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'My heart's in the Highlands, my heart is not here'
Inverness, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, serves as the administrative hub of the Highlands. As your gateway to Scotland's untamed wilderness, Inverness beckons you with its blend of landscapes, lochs, castles, and rich histories. While the Highlands may appear boundless, dedicating two full days to Inverness promises an immersive experience that's sure to kindle an absolute obsession, leaving you yearning to come back before you've even left.
You simply cannot go to Inverness without a guided tour of some iconic spots in the Highlands. To soak up the most that this historic landscape has to offer, I recommend 3 nights and 2 full days.
Day 1: Rabbie's Tour
Despite battling severe food poisoning (More on what NOT to eat later), my adventure with Rabbie's Tours remains one of the most extraordinary experiences I've ever had the privilege of encountering.
Opting for their Torridon, Applecross, and Eilean Donan Castle 1-day tour proved to be an unforgettable journey through the rugged landscapes of the North Coast 500. Despite my illness, the awe-inspiring scenery and expert guidance provided by Rabbie's Tours ensured that every moment was filled with wonder and discovery.
For pricing and detailed tour information, I recommend visiting their website. And be sure to explore their array of tour options for even more remarkable adventures.
It is commonly known that a Scot has a natural ability to tell captivating stories. We were lucky to bear witness to this. Our lovely guide completely enchanted us with ancient folklore and detailed information. She was engaging and hospitable, and ensured we had the best taste of Scotland.
To truly travel is to indulge in the food. We literally had the taste of Scotland at Applecross Inn.
As expected, I was unable to experience the food. However, I was assured by my caring boyfriend (who purchased ALL the liquid options for me) that the fish pie was unlike anything he had ever tasted before. It can't get more local than sourcing the salmon from the loch directly in front of your pub.
Traveling in the Highlands felt like royalty, with a sleek, modern vehicle providing both comfort and style. The small-scale tour offered space and exclusivity, while the large windows ensured we didn't miss a moment of the stunning scenery. As we continued our journey through the wilderness, it became abundantly clear that we were guests in nature's domain. But be careful, to say you have truly visited Scotland you need to experience its wildlife, regardless of how that may happen. A highland cow may graze nearby, a fish may jump out of a lake, or a deer may simply jump in front of your moving vehicle. In the Highlands, one must always expect the unexpected.
Day 2: Culloden Battlefield
You cannot go to Inverness without paying tribute and respect to this poignant scene. Ironically we failed to make the visit as we did not time our day logically. I am here to avoid you making this same error. The busses only operate every hour from Inverness Bus Station to the Culloden Battlefield. Go straight to the Stagecoach website and plan accordingly. To reach the Culloden Battlefield from the bus station in Inverness, catch Bus 27 at a quarter past the hour. For the return journey, buses depart from the battlefield at ten minutes past the hour, ensuring you can easily make your way back to the station. It's always wise to double-check the schedule for any last-minute changes or adjustments.
In 1881, Duncan Forbes erected the headstones that mark the mass graves of fallen Jacobite soldiers. They lie on either side of an early 19th-century road that runs through the battlefield.
By Shadowgate - originally posted to Flickr as Culloden Battlefield 06, CC BY 2.0.
This pivotal battle, lasting just over an hour, witnessed the brutal demise of thousands of Scottish Highlanders, forever altering the course of Highland life. With the English taking control, the banning of traditional clothing, imprisonment of men, and a transformative shift in Highland culture ensued. Located on Drumossie Moor, the battlefield's atmosphere is described as chilling and unforgettable, serving as a poignant reminder of Scotland's turbulent past.
Suppose some are aiming for minimal planning and have exquisite standards. In that case, you may be happy to know that Rabbie's Tours offers a guided experience to the battlefield with the added benefit of lochs, ancient monasteries, and a river walk. Head to their page for more.
To delve further into Scottish traditions, you can explore my post on Scottish Kilts here and discover the origins and truth behind the clans and tartans of Scotland.
Before You Depart Inverness
Or perhaps as you arrive, take some time to explore the city. I suggest you just wonder. Take some time to cross Greig Street Bridge and note the spectacular city views. Take a walk to Inverness Castle which overlooks the River Ness. As you walk towards the castle from the bridge you can stop at Inverness Cathedral, which is nestled close to the banks of the river. Be sure to purchase a magnet of a Heilan coo (Highland Cow) along the way.
Where to Stay for 3 nights?
We rested our exhausted heads at the Leonardo Hotel. This hotel sits just outside of the centre. It is a 1.8km walk to the main high street. However, if alcohol gets the better of you or you are exhausted from your travels, there are many taxis around. The hotel will gladly arrange one for you.
There are plenty of other options too, with guest houses and other familiar hotel chains like Premier Inn.
We had a room to sleep three. The beds were extremely comfortable and most importantly clean. Finally, we were offered really lovely service from the staff.
What to Eat? (Not)
Understandably my brain wiped out the destination in which I received food poisoning. I recall it being a local pub near the train station, but I could be mistaken. I, naturally, did not eat much on the remainder of the trip. Thus, I will advise you to avoid scampi (made up of langoustine, also known as Dublin Bay prawn) from a pub that does not have exceptional reviews. This may save you an unfortunate ending.
3 stand-out establishments have exceptional reviews and are no-brainers for a true Inverness experience. Dores Inn is a local favourite and the place to experience Scotland's controversial Haggis. I am not a fan, but I suggest you go and find out if you are.
Now for a drink or another dining option, why not visit Gellions Bar, the oldest venue in Inverness. Enjoy the challenge of choosing beers, whiskies, and wines from their extensive and satisfying range. After you have tasted the food and had the drink it is simply time to enjoy the music. Hootananny and Mad Hatters is where traditional grassroots music meets our modern day. Mumford and Sons played there!
I have now advised you on both what to do and what not to do (eat). Inverness is waiting to take your breath away. Alba gu bràth! (Scotland Forever!).
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