Ross and Cromarty Travel Guide
Explore the scenic beauty and historical significance of Ross and Cromarty, Scottish Highlands with this comprehensive travel guide featuring natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities, food, and culture.
- Introduction to Ross and Cromarty
- List of Places to Visit in Ross and Cromarty
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ross and Cromarty
- Best Things to Do in Ross and Cromarty: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ross and Cromarty
- Food and Drink Scene of Ross and Cromarty
- Where to Stay in Ross and Cromarty: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ross and Cromarty: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ross and Cromarty
- Best Time to Visit Ross and Cromarty
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ross and Cromarty
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ross and Cromarty: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around Ross and Cromarty
- Where to Go Next from Ross and Cromarty: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty is a historic county and a former local government district in the Highland unitary council area of Scotland. Situated in the Scottish Highlands, Ross and Cromarty has stunning natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
From the scenic views of the Scottish coastline to the magnificent mountains, this place has something to offer everyone. The region is home to several charming towns and villages, each with its unique character and culture.
List of Places to Visit in Ross and Cromarty
Here are some of the top-rated attractions and must-visit places in Ross and Cromarty:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Eilean Donan Castle
- Ullapool Museum
- Lochcarron Weavers
- Gairloch Heritage Museum
- St. Clements Church
Natural Attractions of Ross and Cromarty: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- The Fairy Pools
- Isle of Skye
- The Black Cuillins
- Plockton Bay
- Applecross Peninsula
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty has some fantastic tracks and routes suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. The following are some of the best trails to explore:
- Ullapool Hill Trail
- Ben Wyvis Mountain Trail
- Beinn Eighe Trail
- Torridon Hills Trail
- Quiraing Trail
Best Things to Do in Ross and Cromarty: Activities and Tours
There are many different activities and tours to enjoy in Ross and Cromarty that will give travelers an authentic Scottish experience such as:
- Wildlife watching
- Fishing
- Sea Kayaking
- Whiskey Tasting
- Horseback Riding
Week-Long Itinerary for Ross and Cromarty
Day 1: Inverness
Day 2: Ulapool and Achiltibuie
Day 3: Torridon
Day 4: Isle of Skye
Day 5: Applecross
Day 6: Lochcarron and Plockton
Day 7: Eileen Donan and Fort Augustus
Food and Drink Scene of Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty has some great places to eat, and you must try some of the local dishes and beverages while visiting:
Must-Try Dishes
- Cullen skink
- Haggis, neeps, and tatties
- Cullen skink
- Black pudding
- Fish Supper
Local Beverages
- Scotch Whiskey
- Isle of Harris Gin
- Scottish Real Ale
- Cairngorm Brewery Beers
Where to Stay in Ross and Cromarty: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Ross and Cromarty has an excellent range of accommodation options to suit most budgets:
- Kylesku Hotel
- Gairloch Hotel
- Shieldaig Lodge Hotel
- Poolewe Hotel
What to Buy in Ross and Cromarty: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking to take home some local gifts or souvenirs, then here are a few options:
- Harris Tweed
- Shortbread biscuits
- Smoked salmon
- Whisky
Local Culture and Customs of Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s essential to learn about the traditional culture while visiting. Some of the cultural customs and traditions include:
- Traditional Scottish music
- The Scottish Highland Games
- Tartan and Highland dress
- Gaelic language
Best Time to Visit Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty is beautiful all year-round, but the best time to visit is May to September when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ross and Cromarty
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts while exploring the region:
Do:
- Respect local culture and traditions
- Follow the countryside code
- Try local cuisine and beverages
- Be friendly with locals
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the natural beauty
- Ignore the weather warnings in the Highlands
- Trespass on private land or disrupt wildlife
- Take photographs of locals without permission
Safety and Health
Safety in Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty is a safe place to visit, but it’s best to be cautious while exploring the natural areas:
- Always wear sturdy boots while hiking
- Check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing
- Carry plenty of water and food when venturing into remote areas
Health in Ross and Cromarty
There are several medical facilities located throughout the region, and for emergency services, dial 999. It’s essential to carry a first-aid kit while hiking and be aware of common health hazards such as ticks and midges.
Getting to Ross and Cromarty: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Ross and Cromarty
Inverness airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 70 miles from Ross and Cromarty. Other airports include Aberdeen and Glasgow.
Bus Stations Near Ross and Cromarty
Several bus companies offer regular services to Ross and Cromarty, including CityLink and Stagecoach.
Other Options
If you want to explore the region by car, there are several car rental companies at Inverness airport and in the nearby towns and cities.
How to Get Around Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty has a limited public transportation system, so the best way to explore the region is by car or bicycle. Several car rental companies operate in the region, and bicycles can be rented from some of the local shops and hotels.
Where to Go Next from Ross and Cromarty: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
From Ross and Cromarty, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring such as:
- Isle of Lewis and Harris
- Skye
- Wester Ross
- Inverness
Conclusion
Ross and Cromarty is a beautiful region with something for everyone, from the rich cultural heritage to the stunning natural beauty. It’s an ideal place for those who love hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring the Scottish way of life. By following our guide, you will have a fantastic experience exploring Ross and Cromarty, Scottish Highlands.
