm, 1 Jun to 31 Aug daily 9 to 6pm, 1 Sep to 31 Oct daily 9 to 5.30pm, 1 Nov to 23 Dec daily 10 to 4. Site: OPEN all year daily. On B9006, 5 miles East of Inverness IV2 5EU. Tel 0844 4932159. www.nts.org.uk 1

HOOTANANNY CEILIDH BAR LIVE SCOTTISH MUSIC EVERY NIGHT Scottish Music Pub of the year 2010, Traditional Scottish Menu Live Music 7 days a week 9.30pm Ceilidh every Saturday 2.30pm to 4.30pm 67 Church St IV1 1ES Tel:01463 233651 www.hootananny.co.uk (Map Grid: B2) 6

BRODIE CASTLE. Impressive castle contains fine furniture, porcelain and a major collection of English and Dutch paintings. Woodland walk and wildlife hides. Shop, wild garden, children’s adventure playground and picnic area. OPEN: Castle 1st -30 Apr daily 10.304.30 1st May -30 Jun, Sun to Thurs 10.30-4.30, 1 Jul to 31 Aug. Last tour 1hr before close. Grounds OPEN all year. Off A96, 24miles East of Inverness. IV36 2TE Tel: 0844 493 2156

EDEN COURT THEATRE AND CINEMA. In the heart of Inverness, Eden Court boasts a magnificent riverside setting and stunning views of the River Ness. Eden Court is the main entertainment venue in the Highlands with two theatres, two cinemas, two dance studios, the stunning 19th century Bishops Palace and chapel, as well as a superb café/bar and restaurant. The building is a hub of activity with over 400 live theatre performances each year, over 2000 cinema screenings each year and over 60 classes and activities each week. 7

Bishops Road, Inverness IV3 5SA Box Office Tel: 01463 234 234 www.eden-court.co.uk (Map Grid Ref: C1)

LOCH NESS CRUISES AND TOURS BY JACOBITE – Sail the Loch, Live the Legend with cruises and tours ranging from 30 minutes to 6 ½ hours, tour information in 9 languages, 4 convenient departure points and the largest fleet on Loch Ness. The easiest way to experience Loch Ness, is with five star cruise and tour operator Jacobite Cruises. Tomnahurich Bridge, Glenurquhart Rd, IV3 5TD. Tel:01463 233999 www.jacobite.co.uk (Map Grid: D1)

A visit to GLEN ORD DISTILLERY, on the edge of the Black Isle, is a delight. Watch their distillers creating a magical malt whisky. OPEN Jan & Feb Mon-Fri 11am4pm March Mon-Sat 11am-4pm April & May Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Easter Sun 12noon-5pm June, July & Aug Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Suns 12noon-5pm Sept & Oct MonSat 10am-5pm Nov & Dec Mon-Fri 11am-4pm Xmas: 22,23,24,27,29,30 & 31st 10am-4pm Sun 28th 12 noon4pm Muir of Ord, Ross-shire, IV6 7UJ Tel: 01463 872004

CAWDOR CASTLE A romantic fairy-tale castle and home of the Thanes of Cawdor since 1370. The dramatic medieval tower, turrets, battlements and drawbridge belie an enchanting interior of fine art work, tapestries and furniture. Stunning grounds, beautiful gardens, woodland nature trails, putting green and short 9-hole golf course make Cawdor a memorable day out for all the family. The Courtyard Café offers a mouth-watering menu and the shops an exciting range of gifts. IV12 5RD. Tel: 01667 404401.OPEN 1st May to 5th Oct, 10am to 5.30pm.Last admission 5pm. www.cawdorcastle.com

NEW ERA CRUISES Eco-friendly boat trips on the Beauly Firth from North Kessock. Fine scenery plus a good chance to see dolphins and other wildlife. Up to 8 passengers. Duration approximately 40 minutes. Most days May - September subject to weather and tide. Look for the boat at North Kessock or phone 07732 837216 to arrange for same or next day. www.boattripsinverness.co.uk 9

