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The Black Isle is a peninsula in the Highlands of Scotland, located north of Inverness.

Contrary to its name, the Black Isle is not an island. It is in fact a peninsula, surrounded on three sides by expanses of water, with the Cromarty Firth to the north, the Beauly Firth to the south and the Moray Firth to the east. From Inverness, it’s reachable by crossing the Kessock Bridge.

Charming towns and villages

Cromarty, located at the north east tip of the peninsula, is distinguished by its Georgian merchant houses and quaint fishermen’s cottages. In the summer the village is connected to Nigg, which lies across the Cromarty Firth, by ferry.

Overlooking the Moray Firth, Fortrose is the largest of the Black Isle’s towns and lies close to Rosemarkie, a small village with a beautiful beachfront. Also situated on the coast is Avoch, a fishing village characterised by neat little lanes of cottages running down to a historic harbour.

In the west of the peninsula is Beauly. At the heart of this riverside village lies a peaceful 13th century ruined priory and a pleasant village square.

Nature and the outdoors

One of the region’s great draws is its pod of resident bottlenose dolphins. At Chanonry Point, in between Fortrose and Rosemarkie, they can often be seen frolicking in the Moray Firth.

The Black Isle boasts two RSPB nature reserves. Fairy Glen, an enchanting wooded glen with tumbling waterfalls, is home to woodland songbirds and delicate wildflowers while Udale Bay provides a habitat for migratory pink-footed geese.

The Black Isle is great for both mountain bikers and leisure cyclists. Learnie Red Rock offers some thrilling graded forest trails, and the area is criss-crossed with quiet back roads and gentle tracks.

Historical treasures

Rosemarkie is well known for its Pictish stones, a number of which can be seen in Groam House Museum. The Black Isle also boasts fine examples of medieval stonework and at Udale Bay, the old Kirkmichael church is being redeveloped as a visitor centre to exhibit ancient ornamental memorials.

In Cromarty, Hugh Miller’s Cottage is a beautifully preserved thatched roof stone dwelling. Inside, personal belongings tell the tale of the notable figure who lived in the 17th century and was a stonemason, geologist, author, journalist and editor.

For more information about the Black Isle, visit www.black-isle.info .

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19 May The Black Isle

The black isle is neither black nor an island, but a peninsula with an 80-mile coastline in a compact area..

It is a region of rich farmland and woodland with historic towns and villages and a coastline that demands to be walked for its beauty and its wildlife.  Tourists are drawn to the Black Isle to observe bottle-nosed dolphins close up, but eventually they leave hoping to return, thanks to a sense of being part of a vibrant community with a strong culture and a fascinating history.

The Black Isle Tourism Team has identified the Black Isle as where you “Savour the Unexpected” and embrace the concept of slow tourism.  Climatically the Black Isle is softer, drier and “midge free” compared to the west coast. It is certainly somewhere you need to stay awhile to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.

To be enjoyed are some fine restaurants and cafes, specialist food shops, a historic golf course, famous geological sites, views as far as the Cairngorms, and you are never far from the sea. The Black Isle has a summer ferry link across the mouth of the Cromarty Firth from Cromarty, a small town with historical connections and fine houses reflecting its wealth as a port in the 1800s.

The Black Isle has numerous minor roads that provide a network for cyclists and there are mountain bike trails too.  The Black Isle is “bicycle sized”.  The footpath network is extensive, especially in woodlands and plantations, and in the grounds of country estates.   A popular walk is to head north of Rosemarkie on the beach, and if the tide permits you can pass the bluff at Scart Craig without getting your feet wet, while marveling at the multi-coloured rocks by the shore.

The beach at Rosemarkie is popular with young families as is the gentle countryside of the Black Isle.  Above all, the Black Isle is for people who understand, and have the time to accept, that the more you explore the richer is the experience. The Black Isle is not to be rushed.

A free tourism map packed full of useful information is available at many of the shops and eateries.

Images on this page ©  Julian Paren  ( cc-by-sa/2.0 )

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Black Isle tourism team launches ‘stay close and connected’ strategy

The Black Isle. By Sandy McCook

A tourism strategy encouraging visitors to feel ‘close and connected’ will be launched on the Black Isle next month.

The Black Isle Tourism Team (Bitt)’s strategy emphasises ‘slow tourism’ along with their brand Savour the Unexpected.

The strategy, so far in first draft, has been developed from a consultation process which began last November with an event involving more than 50 businesses, community groups and local residents.

Bitt chairman Jon Palmer said discussions explored issues affecting local communities and looked at ways of developing tourism in a way that enhanced, rather than hindered, local life.

He said: “This is the first time the Black Isle as a whole has really come together to plan what it wants for the future. We’ve gone to great efforts to involve as many people as possible as it will only work if everyone is on board, and feels they’ve had an input.

“We want to extend the season with an all-year-round calendar of attractions; find better ways of communicating and greater accessibility to what’s on offer; and invite tourists to get under the surface and become more involved in daily life rather than being an outsider looking in or passing through.”

Mr Palmer said a paid officer in post to help drive the aspirations forward would ‘make a huge difference.’

He said: “We’re all volunteers. There’s already a lot going on in the different communities, and many exciting plans, but we need to ensure there’s joined-up thinking between all those ideas. That’s what’s at the heart of this strategy.’

The first draft of the strategy will be launched on Monday April 8 with a walk in Culbokie Woods followed by a meeting at the Culbokie Inn to continue feedback and networking over lunch.

Anyone with an interest in tourism and how it affects the Black Isle is welcome. Organisers ask attendees to contact [email protected] for further details and to reserve places.

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'Slow tourism' push for Black Isle aims to entice visitors to get under skin of peninsula

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A VISITOR strategy for the Black Isle aims to place the emphasis on "slow tourism" and encourage people to get involved with what's going on around them rather than just passing through.

The Black Isle Tourism Team is launching a strategy document with a strong emphasis on slow tourism, encouraging visitors to "stay close and feel connected".

That ties in with its brand "savour the unexpected".

The document is part of a consultation process which began in November last year at an event that saw over 50 businesses, community groups and local residents represented.

Round table discussions explored issues affecting local communities and sought practical solutions to developing tourism in a way that enhanced, rather than hindered, local life. Key objectives focus on extending ‘the season’ with an all-year-round calendar of attractions; better communication and greater accessibility to what’s on offer; and an invitation to "get under the surface" and be more involved in daily life rather than being an outsider looking in or passing through.

Jon Palmer

The first draft of the strategy, which proposes short, medium and long-term actions, will be launched at an event in Culbokie on Monday, April 8. A short walk is planned through Culbokie Woods followed by a meeting at the Culbokie Innwhere conversation, feedback and networking will take place over a soup and sandwich lunch.

Chair of the tourism team, Jon Palmer, said: "This is the first time the Black Isle as a whole has really come together to plan what it wants for the future. We’ve gone to great efforts to involve as many people as possible as it will only work if everyone is on board, and feels they’ve had an input.

"Obviously you have to start somewhere and our initial suggestion of focusing on ‘slow tourism’ and sustainability chimed with the people present at our first planning meeting.

"Since then a small group of us have been putting more flesh on those bones and this document has some very practical proposals for how to put people’s ideas into practice.

