Visiting Glenurquhart
For the serious 'Munro Bagger', the area around Strathglass offers thirteen Munros, seventeen if including those in West Affric. The northern side of Glen Affric boasts the highest mountains north of the Great Glen - Carn Eighe (1181m) and Mam Sodhail (1183m). These 'twin' mountains, in terms of appearance and height, together with their neighbouring peaks form a superb horseshoe around Gleann nam Fiadh. To the north, in Glen Cannich the mountains above Loch Mullardoch also offer a challenging day out with a superb ridge and wonderful views. Beyond and into Glen Strathfarrar another superb ridge offers up 4 Munros and 2 Tops making up the 'Strathfarrar Six'.
However, please note that Glen Strathfarrar is only open to motor vehicles from April to the end of October and by prior arrangement during the winter months. It is closed on Tuesdays all day and Wednesday mornings.
There are many forest tracks to enjoy and with this in mind, the Forestry Commission Scotland has created a number of way-marked routes to suit all ages and abilities. Examples of these are the walks at Dog Falls and at the River Affric. At both sites, interpretive boards inform the visitor about the local environment.
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Reviewing Glenurquhart
- Glenurquhart Latitude 57.33889° N Longitude -4.56722° E
- Glenurquhart Postcode IV63
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One of the most popular walks to enjoy the scenery is the circuit of Loch Affric starting at the car park at the end of the public road. Walking on the south side of the loch is on a forest road, while a stalkers track runs along the northern side. The scenery is breathtaking - but bear in mind the distance is around 10 miles (15km) and some of the streams running into the loch on the north side might mean wet feet in when there has been rain.For those who enjoy the high tops, please remember that deer stalking is important to the local economy. The stalking season starts in July through to February and advice on stalking activities should be sought to minimise disturbance to the deer during this period you are advised to check the Hill phones service on 01463 761360 to promote safety at this time of year.
There are also number of excellent shorter walks between Shenval and Corrimony, and up to the hills through the forest at Hilton near Plodda Falls - ask locally for information leaflets or advice on where to walk. There is a vast history to this area starting with the many brochs and burial chambers suggest that the area has been inhabited successfully for thousands of years. In the late 18th century there were upwards of 3000 people living in the Glens. However, the Highland Clearances saw man replaced by sheep and the depopulation of the Highlands began. Evictions led to extreme poverty and with it starvation.
Those who could fled their homeland for a better life in North America. There they helped shape the 'New World' giving their name to features such as the Chisholm Trail and Fraser River. Today many societies have flourished in all corners of the globe as descendents remember their roots. In the mid 19th century the fortunes of the Highlands took another turn as wealthy Victorians, treating the Highlands as their summer holidays, purchased country as shooting estates this is where the red deer becoming the ‘Monarch of the Glen this famous painting can be found all over with vast amounts of copies at all sorts of prices There is a pub on the A831 6 miles from drum called the steading offering accommodation and home cooked meals, with a large car park for over night campers wanting to stay and have a meal and a real ale or a dram with the locals heading towards Cannich a hostel offering accommodation up to 35 in total with log cabins and cottages.
Top Attractions In And Around Glen urquhart
Glen Urquhart and its surroundings offer a wealth of attractions. Here are some top places and activities worth exploring in and around the area:
Urquhart Castle
- Urquhart Castle: Explore the picturesque ruins of Urquhart Castle perched on the shores of Loch Ness. This historic castle played a significant role in Scottish history and offers stunning views of the loch.
Loch Ness
- Loch Ness Cruises: Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to admire the beauty of Scotland's most famous loch and keep an eye out for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, Nessie.
- Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition: Learn about the history, myths, and scientific exploration of Loch Ness and its mysterious resident at this informative visitor center.
Glen Affric
- Glen Affric: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Glen Affric, known for its ancient forests, shimmering lochs, and scenic trails. It's a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
Local Trails and Nature
- Great Glen Way: Walk a section of this long-distance trail that passes through Glen Urquhart, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Plodda Falls: Visit these picturesque waterfalls located near Glen Affric, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful woodland.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Corrimony Chambered Cairn: Explore this ancient burial chamber, a Neolithic site with standing stones, located not far from Glen Urquhart.
- Beauly Priory: Visit the ruins of this historic priory in the nearby village of Beauly, known for its medieval architecture and serene surroundings.
Wildlife and Nature
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for Scottish wildlife such as red deer, ospreys, and eagles while exploring the countryside.
- Cairngorms National Park: While not directly in Glen Urquhart, it's nearby and offers a chance to explore diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Nearby Towns and Villages
- Drumnadrochit: A nearby village offering amenities, accommodations, and the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition.
- Inverness: Explore the city of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, which is within driving distance and offers various attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Whether you're into history, nature, or seeking the mysteries of Loch Ness, Glen Urquhart and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer for a memorable visit in the Scottish Highlands.
