Stop what you’re doing and pack your bags – it’s time for an adventure! Inverness is a lively, legendary town, but did you know it’s often referred to as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands? It’s true! Grab your wellies (or rain boots if you’re not from the UK) and get ready to explore 4 locations that are only an hour or less drive from Inverness, Scotland.

1. Loch Ness

Children often hear stories about the Loch Ness Monster known as Nessie, but this popular legend is fun for people of all ages. Loch Ness, a large lake in the Scottish Highlands, is home to the historic creature known as “Nessie”. 

Only one hour from Inverness, travel to the famous lake, Loch Ness and take a boat cruise in hopes of catching a glimpse of Nessie. As you journey down the loch learn of its history from the boat’s captain as they dive into what makes Loch Ness so special. 

Pro Tip: Keep your eyes peeled along the way for one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. The medieval Urquhart Castle can be spotted nestled along the western shore. No stranger to battles, sieges, or destruction, Urquhart Castle was used not only by the military but also for trade.

2. Clava Cairns

Where are our Outlander fans? At over 4,000 years old Clava Cairns stone circles and burial cairns are thought to be the inspiration behind the novel's famous transporting stones. If you’re a super fan, you might even be able to find a stone that looks very similar to the one Claire transports through.

What is a cairn? A cairn is a man-made pile or stack of stones. Having been used for thousands of years they’re traditionally a landmark, memorial or burial site. Appreciated for their historical significance, these well-preserved stones connect present to past allowing visitors a mystical, magical experience of a lifetime. 

Pro Tip: It can get very busy here. Plan to arrive when the grounds open or shortly before close. You won’t regret having the quiet time to experience this magical place.

3. Culloden Battle Field

A short drive from Clava Cairns (about 15 minutes) you will find Culloden Battlefield. If you have never walked on hallowed ground such as this, we would describe it as a unique and emotional experience. Culloden Battlefield was a horrific battle that ended the Jacobite uprising in 1746. There is no need to pick a side British or Jacobite, while exploring the field. Visitors can follow paths indicated in blue and red lines that outline where each army stood.

If time allows it, pop in the visitor center for some continued learning. Here you will find interesting artifacts from the battle on display and you can walk you through the events that happened in the days leading up to the tragic battle. 

Pro Tip: As you walk the field, look for the stone clans. This is a special remembrance for each Highland clan who fell to rest on the hallowed ground. The number on the stone indicates how many family members are remembered here.

4. Ruthven Barracks

Overlooking Spey Valley, Ruthven Barracks is about 55 minutes south of Inverness. One of the best preserved military barracks we’ve ever visited, the ruins were erected in 1721 after the first Jacobite rising. Designed to accommodate British government troops the barracks would not stand use for long. Following the battle of Culloden, about 25 years after being built, Jacobites retreated to Ruthven Barracks and destroyed the facility.

Thanks to Historic Environment of Scotland that maintains the historic building, entrance is free of charge. Upon arrival follow the footpath up the hillside into the soldiers quarters. Once inside, follow the perimeter to learn what each room was used for.

Pro Tip: Plan your visit close to sunset. You won’t regret the incredible views of the Highlands skyline. 

It doesn’t matter if you visit one or all four of these sites we know you’ll have a blast exploring all the sites Scotland has to offer. Don’t miss out on your chance to explore more of Scotland. Learn what to do in Edinburgh in this blog, 10 Free Things to Do in Edinburgh for Budget Travelers. 

Safe Travels!