Inverness 2015 no bleeds by Explore Inverness

2015/2016

explore plore

www.explorescotland.net

Inverness & Loch Ness

Invergordon, Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit 1

LOCH NESS CRUISES AND TOURS BY JACOBITE – The other legend on Loch Ness. Five star cruises and tours with Loch Ness by Jacobite. Choose from one hour cruises to full day experiences, hear captivating tales surrounding our world-famous monster, visit historic Urquhart Castle and the Caledonian Canal, whilst taking in the majesty of Loch Ness. Tel: 01463 233999 www.jacobite.co.uk (Map Grid D1)

THE TOMATIN DISTILLERY. Experience the softer side of the Highlands at this award winning distillery. Home of the finest Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, established in 1897. Enjoy one of the tours: The Legacy Tour, The Taste of Tomatin Tour or the Single Cask Experience. OPEN Mon - Fri (all year) 10.00am to 5.00pm. Sat (April -October) 10.00am to 5.00pm. Sun (April - October) 12noon to 5.00pm. Tel: 01463 248144. Located 16mls south of Inverness and 15 mls north of Aviemore on the A9. www.Tomatin.com

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 the fateful day in April 1746. Culloden now boasts a visitor centre and an exciting interactive exhibition. Follow characters who were actually involved in the battle, experience the true horror of the battle in the 360 degree immersive film, take a battlefield tour, and watch the daily ‘Living History’ presentations. Visitor Centre, Restaurant and Shop OPEN: 1 Feb to 31 Mar, 10am-4pm. 1 Apr to 31 May, 9-5.30. 1 Jun to 31 Aug, 9-6. 1 Sep to 31 Oct, 9-5.30. 1 Nov to 23 Dec, 10-4. Battlefield OPEN: All year, daily. On B9006, 5miles E of Inverness. IV2 5EU. Tel: 01463 796090. www.nts.org.uk. 4

NEW ERA CRUISES Eco-friendly boat trips on the Beauly Firth from North Kessock. Fine scenery plus a 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.spanglefish.com/newera

HUGH MILLER BIRTHPLACE COTTAGE AND MUSEUM. Iconic thatched birthplace cottage of the 19th century geologist, writer and social justice campaigner Hugh Miller. In the Georgian building next door, Miller’s story can be discovered. There are fossils to pick up and lives to examine. OPEN: 23 Mar to 30 Sep, 12-5 (daily). 1 Oct to 31Oct, 12-5 (Tue, Thur & Fri). 22miles NE of Inverness. IV11 8XA. Tel: 01381 600245. www.nts.org.uk.

EDEN COURT THEATRE is one the best art centres in the country with two theatres, two new cinemas, plus two dance and drama studios. The theatre is sited in the grounds of what had been the official residence of the Bishops of Moray. Daily film shows, touring theatre shows include drama, musicals, choral, dance, comedy, talks, special events and regular classes for all ages. We strongly recommend you collect one their brochures or go online to view What’s On. The Restaurant at Eden Court has its own Head Chef and his team who are dedicated to cooking the very best local produce, at the best possible prices. Bishops Road, Inverness IV3 5SA Box Office Tel: 01463 234 234 www.eden-court.co.uk (Map Grid Ref: C1) 5

HOOTANANNY CEILIDH BAR LIVE SCOTTISH MUSIC EVERY NIGHT Scottish Music Pub of the year 2010, Traditional Scottish Food 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)

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-May: Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm. Sun April 5th 12noon-5pm. June-Sept: Mon-Fri: 10am-5pm (6pm July & Aug) Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 12noon-5pm. Oct: Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm. Nov-Dec: Mon-Fri: 11am-4pm. Christmas & New Year: closed 25-26 December, 1-2 January. Muir of Ord, Ross-shire, IV6 7UJ Tel: 01463 872004 8

BRODIE CASTLE.This 16th century castle contains fine furniture, porcelain and a major collection of English and Dutch paintings. The estate includes a walled garden, nature trail and adventure playground and picnic area. A tearoom and shop within the castle. Castle OPEN: 29 Mar to 31 Oct, see website for daily opening times. Last tour 1hr before closing. Grounds OPEN: All year, daily. Off A96, 24 miles E of Inverness. IV36 2TE. Tel: 01309 641371. www.nts.org.uk.

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!).