HUGH MILLER BIRTHPLACE COTTAGE AND MUSEUM presents Hugh Miller’s many talents, including stonemason, geologist, writer, editor and church reformer through a variety of exhibitions. The C17th thatched cottage where Hugh was born in 1802, has an audio tour which tells of its history. OPEN 7th April to 30th Sep open daily. 1st Oct to 31st Oct, Tues, Thurs and Fri. Tel: 0844 493 2158 Church St Cromarty. IV11 8XA

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com

Shop Inverness 10

Pleasantly located on the banks of the River Ness, the RIVERSIDE GALLERY has probably the widest selection of Fine Art in the Highlands, from C19th Scottish Art through early and late C20th work, to the very latest of contemporary Scottish painting. Well worth a visit. OPEN 9.30am to 5.00pm daily all year (Saturdays to 2.30pm, closed Sundays). 11 Bank St, IV1 1QY. Tel:01463 224781. www.riversidegallery.info (Map Grid: B2)

VICTORIAN MARKET A visit to Inverness City Centre would not be complete without giving yourself the chance to step back in time and experience the unique atmosphere of the Highland Capital’s Victorian Market. With 41 interesting shops to explore and 2 great cafes in which you can relax; the Victorian Market has been delighting shoppers since the late 19th Century by giving them the chance to enjoy shopping as it should be. Highly recommended.

CASTLE GALLERY was described in The Independent newspaper as “one of the best reasons to visit Inverness”. Showing unique, stylish, artist-designed gifts and affordable art from some of the most talented makers in the UK working in a variety of media including painting, hand-made prints, crafts and jewellery. Regularly changing exhibitions and friendly staff. OPEN Mon to Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm 43 Castle Street, IV2 3DU Tel:01463 729512 www.castlegallery.co.uk (Map Grid C2)

HIGHLAND SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS. The oldest shop in Inverness C1700’s. With the greatest range of Scottish related gifts and souvenirs, tartan tights, fridge magnets, Harris tweed etc. This independent, family run business is fluent in German and Italian and prides itself on offering the very best customer service and satisfaction with tourist information. They offer Euro transactions of any value. OPEN 7 days 9am - 6pm, 9am-10pm June - August. 15 Inglis St, IV1 1HN. Tel: 01463 713475 (Map Grid: B3) 15

www.InvernessVictorianMarket.co.uk IV1 1PT (Map Grid: B2)

CALEDONIAN GIFTS AND SOUVENIRS A family run business offering an eclectic mix of souvenirs & gifts. The best quality off the peg kilts at the cheapest price including accessories. Most of the products are exclusive. Buy with confidence as they offer a no quibble guarantee. You will find that they are the best value in town. Mountain bike hire from £10. 12 Church St. IV1 1EA Tel: 01463 710664 (Map Grid: 2B)

CHISHOLMS HIGHLAND DRESS. A long established kiltmaker, intitially supplying kilts to the military. Today they send kilts all over the world, made on the premises by their master kiltmakers, some of whom have over 40 years experience. Prearranged tours of the kilt work shops are available. A treasure trove of top quality kilts and accessories. 47/51 Castle Street, IV2 3DU. Tel: 01463 234599 www.kilts.co.uk (Map Grid: C2)

INVERNESS CITY CENTRE is a great shopping destination. The rail and bus stations are both very central to the city centre. Often refered to as the capital of the Highlands of Scotland. Greater Inverness has a population of some 63,000 and is one of Europe’s fastest growing cities, ranked fifth out of 189 British cities for its quality of life.

