Ross-shire Leisure Activities
Things to do in the Highlands of Scotland
Leisure Activities in Ross-shire
Relaxation: The Dower House is the perfect place to relax, unwind and give in to a little pampering. Surrounding the house is a land of infinite variety - from the pastoral beauty of the east coast, through the awe-inspiring mountains, moors and glens to the tranquil beauty of the west coast islands, beaches and sea lochs.
Inverness-shire: Inverness, capital city of the region, is just a 20 minute drive away. The city of Inverness has a Castle, Cathedral and excellent shopping facilities. Also within easy reach is the West Coast and the Isle of Skye.
History: This area is steeped in history and glimpses of it can be seen to this day. For example, the prehistoric standing stones at Clava, the unearthing of a pictish village at Portmahomick, castles such as Cawdor, Brodie and Dunrobin, the conservation village of Cromarty and the Tain pilgrimage centre. Other major attractions are the historic Culloden Battlefield, Fort George and Loch Ness - with its exhibitions and visitors' centre at Drumnadrochit.
Wildlife: In the area's diverse tapestry of scenery you may see dolphins, deer, seals, wild cat, pine martin, whales, eagles and many more animals and birds which inhabit this 'last wilderness of Europe'. In Glen Affric you can envisage what Scotland's Caledonian Forest was once like. The region also has its own Moray Firth dolphins.
Gardens: The warm Gulf stream around the coastline allows the cultivation of many plants that would not normally belong in Scotland, and these can be seen in the many gardens open to the public. Inverewe is the most famous with its large collection of rhododendron.
Scottish Highlands: Activities for all ages are available in the locality. The mountains offer superb hill walking and Munros to 'bag'.
Golf: Scotland is home to some of the world's finest golf courses. No less than 25 golf courses are within an hours drive of The Dower House, including 2 of the best championship courses at Royal Dornoch and Nairn [1999 Walker Cup].
Outdoor Activities: Fish in some of the most beautiful rivers and lochs in the world, stalk amongst the grandeur, enjoy water sports in the crystal clear waters, mountain bike, hang glide, walk, climb or birdwatch.
Distilleries: Glen Ord is only 5 minutes away and the aromas of peat and malted barley can be caught on the air at the hotel! The world renowned Glenmorangie distillery and a great many more welcome you to visit and taste their unique Golden Waters of Life! In Gaelic, Bhuidhe uisge-beatha!
Shopping: For those who like to shop there are an array of specialist shops in the region providing quality Scottish crafts - traditional tweeds and woollens to designer knitwear, pottery to contemporary sculpture and paintings.
Railway Journeys and Highland Games: Whilst staying at The Dower House why not take a train journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland on the Kyle line, or enjoy the atmosphere at one of the many art and music festivals, or the traditional Highland Games at Beauly?