DINGWALL, THE BLACK ISLE AND STRATHCONON

Dingwall is a small market town, but was the capital of Scotland to the Vikings. The countryside on either side contrasts starkly. To the east is the Black Isle, one of the richest agricultural areas in Scotland, with many attractions for visitors. Cromarty, at its eastern edge, is a wonderful mix of old buildings, one of the most interesting villages in Scotland. This whole area is great for wildlife lovers, with the best dolphin-watching areas in the UK as well as frequently seen and magnificent Red Kites.

West of Dingwall the landscape is much more rugged, with fine woodland walks alongside the Blackwater river, with Rogie Falls only one example of the wondeful cascades in this area. Higher up the valley becomes hemmed in by ever higher mountains, with Ben Wyvis a true giant with magnificent views. This area also boasts Strathconon, one of the longest and most peaceful glens in Scotland - a great place to explore.

Rogie Falls circuit, near Contin 2km 1 - 1.5 hours Fairy Glen, Rosemarkie 3km 1 hour Silverbridge - Little Garve river walk, near Garve 3.5km 1 - 1.5 hours Contin Forest and View Rock circuit, near Contin 4.5km 1 - 1.5 hours Eathie coast, near Rosemarkie 4.5km 1 - 2 hours Rogie and Contin forests circuit, near Contin 6km 1.5 - 2 hours Ormond Castle, Avoch 6km 2 - 2.5 hours Knockfarrel from Strathpeffer 7km 2 hours Cromarty coastal circuit and McFarquhar's Bed 7.5km 2.5 - 3.5 hours Chanonry Point and Swallows Den, Fortrose 8km 3 - 4 hours Rosemarkie to Cromarty 15km 6 - 7 hours Ben Wyvis, near Garve 14km 5 - 7 hours Accommodation links for this area: Hotels around Dingwall, Strathconon and the Black Isle B&B in Loch Ness and Glen Affric Dingwall, Strathconon and the Black Isle self catering cottages Hostels in Loch Ness and Glen Affric