Eating Out LITTLE ITALY + ITALIAN TAPPAS RESTAURANT two authentic Italian restaurants on the same street. Little Italy is an Italian restaurant serving quality Italian food, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Italy. 8 Stephen’s Brae Inverness IV2 3JN Tel: 01463 712963 The Italian Tapas restaurant & prosecco bar serves delicious Italian tapas with a fantastic selection of meat, seafood & vegeterian dishes. Tel: 01463 712422; 4a-6 Stephens Brae (Map Grid C3) 19

CINNAMON INDIAN RESTAURANT has an excellent reputation for the high standard and consistency of it‘s cuisine served by attentive staff. ‘Cinnamon Restaurant of the Year 2011 Sunday Post’. The Restaurant is very spacious, (90 seats) Located in the very heart of Inverness. If you are looking for lunch or an evening meal, you will find Cinnamon hard to beat. Their popular

SAMS INDIAN CUISINE in the centre of town. Fabulous menu, which includes Indian and European choices. Unique chef’s signature dishes. Fully licensed. Eat In, Take away or Home Delivery service. OPEN Mon - Wed 12 noon- 2pm and 5pm - 11pm. Thurs - Sun 12 noon - 11pm. 77/79 Church Street Inverness IV1 1ES Tel: 01463 713111 or 01463 711400 www.samscuisine.co.uk (Map Grid B2)

THE ROYAL HIGHLAND HOTEL, one of Scotland’s oldest and most loved, was originally the Railway Co’s Station Hotel. In late Victorian times it was patronised by Royalty from Britain and abroad. Serving gourmet cuisine at the renowned Ash restaurant, with the more traditional coffee lounge and gallery deli serving fine patisseries. Station Square Inverness IV1 1LG. Tel: 01463 251451or 231926 (Map Grid: B3)

Sunday Buffet

(over 35 items) “Eat as much as you like!” 12.30pm to 4.30pm £8.95; 5pm to 10.30pm £10.95 OPEN Mon to Thurs 12noon to 2pm & 5pm to 11pm, Fri 5pm to 11pm, Sat 12noon to 2pm & 5pm to 11pm. 1b Milburn Road, Opposite Morrisons, Inverness IV2 3PX. Tel:01463 716020 www.cinnamoninverness.co.uk (Map Grid: B3)

ORIENTAL CHOICE. The only authentic Chinese Restaurant in the Highlands. European and traditional Chinese cuisine at its best! All food cooked to order by Chinese chefs. OPEN Monday to Sunday. Lunch 12 noon - 2.30 pm, Dinner 5 pm -11 pm. Take Away and Delivery Service Available from 5pm. Tel: 01463 712715 1st Floor 25 Union St, Inverness IV1 1QA www.oriental-choice.co.uk (Map Grid: B2)

THE ROOM has an excellent reputation for its pub style food freshly prepared by professional chefs, it has received a GOLD Best Bar None Award for 2014 & holds its reputation as one of the most recommended Bar & Restaurants in Inverness. LIVE music every Fri & Sat from 10pm with only the Best Bands In the highlands were booked to play in 2013. OPEN for Food Daily From 12pm – 9pm. Steak Nights on Thursays. Tel: 01463 233077. 73 Queensgate,Inverness,IV1 1DG (Map Grid:B2) 22

THE DORES INN. Come and enjoy the breathtaking views of Loch Ness at The DORES INN ; whether it be for a walk along the beach, a glass of wine, a pint of one of our real ales or a delicious meal in the restaurant, we look forward to welcoming you. Please give one of the team a call if you would like us to book you a table. Only 10 mins from Inverness, Loch Ness, Inverness, IV2 6TR. Tel 01463 751203 info@thedoresinn.co.uk 23

FILLING STATION offers a warm welcome, comfortable surroundings and of course fantastic food. Menu highlights include a wide range of wraps, pizzas, burgers, salads and grills, not to mention the ever popular sizzling fajitas. Filling Station’s central location makes it an ideal place to refuel after shopping, sightseeing or stepping off a train. OPEN 9am until late. 8-10 Academy Street. IV1 1JT Tel: 01463 663 360 (Map Grid: B2) JOY OF TASTE Short Listed ‘Best New Restaurant Scotland Awards 2013’ 25 Church Street IV1 1DY Tel: 01463 241459 (Map Grid: B2) HOOTANNANY Scottish Cuisine. Scottish Music 67 Church St, IV1 1ES Tel: 01463 233651 (Map Grid: B2)

