Welcome to the Port of cromarty firth, invergordon Your GatewaY to the ScottiSh hiGhlandS make the Most of Your Visit... The Invergordon Mural Trail Cover photo : Typical Highland scenery. Photo © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam 2 fàilte
WELCOME from thE Port aND thE rESiDENtS of iNVErGorDoN
it’s an honour and privilege to welcome you respected courses – royal Dornoch, fortrose, to invergordon, on the shores of the beautiful tain and Castle Stuart. ride the Strathspey Cromarty firth. Steam railway or explore the Cairngorms National Park and inverewe Gardens…and of the Cromarty firth is your gateway to the course, you can discover for yourselves the majestic Scottish highlands. With over 85 truth behind the famous ‘Nessie’ legend. different shore excursion options, you are guaranteed to find an authentic Highland Whilst a day is never long enough in the experience from invergordon. Experience rich, Highlands, this guide aims to ensure you find Scottish history at the Castles of Dunrobin, your own memorable experience, so you can mey, Cawdor, Eilean Donan and Urquhart. make the most of your time and will hopefully Play golf on Scotland’s oldest and most want to come back and visit us again.
Allison McGuire George Carson Cruise manager, Port of Cromarty firth Chairman, invergordon tourism alliance
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 3 C’est un honneur et un privilège de vous accueillir à Invergordon, sur les rivages du magnifique Cromarty Firth
Le Cromarty Firth est votre porte d’entrée vers Cairngorms et les jardins d’Inverewe ... et les la majestueuse région des Highlands écossais. passagers peuvent découvrir la vérité derrière Avec plus de 85 options d’excursions, vous êtes la célèbre légende du «Loch Ness Monster», assuré de trouver une expérience authentique avec des croisières sur le Loch Ness. des Highlands au départ d’ Invergordon. Bien qu’une journée ne soit jamais assez Découvrez la riche histoire écossaise des longue dans la région des Highlands, ce guide châteaux de Dunrobin, Mey, Cawdor, Eilean Donan et Urquhart. Jouez au golf sur les a pour but de vous assurer une expérience parcours les plus anciens et les plus cotés inoubliable, de facon à ce que vous puissiez d’Écosse - Royal Dornoch, Fortrose, Tain et profiter au maximum de votre temps et, Castle Stuart. Prenez le train à vapeur de espérons-le, revenir nous rendre visite à Strathspey ou explorez le parc national de nouveau.
Herzlich willkommen in Invergordon. Wir freuen uns, dass Sie uns hier an der Küste des schönen Cromarty Firth besuchen.
Der Cromarty Firth ist Ihre Pforte zu der im Cairngorms Nationalpark oder den Gärten grandiosen Region der Scottish Highlands. Sie von Inverewe … Natürlich haben Sie auch haben die Wahl zwischen 85 verschiedenen Gelegenheit, der berühmten Nessie-Legende Exkursionen, was Ihnen die Gelegenheit gibt, auf den Zahn zu fühlen, indem Sie eine von Invergordon aus die Region der Highlands in ihrer ganzen Vielfalt zu genießen. Bootfahrt über Loch Ness machen. Erfahren Sie die ereignisreiche schottische Ein Tag ist ja nie lang genug, um die Geschichte aus nächster Nähe, indem Sie Highlands in vollem Umfang zu erforschen; eines der Schlösser von Dunrobin, Mey, aber der vorliegende Leitfaden wird Ihnen Cawdor, Eilean Donan bzw. die Burgruine dabei helfen, Ihre eigenen unvergesslichen von Urquhart Castle besichtigen. Je nach Erlebnisse zu finden, indem Sie die Ihnen zur Vorliebe können Sie auch eine Runde Golf Verfügung stehende Zeit voll ausschöpfen. spielen - auf den Golfplätzen Royal Dornoch, Fortrose, Tain oder Castle Stuart. Andere Vielleicht bekommen Sie dann sogar Alternativen sind eine Dampfzugfahrt mit der Lust, Ihren Besuch bei uns recht bald zu Strathspey Steam Railway oder ein Besuch wiederholen. 4 Bienvenida del Puerto y residentes de invergordon
Es un honor y un privilegio de darles las o vayan de exploración al Parque Nacional bienvenidas a Invergordon, el puerto que se de las montañas Cairngorm y los Jardines encuentra en la ribera del firth de Cromarty. de inverewe….y también podrán descubrir El firth de Cromarty es una de la entradas la verdad si mismos que sera la leyenda del principales para conocer a las majestuosas famoso Nessie, tomando un viaje en crucero Alturas de Escocia. De aquí tenemos un por el Lago Ness. total de 85 excursiones que garantizan la Mientras que un solo día no es suficiente autentica experiencia de las alturas desde tiempo para estar en todas las alturas, este Invergordon. Verán la riqueza de la historia guía pretende asegurarles que podrán escocesa en los castillos de Dunrobin, mey, encontrar su propia experiencia memorable, Cawdor, Eilean Donan y Urquhart. Pueden que aun que fuese una visita corta, ojalá jugar al golf en algunas de las más antiguas tengan el deseo de visitarnos otra vez. y respetadas canchas de Escocia - royal hasta la próxima……. Dornoch, fortrose, tain y Castle Stuart. tomen el tren a vapor del ferrocarril de Strathspey
È un onore e un privilegio darvi il benvenuto a invergordon, sulle sponde del meraviglioso Cromarty firth.
Il fiordo di Cromarty è la porta di accesso alle o esplorate il parco nazionale Cairngorms e i maestose Highlands scozzesi. Con oltre 85 giardini botanici di inverewe… e naturalmente, diverse escursioni in partenza da Invergordon, potrete scoprire da soli la verità sulla famosa avete la garanzia di gustare un’autentica leggenda di Loch Ness con crociere sul lago. esperienza delle Highlands. Assaporate la ricca storia scozzese nei castelli di Dunrobin, Mey, anche se la giornata non è mai lunga Cawdor, Eilean Donan e Urquhart. Giocate a abbastanza nelle Highlands, questa guida golf su alcuni dei più antichi e rinomati campi ha lo scopo di aiutarvi nella scelta di di Scozia – Royal Dornoch, Fortrose, Tain, e un’esperienza memorabile, così che possiate Castle Stuart. Viaggiate sui treni a vapore godere al meglio la vostra giornata e vi venga lungo la ferrovia Strathspey Steam railway la voglia di tornare a farci visita.
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 5 invergordon to inverness Cruise the Highlands
on the bus ts are available Contactless paymen euros! We evevenen acceptaccept euros!
tle from Invergordon to Inverness and Urquhart Cas Take service 925 for only £12.40 or €15
service 5A to visitvisit Culloden Culloden Battlefield Battlefield From InvernessInverness take take service
Stagecoach offers affordable bus travel to some of the region’s best attractions: Culloden Battlefield, Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. Enjoy unlimited travel with our great value dayrider tickets.
Plan your journey at stagecoachbus.com
6 THANK YOU
thank you for booking your shore excursion Booking your excursions in this way ensures with your cruise operator. the local community receives the maximum long term value from your visit. it provides Local organisations work alongside your an industry that is sustainable for the future, cruise operator and their team using our which is important for local businesses in knowledge and expertise of the area to ensure rural areas, and offers you protection if you are you maximise your time onshore and enjoy delayed on your trip for any reason. cultural experiences that expose you to the true majesty of the highlands.
Scottish pipers bid cruise passengers farewell
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 7 VISIT THE MIGHTY FORT
To mark the 250th anniversary of Fort George, (15 minutes from Inverness) enjoy 20% discount* off your entry ticket on presentation of this advert at site.
*Discount is available on site only and is valid until 31 March 2020.
historicenvironment.scot/fort-george
8 What WoULD yoU LIKE TO DO TODAY? YOU DON’T JUSt ViSit thE hiGhLaNDS...
Passengers Become Passengers Become CHAMPIONS SHOPAHOLICS | pages 10 - 13 | pages 34 - 44
Passengers Become Passengers Become HISTORIANS TASTERS | pages 14 - 21 | pages 45 - 49
Passengers Become Passengers Become SPOTTERS ADVENTURERS | pages 22 - 27 | pages 50 - 57
Urquhart Castle. Dolphin watching with EcoVentures Photo © historic Environment Scotland
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 9 WHERE PASSENGERS BECOME Champions
The Highlands truly puts the mountain biking the Highland ‘great’ into the great outdoors, Wild Cat trails, conquering making it an ideal place if Scotland’s Munros, or even you are seeking more active off-road driving in a 4x4, you on-shore pursuits. Whether will leave the Highlands feeling it’s a round of golf at a energised and exhilarated in Championship golf course, equal measure.
