Inverness is a city of castles, cathedrals and ceilidh dancing. There’s so much here to keep you entertained and inspired – all within one of the UK’s most spectacular landscapes. With a hire car, you can explore the natural wonders of the Highlands – an unforgettable wilderness of national parks and rugged coastline.
View from the top
A great way to kick off your stay is by visiting the city's castle, which looms dramatically from a clifftop overlooking the River Ness. Built on the site of an 11th-century fort, its distinctive red sandstone structure was added in the early 19th century.
Climb the stairs to the newly-added viewing gallery and take in the superb panoramic view over the city and the wider area. Head there on day one to get your bearings – it’ll be the first of many golden photo opportunities you’ll be gifted.
City life
Another key city attraction is Inverness Cathedral, which sits across the water on the west bank of the River Ness. Completed in 1869, it's an impressive Gothic-style building with vivid stained-glass windows.
Over on the east side you’ll stumble across the Victorian Market. This magical venue is packed with character – both in the walls of its intricately designed historic building, and in the charming independent shops and cafes which lie within them.
Many people love the Highlands for the peace and quiet it offers. The best place to relax is without doubt the Inverness Botanic Gardens in the south-west of the city near Canal Park. Walk through lush lawns, catching the scent of blooming borders, before heading inside carefully-controlled greenhouses which whisk you from the rainforest to the depths of the desert.
Loch Ness
A short drive south-west of Inverness takes you to Loch Ness, one of Scotland's most treasured destinations. This 37-kilometre long body of water is Scotland’s largest freshwater lake. It’s set in the backdrop of rolling hills surrounding the tranquil shores – one of the most stunning natural landscapes you’ll find anywhere in the world.
This is home to the fabled Loch Ness Monster, a legendary creature said to lurk beneath the water’s surface. Whether you’re walking around the shore, driving past or heading out on a paddle boat, trying to catch a glimpse of the elusive Nessie is all part of the experience.
After pulling up on the western side of the lake, head out on a hike. You'll find plenty of trails, including winding paths leading up to decadent ruins of Urquhart Castle. At the pinnacle of its grandeur, this lakeside castle was invaded, seized and blown up – today it’s a fantastic place to admire the gorgeous views.
The Cairngorms and beyond
The outstanding natural beauty of Scotland is yours to discover with a hire car. When you’re in the Highlands, it’s well worth spreading your wings and flying further afield. A short drive south of the city is the Cairngorms. With its forests, hills and mountains taking up more than 4,500 square km, it’s the largest national park in the UK. Scenic walking routes weave through the mountains, lakes and thick, verdant forests – though you can also explore by mountain-bike, horseback and water-skiing.
The rugged coastline rolls on west of Inverness. When the sun is shining, you walk along the golden sands of Dornoch or explore the wildlife of Brora, home to red deer, hares and the rare wildcat. Closer to home, Nairn Beach is just half an hour’s drive from Inverness – a prime spot for seeing dolphins frolic in the waves.
Hire a car in Inverness and start planning your Highland adventures today.
