A flight to Inverness takes you to the Scottish Highlands’ capital, at the Great Glen’s north-eastern end, founded before AD 565 when St Columba visited Pictish King Brude. The 19th-century Inverness Castle occupies a spot where Macbeth reputedly killed Duncan nearly 1,000 years ago yet, despite King David’s 1158 Royal Charter, it took until 2001 to make Inverness Scotland’s newest city.
Step back in time to discover the austere monument marking Bonnie Prince Charlie’s last stand at nearby Culloden (the last battle on British soil). Immerse yourself in Inverness’ local culture by visiting a traditional Highland Games or the world’s most densely populated area of distilleries on the Speyside whisky trail.
Away from Inverness explore the Highlands’ purple-heathered glens or take a chance on spying Nessie, Loch Ness’ monster, just ten miles away. See seals and dolphins from Spey Bay's Moray Firth Wildlife Centre or discover the mysteries of Findhorn.
Locals have a taste for Highland venison, beef, salmon and trout, followed by a distinctive single malt whisky from one of Speyside’s famous distilleries. Don’t shy away from traditional haggis: yes, it’s stuffed sheep’s bladder, but the blend of spices and meat is particularly tasty. |