"Some of the ideas are very simple and quickly achievable, others are quite aspirational.

"We are all volunteers doing what we can and one of the actions which would make a huge difference is to have a paid officer in post to help drive the whole thing forward. There’s already a lot going on in the different communities, and many exciting plans, but we need to ensure there’s joined-up thinking between all those ideas. That’s what’s at the heart of this strategy."

Anyone with an interest in tourism and how it affects the Black Isle is welcome, but it would be helpful for the organisers to know numbers. Attendees are asked to contact [email protected] to be given further details and to reserve places.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.

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Ten fantastic places to visit in… The Black Isle

Despite its name, the Black Isle is not an island, but is surrounded on three sides by the sea.

There is the Cromarty Frth to the  north, the Beauly Firth to the south, and the Moray Firth to the east.

It’s a part of the country adored by Rebus creator and writer Ian Rankin .

Here’s our top 10 places to visit.

Hugh Miller’s Cottage

The birthplace cottage and museum of the prominent writer and polymath presents his life and work at the Georgian Miller House. It also contains Miller’s impressive fossil collection, which includes original discoveries.

Black Isle Brewery Co

Based in Munlochy, it uses only the freshest, organic ingredients for its award-winning brews. If you visit you will be treated to a shop and a free tour, culminating in a tasting of the final product.

Groam House Museum

Based in Rosemarkie, this is an outstanding centre for Pictish and Celtic art. The display is focused on 15 carved Pictish stones, all originating from Rosemarkie, which was an important centre of early Christianity.

Poyntzfield Herb Nursery

Open from 1 March-30 September the nursery, which is a real hidden gem, has been growing herbs since 1976. It has over 400 varieties of herbs, gathered on botanical tours of India, Nepal, Sikkim and Japan.

New year’s Day Splash and Dash

This popular annual event in Cromarty sees locals – many in fancy dress – running into the sea and then racing for 5k around the village. There is a shorter distance for kids. Come along and join in, if you’re brave enough!

Chanonry Point

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Chanonry Point, at the end of Chanonry Ness, on the Black Isle

One of the best places in the UK to see bottlenose dolphins, who come in on the strong tidal currents to play and feed. Porpoises, grey seals and, occasionally, otters can also be spotted.

Glen Ord Distillery

Located in Muir of Ord and founded in 1838, the distillery is one of the oldest in Scotland. This five-star visitor attraction is open all year round. Visitors can also enjoy exclusive offers on its single malts.

Wildlife Boat Trip

The best place to view the Black Isle’s wide variety of wildlife, including dolphins, porpoises, seals, herons, gannets and ospreys is from the sea. Ecoventures, Dolphin Trips, Avoch and New era Cruises all offer wildlife boat trips.

Fortrose Cathedral

Fortrose Cathedral was the episcopal seat of the medieval Scottish diocese of Ross. The cathedral was constructed primarily of red sandstone, and after the Reformation it continued to be used as a church, but began to fall into disuse in the later 16th and early 17th century. It has been owned by the government since 1851 and is a scheduled monument.

Cromarty Courthouse

This Grade A listed former courthouse now houses exhibitions about the history of Cromarty. Life-like figures and audio enactment bring the old courtroom and the cells to life. The museum also has a shop.

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The Black Isle is a long and thin peninsula stretching eastwards from the Highland country towns of Beauly, Muir of Ord and Conon Bridge to Cromarty at its north-east tip. Connected to the south by the Kessock Bridge and to the north by the Cromarty Firth Causeway, the Black Isle rewards all visitors with a fine range of great places to visit, walks to enjoy and no small number of hidden gems.

Along the southern flanks of the Black Isle from North Kessock, tucked under the bridge, to Avoch with its historic harbour, visitors can take their time to enjoy walks around Ord Hill or the spooky Clootie Well at Munlochy . Beyond Avoch, the adjacent towns of Fortrose and Rosemarkie embrace the seashore and welcome golfers, walkers and history buffs – the latter notably drawn to Fortrose Cathedral and Groam House Museum in Rosemarkie, home to a fine collection of Pictish treasures. Inland, the forest trails of the Black Isle are wonderful for exploring on foot or by bike, along with numerous smaller villages such as Tore, Culbokie and Jemimaville, all with their own stories to tell.

The new and old home of slow travel

Cycling must be one of the very best ways to explore the Black Isle. Criss-crossed with miles of quiet roads and well-maintained tracks, the Black Isle lends itself to slow discovery. And there is so much to see and do. From the atmospheric lanes and vennels of Cromarty, a 17th century trading port, and the fossil beds at Eathie, made famous by geologist Hugh Miller who was born locally in 1801, the journey westwards and inland brings up treat after treat. Whether that is walking in the Fairy Glen, mountain biking at Learnie Red Rocks, building sandcastles or exploring caves on Rosemarkie beach, or birdwatching at Udale Bay, an RSPB reserve, there is something here for everyone.

And each year, communities across the Black Isle – from Resolis to Avoch and Culbokie to Munlochy – celebrate the area’s riches in a series of summer festivals. Local markets, restaurants and farm shops delight in offering fine produce from a fertile farming country – which is also home to the Highland’s biggest and best loved agriculture fair, The Black Isle Show , held near Muir of Ord in August every year.

Plan your visit

Chanonry Lighthouse, Fortrose

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Experience the captivating appeal of ancient places.

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Threads of Identity

Tartan is key to Highland identity. Clare Campbell, founder of Prickly Thistle, is exploring new opportunities for tartan as an expression of identity beyond the traditional Highland Clans, all while focusing on the use of natural fibres and sustainability.

Close up image of Glen Moyer tartan - consisting of shades of light and dark blue with a single thread of red running through the cloth

The Highlands - Bringing Joy Through Walking

Follow the rocky coastline with its waves, crashing and pounding or gently lapping and calming, walking the sandy stretch of beach, at times piled high with seaweed, other times golden with clean sands, limpet covered rocks, and caves with ancient history.

Rosemarkie sandy beach with wave coming in. The top 25% of the image features a light blue sky and sparse white clouds

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Things to do on the Black Isle - Fairy Glen

What to Do on the Black Isle near Inverness, Scotland

Last updated: December 15, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 12 Comments

If you’re driving the North Coast 500 or visiting Inverness (known as the capital of the Scottish highlands), one thing you should add to your list is a trip to the Black Isle. Found about a ten minute drive from Inverness , this large peninsula has plenty to entertain you, and we’re going to highlight our favourite things to do on the Black Isle in today’s post.

Despite the name, the Black Isle is neither an island or black. The colour in the name originates from the fact that it was once covered in dark, dense woodland, whilst the “isle” is because it is sandwiched between two large bodies of water, so access in times gone past would have been almost like visiting and island.

Robertsons the Larder

Today there is a lot to do on the Black Isle, including visiting an organic brewery, taking wildlife viewing tours and more. Let’s take a look at some ideas for what to do on the Black Isle.

What to Do on the Black Isle

We’ve arranged some of our favourite sights and activities on the Black Isle into a logical order to help you plan your day around visiting them. But since everything is fairly close together, you can rearrange them as makes the most sense for you. As you’ll see, there’s a lot to do on the Black Isle!

1. Robertsons the Larder

If you think you might have a picnic on the Black Isle, or are just looking for some tasty locally sourced food products, then you should pop by Robertsons the Larder on your way from Inverness.

Robertsons the Larder Farm Shop

This family run farm shop and children’s farm carries a wide range of delicious Scottish products, which are guaranteed to tempt you. They have everything from black pudding to smoked salmon to ice cream, and are the perfect stop to pack a picnic for the rest of the your day.

Robertsons the Larder Picnic

They also have a pair of gorgeous Highland Coos on site, which make for an excellent photo opportunity.

2. Black Isle Brewery

Started in 1998, the Black Isle Brewery has become one of Britain’s more well known organic breweries. They have the capacity to brew up to 10,000 litres of beer a day, and they ship their beer all over the world.

Black Isle Brewery

Today you can visit the brewery and take a free tour to learn all about the beer making process. You can also sample some of their beers, and of course, purchase some to take home with you.

We can definitely recommend doing so, it’s a fantastic beer and they have flavour options to suit pretty much all palates. We particularly enjoyed the Oatmeal Stout, which has a lovely dark colour and an almost chocolatey flavour.

3. The Clootie Well

Not too far from the Black Isle Brewery is the Clootie Well, which I have to admit, looks a bit like a scene from a movie like the Blair Witch Project.

In Celtic history, a Clootie Well was a place of pilgrimage for those seeking healing. They would normally be found at a water source like a spring, which would have a tree growing nearby. Pilgrims would come to the well, dip a rag into it, rub the rag onto the affected part of their body, and then tie the rag onto the tree whilst offering some sort of prayer.

Clootie Well - Black Isle

The theory would be that as the rag disintegrated over time, so too would the ailment. This particular Clootie Well, which is found near Munlochy, was said to be particularly good for healing children, who would often be left here overnight to heal.

Today the Clootie Well on the Black Isle is still a popular place to visit, and the trees surrounding the well are covered in rags and other items, including teddy bears and other offerings, some of which have writings on. It’s a short (five-minute) walk from the car park here through the rag tied trees to the well itself, and is certainly an interesting spot for a visit.

4. Fortrose Cathedral

Moving along the south coast of the Black Isle and we now come to Fortrose Cathedral in the town of Fortrose. This was once the seat of the bishops of this area, although the 13th century building is now just a magnificent red sandstone ruin.

Fortrose Cathedral

Despite being a ruin, the cathedral is still an impressive place to visit. It’s right in the centre of Fortrose, surrounded by greenery, and a number of details survive including some of the stone vaulting. It’s also free to visit.

5. Dolphin Watching at Chanonry Point

A short drive or a twenty minute walk from Fortrose Cathedral will bring you to Chanonry Point. This promontory is home to a pretty lighthouse and offers spectacular views up and down the Moray Firth, including across to Fort George , one of the UK’s most impressive military fortresses.

Chanonry Point

However, the real treat at Chanonry Point is the opportunity it offers for dolphin watching. As the tide starts to rise (check tide times here ), a pod of bottlenose dolphins can often be seen unaided from the beach. They’re here to take advantage of the optimal feeding conditions that the rising tide creates, and they often come very close to the shingle beach.

There is parking at the end of the point by the lighthouse, and at the right time of day it’s not hard to find the optimal point to watch the dolphins as there will usually be a fair number of people gathered. Just follow the path from the car park to the shingle beach, or at lower tide you can walk along the beach.

Chanonry Point Bottlenose dolphin

Note that this car park is pay and display during the day, with both coins and cards accepted. It’s also only suitable for cars, there’s no parking or turning for campervans or caravans. If you are in a longer vehicle you’ll have to park in Fortrose and then walk out to the point.

The best time of year to see the dolphins is in spring or summer, when they are hunting migrating salmon, although there is the chance to see them year round. In the warmer months there’s also often an ice cream van here, so even if you don’t see dolphins, you can at least get an ice cream!

6. Golf at Rosemarkie

If you love golf, then you will definitely want to make a stop at the Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club . In operation since 1793, this is the 15th oldest recorded golf course in the world, and its location on this stunning peninsula makes for a very memorable round of golf.

Golf

It’s definitely one of the more popular courses in Scotland, and is open to visitors to play. You just need to book in advance via their website, and of course, to have golfing experience. The course is described as fast, and has tight fairways and bunkers galore.

7. Groam House Museum

In the town of Rosemarkie is the Groam House Museum , home to an outstanding collection of Pictish carved stones.

Groam House Museum

Spread over two floors, and with free entry, here you can learn all about the history of these stones, which are over a thousand years old. The museum is also home to an exhibit from local artist George Bain, as well as a history of the people of this part of the Black Isle. Well worth a visit.

8. Fairy Glen Waterfalls

At the north end of the town of Rosemarkie is the parking area for the Fairy Glen trail. This is around a thirty minute round trip walk along a pretty stream, which brings you to the beautiful Fairy Glen itself.

Fairy Glen Rosemarkie

Here there are two gorgeous waterfalls which are wonderfully photogenic, and definitely worth the small effort it takes to reach them. Definitely one for a tripod and set of neutral density filters if you’re into photography!

9. Cromarty Brewing Company

Whilst the Black Isle Brewery is the most well known brewery in this part of the world, it’s not the only game in town. Not far from the town of Cromarty is the Cromarty Brewing Compan y, which has been making beer on the Black Isle since 2011.

Its also possible to take a tour here, however, currently tours only run once a week and they cost £5 per person. The website does however say that you are able to schedule tours in advance for other times if you wish, you just need to get in touch to arrange them.

There is also a shop on site which is open year round, so even if you don’t take a tour, you can pop in and see what’s on offer.

10. Cromarty Lighthouse

On to the town of Cromarty now, which sits at the tip of the Black Isle. In the summer you can actually take a ferry from here to Nigg , to save yourself the drive back to the main road.

Cromarty lighthouse Black Isle

We’re not done with exploring the Black Isle though. The town of Cromarty has a number of attractions, first of which is the Cromarty Lighthouse. This was built in 1842, and operated as a lighthouse until 2006. Today is a part of the University of Aberdeen , and operates as a field station, supporting research within their Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences.

You can’t get into the Lighthouse, but it is still worth taking a look at the building and the nearby harbour area, which is pretty.

11. Hugh Miller’s Birthplace Cottage and Museum

One of Cromarty’s most famous inhabitants was Hugh Miller. Born in Cromarty in 1802, he became known as a geologist, writer and paleontologist, as well as for his religious beliefs, which conflicted strongly with his scientific discoveries.

Hugh Miller’s Birthplace Cottage and Museum

Today, his collection of over 6,000 fossils is a big part of the National Museum of Scotland’s collection in Edinburgh, and he is considered to be one of the finest Scottish palaeontologists. The thatched cottage where he was born in Cromarty can today be visited, as can the property next door where he also lived.

Here you can learn about his life and work, as well as see the cottage, which has been restored to how it would have looked when he was there. The Hugh Miller Birthplace Cottage and Museum is operated by the National Trust for Scotland, and there is a small admission fee for non-members.

Fans of Hugh Miller will also want to take a short walk up behind the museum to the old Cromarty graveyard, where as well as a lovely ruined old church there is a large statue to Hugh Miller.

12. Cromarty Courthouse Museum

Right next door to the Hugh Miller Birthplace Cottage and Museum is the Cromarty Courthouse Museum . This volunteer run community museum is set in the old courthouse museum, which dates from 1773.

Cromarty Courthouse Museum Black Isle

Inside, you’ll find permanent exhibitions about the town and surrounding areas. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and displays through the year, which feature interesting stories from history as well as local artists. You’ll also find that the courtroom has been set up to re-enact a courtroom scene, and features life-like figures and accompanying audio to tell the story.

The museum is free to visit, although donations are appreciated. It’s not open year round, so check the official website for opening details.

13. Wildlife Boat Tours

From Cromarty you can take a wildlife watching adventure out into the Moray Firth, where you can see all sorts of wildlife, including the resident colony of Bottlenose Dolphins.

Ecoventures tour Black Isle

EcoVentures is the small, family run tour operator that operates out of Cromarty, and they run a two hour wildlife watching tour. Booking in advance is highly recommended as the boat only takes up to 12 people.

14. Kirkmichael

About a ten minute drive west of Cromarty along the north coast of the Black Isle is Kirkmichael . This medieval church had fallen into serious disrepair, but thanks to the efforts of the Kirkmichael Trust, it has been full restored and made safe for visitors.

Kirkmichael Black Isle

Today the old church is fully open and  has been turned into a very small museum showcasing some of the most interesting old medieval gravestones found in the Kirkyard. It’s a peaceful and interesting place to visit.

15. Glen Ord Distillery

We’re going to finish off our tour of the Black Isle with a visit to the Glen Ord distillery . This is the last surviving single malt scotch whisky distillery on the Black Isle, and dates from 1838. It’s quite an operation, with the capacity to produce over three million litres of whisky a year.

Glen Ord Distillery

As well as producing a Glen Ord whisky, the distillery produces whisky for the Diageo brands, which includes the Johnny Walker whiskys. Naturally you can take a tour of the facility, which includes a taste of the Glen Ord 12 year old.

Tours run year-round and whilst you don’t need to book in advance, it’s always a good idea to avoid disappointment.

Map of Black Isle Attractions

Here’s a handy map of the Black Isle attractions to help you plan your day. You can see this map on Google here .

Black Isle Map

How to Get to the Black Isle

The Black Isle is just north of Inverness, so is very easy to get to if you have a car, being less than a twenty minute drive from the city centre to the first attractions.

If you don’t have a car, there are also bus services, which are primarily operated by Stagecoach. These will let you access many of the major attractions on the Black Isle. See timetables here .

We are not currently aware of any tour companies operating tours of the Black Isle. One of our favourite tour companies in the UK, Rabbie’s , used to offer a tour here but this has been discontinued as of 2022.

Where to Stay on the Black Isle

With the Black Isle being so close to Inverness, it’s certainly possible to stay in Inverness and visit the Black Isle as a day trip from Inverness . If you wish to do that, check out Inverness hotel listings on booking.com here.

If you would like to stay on the Black Isle, we can recommend either  Home Farm Bed and Breakfast or The Factor’s House , both of which are well rated by visitors. The latter in particular is a favourite of ours, we loved the warm welcome, comfortable rooms and delicious breakfast (the hardest part is choosing what to have!).

Factors House Black Isle

Alternatively, if you would like to camp, there’s a large campsite near Chanonry Point, the Fortrose Bay Campsite , which has lots of pitches.

We also written a detailed guide to the best accommodation options on the North Coast 500 , several of which are within a short drive of the Black Isle, so do check that out as well.

Further Reading

Hopefully this post contains everything you need to know to help you plan out what to do on the Black Isle. We’ve also written a lot of other content about travelling in Scotland and the UK, plus we have some other resources we would like to recommend to help you even more. These are:

  • If you’re staying in Inverness, the Black Isle is one of many great day trips you can take. See our guide to some of our favourite day trips from Inverness for more inspiration.
  • We also have a guide to things to do in Inverness , where you’ll find lots of sights and attractions
  • We have a complete guide to Loch Ness , one of the most popular attractions in Scotland, which is just a short distance from the Black Isle
  • We also have guides to day trips from other Scottish cities, including the best day trips from Edinburgh , best day trips from Aberdeen , and best day trips from Glasgow .
  • The Black Isle is one of the first stops you’ll come to if you’re driving the North Coast 500 counter-clockwise from Inverness. Check out our detailed guide to the North Coast 500 , as well as my photography highlights on the North Coast 500 for some inspiration for your trip.
  • If you’d like an itinerary for the North Coast 500, check out our detailed 7 Day North Coast 500 itinerary as well as our slightly shorter 5 day North Coast 500 itinerary
  • If you head the other way from Inverness, you can take in the North East 250 driving route. See our NE250 itinerary for some ideas
  • If you’re driving in the UK for the first time, check out my tips for driving in the UK for some advice
  • Looking for more inspiration for Scotland? Check out our 2 day Edinburgh itinerary , Glasgow and Loch Lomond itinerary  and our itinerary for Skye and the Highlands to get you started.
  • We also have a guide to  things to do on Islay if you’re looking for more island inspiration
  • For wider UK trip planning, we have suggested one week and two week UK itineraries  as a starter, plus lots more UK content to help you plan your trip.
  • If you’d like a guidebook for your time visiting Scotland, we recommend the Rick Steves Scotland guide

And that’s it for our guide to what to do on the Black Isle! If you’ve got any feedback or questions, just let us know in the comments below.

Detailed guide to what to do on the Black Isle, a fantastic location for a day out from Inverness, or a destination to visit as part of a North Coast 500 road trip. Details of all the attractions you need to visit, from breweries to museums, plus tips on getting here and where to stay on the Black Isle.

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There are 12 comments on this post

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Trevor Worth says

7th July 2023 at 10:56 am

My late Mother’s family came from Avoch, with family names of Jack and McLeman, well back in early 1800s. They came to Victoria, Australia for the Gold Rush in mid-1800s. I always read what I can about the place & its people. Family info has them as being local bakers. Thank you for this feature.

Laurence Norah says

8th July 2023 at 12:30 pm

It’s my pleasure Trevon, I’m glad to hear you found it interesting 🙂

8th July 2023 at 2:21 pm

Laurence, are there still descendants of these two families in Avoch? I would love to get into contact if there’s any possibility. Thanks kindly. Trevor.

8th July 2023 at 2:44 pm

So I don’t know personally, but some quick internet searching shows that there are some families with the same name on the Black Isle. This thread on the Cromarty Archive for example discussed the McLeman family. I’d suggest reaching out to the folks at black isle info to see if they can offer assistance, their contact details are here: https://black-isle.info/contact-us.asp

Best of luck!

RIKKI J MCANDREW says

23rd July 2020 at 6:55 pm

My family has been traced back to The Black isle (McAndrew) the earliest we have is David McAndrov , born 1640, and his son Donald McAndrew, born 1665, both born in the Black isle and then Donald’s son David McAndrew was born in 1700 in Kiltearn, Ross-shire. Hope I can get to visit the area one day.

24th July 2020 at 12:16 pm

Wow, sounds like you’ve done some extensive genealogical research Rikki. I hope you get to visit someday too, it’s a lovely part of Scotland 🙂

berrat says

17th February 2020 at 6:06 am

I also enjoyed these interesting things during my last journey and came back with a lot of pleasant memories.

