The Great Glen and Strathspey Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of The Great Glen and Strathspey in Scottish Highlands, with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to The Great Glen and Strathspey

The Great Glen and Strathspey is a region located in Scottish Highlands, in Scotland, United Kingdom. This area is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history and culture, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, nature, and adventure.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through The Great Glen and Strathspey, offering information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and shop, as well as local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.

So let’s start exploring!

List of Places to Visit in The Great Glen and Strathspey

Here are some of the best places to visit in The Great Glen and Strathspey:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Culloden Battlefield: This is the site of the infamous battle of Culloden, which marked the end of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. Visitors can learn about the history of the battle, the Jacobites, and their struggles against the British.
  • Fort George: Located on the coast near Inverness, Fort George is a historical military fortification that was built after the Battle of Culloden to keep the Highlands under control. Today, it hosts museums and exhibitions that tell the story of the fort and the people who lived there.
  • Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition: Loch Ness is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world, thanks to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster. The exhibition center tells the story of the monster and the Loch Ness area.

Natural Attractions of The Great Glen and Strathspey: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Glen Affric: This is a beautiful glen in the Scottish Highlands, known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its stunning waterfalls and rivers. Visitors can go hiking, biking, or enjoy a picnic in the midst of nature.
  • Ben Nevis: This is the highest mountain in the British Isles, standing at 4,411 feet. Visitors can hike to the top, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Cairngorms National Park: This is the largest national park in the UK, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as some of the best outdoor activities in the country. Visitors can go hiking, birdwatching, skiing, and more!

Hiking/Biking Routes of The Great Glen and Strathspey

Hiking and biking are popular outdoor activities in The Great Glen and Strathspey. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Great Glen Way: This is a long-distance hiking and biking path that runs along the Great Glen, from Fort William to Inverness. The path follows the Caledonian Canal, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and Loch Ness, providing stunning views all along the way.
  • Cairngorms Loop: This is a popular mountain biking route that takes you through the Cairngorms National Park. The route covers over 150 miles of varied terrain, including forests, rivers, and moors.

Best Things to Do in The Great Glen and Strathspey: Activities and Tours

There’s plenty to see and do in The Great Glen and Strathspey. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

  • Whisky Distillery Tours: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and The Great Glen and Strathspey is home to several distilleries. Visitors can take tours, learn about the whisky-making process, and sample some of the best whiskies in the world.
  • Boat trips on Loch Ness: Loch Ness is a beautiful body of water, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a boat trip. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, as well as the chance to spot the Loch Ness Monster!
  • Highland Games: The Highland Games are a series of traditional Scottish athletic competitions that take place throughout the summer months. Visitors can enjoy events such as caber tossing, tug-of-war, and hammer throwing, as well as live music and dancing.

Week-Long Itinerary for The Great Glen and Strathspey

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for The Great Glen and Strathspey:

  • Day 1: Explore Inverness, visiting sites such as the castle and the museum.
  • Day 2: Visit Culloden Battlefield and Fort George.
  • Day 3: Go hiking in Glen Affric.
  • Day 4: Go mountain biking on the Cairngorms Loop.
  • Day 5: Take a boat trip on Loch Ness.
  • Day 6: Visit a whisky distillery and sample some of Scotland’s best whiskies.
  • Day 7: Attend a Highland Games event.

Food and Drink Scene of The Great Glen and Strathspey

The Great Glen and Strathspey is home to some delicious traditional Scottish dishes, as well as a thriving food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Haggis: This is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onion, oatmeal, and spices, and then boiled in the sheep’s stomach.
  • Cullen Skink: This is a creamy soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, and is a popular dish in the Scottish Highlands.
  • Cranachan: This is a dessert made from whipped cream, honey, raspberries, and toasted oats.

Local Beverages

  • Scotch whisky: Scotch whisky is one of the most famous exports from Scotland, and The Great Glen and Strathspey is home to several distilleries that produce some of the best whiskies in the world.
  • Craft beer: The Great Glen and Strathspey has a growing craft beer scene, with breweries producing a wide variety of beers, including pale ales, stouts, and IPAs.

