The Moray Firth in north-east Scotland is home to the most northerly resident population of bottlenose dolphins on earth, numbering around 130 at peak times. These are large dolphins, with distinctive dorsal fins and a propensity to provide stunning aerobatic displays when visitors least expect it! The Moray Firth (and neighbouring Beauly and Cromarty Firths) offer the best chance of sighting bottlenose dolphins, and boat trips depart from numerous locations in the vicinity. Throughout the year, keep an eye out around the Firths of Tay and Forth and promontories such as Kinnaird Head and Fife Ness, while in summer, you may well encounter them amongst the Hebrides. While much of the Moray Firth population remains there year-round, many dolphins move further down the east coast during the colder months. Summer is by far the best time for viewing the species, as migratory groups and individuals may appear almost anywhere. When to see this species : Spring, Summer

Bottlenose Dolphin

Day 2

No visit to Inverness would be complete without a visit to the world famous Loch Ness, a wonderfully scenic and mysterious stretch of water with a greater volume than any other freshwater body in Europe. To get the most out of your visit, take a trip with Jacobite Cruises from Clansman Harbour on the loch’s western shore. Those of you who don’t spot Nessie will nonetheless be captivated by the wealth of wildlife and beautiful surroundings. When ashore, make time to explore the picturesque ruins of Urquhart Castle, on the banks of the loch. One of Scotland’s largest castles, it was a prominent medieval fortress and played an important role in the Wars of Independence, passing between Scottish and English hands. From nearby Drumnadrochit, it is well worth the short drive west up the A831 towards Cannich and awe-inspiring Glen Affric. This, one of Scotland’s most beautiful valleys, is home to home to one of the last remaining tracts of native Caledonian pine forest and is home to pine martens, ospreys and capercaillie. Major conservation work is being carried out to here to increase the spread of Scots pine so that wildlife and visitors can benefit for years to come. If you have time on your way back to Inverness, pop into Glen Ord Distillery at Muir of Ord, and enjoy a tour of the whisky making process. Much of the whisky distilled her ends up in very famous brands, as well as the peaty Glen Ord single malts which you may sample at the end of your visit.

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