17th February 2020 at 12:03 pm

Good to hear!

Lois Young Flyte says

26th November 2019 at 12:48 am

My great grandmother, Christine McDonald, d/o Andrew Taylor and Janet McAndrew. Andrew Taylor, weaver, in Bogiwell and Janet McAndrew, had daughter Christina born 26 January 1803. She married Roderick McDonald, Smith at the Ness, and Christina Taylor, Bogiwell in the parish of Rosemarkie, 14 Feb 1829. Roderick was born in Tain, Rossshire, and apparently, then went to Black Isle. They moved to Dornoch, where he was a smith at Skelbo, Sutherland. My gr grandmother was baptized in Dornoch Cathedral. I have this record. Do you have any photos of Bogiwell, is it still in existence or where Roderick might have been employed as a Smith. The family left Scotland in the Clearings in 1853 and settled in Oxford County, Ontario, Canada. My sister and I were in your area in 1988, drove across the Black Isle to Dornoch, where we spent several days locating where our McDonalds lived and worked. I did not know at that time that Christina came from “near Rosemarkie” would have loved to spent time there, particularly after seeing your website with the info on the Picts articles, the dolphins, etc. I have written a History of the Young Family (my maiden name, they originated in Glasgow and left for Canada in 1845), my Robert Young married Christina McDonald, d/o the above Roderick McDonald and Christine Taylor.We spent time sightseeing in Sutherlandshire, and in Inverness. Fell in love with your part of Scotland!!

26th November 2019 at 9:19 am

Thanks for your comment and sharing your story. Unfortunately we don’t have any images from Bogiwell, and we aren’t sure if it’s still there any more. It is certainly a beautiful part of the world – we hope you make it back someday!

Sherry James says

8th October 2018 at 1:59 am

My Grandfather told me his family was from the “Black Isls’…I do appreciate your page….

10th October 2018 at 4:59 pm

Our pleasure Sherry! We hope you get to visit someday 🙂

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Top Guide to visiting the Black Isle

Where is the black isle.

The Black Isle is located in the Scottish Highlands just north of Inverness (around 15 minutes’ drive). It’s connected to the mainland in the South by the Kessock Bridge and in the North by the Cromarty bridge. It’s almost entirely surrounded by the sea which gives it a real island feel. Its name is thought to have originated from the fact that snow rarely falls on the isle, unlike the surrounding hills. It’s a very easy day trip from Inverness or you might want to base yourself here as there’s so much to explore and discover.

Best things to see and do on the Black Isle

Wander the streets of cromarty.

Head to the north of the Black Isle and discover the picturesque town of Cromarty, an old fishing port with an attractive sandy beach and an interesting selection of shops and restaurants.

Discover Hugh Miller’s Cottage (Cromarty)

Hugh Miller Cottage, Black Isle, Scotland

If culture and history is your thing, then Cromarty doesn’t disappoint. The famous geologist and writer, Hugh Miller was born here in 1802 and you can visit his perfectly preserved little thatched cottage and museum .

Get locked up at the Old Courthouse Museum (Cromarty)

Old Courthouse Museum in Cromarty, Black Isle, Scotland

Just round the corner from the cottage is the Old Courthouse Museum . It dates back to 1773 and now contains some fascinating exhibitions, show casing what life has been like in Cromarty over the years.

Boat crossing on the Nigg Ferry (Cromarty)

Nigg Ferry crossing, Black Isle, Scotland

If you are heading North from Cromarty either by car, foot or on your bike, then why not take the little Nigg ferry. It’s a small boat that can only carry a maximum of 2 cars and 12 people and the crossing is short, but it does save a lot of driving time. As you pass through the small settlement of Nigg it’s definitely worth popping into the attractive old kirk to see the impressive Pictish Stone from the 8 th Century.

A car costs around £10 one way and passengers are just under £5.

→ Nigg Ferry Website

Have a Walk at Fairy Glen Falls – Rosemarkie

Fairy Glen Falls, Black Isle, Scotland

If you are looking to stretch your legs and take a break from the road, then this delightful 3km country walk is just the tonic. The well signposted path follows a picturesque stream, that meanders through magical ancient woodland. The route has a few gentle hills with some steps here and there and is ideal for children. The highlight for many is the two dramatic waterfalls, that roar and tumble over the rugged rocky outcrop.

Local legend has it, that children from nearby Rosemarkie used to carry out a special ceremony here. This involved decorating the pools with beautiful flowers to ensure that fairies kept the water clean for the following year.

The walk starts at a little carpark just off the A832 that runs from Rosemarkie to Cromarty. The entrance is on the right just as you leave Rosemarkie. The town centre is also worth exploring with a small selection of shops and restaurants, I recommend the Beach Café with its lovely sea view.

Address: 14 Bridge Street, Rosemarkie, Fortrose, Ross-shire, IV10 8UP

Blow away the cobwebs at Rosemarkie Beach

Rosemarkie Beach, Black Isle

This was such a lovely find! We finished our walk at Fairy Glen and headed back to the centre of Rosemarkie. We spotted a signpost for the beach, took a left and discovered this gorgeous, sheltered bay. A great spot to have a sandwich or a coffee at the Beach Café.

Dolphin Watching at Chanonry Point Lighthouse (near Fortrose)

Chanonry Point Lighthouse

The lighthouse is situated in a dramatic location on a narrow strip of land surrounded by the sea. This spot is world famous for its bottlenose dolphins that love to swim in the calm clear waters. There is a lovely sandy beach next to the lighthouse and on a sunny day it’s a great place for a picnic on one of the benches.

The pay and display carpark can get busy in summer, so we find it’s better to park in the village and walk a little.  If you have a passion for dolphins, then visit nearby Avoch and book a tour with Dolphin Trips Avoch , there are daily sailings from the harbour.

→ Dolphin Trips Website

Fortrose Cathedral

Fortrose Cathedral

A visit to the picturesque town of Fortrose is well worth the detour. We recommend visiting the ruins of the 13 th century red sandstone cathedral located in a quiet square in the town. It’s free to visit.

→ Check opening times here.

Buy some beer at the Black Isle Brewery

Black Isle Brewery, Black Isle, Scotland

Located in Munlochy, the Black Isle Brewery produces a wonderful selection of craft beers using barley from its own organic farm on the Black Isle. The farm also grows fruit and vegetables used at their small chain of bars, one of them being in Inverness.

If you have time, stop by the brewery and experience one of their great daily tours and learn about the process of making tasty organic beer. The full range of their beer is available to buy at the well-stocked shop.

→ Black Isle Brewery Website

Get healed at the Clootie Well

Clootie Well (Black Isle)

Update 2023: an anonymous person cleared the Clootie Well of all its ‘cloots’ without any prior permission in Jan 2022. Locals were very upset at this unwanted act. You can see the before and after photos by clicking here . The ‘cloots’ are slowly reappearing, however, the feel of the place has changed (see photo above).

Discover an area of local folklore and tradition by heading to Clootie Well, an ancient healing site. For many years, people have visited this wooded area in Munlochy to partake in a healing ceremony. They would bring an item of cloth (cloot) belonging to a sick person and after dipping it in the healing water, would hang it to a tree believing that the person would be healed of their illness once the cloth rotted away. All the trees are covered in hanging cloths and rags giving the area a mysterious feel verging on slightly eerie.