10 INVERGORDON GoLf CLUB invergordon has its own 18-hole golf course. the local golf club welcomes all visitors and if you would like to play a round of golf, all equipment can be provided for a small fee. the club also offers tea, coffee, or something a little stronger, souvenirs, toilet and internet facilities. +44(0)1349 852715 www.invergordongolf.co.uk
ROYALDORNOCH ChamPioNShiP GoLf CLUB the royal Dornoch Championship Golf Course regularly features in world top-10 listings and in 2016 the third oldest golf course in the world celebrated its 400th anniversary. Visitors are welcome. +44(0)1862 810219 www.royaldornoch.com
CASTLE STUART GoLf LiNKS Scotland, the home of golf. history and diversity make Scottish golf courses famous throughout the world. as turnberry is to ayrshire and Gleneagles is to Perthshire, Castle Stuart has been conceived to be for the highlands – a beacon reaching out to golfers throughout the world. the centrepiece for this Scottish destination golf resort is Castle Stuart Golf Links, a championship links course overlooking the moray firth and well-known landmarks that are synonymous with inverness and the Black isle – Kessock Bridge and Chanonry Lighthouse perhaps the most notable. +44(0)1463 796111 www.castlestuartgolf.com
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 11 GOLSPIE GOLF CLUB Founded in 1889, Golspie Golf Club hugs is a favourite for many visitors where a warm the beautiful coastline of the Moray Firth. It’s Highland welcome awaits all. unique blend of links, heath and heather makes it a memorable experience for all golfing +44(0)1408 633266 abilities. The James Braid designed course www.golspiegolfclub.co.uk
Eden Court Theatre ANCESTRAL NAME Photo © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam VICTORIAN MARKET INVERNESS PERSONALISED GIFTS We welcome you into our unique shop, to find out your Surname History and Coat of Arms! Lorenzo Vellum Parchment Prints while you wait! Any gift can be shipped anywhere! Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club Scrolls in tubes or frames • Embroideries • Crystal Wear Including Game of Thrones Merchandise! The 15th Oldest Recorded Club in the World (1793) Voted as Scotland’s Best Golfing Experience – Scottish Golf Tourism Awards 2017 & 2018 A National Championship Venue (Host to TEN National Championships since 2010) Golf Club of the Year for Scotland – The Luxury Travel Guide Lifestyle Awards 2019 No. 34 in Great Britain & Irelands Top 100 Fun Golf Courses (over 2,000 courses in GB & I) Executive travel for up to 8 people is available to and from the Cruise Ship Ranked amongst the Top 50 Golf Courses in Scotland – Golf World Magazine Visiting Golfers Welcome all Year Round! Beat the Queues! Ness Road East, Fortrose, Scotland, IV10 8SE Office: +44 (0)1381 620529 • Shop: +44 (0)1381 620733 Order ahead via telephone! Email: [email protected] • www.fortrosegolfclub.co.uk 01463 715140 @fortrosegc @FortroseGC1793 linksgolf1793 12 TAIN GoLf CLUB tain’s Championship length links overlooking the Dornoch firth arguably offers one of the best settings imaginable in the highlands for a round of golf and is accessible to everyone. With sea on one side and the backdrop of the mountains behind, every day brings a different aspect to this challenging and beautiful course, and the layout of the holes guarantees an interesting round for beginners or experts.
+44(0)1862 892314 www.tain-golfclub.co.uk BRORA GoLf CLUB
the golf course design is recognised as being one of James Braid’s finest pieces of work. the green staff work tirelessly to preserve the original design whilst presenting a course that is regularly acclaimed for its quality. the perfect balance between challenge and fun and in a breath-taking setting. +44(0)1408 621417 www.broragolfclub.co.uk FORTROSE&ROSEMARKIEGoLfCLUB
Located on the Chanonry Peninsula in the ‘Black isle’ this Scottish links golf course enjoys breath-taking views over the moray firth, only 20 minutes from the city of inverness. The club was crowned Scotland’s Best Golfing Experience (value for money) at the 2018 Scottish Golf awards and named Luxury travel Guide Lifestyle’s ‘Golf Club of the year for Scotland 2019’. +44(0)1381 620529 www.fortrosegolfclub.co.uk
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 13 WHERE PASSENGERS BECOME Historians
The tranquil beauty of today’s - mentioned in Shakespeare’s Highland landscape masks Macbeth - and the majestic the region’s battle-scarred past, Eilean Donan Castle, to the with majestic buildings and award-winning Culloden monuments standing as the last remnants of its turbulent Battlefield, a visit to Invergordon history. From the atmospheric is a chance for you to step back beauty of Cawdor Castle in time when you step ashore.
14 Travelling SouTh/eaST from thE Cromarty firth
Live the legend at Cawdor Castle
homE to the thanes of Cawdor since 1370, it the thane of Cawdor had a dream which Cawdor Castle is a five-star attraction. Walk advised him to load a donkey with gold and over the imposing drawbridge where let it roam freely. Wherever it lay down to rest unwelcome marauders would once have been was where he should site his new home. The met with a shower of boiling oil or molten donkey settled under a holly tree and it now lead. stands at the heart of the castle. originally built as a fortress, the castle is The exquisite gardens are worth a visit alone. now warm and welcoming with rooms full the walled garden dates from around 1600, arches of billowing roses scent the flower of artefacts, tapestries, treasures and family garden, there’s a secret white garden with heirlooms. fountain, an orchard with old fruit trees and a In the 14th-century tower stands the ancient holly maze. blackened trunk of a large tree. Legend has www.cawdorcastle.com
Culloden Battlefield
Visit the powerfully emotive and atmospheric battlefield where the45 17 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end. This was the last and most harrowing hand-to-hand battle to be fought on British soil. find out why the battle lasted only one hour and how it changed the way of life of the highlands and islands forever in the new visitor centre and interactive exhibition. you can listen to genuine accounts of people who were involved in the Battle, immerse yourself in the battle through a 360-degree film theatre, and walk the site of the battle itself. www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/culloden Re-enact the past at Culloden Battlefield
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 15 Visit Urquhart Castle and the Caledonian On the opposite bank, St Andrew’s Cathedral Canal in the heart of the Great Glen and opened in 1869. The impressive interior combine it with a search for Nessie. includes one of the largest stained glass Call 01463 233999 or visit windows in Scotland. www.morayepiscopalchurch.scot/inverness- www.jacobite.co.uk cathedral A new viewing platform has been created in Nearby Nairn is the classic seaside resort with the North Tower of Inverness Castle (opened miles of silver sands. Enjoy fish and chips after in 2017) which offers breath-taking views a walk on the beach, do some shopping, along the River Ness. (The castle itself is not or play a round on one of the town’s two open to visitors.) championship golf courses.
Inverness Castle
Highland Folk Museum
The award-winning Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore features more than 30 historical Newtonmore buildings which have been carefully recreated to give a glimpse of how Highland people Highland Folk have lived and worked through the ages, from the 1700s to 1964. Admission is free. Museum www.highlifehighland.com/ highlandfolkmuseum
16 CU���D�� OP�� AL���A�
CU���D�� � THE BATTLE THAT CHANGED THE HIGHLANDS. GET AS CLOSE AS YOU DARE!…
* Immersion Cinema Battle Experience like no other! * Inspired ‘Outlander’! See where the real Jamie Fraser fought! * Family friendly Visitor Centre with Café * Take one of our regular guided battlefield tours and walk the front line. * Peek inside the building that saw battle action * Read Bonnie Prince Charlie’s letters For the * Wide range of unique and authentic Scottish gifts in our shop – product tastings also available of Scotland * Ancestral scrolls made with the history of your family name * Demonstrations of Bagpipe making and playing * All spend on site supports conservation of the battlefield. For more info go to www.nts.org.uk/culloden
Find us on fti
nts.org.uk
The National Trust for Scotland is a Scottish charity, SC007410 All donations support the work our charity does to protect what makes Scotland so special Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 17 TraVellinG nOrTH FROM THE CROMARTY FIRTH
Tain Through Time has a sparkling display Near Tain, the Tarbat Discovery Centre of Tain Silver including a Hugh Ross I tot cup in the restored Tarbat Old Parish Church, made between about 1710 and 1730. Portmahomack, offers an insight into the life of the mysterious Picts. The site is the first The museum, which combines the restored Pictish monastic settlement excavated in medieval St Duthac Collegiate Church with Pictland and many intricately carved stones a visitor centre, also explores the town’s and other treasures have been uncovered fascinating history as a place of pilgrimage. in the surrounding churchyard during Both Malcolm Canmore and Robert the Bruce archaeological excavations. visited the shrine of St Duthac and King James www.tarbat-discovery.co.uk IV of Scotland made at least 18 pilgrimages to Tain between 1493 and 1513.
