Adventure in Inverness, Inverness-shire!

Fort George

Why Visit?

Adventure Lover"s Guide to Fort George: A Day of Historical Exploration

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Begin your journey to Fort George by catching the early morning breeze in Inverness. Fort George is easily accessible by car or bus—a scenic 30-minute drive along the A96, with signs guiding you to the site. As you walk through the imposing gates, you’re stepping into one of the most outstanding fortifications in Europe, built in the 18th century.

Start your visit at the visitor center where you can grab a map and learn about the fort’s strategic importance after the Battle of Culloden in 1746. The fort’s design is a testament to 18th-century military engineering. Wander through the garrison buildings and the Grand Magazine, originally designed to hold 2,500 barrels of gunpowadner—an adventurer"s dream!

Midday: Wildlife Watching & Picnic

Head to the ramparts for breathtaking views of the Moray Firth. The area is renowned for sightings of bottlenose dolphins—a perfect spot for a midday break. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sprawling views while keeping your binoculars handy for dolphin spotting.

Afternoon: Highlanders Museum & Ghostly Tales

Post-lunch, visit the Highlanders Museum, housing an impressive collection of items from the famous Highland Regiments. Here, delve into the personal stories of soldiers who lived and served at the fort.

For thrill-seekers, join one of the guided ghost tours offered in the afternoon. The storied walls of Fort George are not just about military history, but also tales of the supernatural. Explore hidden dungeons and listen to eerie stories of the fort’s past residents.

Evening: Sunset and Reflection

As the day winds down, find a quiet spot along the walls to watch the sunset over the Firth, a perfect end to an adventure-filled day at Fort George.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Clava Cairns

Why Visit?

Epic Highland Adventure: Clava Cairns and Beyond

Embark on a journey through time and legend with a thrilling visit to the Clava Cairns, situated just a short drive from Inverness. This lesser-known yet profoundly mystical site offers adventure seekers a unique glimpse into Scotland"s ancient past.

Morning: Arrival at Inverness

Start your day early in the vibrant city of Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. Grab a hearty Scottish breakfast at a local café before heading out. From the city center, Clava Cairns is an easy 20-minute drive. Rent a car to experience the scenic beauty of the Highlands at your own pace, or hop on the regular buses departing from Inverness Bus Station.

Mid-Morning: Exploring Clava Cairns

Arrive at Clava Cairns, a complex of Bronze Age circular chamber tombs and standing stones that date back about 4,000 years. Roam freely among the three main cairns and the surrounding stone circles. As you wander, consider the alignment of these structures with the winter solstice sunset, showcasing the astronomical knowledge and skill of their builders. This site"s mystical ambiance might feel familiar; it"s said to be one of the inspirations for the "Outlander" series.

Lunch: Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the tranquil setting surrounded by woods and the sound of the nearby River Nairn. Local shops in Inverness offer perfect picnic supplies such as Scottish smoked salmon or locally made cheeses.

Afternoon: Culloden Battlefield

Post-lunch, drive 10 minutes to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last hand-to-hand battle fought on British soil. The visitor center offers immersive exhibits and guided tours that bring the harrowing 1746 battle to life.

Late Afternoon: Return to Inverness

Head back to Inverland to explore its picturesque streets or perhaps enjoy a boat trip on Loch Ness as the sun sets. Indulge in a dinner at one of the city’s riverside restaurants, reflecting on a day steeped in history and mystery.

Whether you"re a history buff, an Outlander fan, or an adventure seeker, Clava Cairns promises a day of discovery and enchantment in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Caledonian Canal

Why Visit?

Discovering the Caledonian Canal: An Adventure Lover"s Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling escape through Scotland"s stunning landscapes with an adventure along the Caledonian Canal, a spectacular feat of engineering stretching from Inverness to Fort William. This 60-mile waterway, flanked by the majestic Great Glen and scenic lochs including Loch Ness, isn"t just a path through the Highlands but a gateway to exhilarating experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Inverness

Fly into Inverness Airport and settle into the vibrant city. Rent a bike from a local shop and prep for your journey with a serene ride along the canal’s beginning, witnessing the juxtaposition of urban life and pastoral beauty. Overnight in Inverness.

Day 2: Kayaking on Loch Ness

Head to Dochgarroch Lock, just a short bus ride from Inverness city centre. Join a guided kayaking tour to explore Loch Ness. Keep your eyes peeled - not just for the mythical Nessie, but for the diverse wildlife that calls these waters home. Paddle back to Dochgarroch and camp nearby.