Where to eat on the Black Isle?

Where to eat in cromarty.

Sutor Creek in Cromarty

There is plenty of choice of places to eat in Cromarty. For excellent local seafood and awesome woodfired pizza head to Sutor Creek , named after the massive rocks at the entrance to the Firth of Cromarty.

If you are a fan of cheese then you will be close to heaven in the The House of Cheese , a speciality cheese shop located in the old police station. Continuing with the food theme, I recommend checking out the Cromarty Bakery , famous in the Highlands for its excellent bread and pastries.

Where to eat in Rosemarkie

Crofters in Rosemarkie

There is a really lovely beach at Rosemarkie and a great café to boot. Head to the Rosemarkie Beach café, a community café run by the Rosemarkie Amenities Association. We also recommend Crofters located on the sea front. They have a great outdoor terrace as well as an outdoor pizza oven. Alternatively, opt for a traditional Scottish pub at the Plough Inn on the High Street. They have a great beer garden, the perfect spot for a refreshment after walking the Fairy Glen.

Where to eat in Fortrose

IV10 Café in Fortrose

For a light bite, head to the IV10 Café Bar Deli or the Fortrose café. Alternatively, opt for a takeaway and head down to the 19 th century harbour to take in the sea air. Sample fish and chips from McGinty’s fish and chip shop or Tweedy Pie . Pick up some delicious treats from the Bakhoos bakery .

Where to stay on the Black Isle?

You can easily do a day trip from Inverness to the Black Isle , however, you may prefer to stay on site and really explore the peninsula. There is plenty of choice of accommodation including hotels, b&b’s, self-catering cottages.

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Explore the Wild Corners of Highlands on a Road Trip through Black Isle

  • Published on: February 14, 2022

things to do black isle _Fairy Glen

The Black Isle is a peninsula in the northern part of Scotland. It is famous for its natural environment, with spectacular mountains, and wilderness. Black Isle is home to some of the most beautiful hidden gems of the Highlands. For those looking for things to do on Black Isle, there are many activities they can enjoy right here at the doorstep of the NC500 route wilderness.

9 unusual things to do in the black isle .

Black Isle has the most beautiful scenery and offers plenty of activities for visitors. From watching basking dolphins, exploring the wild glens to visiting some eerie places . If you are looking for something different to do in the Black Isle, here are some unusual things you can do:

This site uses affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you use my links and make a purchase without incurring an additional fee yourself. Many thanks for supporting this website. Please see my l egal page  for more details.

Visit Clootie Well

The Clootie Well is a natural spring located in the village of Munlochy. The water from the well has been used for centuries for healing purposes. The well attracted a social pilgrimage of locals who were hoping for a good year ahead.

The legend goes that if you tie a piece of cloth to the well, your wish will come true. People have also tied pieces of cloth with messages on them to the well. Read the article about the history of Clootie Well .

The Clootie Well

The Clootie Well

Explore Fairy Gle n

This is a nice scenic walk with two attractive waterfalls on your way. This forest glen is rich in history, and in the past, there was the Fairy Glen’s annual well dressing ceremony. Here children of the village would decorate a pool next to a natural spring with flowers.

This was said to ensure that the fairies kept the water supply clean. It’s a fantastic walk to see the waterfall and the money tree where hundreds of old coins have been hammered into it as offerings.

The Fairy Glen has become associated with descriptions in  Hugh Miller’s writings who shared a local landscape and tradition in his essays. 

things to do black isle

It is sometimes a little muddy in places and I recommend wearing suitable footwear .  That said it’s an easy walk, but please be careful not to trip on exposed tree roots, there are many.

In the section close to waterfalls the path becomes a bit steep & shallow, and there are a few steps up with handrails. The distance is around 3km / 1.75 miles which walking leisurely takes around 1 hour.

The car park is not really big, and it can be busy because the glen is popular with locals and dog walkers. You can also access the path directly from the beach, just around the corner of Beach Cafe

Drink in Nature

Located on 130 acres of organic farmland in a small village in Highlands, the award-winning Black Isle is a microbrewery run by passionate people with a commitment to producing beers made with 100% organic ingredients. 

Small farm alone has increased biodiversity through planting over 7000 native broadleaf trees, reinstating hedgerows, creating wetlands, and dug ponds. The brewery’s philosophy has similarly remained the same – developing high-quality beer whilst maintaining an environmental focus.

Taste a Whisky Glen Ord

The land surrounding Glen Ord distillery was the property of the MacKenzie family for nearly 700 years before Thomas MacKenzie decided to open his own distillery there in 1838.

Today, Glen Ord is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland and shares this fascinating history with visitors who want to taste this legendary whisky. Glen Ord continues to malt its own barley and to use the long fermentation and slow distillation methods that have been used for generations.

The Singleton, a rich, smooth-tasting, well-balanced whisky, is the only remaining single malt Scotch whisky distillery on the Black Isle. 

Directions by car: The Glen Ord Distillery is situated 15 miles west of Inverness in the village of Muir of Ord. 

Directions by bus: The Distillery can be reached by Stagecoach bus number 28.

Directions by train: Trains travel from Inverness train station to Muir of Ord train station, a 10-minute walk away from the Distillery .

Stay in a Shepherd’s Hut

Staying in Shepherd’s hut hand-built with dead trees from the farm where you’ll be staying sounds really special. You can enjoy Black Isle life at its best thanks to this place!.

Shephards Hut overlooks beautiful fields that are likely inhabited by lots of horses, sheep, and cows. Perfect scenery to keep you entertained! This bolthole is an eco-friendly hut that blends into its surroundings with natural materials.

it has been designed exclusively with couples in mind. It provides the ideal sanctuary to escape the stresses of your everyday life

Map of Black Isle attractions  

Admire Historical treasures

Fortrose cathedral  .

The oldest part of the present ruins at red stone Fortrose Cathedral date from the 1300s. The Cathedral is part of Historic Scotland and is free to visit

You should go see Groam House Museum in Rosemarkie; it’s the only museum in Scotland that houses Pictish stones. If you’re into interlaced designs and knotwork (which I know you are), then this could be the best place for you to visit!  

Beauly Priory 

In the wee town of Beauly here are the ancient ruins of Beauly Priory. These uniquely forested ruins are that of a 1230 church ad graveyard, founded by monks. It’s a short, almost-eerie walk through the abbey, and it’s completely free of charge to visit. Make this one of your first spots!

Kirkmichael Trust

Just beside the village of Balblair is the stunning conservation project of the Kirkmichael Trust , which are busy repairing the ancient and once derelict and dangerous buildings here. The museum will show you some of the most beautiful headstones in the highlands – these are all well-kept and have a unique story to tell. 

Wildlife Watching 

Among things to do at Black Isle is to watch the abundance of wildlife. Dolphins, porpoises, seals, herons, gannets and ospreys are a wide variety of wildlife to see in the area.

Fairy Glen has a long-established semi-natural broadleaf woodland in a steep-sided glen which supports a fine assemblage of plants and local birds.  

