Top 5 coast and water locations in Highland and Moray
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2020 is Scotland’s year of coasts and waters so here are some favourite spots from spectacular waterfalls to remote lochs
Loch Avon, Cairngorms National Park
It is one of the most remote but also one of the most impressive lochs in Scotland. The journey to Loch Avon (also known as Loch A’an) is a tough mountain route in the winter and a challenging trek during the summer months but you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular views. The circuit, which takes in the Corbett Creag Mhor, is a little over 18 miles and in winter hillwalkers will need to be experienced in tackling the terrain and using an ice-axe and crampons. The track starts and ends near Glenmore Lodge. Check out Walkhighlands for the full route details.
The Beauly Firth
The Kessock Bridge is the most recognisable landmark along the coastline here, and where the Beauly Firth and Moray Firth meet. There is a 26-mile cycle circuit around the Beauly Firth, a popular route since the bridge was opened in 1982. But you can enjoy a gentle stroll from North Kessock towards Redcastle.
Falls of Glomach, near Kyle of Lochalsh
Explore this dramatic Highland landscape and marvel at one of the highest waterfalls in Britain – a 113m-torrent of crystal-clear water. The Falls of Glomach can only be reached on foot. It’s a six-hour hike there and back but the views are definitely worth the effort. The name comes from the Gaelic ‘glòmach’, meaning hazy, an apt description given that the falls are often surrounded by mists!
Embo beach, near Dornoch
These golden sands stretch north from the village of Embo, near Dornoch to the mouth of the River Fleet and are a popular spot whether to enjoy a summer heatwave or a bracing winter walk. The network of paths will take you through the sand dunes where you can spot the local wildlife and take in the fantastic views. There is a car park, overlooking the beach, at the north-east corner of the village.
The River Spey
The mighty Spey is the third longest river in Scotland (after the Tay and the Clyde) at 172 kilometres. It is renowned for salmon and for the whisky distilleries that have grown up along its banks. It journeys through the Cairngorms National Park and Moray before reaching Spey Bay and into the Moray Firth.