Where to Stay in The Great Glen and Strathspey: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in The Great Glen and Strathspey, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Braemar Lodge Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, offering stunning views and plenty of amenities.
  • Loch Ness Backpackers Lodge: This is a budget-friendly hostel located near Loch Ness, offering dorm beds and private rooms.
  • Speyside Gardens Guest House: This is a cozy guesthouse located in the heart of the Speyside whisky region, offering comfortable rooms and a warm welcome.

What to Buy in The Great Glen and Strathspey: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Great Glen and Strathspey is known for its traditional Scottish souvenirs, as well as local products such as whisky and crafts. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Scottish wool products: Scotland is famous for its wool products, including scarves, hats, and sweaters.
  • Whisky: The Great Glen and Strathspey is home to several distilleries that produce some of the best whiskies in the world.
  • Crafts: The region is home to several craft shops, selling handmade items such as pottery, jewelry, and candles.

Local Culture and Customs of The Great Glen and Strathspey

The Great Glen and Strathspey has a rich cultural heritage, and is known for its traditional music, dance, and festivals. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the area:

  • Respect local traditions: The Scottish Highlands have a proud and unique culture, and it’s important to respect local traditions and customs.
  • Attend a Ceilidh: A ceilidh is a traditional Scottish dance event, where people come together to dance, socialize, and enjoy live music.
  • Be mindful of the environment: The Great Glen and Strathspey is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland, and it’s important to help preserve them for future generations.

Best Time to Visit The Great Glen and Strathspey

The best time to visit The Great Glen and Strathspey is between May and October, when the weather is mild and many of the outdoor activities are available. The summer months are the busiest, with festivals and events taking place throughout the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of The Great Glen and Strathspey

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting The Great Glen and Strathspey:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: The Great Glen and Strathspey is home to some delicious traditional Scottish dishes that are not to be missed.
  • Respect local culture: The Scottish Highlands have a proud and unique culture, and it’s important to respect local traditions and customs.
  • Explore the great outdoors: The region is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Don’t:

  • Litter: The Great Glen and Strathspey is a beautiful region, and it’s important to help keep it clean and litter-free.
  • Trespass: Many of the area’s outdoors spaces, such as private estates, are off-limits to visitors. Always respect the landowners’ rights and seek permission before entering a private property.
  • Overdo it with the whisky: Scotch whisky is delicious, but it’s important to enjoy it in moderation.

Safety and Health

Safety in The Great Glen and Strathspey

The Great Glen and Strathspey is a relatively safe area, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding dark or deserted areas at night. Hiking and outdoor activities can be hazardous, so it’s important to check weather conditions and take appropriate safety precautions.

Health in The Great Glen and Strathspey

The Great Glen and Strathspey is a relatively healthy area, with good access to medical care. Visitors should make sure they have adequate travel insurance before entering the area, and should always carry any necessary medication with them.

Getting to The Great Glen and Strathspey: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near The Great Glen and Strathspey

The nearest airport to The Great Glen and Strathspey is Inverness Airport (INV), which is located around 15 miles north-east of Inverness. There are regular flights to Inverness from major UK cities such as London, Manchester, and Bristol.

Bus Stations Near The Great Glen and Strathspey

Inverness has a large bus station, which serves many destinations both within and outside of The Great Glen and Strathspey area. Citylink is the main bus company that operates routes in the area.

Other Options

The Great Glen and Strathspey is also accessible by train, with regular services running from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen to Inverness.

How to Get Around in The Great Glen and Strathspey

The most popular way to get around The Great Glen and Strathspey is by car, as the area is quite rural and many of the best attractions are spread out. However, it’s also possible to get around by bicycle, bus, or taxi.

Where to Go Next from The Great Glen and Strathspey: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore after visiting The Great Glen and Strathspey. Here are some of the best:

  • Isle of Skye: This is a beautiful island located off the west coast of Scotland, known for its stunning scenery, rugged landscapes, and quaint villages.
  • Fort William: This is a town located at the southern end of the Great Glen, known for its outdoor activities and proximity to Ben Nevis.
  • Nairn: This is a seaside town located on the coast near Inverness, known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture.

Conclusion

The Great Glen and Strathspey is a beautiful and exciting destination that has something to offer everyone. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Scotland. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip, and we look forward to welcoming you to The Great Glen and Strathspey soon!



    Cairngorms National Park
    Fort Augustus
    Fort William
    Glencoe
    Inverness
    Kingussie
    Nairn