North Sutor, Nigg

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This bracing walk climbs from Nigg Ferry over the impressive cliffs forming one half of the gateway to the Cromarty Firth. There are good views of Cromarty and the chance to spot dolphins in the sea below.

Terrain

Minor road with very steep initial section, and grassy coast path which can be muddy in places.

Public Transport

Infrequent bus (school times only) to Nigg.

Start

Nigg Ferry. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 5.5km / 3.5 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent: 226m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NH796687

Maps / GPS

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Walk Description

Stage 1

The walk starts from Nigg Ferry where there is parking and a hotel. The ferry to Cromarty is Britain's smallest car ferry - with space for just two vehicles - and these days runs just during the summer. The crossing here one with a long history, however, being part of the 'King's Route' to Tain used by medieval pilgrims. To begin the walk, unless there is a very high tide walk along the sandy beach towards the rocky prow of Nigg Sutor ahead. If this route is impassable due to the tides follow the road back a little distance and then turn right along a road behind the Nigg Ferry Hotel. If following the beach route continue until you almost reach the cliffs at the far end. Here a path doubles back sharply left to join the bottom of the road at a small parking area. Turn right onto the road and start climbing the steep hill.

Stage 2

About two-thirds of the way up the hill, climb a stile on the right into the top field. The path is marked with a logo showing two seagulls. Keep near the fence and follow the edges of the field until another stile next to a gate is reached. Climb the stile and continue straight ahead on a faint path. Here there are good views back to Cromarty and the more wooden cliffs of the south Sutor and there is a good chance of seeing the Moray Firth dolphins.

Stage 3

Follow the path through the gorse, passing a number of second world war remains. The path becomes clearer and rises as it rounds the headland. The path descends slightly before arriving at two large ex-military buildings including a large gun emplacement and lookout. It can be muddy here due to the cows and sheep grazing. Turn left through the farm gate heading away from the shore and leaving the North Sea Trail.

Stage 4

Keep the fence on your right and head towards a large house straight ahead. Pass through a second farm gate and follow a track to the right of the house. This track passes another house on the left and reaches the road at a T junction. Turn left here to walk along the road which has good views of the surrounding fields. Soon you pass a lochan in an old quarry on the left, and reach the top of the hill overlooking Nigg.

Stage 5

The massive shipyard where oil rigs and, more recently, wind farm turbines, have been built is clearly visible below. In the summer the smallest car ferry in Britain (only 2 cars at a time) can be seen ploughing across the narrows to Cromarty on its ten minute journey. Descend the steep hill and either return to the start along the road or the sandy beach.

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