Best places to stay in Inverness
Loch Ness Lodge
Brackla, Loch Ness-Side, Dumnadrochit, IV3 8AU
Expansive and elegant in equal measures, there’s more to Loch Ness Lodge than its postcard-perfect views.
When you’re done searching for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, kick back at the spa and therapy centre.
Ness Walk
12 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5SQ
Relax in the lap of luxury at this five-star Inverness hotel set in a Grade B-listed building on the riverbank.
Laurel Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, while Cedar Rooms come with private terrace access. It’s all set up for a supremely classy stay.
Heron Lodge
Inverness, IV1 3XG
A Canadian-style cabin 20 minutes north of Inverness, Heron Lodge offers a taste of Northern Highlands repose.
There’s an open fire, a hot tub, and seven acres of private woodland to explore. If you’re looking for a romantic escape, this is the stuff of dreams.
Best places to eat in Inverness
Cafe 1
75 Castle Street Inverness IV2 3EA
Sampling traditional Highlands fare is all part of the Inverness experience. At Cafe 1, local favourites such as lamb, salmon and Angus steak are arranged in artful ways – providing the most epic finish to an afternoon’s exploring.
Dores Inn
Dores, Inverness IV2 6TR
The hearty side of Inverness is what Dores Inn is all about. This family-run pub is known for the panoramic vistas that frame its outdoor seating area – along with its fish and chips and Highland-reared steaks.
Chez Roux
Culduthel Road, Inverness IV2 4AG
If your culinary palate favours more international cuisine, you’ll find the most mouthwatering French food at the five-star Chez Roux.
Fresh produce is the order of the day here, where it comes seasoned with port, saffron, and lashings of garlic.
Best things to do in and around Inverness
Loch Ness
Drumnadrochit, Inverness IV63 6TU
It’s no wonder Loch Ness has attracted so much attention over the years. Its blackened waters – the second deepest in Scotland – have a sense of mystery about them.
What’s no secret, though, is that the area is a must-visit for hiking, culture and family days out.
Inverness Castle
Inverness IV2 3EG
Inverness has a longer history than even its striking Victorian architecture suggests. While its grand castle dates back to 1836, the city itself was formed as early as the 12th century.
Many people visit the castle’s north tower for the best views of Inverness.
The Victorian Market
Academy Street, Inverness IV1 1JN
Sheltered from the elements by an 1870s roof, the Victorian Market is a treasure trove for shopaholics in Inverness.
Hunt for your family pattern at Boarstone Tartans, or watch as locals bring bagpipes in for repair.
Ness Islands
Great Glen Way, Inverness IV2 4RT
Ness Islands are possibly the city’s best location for walking and cycling.
These lush aits are speckled with flora and fauna – in fact, they were completely untouched by humanity until 1828, when the first bridge was constructed.
Cairngorms National Park
Aviemore PH22 1PR
A paradise for adventure lovers, the Cairngorms are home to some of the UK’s rarest birds and to Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s summer residence.
Cairn Gorm is a favourite for keen climbers and the Highland Folk Museum celebrates traditional Scottish life.