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com

Eating Out 26

CAFÉ 1 has an excellent reputation built over the last 14 years for high quality modern Scottish cuisine. Only fresh locally sourced fresh produce are used where possible, also home made deserts and ice creams. Friendly professional service. Café 1 ‘the accent is on good food’. OPEN Lunch 12 noon - 2.30pm. Dinner from 5.00pm. 75 Castle Street. IV2 3EA. Tel:01463 226200 www.cafe1.net (Map Grid: C2)

COFFEE AFFAIR as the name suggests has the very best coffees in town with its carefully chosen Italian beans. They also offer a great choice of light meals from home made soups & sandwiches with a choice of fillings. Tel: 01463 709629. 24 Church Street, Inverness, IV1 1QA www.coffee-affair.net (Map Grid: B2) 29

2 Post Office Ave, Inverness,IV1 1DN. Tel 01463 237190 or 01463 711525

OPEN daily from 12 noon to 9.30pm. Serving lunches, early evening, high tea and evening meals. 10 Bank Street. IV1 1QY Tel: 01463 714884. (Map Grid: B2)

THE CASTLE TAVERN ‘Taigh-osada a chaisteil’ Real Ale, Real Food, Real Pub, (Voted Real Ale Pub of the Year 2008 & 2010) opposite the Castle entrance. The perfect place to meet, eat and enjoy the tantalising hot food and award winning real ale, either inside or out. Food served from midday to 11pm daily. 1 View Place, Inverness, IV2 4SA Tel: 01463 718178 www.castletavern.net E-mail: enquiries@castletavern.net (Map Grid: C2)

NUMBER 27 in the city centre is overlooked by Inverness Castle. They pride themselves in offering something a little different, the food is cooked by traditionally trained chefs. The service standards are considered to be friendly but professional, it has a strong local trade, and has one of the largest selections of draft beers in Inverness. It has received a GOLD Best Bar None Award for 2014. Food Served Daily From 12pm-9pm Tel: 01463 241999 27 Castle Street,Inverness, IV2 3DU www.number27inverness.co.uk (Map Grid:C2) 33

THE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT & BAR. Described as “a gem of a find” on Trip Advisor, the Waterfront has an excellent reputation for its good food and friendliness. With a varied menu consisting of traditional Scottish dishes, steaks, grills and seafood, all food is freshly prepared. Children welcome. OPEN 7 days. Lunch served 12 to 2pm (Sun 12.30pm-5pm) Dinner from 5pm daily. Traditional music every Thurs night. 7071 Huntly Street, IV3 5JN. Tel: 01463 233870 (Map Grid: B1)

RAJAH INDIAN RESTAURANT The Rajah is the longest established Indian Restaurant in the Highlands (since 1982), providing superior quality food and service to locals and visitors alike. Only using the finest quality ingredients sourced with extreme care by their very experienced team of chefs, giving you the authentic taste of India in the heart of the Highlands. OPEN 12 noon to 11.00pm. Food served all day. www.rajahindianrestaurant.com (Map Grid: B2)

LA TORTILLA ASESINA SPANISH RESTAURANT. You really should visit this very special restaurant! A unique local wine bar with an authentic selection of tapas and Spanish cuisine, which includes paellas and Spanish omelettes. OPEN 7 days, July & Aug. 12.00 - 11.30pm. Rest of year, Sun - Thurs 12.00 - 10.30pm. Fri & Sat 12.00 - 11.30pm. 99 Castle street, IV2 3EA. Tel: 01463 709809 www.latortillaasesina.co.uk (Map grid: C2)

THE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT is a small friendly family run restaurant situated along the banks of the River Ness. Their restaurant reflects their passion for excellent Scottish Fayre using local produce where possible. Relax with friends and family in comfy seating with stunning views over the river.