Is your surname Ross? Discover your origins at the Clan Ross Centre within the museum. www.tainmuseum.org.uk
Dunrobin Castle
PICTISH & LOCAL HERITAGE MUSUEM & GIFT SHOP Dunrobin Castle resembles a French château. Tarbatness Road, Portmahomack IV20 1YA Dating back to the early 1300s, it is one of E: [email protected] W:http:tarbat-discovery.co.uk Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited houses, home to the Dukes of Sutherland. The castle was remodelled in 1845 by Sir Charles Barry, architect of the Houses of Parliament.
The sumptuous drawing room where ghostly footsteps have been heard; the dining room set for dinner with Georgian silver; the library containing 10,000 books; secret doors and passages... every corner of this castle is full of treasures.
The magnificent garden took inspiration from the Palace of Versailles near Paris. There’s a museum within the grounds and daily falconry displays. www.dunrobincastle.co.uk Dunrobin Castle
18 TRAVELLING NORTH from thE Cromarty firth
Big skies, rugged cliffs, spectacular sea stacks, there are 3000 million years of history to mysterious moors… just some of the natural discover in Sutherland! that’s how old the features that give Caithness its unique appeal. rocks are in the North West Highlands the area has strong royal connections. The Geopark – described as one of the last Castle and Gardens of Mey was the Queen truly wild places in Europe. investigate the mother’s favourite holiday home and she remarkable geology at the Knockan Crag visited the far north every year for half a earth science site. century. tours of the restored 16th century www.nwhgeopark.com castle and the beautiful gardens give an insight into royal life. the castle is closed for along the northern coast of Sutherland, two weeks from July 29 to august 9. venture into the eerie underground at Smoo www.castleofmey.org.uk Cave, Durness. a wooden walkway gives a view of the inner chamber where the allt Smoo Ferrycroft Visitor Centre, Lairg – features burn falls from a gap in the roof. Boat tours sail interactive displays on wildlife and local into the cave during summer. history. Walk through time on the ord www.smoocave.org archaeological trail and visit Bronze age house sites, Neolithic cairns and evidence John Lennon enjoyed childhood holidays in of medieval cultivation. Search ferrycroft at Durness. relax on the sandy beach and go www.highland.gov.uk shopping at Balnakiel Craft Village which includes the chocolaterie Cocoa mountain. www.durness.org
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 19
20 TRAVELLING WEST from THE CromArTy firTH
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle on Loch Duich has Colonel John macrae-Gilstrap, who dedicated become one of the most photographed the following 20 years of his life to restoring castles in Scotland and has starred in the castle to its former glory. countless films including Highlander and the Bond film The World is Not Enough. Atmospheric rooms are filled with period furniture, fine art and ancient weapons – Dating from the 13th century, the castle was including cannonballs fired during the 1719 badly damaged during the Jacobite rising bombardment. of 1719 and lay in ruin for two centuries. The www.eileandonancastle.com island was bought in 1911 by Lieutenant
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 21 WHERE PASSENGERS BECOME SpotterS
In such an outstanding setting dolphins; one of only two wildlife is abundant and resident populations in the nature presents a spectacular UK. Local wildlife tours and display. Each year over 30,000 expeditions let you become birds set up their seasonal spotters and immerse yourself homes in the Cromarty Firth, in this captivating wildlife. And feeding on the 21 species of algae and eelgrass. Home to who knows what creatures approximately 300 harbour await those brave enough to seals, the Firth also has a group visit the famous waters of Loch of around 195 bottlenose Ness?
22 a Monster Day out
Scotland is famous for its mythical tales and wonders. Cruises are available from inverness, none is more famous than that of the Loch Dochgarroch Lock, or Clansman harbour and Ness monster. range from an action-packed hour to a full day’s adventure. Don’t miss the chance to explore Loch Ness, one of the world’s great natural Set on the shores of Loch Ewe, inverewe
Urquhart Castle, on the shores of Loch Ness courtesy of historic Environment Scotland.
Photo © Charlie Phillips/WDC the Cromarty and moray firths are home to one of only two resident pods of bottlenose dolphins in the UK. around 195 individuals make their home here and they are regularly seen. Spotting trips are available from inverness, avoch and Cromarty.
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 23 Photo © Alex Riddell/ Set on the shores of Loch Ewe, Inverewe Highland Wildlife Park Garden and Estate is an astonishing achievement. In 1862 Osgood Mackenzie began cultivating the 50-acre site – starting from bare rock and a few shrub willows. He devoted his life to creating this oasis of plants from around the world which flourish on a latitude more northerly than Moscow. Famous for its rhododendrons, Inverewe also has the most northerly planting of endangered Wollemi pines, Himalayan blue poppies, olearia from New Zealand and Tasmanian eucalyptus. The garden is now cared for by the A wild day out National Trust for Scotland and the wider 2000-acre estate includes wildlife trails. Come face to face with rare and wonderful www.nts.org.uk creatures at the Highland Wildlife Park, Kincraig near Aviemore. Victoria, Walker and Arktos are among the star attractions and are the only polar bears in a public Inverewe Gardens collection in Scotland. Other animals Photo © NTS/Inverewe include Amur tigers, Scottish wildcats, European grey wolves, snow monkeys and European beaver. www.highlandwildlifepark.org Boat of Garten is known as osprey village as this is where the birds of prey first reintroduced themselves in the 1950s after dying out in the UK around a century before. See the birds nesting at the RSPB Osprey Centre. www.rspb.org.uk You can also visit Britain’s only free ranging herd of reindeer. The shop and paddocks are open every day and there is a daily guided hill trip to see the reindeer roaming wild on the lower slopes of the Cairngorms. www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk
24 IN����WE ���D�� -EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!
* Award winning heritage Garden on the shores of Loch Ewe, where rare species thrive with the effects of the Gulf Stream * Full of exotic plants from around the world, a riot of colour and scent all year round * Created over 150 years ago from bare rock by pioneering plantsman Osgood Mackenzie and carried on by his daughter Mairi Sawyer For the * Discover the stories of the garden and family at Inverewe House of Scotland * Spot Scotland’s ‘Big 5’ – red squirrel, red deer, otter, seal and golden eagle * Exciting new revamped Visitor Centre and Café, and under construction during 2019, new observation tower – see its development * Encounter a world of Highland art inspired by the garden, in the Sawyer Gallery * Relax and take a well earned break in one of our two cosy cafés * Amazing Wildlife Boat trips.
For more info go to www.nts.org.uk/inverewe Find us on fti Inverewe, Poolewe, Ross-shire IV22 2LG
nts.org.uk
The National Trust for Scotland is a Scottish charity, SC007410 All donations support the work our charity does to protect what makes Scotland so special Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 25 26 Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 27 Invergordon: Your Port Of Call
As you disembark, look out for the The Invergordon Naval and Heritage Information Point, where Oystercatcher Museum presents the full history of the Hosts will be waiting to welcome you with town’s naval association and subsequent free advice to help you make the most of North Sea energy development, together your short stay. with a small exhibition of local artefacts. Despite being fairly small, the town has Admission is free. a range of shops within walking distance including supermarkets, hairdressers, beauty Memorable events in Invergordon’s history salons, a bakery, a pharmacy, charity stores, are also depicted in the mural trail, with 11 gift shops, galleries, newsagents and cafés. murals painted on buildings around the town. There is also a leisure centre and swimming pool, a bowling club and several churches which extend a warm welcome to all There’s no bad weather here – only the wrong and may provide refreshments, subject to clothes. Locals don’t mind the rain as we availability of volunteers. need it to keep our area looking green and for making whisky. We prefer to call it liquid Currency exchange is available in the Cobbs sunshine! shop on the quayside. Credit and debit cards can be used in most shops, some of which So whatever the weather on the day of your will also take euros or US dollars. If necessary, small amounts of currency can visit, please enjoy your short stay, keep a be exchanged in the Post Office on the place for us in your heart as you leave, and we High Street. hope to welcome you back soon.
Information Point, where Oystercatcher Hosts will be Invergordon High Street has a range of friendly waiting to welcome you. shops, some of which take Euros or US dollars. 28 heritage of the firth mural can be seen on the wall of invergordon heritage and Naval museum.
Seafarers’ Centre offers a warm welcome to all
SEt up within invergordon Church welfare and chaplaincy services.” of Scotland on Castle road, the open throughout the summer, Seafarers’ Centre offers crews of all whenever a cruise ship is in port, the vessels coming into the port a chance Seafarers’ Centre also extends a very to get in touch with their families warm welcome to passengers. across the world. mr anderson said: “Passengers come “With many of the crew away at sea in to visit the church and learn more for six to eight months at a time, the about the area and its history. first thing they want to do whenever “many appreciate meeting their they have shore leave is to contact ship’s crew while they’re off duty, and their loved ones,” said Drew anderson enjoy sharing the free tea and coffee The Seafarers’ at the centre. and fellowship.” Centre is “as part of Christian charity, the the centre is usually open within the Sailors’ Society, we provide seafarers from 8am to 4pm every day a Invergordon Church of with free wi-fi internetce ac ss, phone cruise ship is in port. Go to www. Scotland on cards and Bibles in many languages, invergordonparishchurch.org.uk/ Castle Road. along with advice about local services, mission.htm
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 29 Tanstar Gifts the Perfect Spot to find unique gifts Handcrafted in the Scottish Highlands. Located in the Heart of Invergordon High Street just a short stroll from your disembarkation point. Authentic Scottish Souvenir’s from brands such as Lochcarron of Scotland, Scotsburn Croft Hand Made Bags, Tain Silver Jewellery and Tartan Creations accessories designed by Yvonne Macrae. All exclusive to Tanstar Gifts in Invergordon. Authorised Retailer of the Authentic Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Tartan designed and made in Scotland by Lochcarron. Many other ranges available. A warm welcome extended to all visitors and crew.
85 High Street, Invergordon, IV18 0AB Euros and Dollars accepted. 01349 852233 Tanstar Gifts E-mail - [email protected] Cruise The Highlands
30 Tuckers Inn Hotel, Bar & Tuckers Grill
Unisex Salon & Sunbeds Available
106b High Street, Invergordon IV18 0ET 01349 852434
Sandras Flowers And Gifts • Friendly Bar and Restaurant • 200 Meters from the Port • Free Wi-Fi • Fresh Home Cooked Food • Local Whisky from our bar • Outside Patio Area for Dining and Refreshments • Teas and Coffees and Handmade crafts and arts Home Baking Made by myself and local crafters • Harris tweed • Gifts • Tartans • Pictures and Prints • Jewellery 11 Saltburn Road . Invergordon . IV18 0HH Lots of handmade souveriers Te l: 01349 852335 Something for everyone all welcome. Email: [email protected] 122 High Street INVERGORDON IV18 IAE www.tuckersinn.co.uk 07544409516 Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 31 G H K
Avenue Strath
YOUR DONKEY BRIDGE GATEWAY (return route of circular walk) TO THE HIGHLANDS
Stra
th MAP OF Av enue INVERGORDON INVERGORDON GOLF CLUB
Invergordon Golfclub (access from King George Street)
Invergordon Golfclub King George (Zugang von der King George Street)
Museum/Museen Street CY CLEP Bus Stop/Bushaltestelle WALK TO AT INVERNESS & Terrace DALMOREH/ Railway Station/Bahnhof DISTILLERYWA Gordon Y Lifeboat/Rettungsboot ALNESS Church/Kirche P Toilets/Toiletten
Circular Walk/Rundwanderung Sailing Club Mural Trail/Wandgemälde
£ Cash Machines/Geldautomat
PO Internet Free Public WiFi on High Street/ Kostenloses WLAN 7 Viewpoint/Aussichtspunkt
Invergordon Tourism Alliance Hosts
1 War Memorial/Kriegsdenkmal 8 2 Library/Bibliothek
3 Natal Gardens/HMS Natal Garten INVERGORDON MURAL TRAIL
4 Bowling Club/Bowls-spiel Klub A Heritage of the Firth G Volunteer Spirit Tennis Court/Skate Park/ B Century of Sport H The Loch 5 C I Tennisplatz/Skate Park Saltburn’s Past Gather Round Queen’s Dock Port of Cromarty Firth/ D The Way We Were J Pipes and Drums 6 Hafen Cromarty Firth E Fire Fire K The Long Goodbye F Our Legacy 7 Anchor/Anker
8 Fountain/Brunnen Berth 5 9 Polish War Memorial/Kriegsdenkmal
P Parking/Parkplatz
www.pocf.co.uk
32 9
venue
TO A9
TO TO MICH ROAD
Davidson Drive
Tomich Community Woodland Walk Castle
Road Health Centre and Mackean Cr escent County Hospital Av enue Fire Social Club station SALTBURN PIER
Terrace Road Gordon Saltburn
Rugby Football Club pitches
Leisure Centre/ Swimming Pool
Academy Road
Castle Cromlet Drive
Road
5 K 4 FEARN
daoRynablA TAIN PENINSULA& Joss Street Munro St re
2 I £ P £ G et C
High Street PO H High Street 1 8 Mack £ J F E D B Saltburn Road ay St King St Clyde Street re et
P P P 3 Shore A Road Outram Street
Ken’s Garage Macraes Shore Car Rental of Scotland SALTBURN PIER 6 Road (See inset map)
Invergordon Service Base
Annual Raft Race
Berths 2, 3 & 4 West Harbour
Admiralty Pier DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 33 WHERE PASSENGERS BECOME ShopaholicS inverness
Inverness is a compact, cosmopolitan city To appreciate the architecture of the city, with all the wonders of the Highlands on its head up to the new castle Tower Viewpoint doorstep. and admire the newly restored Town house Sample the best Highland produce in the and St andrews cathedral. many eating places, explore the Victorian Market or Eastgate Shopping centre, catch a And foratotally different perspective of the local event at Eden court, or take your time to city, wander along the banks of the River Ness admire art exhibitions in the city’s galleries. and explore Ness Islands.
Train links from invergordon the town centre. Invergordon is located on the Far North There are normally 6 – 7 trains per day Line with the journey to Inverness by train and although there is no ticket office at taking about 50 minutes. the station you can purchase tickets from The station (IV18 0RY – 0.4 miles) is a 10 the conductor on the train. Further details minute walk from the quayside, towards are available at scotrail.co.uk/cruise
34 Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 35 Loch Ness Gifts @ Drumnadrochit The Green, Drumnadrochit Inverness IV63 6TX Tel: 01456 450695 (opposite the Tourist Information Car & Coach Park) Extensive Range of Gifts at Very Competitive Prices
14 miles from Inverness Buy Online www.lochnessgifts.com Free Worldwide Shipping Email: [email protected]
Book Your Boat Trips (In Store Only) with Castle Cruises
36 Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 37 Harris Tweed inverness
We are a genuine Harris Tweed retailer in Inverness. We have a wide selection of Harris Tweed clothing, footwear, accessories and soft furnishings as well as Harris Tweed fabric by the metre. Harris Tweed is hand-woven on the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Harris Twweedeed Isle of Harris, 6-8 Inglis Street, Inverness IV1 1HN Telephone: 01463 240378 / 01859 502040 Website: www.harristweedisleofharris.co.uk Save 50% on your Inverness City Sightseeing tour @HarrisTweedInverness when you book a Loch Ness by Jacobite experience.