3. Select from:- Hotels; B&Bs-Guest Houses; Self-catering. TO BOOK ACCOMMODATION 1. Dial 01133 208108 Easy to use, calls at your standard rates, direct to room 2. Enter the standard dial code for area you want to book. providers Inverness 2015.indd 1

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Shop Inverness 10

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 workshops 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)

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”. It exhibits paintings, sculpture, handmade prints and unique, artist-designed crafts and jewellery from some of the most talented makers in the UK. Its regularly changing exhibitions are staffed by practising artists. OPEN Mon to Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm 43 Castle Street, IV2 3DU Tel:01463 729512 www.castlegallery.co.uk (Map Grid C2) 13

THE HALL OF NAMES. Hall of names, heraldry and coat of arms. Know the history of your family name, its meaning and origin. Engraved onto glass, printed on scrolls, embroidered arms, coasters, key rings and much more situated in the clock tower, which is all that remains of the old inverness jail. 2 Bridge Street, Inverness, IV1 1HD Tel: 01463 709937 (Map Grid: 2C)

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)

www.InvernessVictorianMarket.co.uk IV1 1PT (Map Grid: B2) 15

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 £20. 12 Church St. IV1 1EA Tel: 01463 710664 (Map Grid: B2)

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)

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THE PHOENIX ALE HOUSE one of the original Inverness traditional pubs, with 16 real ales on tap including the local Cromarty Brewery and Loch Ness Brewery ales. Good food, great entertainment, wines, spirits and malt whiskies too. OPEN Mon to Sat 11am to 01am, Sun 12 noon to midnight. 110 Academy Street, Inverness, IV1 1LX Tel: 01463 240300 (Map Grid:B2)

CAFÉ 1 has an excellent reputation built over the last 16 years for high quality modern Scottish cuisine. Only fresh locally sourced produce is 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)

SAMS INDIAN CUISINE offers authentic Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. A large selection of appetisers along with different tandoori meals (cooked in a special clay oven), garlic chilli, palak, biriyani, balti (cooked in Punjabi way) and wide range of classic dishes. European dishes for the non-curry eaters. Chicken nuggets or fish fingers with chips and beans for the kids. Some of Sams chef’s special dishes are unique in the local area, giving a taste of Indian with the Highland touch . Fully licensed. Eat In, Take away or Home Delivery service. OPEN Mon-Wed 12 noon-2.00pm and 5.00pm -11.00pm. Thurs-Sun 12noon-11.00pm. 77/79 Church Street Inverness IV1 1ES Tel: 01463 713111 or 711400 www.samscuisine.co.uk (Map Grid B2)

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

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)

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)

LA TORTILLA - TAPAS & WINE BAR. You really should visit this restaurant! A unique local restaurant 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 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) 24

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)

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com Inverness 2015.indd 2

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Eating Out COFFEE AFFAIR has the very best coffees in the Highlands 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 and cakes. Tel: 01463 709629. 24 Church Street, Inverness, IV1 1QA www.coffee-affair.net (Map Grid: B2)

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)

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.

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 Find us on facebook (Map Grid: B3)

ORIENTAL CHOICE. The only authentic Chinese Restaurant in the Highlands. Traditional Chinese cuisine at its very 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)

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)

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 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. Cream Teas and Highland Teas served in the Art Gallery Cafe from 12pm to 5pm. Station Square Inverness IV1 1LG. Tel: 01463 251451or 231926 (Map Grid: B3)

CINNAMON INDIAN RESTAURANT has an excellent reputation for the high standard and consistency of it‘s cuisine served by attentive staff. ‘Best Indian Restaurant in Inverness’, a Trip Advisor comment. 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

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 Thursdays. Tel: 01463 233077. 73 Queensgate,Inverness,IV1 1DG (Map Grid:B2)

LITTLE ITALY RESTAURANT an authentic Italian restaurant. Serving quality Italian food, you’ll feel like you’re in Italy. A fantastic selection of meat, seafood and vegeterian dishes, all cooked by Italian chefs. Catering for dietary requirements, just let them know in advance. Families welcome. Kitchen OPEN 12noon - 9.00pm all year. 8 Stephen’s Brae Inverness IV2 3JN Tel: 01463 712963. littleitalyinverness@yahoo.com (Map Grid C3)

HOOTANNANY. Scottish Cuisine Scotch Broth, Highland Stovies, Haggis Neeps and Tatties, Highland Beef, Venison....... Scottish Music. OPEN: lunch and dinner daily Mon-Sat. 67 Church St, IV1 1ES Tel: 01463 233651 www.hootananny.co.uk (Map Grid: B2)

