Explore
Rillan is ideally placed for exploring the Highlands providing easy access to many of the most popular attractions in the area. There is so much to see and do that will appeal to all tastes and ages – and easily accessible by car or foot! On the doorstep – there are lovely well sign-posted walks where you can see and hear the sights and sounds of the Highlands.
Take a leisurely wander down to the shore of Loch Ness – one of the most celebrated holiday destinations in the UK with magnificent landscapes and unbelievable panoramas.
The ancient woods of Balmacaan are just a couple of minutes away where you will see giant redwoods, and an abundance of wildlife in its natural habitat. Wild deer, along with the native red squirrels, roam the woods but you will need to be sharp eyed to spot them! Climb high above the woods to the view point at Craigmonie where you can look out across the village and enjoy a panoramic view of Loch Ness.
The impressive Divach Falls are close by and are well sign-posted – perfect for a lovely evening stroll.
Urquhart Castle
Visit Plodda Falls – take in the views of the stunning water falls then follow the well signed walking routes and experience nature at its best.
Take the scenic A82 that runs alongside Loch Ness for just 15 miles to Inverness – ‘The Capital of the Highlands’. Dominated by Inverness Castle, a huge sandstone structure that overlooks the River Ness.
Inverness is a modern, vibrant city, but still retains much of its old charm and is packed with things to do and see. It boasts a modern shopping centre, as well as a ‘Victorian Market’, Multi-plex cinema, cathedral, castle, ice-rink, theatre, clubs, pubs, restaurants & cafes plus beautiful walks along the River Ness.
Don’t miss Fort William, linked to Inverness via the Caledonian Canal featuring Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight locks. Fort William has plenty of shops and places to eat. Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, overlooks the town. Standing at 4406ft it offers spectacular views.
Other places of interest to visit are Fort Augustus – watch boats enter and leave Loch Ness via a series of lochs. Nairn for beautiful sandy beaches and the Isle of Skye – under two hours by car.
Head to Channory Point on The Black Isle, just north of Inverness, to see dolphins jumping out of the water or, for boat trips to see them, visit www.dolphintripsavoch.co.uk or www.ecoventures.co.uk
For the more active holiday maker, apart from the many fantastic walks, why not hire a bike and explore the magnificent landscapes; perhaps try pony trekking. Borlum Riding stables are close by. Or maybe have a round of golf with courses at Aigas; Castle Stuart; Loch Ness Golf Course, Inverness; Royal Dornoch or try the championship links course at Nairn.
Loch Ness
The picturesque village of Drumnadrochit has much to offer too! The village has won awards for its beautiful floral displays, including the miniature floral castle on the village green. There are a range of shops and restaurants including a food market and craft shops. A small supermarket is just ½ mile away where you can pick up any essentials that you might require.
Drumnadrochit boasts two Loch Ness Monster Exhibitions and you can book boat trips on Loch Ness to go Nessie hunting for yourself! Take a cruise or explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle which is ranked alongside Edinburgh and Eileen Donan as one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Urquhart dominates a rocky promontory on Loch Ness with splendid views up and down the loch.
Inverness
Just outside the village towards Inverness is the interesting three acre garden at Abriachan while just a short drive along the A82 in the opposite direction.
Known as one of Scotland’s most beautiful Glens, Glen Affric is well worth a visit. Look out for the cheeky chaffinches that eat out of your hand, whilst you are there!
Whatever you decide to do you will have a great time doing it!
Some useful sites to visit: