Ross and Cromarty

Ross and Cromarty

Places in Ross and Cromarty

Poolewe

Poolewe

Poolewe is a tranquil village in Wester Ross located at the head of Loch Ewe. Visitors come to experience the world-famous Inverewe Garden, where a unique microclimate allows subtropical plants to thrive. The area is ideal for those seeking peace amidst dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and sweeping coastal views.
Strathpeffer

Strathpeffer

Strathpeffer is a genteel Victorian spa village tucked into the hills of the northern Highlands. Once famed for its healing waters, it retains handsome pavilions, grand hotels and a restored spa, set amid wooded walks and mountain scenery. Explore the Highland Museum of Childhood, follow woodland trails to viewpoints, and use it as a peaceful base for touring Inverness, Loch Ness and the far north.
Ullapool

Ullapool

Ullapool is a whitewashed village on the shores of Loch Broom in the north-west Highlands. This tidy fishing port serves as a gateway to the Outer Hebrides. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, browse local arts and crafts by the harbour, and explore the scenery of Wester Ross, including the peaks, lochs and Corrieshalloch Gorge.

Places of Interest

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan is a castle on a tidal island in the western Highlands. Accessible via an arched stone bridge, this highly photographed landmark is famous for its reflection in the surrounding sea lochs. Visitors can explore the banqueting hall and furnished rooms while learning about the castle's tumultuous history and its frequent appearances in movies.

Eilean Donan is likely Scotland's most photographed castle, perched on a tiny tidal island where the sea lochs of Duich, Long, and Alsh converge in the western Highlands near Kyle of Lochalsh. First built in the thirteenth century to protect the lands of Kintail, it served as a Mackenzie stronghold with the MacRaes acting as constables. However, during the Jacobite rising of 1719, the castle was occupied by Spanish troops and mostly demolished by naval gunfire, leaving it in ruins for nearly two centuries.

In the early 1900s, Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap dedicated himself to restoring the castle from its wreckage, and it finally reopened in 1932. Accessed via an arched stone bridge, the castle creates a stunning reflection in the water. Inside, visitors can wander through furnished rooms and the banqueting hall, while learning about its chaotic history and its frequent roles in famous movies.

Image Attribution