KOOL RUNNINGS. Scotland’s only Caribbean Restaurant, known for it’s tasty, spicy flavours. Try the chef’s Jerk Chicken, Kool Jammin Burgers, Jah Rasta Pasta and many more exotic dishes. Also a choice of soft drinks including Bob Marley juice and the chef’s secret recipe of Jamaican punch by the jug at just £11.95. OPEN 7 days 11.00am till late. Tel: 01463 230856. 14 Church Street, Inverness, IV1 1EA (Map Grid: B2)

REFLEXIONS at the WATERSIDE HOTEL, INVERNESS A place to relax and enjoy great Scottish food with a modern twist. Serving food all day. Every seat has a river view. 19 Ness Bank, Inverness, IV2 4SF Tel: 01463 233 065

www.thewatersideinverness.co.uk (Map Grid: C2)

Active Inverness

Inverness - Ness Island Walk - Follow the footsteps on the Inverness City Centre map (page 4&5) along the banks of the River Ness. Allow 1 to 2 hours for the circular walk. Inverness is one of the very few cities in the world where you can literally walk from the city centre along a picturesque river and feel as though you are right in the middle of the countryside. The River Ness is full of wildlife, just take a moment to look carefully and you may see a seal’s head sticking out of the river water. Also look for dippers, a small black and white bird diving in our of the river along the river bank. You will see lots of gulls and sea birds and if you are very lucky you may see an otter, especially in the evenings. Walking upstream you will find Ness Island. The walk will take you past the Castle, churches and gardens. Cross the river and you can visit Bught Park. Close by you will find the Floral Hall - a sub tropical horticultural gem with small waterfalls, fish and a delightful little tea room.

INVERNESS CASTLE. The original 12th century castle was of timber. In 1540, a stone fortification was constructed. In 1562, Alexander Gordon refused entry to Mary Queen of Scots. She captured the castle with the help of the MacKintoshes and Frasers. Alexander Gordon was duly hanged. In 1726, it was enlarged into a government fort, only to be blown up by the Jacobite army in 1746. The present castle was built in 1836. (Map Grid Ref C2) INVERNESS CATHEDRAL. The first new Cathedral built in Britain since the Reformation. The foundation-stone was laid by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the first official act in Scotland by an English Primate since the start of Presbyterianism. The cathedral church was consecrated on 29 September 1874. Summer recital programmes and regular services throughout the year. Tea room and shop open Mon to Fri May to Sept . (Map Grid: C2) 37

HIGHLAND AVIATION MUSEUM has complete aircraft to nose sections, a unique attraction is that visitors can climb in many of the cockpits. A rare experience, from the cramped cockpit of the Lightning, a jet-fighter capable of twice the speed of sound, to the spacious 54ft front section of Nimrod the submarine hunter. OPEN from 5th April to Nov Sat & Sun 10am - 4.30pm, Tel: 01667 461100. 9 Dalcross Industrial Estate, By Inverness airport, IV2 7XB. www.highlandaviationmuseum.org.uk

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com

A8 6 Be 2 f au rom ly

Merkinch Nature Reserve

COLOUR KEY PLACES TO VISIT

SHOPS & SERVICES 1

SPORT & LEISURE 1

EATING OUT 1

Cash Machines £

t ig S Gre idge Br

Inverness Old High Church

Victorian Market

Falcon Square

Railway Station

Eastgate Centre

the fromth 9 r A No

Bus Station

Caledonian Thistle Stadium

To Cawdor Castle

Inverne

the from A9 South

Floral Hall Gardens & Coffee Shop

A Lo 82 c F r h Ne om ss

Northern Meeting Park

Infirm Bridgary e

Be ll Pa field rk

Inverness Castle

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ess Map

Loch Ness - Drumnadrochit - Glen Affric 38

FIDDLER’S HIGHLAND RESTAURANT AND WHISKY BAR... An alive friendly atmosphere and the best of Scottish food: Haggis, Salmon, Venison, Lamb and the Best of Steaks. Surrounded by 600 hundred bottles of Scotland’s Famous Malt Whisky. It has been voted Scotland’s Best Whisky Bar four times, an experience not to miss.OPEN lunch and dinner. Tel: 01456 450678. Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness. IV63 6TX. www.fiddledrum.co.uk

