This is an enjoyable and rapid route to the East Coast City of Aberdeen, through the traditional fishing county of Moray.
Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, is very worthy of a visit while in Scotland. Surrounded by the beautiful Highland countryside of wild mountain moorland and forests so you’ll want to get out and explore the great outdoors when in the area.
Granted city status in 2001, Inverness has a colourful history, with a vibrant culture to match. Inverness city centre is full of life with lots to do from shopping in the old Victorian Market, which is full of unique shops, to having fun on the flumes at the local swimming pool, the Aquadome. Take a relaxing walk down by the River Ness. The scenic river, which also leads to Loch Ness, is overlooked by Inverness Castle. Built in 1835 on the site of previous strongholds, the castle is now used as a courthouse. On the opposite banks of the river lies St Andrew's Cathedral, which has no spires due to lack of funding when being built, this building is still admirable and worth a visit. Just next door to the cathedral you will find Eden Court Theatre, which has a variety of programmes running all year from the Opera to the annual Christmas Pantomime.
A little further through the Ness and you reach 'the Islands'. Here you’ll find an enchanting path, which winds through several small islands that lie on the river. Perfect for an afternoon stroll, lookout for people fishing for Atlantic salmon.
In the 6th Century St Columba visited the Royal Court of King Brude the Pictish ruler in Inverness. It was on this visit that Columba famously made the first recorded sighting of the Loch Ness Monster. You can take a trip on the Caledonian Canal, designed and built by Thomas Telford in 1822, to Loch Ness and see if you can be as lucky with Nessie spotting.
When leaving the city lights of Inverness why not stop in at Culloden battlefield, the site of the last battle fought on mainland Britain. The battlefield, which is now under guardianship of the National Trust for Scotland, is where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army were defeated by the Hanoverians in 1746. The visitor centre here will tell you everything you wish to know.
Another 12 miles Eastwards and you come to the attractive seaside town of Nairn, on the Moray Firth coast. With a reputation for a dry climate and long sunshine hours, Nairn and its glorious sandy beaches have long since been a favourite spot for both tourists and locals alike. The town also features two 18-hole championship golf courses, one of which staged the 1999 Walker Cup.
The Lantern of the North, as Elgin Cathedral is known, is a must see landmark, awe inspiring even as a ruin. Elgin is another small but unique Moray County town, with lots to do whether it be visiting the motor museum, strolling in the biblical garden or maybe just a swim and sauna at the much acclaimed Moray Leisure centre.
If it’s a dram you're after, further along the route you will come to Keith, home of the famous Strathisla distillery, one of the oldest working distilleries in the Highlands, and part of the Speyside Malt whisky trail, enjoyed by many. With an admirable old world feel, Keith also has a variety of distinctive shops at hand for Scottish souvenirs and gifts.
If it's sporting activities you’re eager for, then Huntly Nordic and Outdoor centre is the place for you. The only Nordic ski centre in the UK which is open all year, there really is so much to try.
Less than an hour from here and you arrive at The Silver City by the Golden Sands, Aberdeen. The granite buildings give Aberdeen one of Scotland's most striking skylines. The Duthie Park Winter Garden, with its stunning rose mountain is well worth a visit. And for those children among us, why not delve into the wonderful world of fantasy at Storybook Glen which lies just 5 miles from the city. With a historical old town being complimented by a vibrant modern city, Aberdeen is a lively place with plenty of shops, restaurants and great attractions to visit.
