Five Reasons to Visit Inverness: An Unforgettable Vacation Destination
Are you seeking a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, history, and outdoor adventures for your campervan getaway? Look no further than Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Nestled at the northeastern end of Loch Ness, Inverness is a gem of a city that promises an unforgettable vacation experience. Here are five compelling reasons to make Inverness your next campervan destination and not just somewhere to pass through at the start of your NC500 journey:
1. Mesmerizing Loch Ness:
Inverness serves as the gateway to the legendary Loch Ness, one of the most famous bodies of water in the world. Park your campervan along the shores of Loch Ness, and you'll have the opportunity to explore its mysterious depths, embark on boat tours, and even keep an eye out for Nessie, the elusive Loch Ness Monster. The lake's stunning scenery and fascinating history make it an essential stop on your Highland adventure. Stay at Fortrose Bay Campsite a beautiful, peaceful campsite with spectacular views. Book a shoreline pitch for the best view.
2. Highland History and Culture:
Inverness is steeped in history, and you can immerse yourself in Highland culture and heritage at sites like Culloden Battlefield, where the last Jacobite rising took place in 1746. Visit Urquhart Castle, a magnificent ruin on the shores of Loch Ness, to step back in time. Inverness itself boasts a charming Old Town, perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring historic landmarks.
3. Whisky Tasting Tours:
The Scottish Highlands are renowned for their whisky, and Inverness provides easy access to some of the finest distilleries in the region. Set off on a whisky trail in your campervan and tour distilleries like Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and Glenmorangie. Savor the flavors of fine Scotch whisky and learn about the distillation process in the heart of whisky country.
4. Outdoor Adventures:
Inverness and its surroundings offer a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From your campervan, you can embark on hiking adventures along the Great Glen Way or explore the Cairngorms National Park, which is just a short drive away. Whether you're into hillwalking, mountain biking, or fishing, Inverness has it all. Take a wildlife safari. We chose a trip with Dolphin Spirit and it was fabulous. The boat was family and dog friendly and Debbie our guide was full of fascinating knowledge about the wildlife around the Inner Moray Firth. Don’t forget to visit Chanonry Point. This is the only place in the North Sea that has a resident Bottlenose Dolphins population and if you’re lucky you can see them from the shoreline.
5. Stunning Scenic Drives:
One of the joys of campervan travel is the freedom to hit the open road and soak in breathtaking scenery. Inverness is the perfect starting point for scenic drives like the North Coast 500, which takes you on a 500-mile loop around the Highlands. The route offers jaw-dropping vistas of rugged coastlines, dramatic mountains, and charming villages along the way.
Inverness beckons vanlifers with its captivating mix of natural wonders, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. So, pack your bags, fuel up your campervan, and set your GPS for Inverness – a destination that promises an unforgettable vacation filled with exploration, history, and Highland magic. Whether you're searching for the mysteries of Loch Ness or the flavors of Scotch whisky, Inverness has something extraordinary to offer every traveller.