THE BENLEVA HOTEL is over 300 years old with a 400 year Old Hanging Tree at the front door. The pub sells cask conditioned ales from it’s own Loch Ness Brewery. Traditional pub food with daily specials. The Steak & Ale Pie is made with fresh cask ale, you will taste the difference! Specially made pizza with their own secret ingredients. OPEN 12 noon ‘till late. Tel: 01456 450 080. Kilmore Road, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UH

CASTLE CRUISES LOCH NESS. Join them for a breath of fresh Loch Ness air. OPEN daily Easter to end Oct hourly from 10.00am to 6pm (except 1pm). Sailings are subject to local weather conditions and passenger numbers. Adults £14 Children (1-16) £9 Seniors £12 family tickets available.Tel:01456 450695. Tickets/Bookings: Loch Ness Gifts shop opp the main (FREE) car park in Drumnadrochit. www.lochnesscruises.com

HIGHLAND RIDING CENTRE. Riding on well schooled horses through beautiful scenery around Loch Ness. 1 hour, 1.5, 2 and 3 hour rides daily. Qualified instruction for groups of different abilities, including children (everyone can ride at their own pace). Indoor school & outdoor arenas. BHS Approved Establishment. Tel: 01456 450220. Borlum farm, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XN. www.borlum.com

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THE LOCH NESS MONSTER The first recorded sighting of the monster was by St Columba in 565AD It was not until 1933 that the monster became famous as the world newspapers reported the story. There are a remarkable number of eye witness accounts. So keep your eyes peeled, you never know you may be lucky to spot the monster. A82 lay-bys give different viewing angles of Loch Ness, so be prepared to pull off and enjoy the spectacle (Don’t forget your camera!).

DIVACH FALLS WALK. This is a short walk through magestic oak woods on the slopes of the burn to the Falls, which makes this a very special area. A signed path off to the right descends through the woods to reach a fenced viewpoint for the falls. The view of the falls is well worth a visit. From the A82 at Drumnadrochit, turn up Balmacaan Road continue along the single track road and follow the signs for Divach.

LOCH NESS Ness is the largest body of fresh water in Britain, holding more than all the lakes and reservoirs in England & Wales put together. 380 million years ago the earth’s crust fractured and moved which resulted in the formation of the Great Glen of which Loch Ness is part. 39km long with an average depth of 132m. It is possible to drive right round Loch Ness. Explanatory plaques situated in a lay-by 6.8 miles from Drumnadrochit on A82. CORRIMONY CHAMBERED CAIRN. Glen Urquart chambered cairn, built circa 2000BC, is of a type known as a passage grave, encircled by 12 standing stones. A particularly clear example of a prehistoric burial tomb. Explanation plaque. OPEN all year. Free. Historic Scotland. Signposted turning situated off A831 at Buntait, 4.5 miles from Canrich. 0.6 miles to car park then short walk along road to cairn. 46

JOHN COBB MEMORIAL CAIRN built by local people in 1953 to commemorate the memory of John. On 29 September 1952, traveling in his power boat Crusader at 206 mph (309kmh) in attempt to gain the world’s water speed record, John Cobb lost his life. It was on his second run that his boat hit a rough patch of water and the stress on the hull was too great so the boat disintegrated. Dirt lay-by, beside cairn. Situated beside A82 and Loch Ness, 3.5 miles south of Drumnadroicht.

PLODDA FALLS is a sheer drop of over 100ft (30m) in the spectacular surroundings of wellestablished broadleaf and pine forest. Viewing platform above and below the falls. From the car park and picnic tables, there are two waymarked trails, one to the Plodda Falls (1mile). The other, Tweedmouth walk (1.75miles). Situated 6.1 mls from A831 at Cannich village. Follow signs for and through Tomich historic village to falls.

