Uncovering Inverness’s Hidden Charms: A Local’s 5-Day Guide

As you sit sipping whisky by the bar at The Gellions pub – reportedly the oldest pub in Inverness, dating back to 1841 – try chatting with the bartenders about obscure legends from Inverness past. Such tales encapsulate what makes Inverness so magical – a layers-deep story just waiting to be uncovered if you know where to look.

Top Attractions for Your Inverness Stay

Inverness Castle
Wake early and take the footpath along the river, watching the rising sun cast a golden glow over the castle walls. This fleeting moment of tranquillity evokes the long history within these walls.

Kessock Bridge
Moss-covered trails wind below the bridge, providing intimate views unmatched by crowded overlooks. Listen for the ethereal skirl of bagpipes, as if the muses honour this feat of engineering.

Urquhart Castle
Climb the Grant Tower steps just as Lady Rose’s beloved did centuries ago, stealing a secret rendezvous before she married the castle’s Lord. Peer through the arrow slit and imagine warriors storming the shores below.

Culloden Battlefield
Wander past clan headstones and hear a rendition of “The Skye Boat Song” float on the breeze, transporting you to the tragic aftermath of battle.

Botanic Gardens
Meander past riverside gardens abloom, pause to admire the vibrant purple rhododendrons contrasted against the emerald lawns and inhale the relaxing floral scents.

Must-See Day Trips Around Inverness

Loch Ness
Board a small cruiser and glide across Loch Ness’ glassy waters, the boat captain regaling you with tales of Nessie sightings over whisky tasting.

Cairngorms National Park
Traverse ethereal Caledonian pine trails, glimpsing the aquamarine waters of Loch an Eilein through the forest before emerging to spectacular Highland vistas.

Speyside Whisky Trail
TIP: Visit a whisky distillery on a misty morning and enjoy a private tasting experience in one of the cosy stone warehouses, sampling signature drams surrounded by oak casks. Choose between the famous Glenlivet, Glenfiddich or McCallan or pick a more quirky one like Dallas Dhu.

Black Isle Peninsula
Traverse single lane tracks bordered by vibrant purple heather, stopping to photograph uninterrupted views of the Moray Firth at Chanonry Point Lighthouse.

Glen Affric
Pause along An Caorann Mòr’s stepping stones while enchanting birdsong echoes through the glen. Dip your toes in the brisk loch waters before hiking on through mossy boulders and soaring pines.

5-Day Itinerary to Maximise Your Time

• Day 1: Inverness Castle and Culloden Battlefield
• Day 2: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
• Day 3: Whisky tour of Speyside distilleries like Abhainn Dearg
• Day 4: Hike through Cairngorms National Park
• Day 5: Stroll through Inverness’ Botanic Gardens

Follow this 5-day itinerary to uncover the most unique highlights of Inverness and the Scottish Highlands. From dramatic landscapes to experiences steeped in Scottish heritage, Inverness is sure to captivate you with its depth and originality. And if you need a base while exploring Inverness – consider staying at our Inverness Serviced Apartments with your own kitchen and living room. Slàinte Mhath! Slàinte Mhath!