Top 5 woodlands in the Highlands
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If you go down to the woods today, you'll find ancient trees, shimmering lochs, romantic waterfalls and wildlife galore.
Glen Affric
Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, has a wonderful mix of pine, birch and oak trees, and a classic landscape of lochs and mountains. The woodland here is one of the best examples of the Caledonian Forest that once covered much of Scotland. The gnarled old Scots pine is often called ‘granny pine’! The rich environment is also an important haven for wildlife, so the whole glen is protected as a National Nature Reserve. Glen Affric is home to an amazing range of wildlife including golden eagles and pine martens. Visit forestryandland.gov.scot
Reelig Glen, Moniack
Lose yourself – but not literally – in this ancient woodland. There is a mixture of old conifer and broadleaved trees, but its real glory is a stand of Douglas Fir trees that are well over 100 years old and a height of about 170 feet. Twenty years ago, one old giant measured over 200 feet – the tallest tree in Britain at the time. After a local competition, it was named Dùghall Mòr – Big Douglas! Visit forestryandland.gov.scot
Dunnet Forest, Dunnet
Dunnet Forest is the most northerly community woodland on the mainland. Managed by Dunnet Forest Trust, there is something for everyone with a family zone, quiet zone and active zone. There are short and long walks, all-ability paths, a horse trail, a mountain bike trail and a sculpture trail.
Uath Lochan, near Kincraig
This is a magical forest setting filled with sparkling lochans and real-life dragons and damsels – well, dragon and damselflies!
Getting here involves a little adventure up a narrow, winding road – but it's worth it! Uath Lochans is one of the prettiest woodlands in the area, with an easy trail around the lochans or a longer route up to a superb view over Strathspey. Visit forestryandland.gov.scot
Rogie Falls, near Tarvie
Enjoy walks through the trees before being rewarded with spectacular waterfall views.
The Riverside Trail winds its way through the woods to the riverbank before following the water’s edge back to the falls. On this forest trail see dark tranquil pools and pinewoods. Visit forestryandland.gov.scot