In Udale Bay, RSPB said from late summer to April you can see thousands of wildfowl and wading birds here. Come an hour or two on either side of high tide to be rewarded with spectacular views of flocks of flying birds. In autumn up to 5,000 wigeons feed here, while if you want to see an osprey fishing in the water, late summer is the time to come. 

It’s well worth a walk along the beach to Chanonry Point between Fortrose and Rosemarkie for the best land-based dolphin watching in the UK (on a rising tide.) The main viewing area is on a shingle, the stony beach behind the lighthouse, which can be accessed by walking along the beach (tide permitting) or along the path near the entrance to the car park.

You can save whales and dolphins by donating or adopting and helping to fight for a world where every whale and dolphin is safe and free.

things to do black isle

Go on a boat trip around the coastline

To see the most famous residents – Bottlenose Dolphins, the best is to take a boat trip with EcoVentures . The unique thrill of sharing the scenery, wildlife, and history that make this area so very special. The company is owned and operated by local skipper Sarah, who has nearly 20 years of experience running trips in these waters. Eco Ventures is an accredited operator with the Dolphin Space Program, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the local marine environment.

things to do black isle

Information Board

What time of year should you visit the Black Isle?

You can visit Black Isle all year round. The best time to visit is during off-peak months, as NC500 is very popular during peak season. Watch out for dolphins if you’re visiting between May and September. I would recommend the shoulder months, of April, May and September, for the best experience

Further Tips for Driving the North Coast 500

Though many NC500 travellers spend one night in 2-3 different locations as they travel the route, many visitors opt to establish themselves in about 3 locations. This gives you time to see more without feeling like you’re moving every day.

So Black Isle is a perfect base to explore this area of Highlands and I would suggest staying for a minimum of 2 nights to really explore the region. it could be also combined as a day trip from Inverness .

When you book your accommodation based on preference points categorized by the destination, you are given enough time to explore each area. You’ll have so much free time that it will allow you to go on excursions in the area, spend more time with locals, and try out new activities.

This will also give you the chance to explore more on foot rather than just by car. This is a popular option for visitors who want to explore more hidden gems of the North Coast 500 route and want to know the Highlands better.

Scotland Itinerary planning

My name is Kate and I created Scotland Itinerary Planning to give you those life-changing experiences right in the beautiful country I call home.

I’m proud to live in Edinburgh, Scotland , one of the world’s most beautiful capital cities. Living in Edinburgh has provided me a base to explore extensively around this magical little country.

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black isle tourism team

Transition Black Isle is part of the worldwide Transition movement, and we see our role as helping Black Isle communities thrive in the face of climate change and disruption to global resources.  Our activities include encouraging non-car travel, promoting energy saving measures, running community markets, supporting local food producers as well as helping people to grow more of their own food and to make their own compost.

As a partner in the Highland Community Waste Partnership, TBI is actively working with the community to reduce waste and consumption and increase reuse, repair and recycling .

Welcome to a world in Transition

LOCAL people are coming together, taking positive, practical steps to tackle the biggest challenges we face and create a resilient Black Isle.  Strong, vibrant communities will find themselves much better equipped to move forward in the face of over-dependence on fossil fuels and the potentially disastrous climate change which is likely to result.

Fossil Fuels and Climate Change

Our way of life is largely powered by fossil fuels like oil and coal.  Practically all aspects of the lifestyle we take for granted depend on oil. Food, heating, transport, agriculture, hospitals, medicines; modern western society revolves around the assumption that we have - and will continue to have - plentiful supplies of cheap fossil fuels.  But the energy cost of extracting them is increasing and carbon dioxide emissions from burning them are a major cause of global warming and source of pollution.  We must leave the fossil fuels in the ground, develop alternative energy sources and reduce total energy consumption.

Climate change is happening.  The October 2018 report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned there is only 12 years to keep global warming to a maximum of 1.5C and avoid catastrophic environmental breakdown.   Sir David Attenborough told the December 2018 UN Climate Change conference in Poland: “Right now we are facing a manmade disaster of global scale, our greatest threat in thousands of years: climate change.  If we don’t take action, the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon.”

Challenge and Opportunity

Looking these issues squarely in the face it becomes clear we must adapt and change the way we live, which means being prepared to adopt a more frugal lifestyle than we have become accustomed to. Getting people involved in making our communities resilient and helping to push the change to a low carbon society is what Transition Black Isle is all about.

The good news is it's not all about doom and gloom.  Living more locally is more fulfilling, more rewarding and ultimately a lot more fun than rushing in pursuit of an unsustainable lifestyle with barely time to think, let alone get to know our neighbours.  It can and should be "more a party than a protest" .

Find out more about TBI   and   get involved !

Latest Home page feature article It's so disorganised !

black isle tourism team

The monthly Black Isle Repair Café roams the community spaces of the Black Isle with the aim of making repair and reuse more accessible to residents.  

Food and Growing

TBI has produced a comprehensive Growing Guide (still available) for the north of Scotland, run several series of 'Grow North' workshops on a range of growing topics, and a very popular seed potato sale in early March.

Climate change

We provide  information about the serious threat posed by climate change and the need to drastically reduce carbon emissions caused by our burning of fossil fuels.  We report on governments' climate change plans, on activists' climate protests and on 'Green New Deal' proposals for a more sustainable world.

Black Isle Larder

The Black Isle Larder website replaces an earlier 'Your Local Larder' booklet which had become out of date.  It provides up to date information both to local people and visitors about Black Isle producers and suppliers offering food and drink largely sourced here.  

Travel and Tourism

TBI's Million Miles project reduced car use significantly, and we continue to encourage public transport and cycling, with an associated bike hire business and publication of an Active Travel map and guides to Black Isle cycle routes.

Plastics and waste

With pollution from single-use plastics a top cause of environmental concern, a group has been set up within TBI to exchange ideas and information on the issue and ultimately to change the attitudes and actions of people and businesses on the Black Isle.

In March each year TBI's most popular event offers gardeners the opportunity to select their seed potatoes from around 70 different varieties at a fixed price per tuber.  Add onion setts, all day refreshments, variety and growing information and advice and a seed swap stall, and it's no wonder it draws the crowds.

Craig Dunn - it's so disorganised!

black isle tourism team

"It's so disorganised!" claimed a friend in a recent conversation about the plethora of organisations working locally to combat the climate crisis.

Which led to a deep discussion about two things

1. Is our (the movement's) response to the Climate Crisis disorganised? 2. Is that a good thing?

So looking downwards from on high, as my friend was doing, it can look disorganised.  Different areas with different focuses, bumping up projects that have vastly different outcomes. 

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We are part of the rapidly expanding worldwide Transition Towns movement. The Black Isle is a peninsula of about 100 sq miles ENE of Inverness in Scotland, UK.

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IMAGES

  1. Black-Isle Tourism Team

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  2. Black-Isle Tourism Team

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  3. What to Do on the Black Isle near Inverness, Scotland

    black isle tourism team

  4. 'Slow down and get off the beaten track'

    black isle tourism team

  5. Transition Black Isle

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  6. Map & Getting Around

    black isle tourism team

COMMENTS

  1. Black Isle Tourism Team

    Black Isle Tourism Team Steering Group. The Autumn 2022 members of the Black Isle Tourism Committee are: Becky Richmond, Black Isle Stud, Ferintosh. Jon Palmer, The Cheese House, Cromarty. Rose Grant, (Communications Lead), Fortrose. Julian Paren (Treasurer/Membership Secretary), Munlochy.

