Sightseeing in Inverness - what to see. Complete travel guide

This is a port city located on the bank of the Ness River. Due to advantageous strategic location Inverness has always been the reason for wars and ambushes. Great kings and pirates fought to rule this place. Among the conquerors of this city were Edward I, Alasdair, Bruce Robert, and Lords of the Isles.

The castle built in the 11th century was one of the witnesses of all these battles. It managed to survive partially up to our days, but several towers of the castle were destroyed in the 15th century. During the Victorian times the city started attracting first travellers who wanted to look at its priceless sights and walk on picturesque suburbs. The southern part of the city hides an interesting place, the popularity of which has overgrown not only Inverness, but the UK in general. This is Loch Nis Lake that is connected with large number of fantastic stories and legends. Despite the fact that the existence of Loch Ness Monster is not proven, thousands of tourists come to the lake hoping to see the mystic creature.

The city also keeps one more sight, as on its territory is located the highest point of the UK - Ben Nevis Mountain. From the top of the mountain you can see amazing views of lake, bay and pediment regions covered with forests. You may also like attending an excursion to St. Andrew Cathedral. The project of this wonderful gothic building was developed by an architect Alexander Ross in the 19th century. The church stores a collection of icons made of gold. This generous gift was received from the Russian emperor. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Besides visiting sights of Inverness and watching ancient buildings, the city offers to its guests large choice of restaurants, trading complexes and squares. You will find real pleasure in walking on green parks and cozy streets.

In the vicinity of the city, there are several interesting castles, among which, one of the most famous is the Cawdor Castle. Its owner was King Macbeth, of whose harsh character, Shakespeare himself wrote. Today, tourists are offered to make an interesting walk through the castle and visit its most secluded places, and afterwards, stroll around the surrounding large garden.

No less interesting is the Urquhart Castle. It is located on the top of a hill and has survived only partially until our days. From the adjoining territory of the castle, there is a beautiful panoramic view of Loch Ness. The history of the defensive structure is very interesting. Until the beginning of the 18th century, this castle remained unapproachable. In 1715 during the next battle, most of the castle collapsed directly into the lake. Huge stones and fragments of its walls are still lying on the bottom of the reservoir.

The city has many interesting museums and cultural centers. The most unusual can be said to be the Loch Ness Museum. In this museum, visitors will be shown interesting photographs, on which eyewitnesses managed to capture a mysterious creature. Many of the photographs presented were made about a hundred years ago, in black-and-white. The outlines of an incomprehensible lizard-like creature leaning out over the lake's surface are barely discernible. This museum also occupies a very beautiful historical building, which makes the excursion even more interesting.

Fans of elite alcoholic beverages should definitely visit the old Strathisla distillery. It is located near Inverness, in the small town of Keith. The opening of this factory took place in 1786. It produces the world-famous brand of whiskey Chivas Regal. The factory occupies a complex of incredibly beautiful historical buildings. It is located on the territory of a fabulously beautiful landscaped garden. During the tour, visitors can stroll through the most interesting places of the factory, see old equipment, and taste the famous whiskey. On the territory of the factory, there is also an excellent store in which gift and souvenir varieties of alcoholic beverages are sold.

A lot of interesting holidays are held in Inverness during the year. In July, traditional Highland Games are held here, and in November you can visit the interesting Beer Festival. Music lovers will be interested to visit the city in March, during the days of the music festival.