William Morrison THE Watchmaker &Jeweller at Finkelstein Established 1902byIsaac Finkelstein Quality Traditional and MARKET Antique Style Jewellery & Gifts Specialists in Masonic Jewellery 10% DISCOUNT upon presentation of this advertisement Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 7am – 6.30pm • Sat: 7am – 6pm Sun: (From Easter) 11am – 4pm (Shop opening times vary)
18 Market Arcade, Inverness IV1 1PG
Email: [email protected] Academy Street, Inverness, IV1 1 JN 01463 710524 Tel/Fax: 01463 221710 www.thevictorianmarket.com
38 TRAVELLING NORTH from thE Cromarty firth for timeless, distinctive highland gifts, visit the Royal Burgh of Tain. Several businesses here offer exclusive items such as handmade contemporary glassware, silver ware, luxury textiles, handbags and home furnishings. hand-thrown and hand-painted stone pottery is created by a team of highly skilled artisans within the restored steading at aldie on the edge of tain. Designs are inspired by the local scenery. www.tainpottery.co.uk
Scottish Tartan & Tweed Accessories by Yvonne Macrae
Fabrics woven in Scotland. Only a 20 minute taxi ride from Invergordon. Complimentary transport available.
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 39 Dornoch: the Highlandsin miniature and only 30 minutes from Invergordon Visit Dornoch, historic Royal Burgh with 13th Find out more about our local whiskies (and gins) century Cathedral, Castle, Jail & Courthouse in in the Carnegie Whisky Cellars. golden sandstone, nestled round the Green. The 5 star Historylinks museum is the place Summer morning markets are held on to find out about Vikings, Cathedral, Andrew Wednesdays 12th & 26th June, 24th July, 14th Carnegie and Skibo Castle, the Dornoch Light August and 11th September. Railway, history of Golf in Dornoch, Donald Ross, Soak up the historic atmosphere in the and much more - “a gem of a museum”. Join Courthouse Café while enjoying a leisurely lunch. their guided walks at 2pm on 2nd & 9th July and Experience the ‘best hot chocolate in the world’ 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th August. (Open daily 10-4 and other delights, with a coffee at Cocoa and is well worth a visit!) Mountain Chocolatier. If golf is your game, you must play Royal Dornoch, The town has over 20 independent shops, rated #2 in the world by Golf Digest! Clubs are so browse at your leisure in Jail Dornoch for cashmere from Johnstone’s of Elgin, or Kingcraig available for hire but tee times must be booked Woollens for tartan, rugs, and throws. in advance. But of course, as you can Do It All For souvenirs such as fridge magnets visit Simply from Dornoch maybe simply enjoy a walk on our The Best in the retail park, or for local arts and miles of golden beach. crafts explore Barn Owl Bothy behind the To plan your trip, go to VisitDornoch.com or Cathedral. download the Discover Dornoch app.
Barn Owl Bothy champions the non mass produced - bespoke & unique.We support over 60 artisan in the HeART of the Scottish Highlands.We also have a newest introduced ‘Crafters Corner - Buttons handcrafted from sea buckthorn, Rhododendron, plum and holly - Antler - Fused glass. High Street, Dornoch Call 07484337724 • www.barnowlbothy.com
Scottish Yarns & Woollen Goods • Knitting yarns and accessories • Tweeds and Fabrics • Rugs and throws • Scarves and wraps • Ladies’ and Gents’ Hats • Bags, cushions and gifts
Castle Street, Dornoch / Rosslyn Street, Brora www.kingcraig.com |01862 810174
40 TRAVELLING NORTH fROmThe CROmARTy fIRTh
Another great reason to visit Dornoch
Serving delicious home made food, baking and speciality tea & coffee Disabled access and a lift THE COURTHOUSE CAFE OPEN SEVEN DAYS www.thecarnegiecourthouse.co.uk |01862 811632
Golf since 1616 A proud member of Highland Golf Links a partnership which offers attractive Scotland Home of Golf packages for visitors to enjoy the finest links golf and luxury hotel accommodation while exploring a unique and beautiful part of Scotland.
Golf Road, Dornoch IV25 3LW 01862 810219 [email protected]
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 41 TrAvellinG WeST FROM THE CROMARTY FIRTH
Beauly: a gateway to the Highlands, and just 30 minutes from Invergordon
Beauly is a bustling Highland village on the North The history of the village is inextricably linked to Coast 500 with independently owned and family the Lovat Frasers who owned much of the land run shops specialising in art, antiques, gifts, silver, around the village and had their base at Beaufort Scottish knitwear, tweeds and even a tailoring Castle. Much of the Fraser history has been used as business as well as shops you might traditionally a foundation to the TV series ‘Outlander’. expect, including a butcher, baker, greengrocer, The village also provides an excellent base if you post office and chemist. Set around an attractive are looking for more energetic pursuits walking village square - one of the largest in the Highlands the renowned Glen Affric. Less strenuous walks in - the shops are all within walking distance, worth the village include Cnoc-na Rath, the River Path a visit are Royal Warrant Holders Campbell’s of and a riverside walk to the Priory a 13th century Beauly, Iain Marr Antiques, Alder Arts, The Old School Beauly and the Kilmorack Gallery. Historic Scotland abbey which boasts the oldest elm tree in Europe. Café Biagiotti and The Deli are firm favourites for lunch as well as afternoon tea at The Priory Hotel. The village has a well-deserved reputation for ‘C’est un beau lieu’, what a beautiful place, was its top-class floral displays and throughout the Mary Queen of Scots reaction to the grandeur of summer months on a Thursday evening the the scene when she stayed overnight in Beauly in Beauly Pipe Band and Highland dancers come 1564, and local tradition credits the naming of the together on the square. village to her.
42 Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 43 TraveLLing wesT FROM THE CROMARTY FIRTH Dingwall: there is more here than you think!
Once an ancient capital of the Highlands, the Dingwall’s small but thriving book festival in Royal Burgh of Dingwall has been a busy market October is run by Highflight Books, a second town since the days of the Vikings, who set up hand bookshop specialising in aviation as well their parliament here. as other books. Picaresque Books and Galerie Fantoosh is another wonderful bookshop selling At the heart of the High Street is one of Dingwall’s second hand and new books, plus a selection of oldest surviving buildings – the 18th-Century local crafts and gifts showcasing up and coming Clock Tower and Town House – now home to artists. Dingwall Museum which gives a fascinating insight into life here over the centuries. Open For an unusual souvenir, visit Heroes Haunt which May to October, it has displays of local artefacts, specialises in clothing and gifts from the TV and a reconstruction of an early 20th-century kitchen movie classics. Ranges include Thundercats, and the original local smiddy. Game of Thrones and Star Wars.
At the busy auction mart, the Highland Object D’Art on Tulloch Street is a fascinating Livestock Heritage society’s Drover Project emporium of antiques, curios and taxidermy. has a permanent exhibition recalling the days The shop has a wide collection of porcelain, when cattle and sheep were led on foot to trysts glassware, clocks, pictures, furniture and curios. It (markets) all around the country. also stocks vintage and French costume jewellery Fishing is a major pastime in the local area and sourced from a supplier in Paris. the Sports and Model Shop on the High Street There are many cafés and restaurants in Dingwall, can sell or hire out tackle and permits for salmon but lunch, dinner or sumptuous afternoon tea in and sea trout fishing in theea ar – with free tips the acclaimed Victoria Restaurant on the High on favourite beats. It’s also the oldest established Street is a welcome treat after a morning or Model Shop in the Highlands with a large range afternoon of sightseeing. of plastic kits and is a haven for model railway enthusiasts.
44 WhErE PaSSENGErS BEComE
TASTERS Did You Know? Barley, pure spring water, a little yeast and plenty of time are all Discover the magic of that’s needed to make whisky. the malts and take a Legally, new spirit has to be matured in an oak cask for a distillery tour. Distilleries minimum of three years in Scotland before it can be called within easy reach Scotch whisky. of Invergordon are Whisky casks have already been used for american bourbon included in this section: or Spanish sherry. Over time, the spirit reacts with natural compounds in the wood to develop its rich flavour and colour.
Every year a filled cask loses two per cent of volume through evaporation. this is known as the angels’ share. Around 20 million casks of Scotch whisky are currently maturing in Scotland. Take a deep breath!
Unlike wine, once in the bottle, whisky will no longer age.
More Scotch is sold in one month in france than Cognac in a year. À votre santé!
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 45 DALMORE DISTILLERY Alness – five minutes away by car One of the most expensive bottles of whisky ever sold was the Dalmore Sinclair 62-year-old single malt – bought at Singapore’s Changi Airport in 2011 for £125,000. Sample the more affordable 12-year-old malt after your distillery tour. Orange marmalade, coffee, chocolate, vanilla and spice leap from the glass. Booking essential. Online at www.thedalmore.com or call +44 (0)1349 882362.