GLEN AFFRIC, from Ath-Breac in Gaelic, meaning dappled ford. This Caledonian Forest Reserve is a magnificent place with a large area of native forest set amongst mountains and lochs. Trees are 200 to 300 years old. Explore the reserve on bike or on foot. Forest roads and paths are open all year. Forest Enterprise. Entrance to the reserve is 1.2 miles from Cannich village and A831. THE GREAT GLEN WAY a 76 mile route between Inverness and Fort William. The path follows along the natural fault line of the Great Glen. Part of the route is along the towpath of the Caledonian Canal built by Thomas Telford. The walk is well marked and parts of it go through the forest above Loch Ness giving spectacular views. The longest section is from Drumnadrochit to Inverness.

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com

Fort Augustus - North of Inverness 47

THE BOTHY BAR & RESTAURANT. Located on the bank beside the first canal lock of The Caledonian Canal from Loch Ness. The Bothy is a 200 year old cottage with a rustic interior serving traditional Scottish food. It has a large conservatory attached to the inside bar, which also serves quality real ales, whiskies etc. OPEN 7 days 11.00am ‘till late. Tel: 01320 366 710. Canalside, Fort Augustus, PH32 4AU.

CALEDONIAN CANAL MUSEUM is a small venue showing the history of Thomas Telford’s Caledonian Canal from the beginnings to the present day. Use a touch screen computer to explore the local walks and cycle routes. Free admission. OPEN 7 days. April to the End of October 10am - 5.30pm (Closed for lunch between 1.30pm 2pm). Other hours by prior arrangement. Tel: 01320 366493 for information.

FORT AUGUSTUS Originally called Kiliwhimin. It was renamed ‘Fort Augustus’ after the Jacobite Rising of 1715 when General Wade built a fort here. In 1867 the fort was sold to the Lovat family, who passed it to the Benedictine order, who established Fort Augustus Abbey. (No longer an abbey it is now appartments). Thomas Telford built the Caledonian Canal between 1803 and 1822, with a staircase of lochs through the centre of the village. It is now one of the most famous tourist spots in Scotland. CRUISE LOCH NESS. 45 years of cruising Loch Ness with daily boat trips and cruises at the south end of the Loch. Take a tranquil cruise on the Royal Scot to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Or for the more adventurous take a trip on the inflatable boats (RIBs). You may spot the Loch Ness Monster! OPEN all year. Canal side, Fort Augustus, PH32 4BD. Tel: 01320 366277

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North of Inverness 50

MUNLOCHY CLOOTIE WELL. A healing well dedicated to St Boniface (or Curidan). There is said to have once been a chapel on the site. To have your wish granted, you must spill some water 3 times on the ground, tie a rag torn from your clothes on a nearby tree, make the sign of the cross and then drink from the well. Tradition states that anyone removing a rag will succumb to the misfortunes of the original owner. On the A832 car park adjacent to the road east of Tore.

SIR ALEXANDER MACKENZIE. Born in Stornoway in the Western Isles. In 1788 he discovered and charted Canada’s longest river ‘Mackenzie River’ 2,500 mls - one of eleven physical features in Canada named after him. In May 1793 he was the first to cross the American continent. His book ‘Voyages’ was a best seller in English and German. He bought an estate at Avoch for his retirment in Scotland. He is buried in Avoch churchyard.

“A hidden treasure, a delightful museum” GROAM HOUSE is an award-winning museum dedicated to the Picts and to displaying and interpreting the stunning examples of their sculptural art found in Rosemarkie. The museum also cares for the George Bain Collection which has been Recognised as being of National Significance. The museum shop stocks high quality gifts with Celtic and Pictish themes. There are activities for children and videos to watch as well as a suite of interactive computer programmes. 54

ADMISSION IS FREE (Wheelchair access to ground floor only). OPEN: 18 April to 31 October: Weekdays 11.00am to 4.30pm; Weekends 2.00 to 4.30pm Tel:01381 620 961 www.groamhouse.org.uk Email:curator@groamhouse.org.uk IV10 8UF

