Inverness

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Inverness, Scotland

Overview

Inverness, the capital city of the Highlands, offers a unique blend of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and modern amenities. This guide will help you make the most out of your visit to this magical city.

Places to Go

  1. Inverness Castle: A historic landmark overlooking the River Ness, housing the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.
  2. Culloden Battlefield: Visit the site of the last battle on British soil in 1746 between the Jacobites and the Government Army.
  3. Loch Ness: Don’t miss the chance to spot ‘Nessie’, take a boat tour or visit Urquhart Castle.
  4. Cairngorms National Park: Explore Scotland’s largest national park, home to five of the UK’s six native species of mammals.
  5. Aberdeen Beach: A beautiful sandy beach perfect for picnics, walks, or simply relaxing.
  6. Inverness Cathedral: A stunning gothic revival cathedral built in the late 19th century.
  7. Leault Stone Circle: A lesser-known but equally enchanting stone circle near Inverness.

Activities

  1. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours: Spot dolphins, porpoises, minke whales, and even orcas!
  2. Hiking: Explore the Great Glen Way or the Moray Firth Trail for stunning views and wildlife spotting.
  3. Golfing: Inverness is home to several golf courses, including Castle Stuart Golf Links.
  4. Fishing: The River Ness is famous for its salmon fishing.
  5. Visit a Whisky Distillery: Take a tour and learn about the whisky-making process at one of the many distilleries in the area.

Where to Eat

  1. The Mustard Seed Restaurant: Offers contemporary Scottish cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
  2. Elena’s Restaurant: Serves delicious Greek and Mediterranean dishes.
  3. Cafe 1: A popular spot for breakfast or brunch, with a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
  4. The Kessar Indian Restaurant: Offers authentic Indian cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Where to Stay

  1. The Kingsmills Hotel: A 4-star hotel offering luxury accommodation and a spa.
  2. The Inverness Youth Hostel: Ideal for budget travelers, with comfortable dorms and private rooms available.
  3. The Balvenie Inn: A charming inn set in the heart of Speyside whisky country.
  4. Ashwood Hotel: A family-run hotel offering affordable accommodation and a warm Scottish welcome.

Things to Know

  1. Inverness is the northernmost city in the UK and experiences milder winters than other parts of Scotland.
  2. The currency used in Scotland is pound sterling (GBP).
  3. English is widely spoken, but some locals may also speak Gaelic.
  4. The best way to get around Inverness is by walking or using public transport.

Transportation

  1. Inverness Airport: Serves domestic and international flights.
  2. Train Station: Connects Inverness to other major cities in Scotland and the UK.
  3. Bus Service: Provides frequent services throughout the Highlands and to other parts of Scotland.

Tips

  1. Check the weather forecast before heading out, especially during the winter months.
  2. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot.
  3. Bring cash as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept card payments.
  4. Enjoy the local culture and cuisine, but don’t forget to try haggis!
  5. Respect the environment and wildlife while visiting national parks and nature reserves.