GLENMORANGIE DISTILLERY Tain – 19 minutes away by car One of the best-known whiskies in the world, Glenmorangie produces six million litres of spirit every year. Since 1843 Glenmorangie Distillery has produced its famous single malt on the shores of the Dornoch Firth. Glenmorangie is still handcrafted to this day using tried and tested methods passed down through the generations. After 10 years in the cask, that’s around nine million bottles. The copper stills are the tallest in Scotland, so only the lightest and purest vapours make it over the top of the still. Glenmorangie 10-year-old single malt is the ideal introduction – fresh and fruity with hints of citrus and velvety smooth. Call +44 (0)1862 892477 or visit www.glenmorangie.com
BALBLAIR Edderton near Tain – 26 minutes away by car Balblair bottles are marked with the year the malt whisky was distilled, rather than an age statement. The distillery manager samples the casks and only whisky judged to have reached its exact point of “optimum maturation” – peak condition – is released as a “Vintage”. Booking essential. Call +44 (0)1862 821273 or visit www.balblair.com
GLEN ORD DISTILLERY Muir of Ord – 33 minutes away by car Founded in 1838, Glen Ord continues to malt its own barley and has a unique long fermentation and slow distillation method. The Singleton of Glen Ord is only sold in selected Asian markets and at the distillery’s visitor centre – nowhere else in the UK or Europe. Choice of tours available, including a special tutored tasting of the 12, 15 and 18-year-old Singleton of Glen Ord and a sampling from two different casks. Booking essential. Call +44 (0)1463 872004 or visit www.discoveringdistilleries.com/ Enjoying a dram glenord Photo © VisitScotland / David N Anderson 46 tomatiN DiStiLLEry CLyNELiSh DiStiLLEry Inverness – 48 minutes away by car Brora – 49 minutes away by car Clynelish was built in 1968 on a site adjacent During the 1970s, tomatin was the largest to the original 1819 distillery. it continues to distillery in Scotland and its spirit was used create a fruity, waxy and slightly smoky single in famous blended whiskies such as J&B malt. and Johnnie Walker. the distillery went into Booking advised. Call +44 (0)1408 623000 liquidation in the mid-1980s, but reopened or visit www.discovering-distilleries.com/ in 1986 as the first fully Japanese-owned clynelish Scottish distillery. Since then it has returned to its roots – creating an award-winning range of single maltsinavariety of different ages and GLENWyViS DiStiLLEry wood styles. Loch Ness – 60 minutes away by car Booking essential. Online at www.tomatin. com or call +44(0)1463 248144. Proud distillers of their own single malt whisky (due for release 2021) and GoodWill Scottish craft gin. meet the GoodWill gin team on Loch Ness this summer. Located at the Clansman hotel car park. Enjoy a sample of GoodWill Gin, explore GlenWyvis Distillery using virtual reality and take a bottle of local craft gin home. GlenWyvis Distillery, Dingwall is the world’s first 100% community owned distillery, entirely powered by renewable energy. Call +44(0)1349 862005 or visit www.glenwyvis.com
WELCOME TO THE
DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE Tain
Inverness The Glenmorangie Distillery Tain, Ross-shire IV19 1PZ, Scotland. Perth
On the A9, 45 minutes from Glasgow Edinburgh Inverness, 1 mile north of Tain.
THE ORIGINAL TOUR THE MEN OF TAIN TOUR 1 hour, £8 per person 2.45 hours, £95 per person By the tranquil shores of the Dornoch Firth, amidst the golden June - August: May - September: barley fields of Ross-shire, lies the Glenmorangie Distillery. Monday - Sunday, every 30 minutes, Tuesday, 9.45am Here you will find a warm Highland welcome from the legendary 10am - 4pm (October - April: not available) Men of Tain, the skilled craftsmen who ensure that Glenmorangie April - May & September - October: THE SUNSET TOUR Monday - Saturday, every hour, 1.5 hours, £45 per person is made in the same unhurried and uncompromising way it has 10am - 3pm always been through its long and distinguished history. January - March & June - August: November - December: Wednesday, 6.00pm We offer a range of tours with result only the lightest and purest (September - May: not available) unparalleled access to the Distillery vapours make it to the top, giving a Monday - Friday, 10am & 2pm For more information and its warehouses.With the help smoother, more elegant whisky. THE SIGNET TOUR call 01862 892477 of our expert guides you will On your visit to our traditional earth 1.5 hours, £35 per person email: [email protected] experience all stages of the whisky floored warehouses we will explain making process from mashing June - August: or visit www.glenmorangie.com why Glenmorangie has for many Monday - Sunday, 2.15pm and fermenting to distilling and years led the industry in the Pre-booking is recommended and essential for some of Wednesday, 6pm, New for 2019 the tours or large groups. maturation. Within our Still House pioneering use of only the finest April - May & September - October: The Glenmorangie Distillery is a working distillery. For (we call it our Highland Cathedral) casks in which to mature our whisky. a few weeksayear we undergo essential maintenance stand the tallest stills in Scotland, Monday - Friday, 2.15pm when tours may be restricted. As part of your tour, why not visit Closed for the2week period over Christmas&New Year. their long copper necks are the same (January - March & November - The information on this advert is valid throughout 2019. our own distillery shop? height as a fully grown giraffe! As a December: not available) The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking. Please savour our whiskies in moderation.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ONLINE BOOKINGS PLEASE VISIT WWW.GLENMORANGIE.COM
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 47 UNIQUE | DIFFERENT | INTERESTING
INVERNESS is awell-establishedspecialistretailerofScotland’s most famous drink- SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY plus othotherer p prreemmiiumum ssppiirrititss& & lliiqquueeururs.
We like to give our customers exclusive bottlings you absolutely the opportunity to try before won’t find anywhere else. you buy, so our knowledgeable, Call into our centrally located friendly team look forward to Inverness branch at 17 Bridge welcomingyou aboard!And as Street (close to the beautiful you’ve come alongway to visit River Ness) and treat yourself to us, we offer a wide range of some exceptional drams. Slainte!
17 Bridge Street, Inverness, IV1 1HG T: +44(0)1463 710525 E: [email protected]
48 the Castle was home to generations of PULtENEy DiStiLLEry the Clan macKenzie and it’s now a hotel Wick – 1 hour 47 minutes away by car synonymous with comfortable family retreats, Built in 1826, Pulteney Distillery is one of the romantic breaks and unforgettable weddings. most northerly distilleries on the Scottish mainland. its location and unique stills have created a single malt imbued with the power BLaCK iSLE Bar and subtlety of the sea. Various tour options Location – 40 minutes away by car include a tutored masterclass and the chance to hand bottle your own old Pulteney straight The Black Isle Bar & Rooms is Inverness’ first from the cask. craft beer bar, with an emphasis on organics, Booking essential. Call +44 (0)1955 602371 or provenance and quality. the bar offers 24 visit www.oldpulteney.com craft beers on tap including many from the Black isle Brewery, the UK’s premier organic KiNCraiG CaStLE hotEL brewery, as well as 100+ craft beers from Location – 5 minutes away by car around the world in the fridges. also on offer are delicious wood fired pizzas using homegrown organic ingredients, organic Kincraig Castle hotel is an award-winning wine, craft gin and malt whisky, as well as a 4-star country house hotel in the heart of the fantastic “secret garden” roof terrace. highlands. only 5 minutes from invergordon, tours are available at the brewery itself on the it’s the perfect retreat for tranquility, sublime beautiful Black isle. comfort and exceptional food. for centuries,
Wee Taste of The Highlands Kincraig Castle Hotel is a highly acclaimed 4 AA star country house hotel with an award-winning restaurant. Located in the heart of the Highlands, only a short 5 minutes drive from the Cruise Ship Terminal in Invergordon, it’s the perfect retreat to enjoy the finest Scottish hospitality and a Wee Taste of the Highlands. Transportation: Personalised meet & greet ground transportation service from Invergordon Cruise Ship Terminal to Kincraig Castle Hotel and back to the Cruise Ship Terminal after the tour. All Inclusive Price Group Size: Minimum group of 2 guests. £45.00 per person inclusiv Morning Tour Times (10:00 - 12:00) e of 20% VAT. Afternoon Tour Times (14:00 - 16:00) • Payment will be accepted by major Credit/Debit E: [email protected] Payment Card at the time of booking. Terms: • To make a booking, please contact us as follows: T: +44 (0)1349 852587
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 49 WHERE PASSENGERS BECOME Adventurers
The Scottish Highlands is one hotspots and seek out an of Europe’s few remaining wild authentic Highland experience, places, and there is no better have the chance to meet local place to lose yourself and people and see what life here is explore the many hidden gems. really like, take a walk with us on If you want to avoid the tourist the wild side.
Please can you get created an illustration like those supplied of Mountain biking/ whisky tasting / and living history
50 TRAVELLING NORTH from thE Cromarty firth Far North invergordon is just over two hours from the Dunrobin Castle and the beautiful towns of most northerly tip of Scotland. if you have a Dornoch, Golspie and Tain. day to spare, you can visit the north coast and take your pick and design your own itinerary. experience its many wonders: and, forareal treat, check out Whalligoe Call in at Wick on your journey north and Steps and the little cafe there. take in the world’s shortest street (Ebenezer Place)and the Old Pulteney distillery. have your photograph taken at the famous ‘Journey’s End’ signpost at John O’Groats, which marks the start and end of the Land’s End to John o-Groats walking / cycling trail. Walk in soft white sand on stunning beaches, such as Durness, and look for seabirds and marine mammals from the UK mainland’s most northerly point at Dunnet Head. if you have time on the way back, you will pass Clynelish and Glenmorangie distilleries, Whalligoe Steps
Smoo Cave Photo © VisitScotland / Paul tomkins ssielaN e ture on The Shore d ven s o r Ad f Lo N ste ch n Ne Mo s A s
Explore in Nessie’s Six Secret Caves Will you see Nessie? Discover the history and secrets of Loch Ness Join us for a cruise on Loch Ness Relax in our superb truly Scottish coffee shop Which whisky will you take home? High class shopping area and liquor store Tel: 01456 450342 • [email protected] www.nessieland.co.uk
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 51 TRAvellinG SOUTH FROM THE CROMARTY FIRTH Black Isle
Half an hour’s drive from Invergordon, the The award- Black Isle takes you through distant Highland winning history and mystery. Groam House On the shore of Udale Bay, the restored 13th- Museum in century Kirkmichael Church, opened in 2017 Rosemarkie after a 20-year community-led restoration explores the project. Its ancient walls are lined with carved mystery of tombstones and monuments showing Groam House Museum the Picts and weapons, ornate wheel crosses, even skulls has one of and crossbones. These carved ‘memento mori’ the best collections of intricately carved stones – a reminder from beyond the grave to be in the country. www.groamhouse.org.uk good – are found throughout the area. www.kirkmichael.info Pictish man now has a face thanks to the Rosemarkie Caves Project. A 10th-century Cromarty was one of the first designated skeleton found here recently underwent conservation villages in Scotland. Winding facial reconstruction to reveal a man who cobbled lanes and flagstone streets are lined met a violent end. www.spanglefish.com/ with fishermen’s cottages, grand Georgian rosemarkiecavesproject villas and Victorian mansions. Antique shops, galleries, potteries and bookshops add to Visit the impressive ruins of Fortrose this village’s charm. Built in 1773, Cromarty Cathedral, built around 1260. Then walk Courthouse is now a museum where down Greengates, the old Pilgrims’ Way, along unnervingly realistic models relive an 18th- the historic golf course designed in 1930 by century trial. Admission is free. James Braid. www.cromarty-courthouse.org.uk At Chanonry Point, in front of the lighthouse, a cairn marks the site of the Brahan Seer’s Hugh Miller’s Birthplace gruesome execution. This 17th-century Photo © NTS Highland prophet made many chillingly correct predictions, but his all-seeing eye proved too accurate for the Countess of Seaforth, who had him burned in a barrel of tar after he described exactly what her husband was up to in France – and with whom. Moray Firth bottlenose dolphins often feed here as the tide turns. In Avoch (pronounced Och, as in L-och), stroll Hugh Miller’s Birthplace Cottage and from the harbour past fishertown to Ormond Museum celebrates the life of a local lad. Castle. This grassy mound was once the Born in 1802, Miller began his career as a stronghold of Andrew de Moray, who rallied stonemason and became a self-taught, northern forces against the English during pioneering scientist, folk historian and best- the Scottish War of Independence. Had de selling author. The garden includes fossil Moray not jointly led the Scots to victory at features and sculptures. the Battle of Stirling Bridge, fellow warlord www.nts.org.uk William Wallace might never have starred in Braveheart!
52 OP�� AL���A�
B�O��� CA��L� � P�A���L �A�D�� * Historic Castle and tours – open all year * Ancestral home of the Brodie clan for over 400 years * Castle stands on land confirmed to the Brodies by Robert the Bruce. * Magnificent art collection * Home to the spectacular National Daffodil Collection For the * Playful Garden with Scotland’s biggest rabbit sculpture of Scotland * Extensive grounds and walks * Unique and authentic Scottish gifts in our shop * Relax in our café in splendid surroundings * Weddings, corporates, holiday cottages, private tours. For more info go to www.nts.org.uk/brodie Find us on fti Brodie Castle, Brodie, Forres, IV362TE
nts.org.uknts.org.uk
TheThe National NationalTrustTrust for for Scotland Scotland is ais Scottish a Scottish charit charity, SCy, 00SC7400107410 All donations support the work our charity does to protect what makes Scotland so special Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 53 Loch Ness Cruise &CitySightseeing Tour ‘CONTEMPLATION’
Youru’re55ststepep gu guideideofofhohowtwtoomamakekethethe mostofyour day in the Highlands…
1. Get yourselftothe Highland capital Inverness by catching the 25925X bus from Invergordon port. 2. Once you’ve made it to the City, hopon the big red, City Sightseeing bus. 3. Take in the sights as you make your way out to Dochgarroch Lock (stop number 8) where you’ll find Loch Ness by Jacobite… 4. Once aboard one of the luxurious Jacobite boats sit back and relaxasyou set sailon a cruise (with some pretty impressive views) to the home of Scotland’s biggest celebrity… NESSIE! 5. Get your camera readyasyou sail past and wave hellotothe once mighty Urquhart Castle before continuing back to Dochgarroch Lock where you can hopon the City Sightseeing and return to Inverness bus station to catch your bus back to Invergordon just in time fordinner!
Inverness 1 hour City Sightseeing Tour InvernessCitySightseeing leavesat half pastthe and 2 hour Loch Ness cruise combined: hour every hour from 9:30am onwards. Andthe ‘Contemplation’ cruise leaves Adult Senior Child at half pastthe hour every £26.00 £23.00 £16.50 hour from 9:30am onwards.
54 Coach&BoatTour of Loch Ness & Inverness ‘SENSATION’
If your short fortime then the ‘Sensation’ tour is perfect fortaking in Loch Ness!
To begin your tour just jump on the925 25Xbus from InvergordonPort andenjoy ascenic drive to the bus stationinInverness City centre.
1. At stance 1you will board our Loch Ness by Jacobite coachwhere youwillbegin your guided adventure.
2. Keep your eye’s peeled for anystrange water creatures as you enjoyacruise down the loch, then hop off to explorethe ruins of Urquhart castlebefore visitingthe Loch Ness exhibition centre to find out if the elusive Nessie is fact or fiction!
3. Your driverwillthenreturn youto Inverness bus stationbeforebiddingyou farewell as you catch your bus back to Invergordon.
Book your tour online at: www.jacobite.co.uk or call us on 01463 233999
From Invergordoncatch Stagecoach 25925X bus to Inverness Bus Station. There Fares including entry to Urquhart Castle youtransfertothe Jacobite CruisesTour & Loch Ness Exibition Centre: Coachwhich leavesfor Loch Ness at 10.15and returns youtothe city Centre at 14.00. Youcan then either have some free time in the City or use your ticket to Adult Senior Child take aone hour City Sightseeing tour of the Capitalofthe Highlandsata50% £35.00 £32.00 £25.00 discount, and still be back in plenty of time foryour return bus to Invergordon.
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 55 NORTH COAST 500
Embark on one of the world’s most iconic road trips and discover the breathtaking beauty of the North Highlands.