DOLPHIN WATCHING AT CHANONRY POINT. The point is the best place to watch the Bottlenose Dolphins. The nearby Dolphin and Seal Centre at North Kessock also offers dolphin watching opportunities during the summer. The best time to spot them is from low tide onwards as the tide rises between Mar & Oct. They can often be seen in front of the large ships in the harbour. Chanonry Point is situated East of Fortrose off the A832. IV10 8SE

DOLPHINS AND SEALS OF THE MORAY FIRTH INFORMATION CENTRE. Bottlenose Dolphins are often seen in the Moray Firth. The centre is a great stopping off place with spectacular indoor and outdoor views, great for spotting dolphins. Talks, events, underwater dolphn sounds and shop. For details of tide times go to www.pol.ac.uk/ ntslf the UK National Tide Gauge Network. 55

INVERGORDON Here the summer cruise-liners berth in the heart of the town. The pier is a very short walk from the town centre. Tel:01349 852308 for cruise liner info. Do not miss the superb Invergordon Murals on the side of buildings produced by the Invergordon Off the Wall Group. Each mural is carefully selected after consultation with the townsfolk and the building owner. A booklet explaining the murals can be purchased from local shops.

DORNOCH boasts some fine buildings including Scotland’s smallest Cathedral built by the Bishop of Caithness in 1224 paying for it himself. There is also a Bishop’s palace (now a hotel), courthouse and old town jail. Sandstone cottages and town houses line its peaceful streets and lanes. Dornoch has some excellent descriptive plaques that help you unravel the past, as well as the History Links Trail taking you through the streets and countryside.

Eating Out

Shops

Sport

Places to Visit 0 Inverness Airport

56 Dornoch Firth

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New Era Cruises Aviation Museum

Munlochy Clootie Well

Dolphin Watching

rty

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rth

Moray Firth

Hugh Miller Museum

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For

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Dolphin & Seal Centre

Groam House Museum

Storehouse Restaurant

Bunchrew House

Crazy Horse Restaurant

Dores Inn

McRaes of Scotland

Sir Alexander McKenzie

Fi rt

5 Cawdor Castle

M Glen Ord Distillery

Brodie Castle

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Visitor Centre

see page 6 for details

Corrimony 44 Chambered Cairn John Cobb Memorial 46

Glen Affric

45 43 Plodda Falls

see page 7 for details

From Fort William

Outside Inverness 57

THE STOREHOUSE RESTAURANT, FOOD HALL AND GIFT SHOP. Fresh seasonal produce in a beautiful setting. Delicious, homecooked meals. Full Scottish breakfasts and Sunday lunches. Award-winning cakes and pastries. Picnic service. Food hall and gift shop. Clan Museum, and much more. Wi-Fi available Foulis Ferry, Evanton, IV16 9UX Tel: 01349 830038 info@thestorehouseathome.com

CRAZY HORSE COFFEE SHOP & RESTAURANT ‘Traditional Highland Hospitality’- in the heart of the local community. Chef’s Daily Specials and Bistro menu, quality ground coffee & specialist teas, home baked cakes, country style soups and local haggis. OPEN 9.30am to 3.30pm Mon-Fri. 12noon to 3pm Sat. Tel 01349 852030 74 High St. Invergordon IV18 ODL On the scenic shoreline Pictish Trail route (B817) venture off the beaten track from Dalmore Distillery to Kildary.

BUNCHREW HOUSE HOTEL is a 17th century Scottish mansion set by the water with views to the Black Isle and surrounded by woodland gardens. The restaurant serves award winning traditional Scottish cuisine with a modern twist. The menus change frequently to give a unique dining experience. OPEN all year. Tel: 01463 234917. 3miles from Inverness city centre, IV3 8TA

MCRAES OF SCOTLAND. The largest independent Scottish Souvenir Shop in Rossshire, offering a wide selection of Scottish clothing including Cashmere, Tartan Gifts, Silver Jewellery, Local Crafts and much more. Try their in-house MACKINTOSH TEA ROOM for home baking and a taste of the Highlands. OPEN Mon to Thurs 9am to 5pm. Fri 9am to 4pm. Tel: 01349 852519. Shore Road, Invergordon, IV18 0ER

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com