Day 3: Hiking the Great Glen Way

Get an early start and hike a segment of the Great Glen Way. This well-marked trail runs alongside the canal offering immersive views and peaceful solitude. Depending on your pace, aim to reach Fort Augustus. Explore this quaint village, learn about its lock system and enjoy local cuisine. Stay overnight in a cozy inn.

Day 4: Mountain Biking and Departure

Conclude your adventure with mountain biking along the towpaths and forest trails near Neptunes Staircase, the impressive ladder of eight locks located at Banavie, near Fort William. Rent bikes locally and after an exhilarating ride, catch a scenic train ride from Fort William back to Inverness.

Interesting Facts

- The Caledonian Canal was designed by famous engineer Thomas Telford and completed in 1822.

- Only one-third of the canal is man-made; the rest runs through natural Scottish lochs.

This journey through the heart of the Scottish Highlands offers not just a physical challenge but a profound connection to the wild, storied landscape of Scotland.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Loch Ness

Why Visit?

Begin your Loch Ness adventure in the charming village of Fort Augustus, situated at the southern tip of the loch. It"s easily accessible by car from Inverness, just a scenic 45-minute drive away, winding through the lush Scottish Highlands. Fort Augustus offers quaint cafes and shops, perfect for stocking up before you embark on your Nessie-hunting expedition.

Kick off your adventure by renting a kayak or canoe from a local outfitter such as Monster Activities, and paddle the mysterious waters of Loch Ness. Not only does this give you a unique perspective of the Loch, but it also immerses you in the serenity and beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for any unusual ripples or movements on the water – legend has it Nessie might make an appearance!

For a deeper dive into the lore of Loch Ness, head north to Drumnadrochit and visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. Learn about the natural history of the loch as well as the folklore surrounding its famous mythical inhabitant. The exhibition is an engaging mix of scientific explorations and local myths, providing a comprehensive look at what makes Loch Ness a global phenomenon.

Adventure seekers should not miss the opportunity to hike the trails around the loch. One of the most rewarding hikes is the trek up to the Falls of Foyers, located on the eastern shore of Loch Ness. The falls plunge 165 feet into the gorge below and offer stunning views. The trailhead is easily accessible by car, and the hike provides a perfect mix of physical challenge and natural beauty.

Conclude your Loch Ness adventure with a sunset at Urquhart Castle. Just a short drive from Drumnadrochit, this historic, dramatically ruined castle offers panoramic views of the loch – an ideal spot to ponder the mysteries hidden beneath its dark waters. Whether or not you spot Nessie, the spirit of adventure and the breathtaking Highland landscapes are sure to make your Loch Ness tour unforgettable.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Inverness Castle

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling adventure to the heart of the Scottish Highlands with a visit to the magnificent Inverness Castle. This iconic structure, perched on a cliff overlooking the River Ness, offers not only a deep dive into Scotland"s rich history but also promises breathtaking views and intriguing tales.

### Morning: Arrival in Inverness

Begin your journey with a picturesque train ride to Inverness, easily accessible from major cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow in approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, a short walk from Inverness railway station through the quaint streets of the city will lead you to the castle. En route, grab a quick coffee and a snack from a local café to energize you for the day ahead.

### Mid-Morning: Explore Inverness Castle

Inverness Castle, mostly a Victorian reconstruction from 1836, stands on the site of an 11th-century defensive structure. Although the Castle itself is not open to the public as it serves as a courthouse, the recently opened Inverness Castle Viewpoint in the North Tower offers a panoramic spectacle of the city and beyond. Climb the tower for a small fee and immerse yourself in the sweeping vistas of the Highland landscape.

### Afternoon: Adventure Activities

Post-castle exploration, gear up for some adventure. Take a short drive or join a guided tour to the nearby Loch Ness. Here, you can indulge in various water sports such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, offering a unique vantage point of the legendary waters and perhaps a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

### Late Afternoon: Hiking at Ness Islands

Conclude your day with a serene hike at the Ness Islands, a group of small islands in the River Ness connected by Victorian footbridges. It"s a peaceful retreat with natural trails full of local wildlife, perfect for unwinding after an exhilarating day.

This action-packed itinerary promises a perfect blend of history, panoramic views, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable visit to Inverness and its legendary landscapes.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.