Inverness might not be Scotland’s biggest city, but it’s packed with historical and cultural attractions – and then there’s the Highlands, unparalleled in their beauty.
Explore it all with a hire car.
City sights
It might be tempting to get straight on the road and start exploring the Scottish landscapes on your doorstep, but Inverness boasts plenty of highlights of its own. Don’t miss St Andrew’s Cathedral, a beautiful 19th century sandstone structure on the banks of the River Ness.
On the other side of the water meanwhile you’ll find the equally impressive Inverness Castle, with its looming towers and awe-inspiring vantage point. Head up to the viewing platform where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the city and surrounding countryside.
For a spot of retail therapy, head to the city’s Victorian Market on Queensgate, just a short walk from the castle. This covered shopping area is home to many independent retailers, while the modern Eastgate centre just up the road is where you’ll find high street brands and popular places to eat.
Visit Nessie
Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s most famous and well-loved visitor attractions, shrouded in the mystery of local legend. Whether you think there’s a monster lurking in the water or not, the largest lake in Scotland makes a great day trip from Inverness.
Drive alongside the loch on the A82 to admire the serene, blue waters and gently sloping hills, sometimes half lost in the clouds – or park up your hire car and walk down to the shores for a front-row seat to this famous Scottish scene.
The crumbling ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on a hill beside the loch, offer spectacular views of the water from higher up. There are boat tours available, or if you prefer to stay on dry land, many footpaths and hiking routes with fantastic views along the way.
On the coast
From Inverness, it’s just a short drive to Nairn, a seaside resort on the Moray Firth. The town is perhaps most famous for its three Championship golf courses but there’s plenty more on offer, including a beautiful sandy beach.
Visit the harbour or drive up to one of the local vantage points, perhaps catching sight of the playful dolphins that live in the Moray Firth.
Drive on to Cawdor Castle, famous for its appearance in Shakespeare’s dramatic tale Macbeth, or Culloden Battlefield, the site of a famous 1746 battle where British forces defeated the Jacobite army of Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Into the wild
Southeast of Inverness, the Cairngorms await. This is the UK’s largest national park, but it makes a strong claim for the most dramatic too, with spectacular mountains, glass-like lakes and golden eagles swooping through the skies.
During the winter months, when thick snow covers the park, three ski centres open their doors. However, there are hiking routes, cycle paths and horse-riding trails to enjoy all year round. For a more relaxing experience, head to one of the historic castles, take in a leisurely round of golf or explore the beautiful Wild Mountain Garden at Cairngorm Mountain.
Whatever you decide, hiring a car at Inverness Airport is the perfect way to explore all this and more at your own pace.