This short but very popular circular walk leads through the old conifer and broadleaved woodland of Reelig Glen, boasting some of Britain's tallest trees.
Summary
Easy woodland paths throughout.
Terrain
Reelig Forest walks car park
[Map of start point, satnav coords and directions]
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1. Park at the Forestry Commission car park for Moniack Burn - from the A82 north of Inverness take the sign for Moniack Castle, ignore the right turn for the Castle and the car park is just before the bridge. From the car park head south along a wide path upstream alongside the Moniack Burn. The path continues through Reelig Glen wood, climbing gently at one point. Where there are steps there are also alternatives suitable for some rugged pushchairs - it doesn't matter which branch is taken. There is a picnic table by the river, and posts give information about the trees and wildlife. You may see dippers and grey wagtails near the burn, and bats at dusk.
2. The trail eventually reaches a wooden bridge crossing the main burn beside the much older stone arched bridge which was built together with the adjoining grotto in the nineteenth century - inspired by the estate owner's overseas travels.
3. You will soon reach an impressive stand of Douglas Fir trees, well over 100 years old with an average height of 50 metres. One specimen has been measured at 62 metres (204 feet) making it the tallest tree in Britain. After a local competition it was named Dughall Mor - meaning 'Big Stranger'. After this the path climbs high above the river, crossing a footbridge over a tributary.
4. The path eventually descends back to the river and passes a picnic table before leading back to the bridge which you cross to return to the car park. From here there is an optional extension: take the uphill path out of the back of the car park signed for Upper Reelig Woodland walks. The path leads up to a lovely viewpoint amongst impressive beech trees; Moniack castle (now a winery) can be seen in the distance. The stony mound here is the remains of an iron-age burial site. There are further paths leading higher through the woods, but our route returns to the car park.
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