Things to do
Wildside, located centrally in the Highlands of Scotland means that both east and west coasts are easily accessible by road and there are many places to visit. Here is a taste of just some of the activities available to holidaymakers at Wildside. More detailed information can be found in the holiday lodges or at reception. Other Loch Ness information may be found here
Walking
There are walks of all grades from Wildside, from bridle paths, way marked woodland pathways to hill walking on some of the remotest mountains in Scotland the Monadhliaths, backdrop to ‘Monarch of the Glen’. There are many rivers lochs and waterfalls to discover. For less strenuous ascents into the mountains take the gondola to 650 metres on Aonach Mor beside Ben Nevis this side of Fort William, or the funicular railway in the Cairngorms National Park.
Cycling
Many guests bring their bikes; with no main road and little traffic on this side of Loch Ness, cycling particularly mountain biking is very popular over a network of unclassified roads and forest tracks.
Wildlife
Surrounded by rivers, lochs, woods and hills, the lists of wildlife seen are impressive. Otters pass along the river and pine martens and roe deer visit the grounds at Wildside. The red deer stag, is abundant on the higher ground where golden eagles hunt. There is an R.S.P.B. reserve at Loch Ruthven (17miles) where in the summer months you may see the rare slavonian grebe nesting or ospreys fishing. Or, take a cruise on the Moray Firth to see the dolphins.
Fishing
Fishing in the river for brown trout is available free of charge to guests. Boats can be hired on many of the local lochs; or fish from the bank. A Gillie can be arranged if required.
Golf
Fort Augustus has a scenic 9 hole course and a friendly club where they welcome visitors. There are other challenging courses, 3 at Inverness, 2 at Nairn and 1 at Cawder Castle.
Cruises on Loch Ness
Cruises on Loch Ness available from Fort Augustus aboard the Royal Scott equipped with sophisticated sonar for monster hunting, and from Inverness through the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle with Jacobite Cruises.
Caledonian Canal
Caledonian Canal visitor centre along side the five locks which dominate the centre of Fort Augustus, gives a unique history of the canal. The busy locks are a popular attraction for visitors.
Castles and Battlefields within easy reach
(with approximate journey times)
Across the river at Wildside we have a fine example of a single span, high arched bridge, built by General Wade’s troops in 1732 as they created the military road network to link the garrisons of Fort William, Fort Augustus and Inverness. The purpose was to move troops and to break the isolation in the Highlands which tended to sustain the Jacobite unrest which led to The Battle of Culloden 1746. This site of the last land battle in mainland Britain is well worth a visit; the visitor centre explains the history of the Jacobite cause.(1 hour)
Urquhart Castle dominates the northern banks of Loch Ness; impressive new visitor centre.(1 hour)
Loch Ness 2000 award winning exhibition. Originally the Official Loch Ness Exhibition Centre, the facility opened over 30 years ago. Now a hi-tech multi-media presentation leads you through 7 themed areas and 500 million years of history, natural mystery and legend revealing the unique environment of Loch Ness and the famous Nessie legend. Also here is the largest one stop shopping complex on Loch Ness featuring everything including, Heraldry Kiltmakers, Tartans, The Nessie shop and our famous Whisky shop
Cawdor Castle 14th century stately home with links with Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton; has beautiful gardens. (1 ¼ hours)
Eilean Donan Castle on Loch Duich, a romantic setting and impressive interior. (1 ½ hours)
Gardens
Inverness Floral Hall features an indoor subtropical oasis.
Abriachan Nurseries 3 acres of vivid garden on the north shore of Loch Ness.
Cawdor Castle beautifull old and shelterd gardens of great interest.
Genealogy
Research Highland history or trace your family tree. Inverness library are very helpful and open all year. E-mail genealogy@highland.gov.uk
Theatre
Eden Court Theatre in Inverness provides a year round programme of entertainment to suit all tastes.
If you would like to tell us of your specific interest we will send you details and contact information.