  2. Black-Isle Tourism Team

    The Black Isle Tourism Team has written a short article on the Black Isle. The Black Isle is neither black nor an island, but a peninsula with an 80-mile coastline in a compact area. It is a region of rich farmland and woodland with historic towns and villages and a coastline that demands to be walked for its beauty and its wildlife.

  3. The website for the Black Isle

    Take our pledge - Hints and tips from the Black Isle Tourism Team for a responsible stay. Black Isle News. 05/02/2024 Potato Day - 2 March 2024. Getting around and maps. Where is the Black Isle? Maps, transport and the Cromarty to Nigg Ferry. Hidden Gems of the Black Isle.

  4. Transition Black Isle

    The team regrouped in the early autumn and have been active ever since. We are relaunching as Black Isle Tourism, which is being managed by a Steering Group consisting of: Becky Richmond, Black Isle Guides and Project Manager to the Black Isle Partnership. Jon Palmer, The Cheese House, Cromarty. Rose Grant , (Communications Lead), Fortrose.

  5. Black Isle Tourism Team

    This is a closed group where current members of the Black Isle Tourism Team can share information with each other. For more details please direct message the team steering group via www.black-isle.info.

  6. Black Isle Visitor Guide

    The Black Isle also boasts fine examples of medieval stonework and at Udale Bay, the old Kirkmichael church is being redeveloped as a visitor centre to exhibit ancient ornamental memorials. In Cromarty, Hugh Miller's Cottage is a beautifully preserved thatched roof stone dwelling. Inside, personal belongings tell the tale of the notable ...

  7. The Black Isle

    The Black Isle Tourism Team has identified the Black Isle as where you "Savour the Unexpected" and embrace the concept of slow tourism. Climatically the Black Isle is softer, drier and "midge free" compared to the west coast. It is certainly somewhere you need to stay awhile to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.

  8. Black Isle tourism team launches 'stay close and connected' strategy

    A tourism strategy encouraging visitors to feel 'close and connected' will be launched on the Black Isle next month. The Black Isle Tourism Team (Bitt)'s strategy emphasises 'slow tourism ...

  9. 'Slow tourism' push for Black Isle aims to entice visitors to get under

    A VISITOR strategy for the Black Isle aims to place the emphasis on "slow tourism" and encourage people to get involved with what's going on around them rather than just passing through. The Black Isle Tourism Team is launching a strategy document with a strong emphasis on slow tourism, encouraging visitors to "stay close and feel connected".

  10. Ten fantastic places to visit in... The Black Isle

    The best place to view the Black Isle's wide variety of wildlife, including dolphins, porpoises, seals, herons, gannets and ospreys is from the sea. Ecoventures, Dolphin Trips, Avoch and New era Cruises all offer wildlife boat trips. Fortrose Cathedral. Fortrose Cathedral was the episcopal seat of the medieval Scottish diocese of Ross.

  11. Black Isle

    Black Isle. The Black Isle is a long and thin peninsula stretching eastwards from the Highland country towns of Beauly, Muir of Ord and Conon Bridge to Cromarty at its north-east tip. Connected to the south by the Kessock Bridge and to the north by the Cromarty Firth Causeway, the Black Isle rewards all visitors with a fine range of great ...

  12. The Black Isle

    For copies of the Black Isle Tourism Team visitor maps, ask in local businesses and attractions or click here for a digital version.. The Black Isle from above the south side of Munlochy Bay. Despite its name, the Black Isle is not an island, but a peninsula, surrounded on three sides by water - the Cromarty Firth to the north, the Beauly Firth to the south, and the Moray Firth to the east ...

  13. What to Do on the Black Isle near Inverness, Scotland

    9. Cromarty Brewing Company. Whilst the Black Isle Brewery is the most well known brewery in this part of the world, it's not the only game in town. Not far from the town of Cromarty is the Cromarty Brewing Compan y, which has been making beer on the Black Isle since 2011.

  14. Top Guide to visiting the Black Isle

    The Black Isle is located in the Scottish Highlands just north of Inverness (around 15 minutes' drive). It's connected to the mainland in the South by the Kessock Bridge and in the North by the Cromarty bridge. It's almost entirely surrounded by the sea which gives it a real island feel.

  15. Transition Black Isle

    The map is an initiative of the Black Isle Tourism Team, a loose grouping of people from local businesses and organisations with an interest in tourism, with support from the Black Isle Partnership. The original map was created by Black Isle Bicycles (a subsidiary of Transition Black Isle) through funding from The Coastal Communities Fund, and ...

  16. The Black Isle

    The Black Isle is packed full of hidden treasures. Discover the 'Pirate's Graveyard' above Cromarty, the waterfalls of the Fairy Glen, or the caves tucked at the far end of Rosemarkie beach. The Black Isle is perfectly positioned to head west to Ullapool (under an hour), north to Tain and Dornoch or to pop into Inverness, the 'capital ...

  17. Explore the wild corners of Highlands on a road trip through Black Isle

    Drink in Nature. Located on 130 acres of organic farmland in a small village in Highlands, the award-winning Black Isle is a microbrewery run by passionate people with a commitment to producing beers made with 100% organic ingredients. Small farm alone has increased biodiversity through planting over 7000 native broadleaf trees, reinstating ...

  18. Transition Black Isle

    New Black Isle Visitor Map. 14 March 2023. Launch of new map and Slow Tourism booklet. The new Black Isle map was formally launched at a low-key event at Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club organised by the resurgent Black Isle Tourism group, in conjunction with a new 'Slow Tourism' booklet prepared by the group and featuring three articles by TBI Convenor Julian Paren. Funding for the event was ...

  19. PDF Personal thoughts on Tourism on the Black Isle Jon Palmer Chair, Black

    The Black Isle Tourism Team Committee at the launch of the Black Isle Tourism Strategy, Culbokie Inn, April 2019 - L to R - Julian Paren, Keith Martin, Shirley Matheson, Anne Phillips, Becky Rchmond, Rose Grant, Jon Palmer The views expressed here are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of the rest of the team, ...

  20. The Black Isle Trip Planning

    Plan your Visit to The Black Isle with free The Black Isle itineraries, guides, things to do and maps. Create your personal guide to The Black Isle with full information on all top attractions Visit The Black Isle - The Black Isle Trip Planning

  21. Transition Black Isle

    The monthly Black Isle Repair Café roams the community spaces of the Black Isle with the aim of making repair and reuse more accessible to residents. Food and Growing TBI has produced a comprehensive Growing Guide (still available) for the north of Scotland, run several series of 'Grow North' workshops on a range of growing topics, and a very ...

  22. PDF Black Isle Tourism 2022 Branded

    Locally Black Isle Tourism has: - Published the Visitor Map for The Black Isle, now in the fourth edition - Hosted several busy networking and information events - Updated the black-isle.info website alongside Plexus Media - Supported funding applications for our members - Maintained our Facebook page: Discover the Black Isle

  23. Contact Us

    Contact Us. Black-Isle.info. c/o Plexus Media Ltd. 2 Bank St. Cromarty IV11 8UY. 01381 600818.