Bringing together a route of 516 miles of stunning coastal scenery, the North Coast 500 (NC500) follows the main roads along the coastal edges of the North Highlands, beginning and ending at Inverness Castle. Since it was launched in April 2015, the North Coast 500 has been consistently ranked as one of the best road trips in the world. The route is ideal for drivers, motorcyclists and cyclists, offering something for everyone: from historic castles to rugged mountains, fascinating wildlife tours and adrenaline-pumping activities. We recommend a minimum of 7 days to explore it. Torridon, Wester Ross Experience the finest luxuryco ac mmodation Photo © Mark Appleton in stately Highland properties, or embrace spectacular beach-side camping; sample fresh local seafood, explore boutique distilleries, and Shieldaig Village choose from a range of restaurants to suit all budgets. Visit the North Coast 500 website for information on attractions and sample itineraries. Various membership options are available, starting at £15 a year, with exclusive benefits to get the most from your NC500 adventure. Details of the official merchandise range, including the Rough Guide to the North Coast 500, are also available on the website. www.northcoast500.com
56 Glen Docherty Photo © Steve Carter
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 57 Port of Cromarty Firth YOUR Port of CaLL the Cromarty firth has long been recognised Nestled alongside the world’s largest cruise for its potential as a great port. as far back as ships will be oil rigs and offshore support vessels 1715, the royal Navy visited the firth during designed to operate in the harshest conditions. the Jacobite uprisings. in thomas telford’s 1802 State-of-the-art subsea and renewable energy report on developing highland transport links, vessels can be seen sheltering from the hostile Captain Duff recommended the firthasabase North Sea waters in Scotland’s most protected for warships. deepsea harbour and berthing alongside to in the early 1900s the Navy started using the prepare for their next sojourn to the continental port for shelter and anchorage and, in 1913, the offshore energy fields. Cromarty firth was declared a naval dockyard you also stand a very good chance of seeing and a port. a new railway line was constructed bottlenose dolphins riding the bow wave of the between the railway station and admiralty Pier. ships as they are piloted to safety by the Port’s New oil storage tanks were built at Seabank. and team of skilled pilots. the very first seaplane base was established here to train naval pilots in sheltered waters. Winston As a Trust Port, 100% of our profits are reinvested Churchill himself began his flying training here. in the development of the port for the benefit of the Navy continued to use the port after the future generations. this has included £55 million World Wars and Invergordon didn’t officially invested in new berth developments to service close as a naval establishment until march 1993. the offshore energy and cruise sectors. the Port is the busiest cruise port in Scotland and we are today, the Port of Cromarty firth is the largest a leading Port in Europe for oil rig inspection, port in the highlands. Visitors and residents alike repair and maintenance. We hope you enjoy can look out over the waters of the Cromarty your visit. firth and still witness a truly unique sight.
Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 59 USEFUL CONTACTS
DOCTOR email [email protected] Invergordon County Hospital, Saltburn Road www.europeancruise.no +44 (0)1349 852496 for enquiries Excursions Ltd, shore excursions +44 (0)1856 DENTIST 300482, email [email protected], Invergordon Dental Practice, 108a High Street www.shore-excursions.net +44 (0)1349 854148 Intercruises Ltd PHARMACY + 44 (0) 131 226 8525 (Office) Boots the Chemist, 99 High Street, [email protected] Invergordon +44 (0)1349 852242 SHIPPING AGENTS POLICE Denholm Shipping Services +44 (0)1324 In an emergency, call fire, ambulance, police 482201, email [email protected] or coastguard on 999. For all non-emergencies www.denholm-group.co.uk dial 101. Global Port Services +44 (0)1349 855117, TOURIST INFORMATION email [email protected] Invergordon Tourism Alliance www.globalportservices.co.uk +44 (0)7825 538808, www.visitinvergordon. co.uk or email: [email protected] MISCELLANEOUS RAIL Port of Cromarty Firth, Port Office, Shore Road, National Rail Enquires, 24-hour service +44 Invergordon +44 (0)1349 852308, (0)845 748 4950 or visit www.nationalrail.co.uk www.pocf.co.uk BUS Post Office, 83 High Street,verg In ordon Stagecoach, Inverness +44 (0)1463 239292 +44 (0)1349 852453 Inverness Bus Station +44 (0)1463 233371 Invergordon Leisure Sports Centre For nationwide bus times call Traveline +44 (0)1349 781561, www.facebook.com/ Scotland +44 (0)871 200 22 33 InvergordonLeisureCentre www.travelinescotland.com Invergordon Naval and Heritage Museum TAXIS +44 (0)1349 852707 or +44 (0)773 092 7079 ScotlandTaxiTours – contact Les on +44 (0)7900 www.invergordonmuseum.co.uk 807750, email [email protected] Invergordon Seafarers’ Centre +44 (0)771 Zag’s Taxis +44 (0)1349 853817 204 3918 or +44 (0)786 796 7877, email email [email protected] [email protected] A9 Taxis +44 (0)1349 883355 TIMES OF SERVICE FOR LOCAL WORSHIP CAR HIRE Church of Scotland, Castle Road (Presbyterian) Ken’s Garage, Invergordon car hire self-drive +44 – Sunday morning service 11am, Sunday (0)1862 842266, +44 (0)1463 717606/717616, evening service 6.30pm St Ninian’s Scottish email: [email protected] Episcopal Church, Saltburn Road – Sunday or visit www.kensgarage.co.uk/car-rental 10.30am. St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Turner Hire Drive +44 (0)1463 716058 or e-mail High Street – Sunday 11.30am Church of the [email protected] Latter Day Saints, 64 High Street, Invergordon – CYCLE HIRE Sunday 10am–12 noon www.tickettoridehighlands.co.uk or call +44 WIFI (0)1463 419160 or +44 (0)7902 242301 Free Wifi is available on Invergordon GROUND HANDLING AGENTS High Street. Log onto Invergordon_WiFi_Free European Cruise Service +44 (0)131 554 1599, (High-Fi) with your social media details or email.
60 WHAT’S ON WHILE yOu’RE IN PORt immerse yourself in the sound of the pipes July 20 Sutherland agricultural Show, Dornoch and swirling tartan of a traditional Highland Links, Dornoch. www.sutherlandshow.com Games. Join the local farming community at an agricultural show. or stock up on local foods July 20 41st Lochcarron Highland Games, and crafts at a market on your way to a castle Attadale Estate, Wester Ross. or distillery. www.lochcarrongames.org.uk
May 1-6 Spirit of Speyside Whisky festival – July 27 Nairn Show, Kinnudie farm, auldearn – annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink. agricultural show and more! www.spiritofspeyside.com www.nairnshow.org.uk
May 4-5 Logie timber festival, Logie Steading, July 31 to August 1 Black Isle Show, Muir of forres. www.logie.co.uk ord – the largest agricultural show in the north. www.blackisleshow.com May 10-12 Cairngorms Nature BiG Weekend – nature walks, talks and activities around the August 2 Dornoch Highland Gathering, Cairngorms National Park. Dornoch.www.dornochhighlandgathering.com www.cairngorms.co.uk August 2-3 Highland Field Sports Fair, Moy, June 15 truckness, Bogbain farm, inverness – near Inverness – celebration of country and field truck show and attractions. sports. www.moyfieldsportsfair.co.uk www.bogbainfarm.com August 8 Grantown agricultural Show, June 29 Piping inverness 2019, Bught Park, Grantown-on-Spey. find on facebook. inverness – hundreds of pipe bands compete in the European Pipe Band Championships. August 10-11 festival at the fort, fort www.pipinginverness.com George, ardersier, near inverness ¬– historical reenactments, music, dance and song. July 20 Inverness Highland Games, Bught Park, www.historicenvironment.scot inverness, from 11am. www.invernesshighlandgames.com August 25 Grantown-on-Spey Highland Games, Grantown-on-Spey. find on facebook.
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Look out for this sign to identify organisations who are committed to welcoming you and making your visit memorable.
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Port of Cromarty firth | YOUR GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS 61 A DAY IS Not ENough We hope you come back and visit us again soon. There’s so much more you can explore. haste ye back Photo © VisitScotland / Paul tomkins 64
Bottlenose Dolphins Photo © Ecoventures
Port of Cromarty Firth Cruise Port Office, Shore Rd, Invergordon IV18 0HD Phone: +44 (0)1349 852308 www.cruisethehighlands.co.uk @cruisethehighlands