Active Inverness PhoneToBook - a new concept using the very latest telephone technology, believed to be the first of its kind anywhere, developed here in Scotland. • • • • • • •

Telephone-only accommodation booking system Open to everyone (almost 1 in 5 UK adults are not on the Internet) Call anywhere from touchtone landline or mobile phone (no internet or WiFi, laptop or smartphone apps required) Phone calls at your standard network rates (no extra hidden costs) Calls go direct to room provider (no middle men) Choose accommodation available for the day of your choice (on the day or book ahead) Ideal for visually impaired users versus web based booking systems

TO BOOK ACCOMMODATION 1. Dial 01133 208108 2. Enter the dialling code for the town or area you wish to book in 3. Select the accommodation of your choice from :- Hotels, - B&Bs - Guest Houses, - Back Packers Hostels - Cottages - Self Catering ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS 1. Register your accommodation at www.phonetobook.com 2. Avoid the high commission rates of Internet Booking systems

INVERNESS OLD HIGH CHURCH is the oldest church in Inverness. Where it is believed St Columba preached in 565AD. The King gifted this site and the Island of Iona to St Columba. The floor of the sanctuary is of Iona marble. The present church C1772, cost £1450 & seated a congregation of 1860 people. Church records from 1740 show repairs required, as a consequence of the Government forces using the church to house Jacobite prisoners after the battle of Culloden. Those condemned to death were executed in the graveyard. Church Street, Inverness. (Map Ref: B2)

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

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)

For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Inverness.com Inverness 2015.indd 3

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Merkinch Nature Reserve

COLOUR KEY PLACES TO VISIT

SHOPS & SERVICES 1

SPORT & LEISURE 1

EATING OUT 1

Cash Machines £

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Inverness Old High Church 35

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Victorian Market

Falcon Square

Eastgate Centre

the om r f A9 North

Railway Station

Bus Station

Caledonian Thistle Stadium

Culloden Battlefield

Inverness

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TO BOOK ACCOMMODATION 1. Dial 01133 208108 2. Enter the standard dial code for area you want to bo

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Floral Hall Gardens & Coffee Shop

Northern Meeting Park

Infirm Bridgary e

Inverness Castle

Be ll Pa field rk

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ant to book.

Select from:- Hotels; B&Bs-Guest Houses; Self-catering.

Easy to use, calls at your standard rates, direct to room providers

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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

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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.

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.

FOYERS FALLS. A short walk down the steep gorge leads to a viewpoint across from the falls with an 80ft drop. Well worth the short walk to the view. Continue on the path down the gorge for other way-marked walks in this beautiful area. OPEN all year. Free admission. Car park beside the B852 and coffee shop. Signposted by the road, 11.2 miles south of Dores on B852. 45

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THE HANGING TREE - A fantastic old Spanish Sweet Chestnut tree. The 2nd oldest chestnut tree in the UK (possibly the oldest in Scotland).The tree stands in the grounds of the Old Manse (now the Benleva Hotel) where the clergy could no doubt oversee the hangings! Nearby is the Kilmore cemetery. Kilmore Road, Drumnadrochit.

CALEDONIAN CANAL - considered by many to be one of the greatest water-ways of the world, a masterpiece of canal engineering, slicing through the lengh of the Great Glen, a massive geological fault line running east to west. The canal runs for for 62mls (100kms) from Inverness to Fort William, a link to a chain of natural lochs. It was constructed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1822. Enjoy walking or cycling along the tow-paths.

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. 41

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.

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. 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. 44

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.

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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

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.

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.

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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. 52

ADMISSION IS FREE (Wheelchair access to ground floor only). OPEN: 3 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

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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. 53

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.

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Eating Out

Shops

Sport

Places to Visit 0

58 57

Dolphin Watching

Sir Alexander McKenzie

Dolphin & Seal Centre

Groam House Museum

Storehouse Restaurant

Bunchrew House

Moray Firth

Hugh Miller Museum

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eor

For

52 49

8 Brodie Castle

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Fi rt

New Era Cruises Munlochy Clootie Well

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Glen Ord Distillery

Visitor Centre

Crazy Horse Restaurant 56 58

McRaes of Scotland

see page 6 for details

Foyers Falls

3 Tomatin Distillery

Corrimony 43 Chambered Cairn John Cobb Memorial 45

Glen Affric

44 41 Plodda Falls

Inverness Airport

54 Dornoch Firth

see page 7 for details

From Fort William

Outside Inverness 55

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

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

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CR A Z Y H O R SE

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 Monday - Friday. 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.

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

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