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| In Brief | 9. Day Excursions | ||
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You are spoilt for choice when it comes to longer days out, so I will recommend some of the places that my family and I find the best. Glen Affric OS 25 & 26 Approximately 2 hours travelling via Inverness, the A92 down Loch Ness to Drumnadrochit, then on to the A831 to Cannich. Glen Affric is signposted from the village, roughly 1 mile ahead. Arguably the most beautiful glen in Scotland, the public road terminates at the top car park after 10 miles, passing on the way a myriad of loch views, mountain views, waterfalls, pine forests and birch woodlands. Forest Enterprise provides parking, toilets, and wayfaring maps at some of the best spots. In my opinion, if you only visit one place in the Highlands, then this is the one, especially when the autumn colours are at their best. In the same area, if your scenic appetite has still not been satiated, continue beyond the entrance to Glen Affric towards Tomich and follow the signs for the Plodda Falls, a truly spectacular Waterfall. If your gastric appetite needs satiating, there is a pleasant bar and restaurant at the hotel in Tomich. A lovely route home, though a bit longer, is to return to Cannich, then follow the signs to Beaulieu, then Inverness. Upper Speyside OS 36 This area lies between Grantown-on-Spey and Newtonmore and is between 1 and 2 hours drive. There is a veritable feast of places to visit in this area - as well as the superb walking and cycling to be had in this area, I can certainly recommend the following:- Glenmore, Loch Morlich and the Mountain Railway. Rothiemurchas Forest at Inverdruie, near Aviemore The Highland Wildlife Park (between Kincraig & Kingussie) Loch Insh Sailing and Canoeing Centre near Kincraig. Landmark Centre at Carrbridge Highland Folk Museum at Kingussie The Strathspey Steam Railway at Aviemore & Boat of Garten Royal Deeside OS 43 & 44 This circular route provides another great day out to either visit Balmoral Castle and its environs, or explore Upper Deeside. Unfortunately time will not allow you to do both on the same day. The whole circuit should take about 4 –5 hours driving through magnificent scenery, heather clad hills, mountain passes and river valleys, with lots of interesting places to visit. Note: Balmoral Castle is normally open 1st April-31st July. Take the B9018 off the A98 to Keith, the B9014 to Dufftown, then the B9009 joining the B9008 to Tomintoul. ½ mile before Tomintoul turn left on to the famous A939 to Cockbridge /Corgaff (of weather forecast fame). This road, called the Lecht, traverses the skiing area where there are all year round activities. A few miles beyond Corgarff, turn right still on the A939, signposted Ballater and Braemar. Just after General Wades hump backed bridge at Gairnsheil, turn right on to the B976 to Balmoral. On joining the A93, a short diversion to visit Balmoral Castle and Crathie Church is worthwhile, otherwise turn right to Braemar. If you have time to spare, which is unlikely, to savour the essence of Royal Deeside go west out of Braemar to Linn `O Dee and the Glens beyond, where every turn is a picture and picnic spot. You are now ½ way. Return through Braemar to Ballater on the A93. Ballater can be by-passed, but this delightful town with all its royal connections is well worth a stop. Continue on the A93 for about 5 miles then turn left on to the A97 signposted Huntly. This winding route crosses over quite a number of different roads but keep alert and stick to the A97 all the way to Huntly. Turn left at the roundabout onto the A96 for Keith and so full circle. In August and September, when the heather is at its best, this run is truly spectacular, but unfortunately, Balmoral Castle and grounds are closed as the Royal Family are in residence. But it does increase the likelihood of bumping into them! I had the pleasure of re-visiting Balmoral Castle in June 2011 and feel compelled to state that it is a much improved and worthwhile attraction. It is now so much more than a monument to Victorianism, with static displays of royal carriages, an informative exhibition of the local fauna and fauna, photographic and art gallery, restaurant and gift shop in the Mews, In the castle only the ballroom with its display of Royal memorabilia is open the public, but visitors are encouraged to explore the gardens, extensive grounds and glorious walks. The castle, grounds and exhibitions etc. are normally open from April 1st – July 31st Loch Ness OS 26 A few miles west of Inverness. Regular sailings to Urquhart Castle on Jacobite Cruises. Alternatively explore by car by taking a circular route round the Loch via Fort Augustus. Black Isle OS 21 & 26 On approach to Inverness take A9 over the Kessock Bridge and take circular route to include Avoch, Fortrose, Rosemarkie & Cromarty. Much of Cromarty is owned by the National Trust of Scotland and is of particular historic and scenic interest. Chanonry Point sign posted from Fortrose is one of the best places to view dolphins & porpoises. Highland Games This very Scottish spectacle should be experienced at least once. They really are quite unique and make for a splendid day out. Throughout the summer season there are games on somewhere every week, however it is best to contact the Elgin Tourist Office situated in the Elgin Library, Cooper Park - 01343 562608 to get dates. Some of the premier Games are held at: Braemar * Ballater * Aboyne * Lonach * Dufftown * Aberlour |
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