A Journey Through Time: Exploring Culloden Moor and Beyond

As the crisp autumn air envelops the Scottish Highlands, Culloden Moor stands as a poignant reminder of Scotland’s tumultuous past. This weekend, embark on a journey that intertwines history with the breathtaking beauty of the Highlands. Begin your exploration with a Full-Day Tour that promises a deep dive into the region’s rich tapestry of stories and landscapes.

Start your day early, as the tour departs at 8:30 AM, ensuring you have ample time to absorb the sights and sounds of the Highlands. The journey takes you along the serene shores of the Cromarty Firth, crossing the Cromarty Bridge to the Black Isle. Here, the Beauly Priory awaits, a 13th-century monastery that whispers tales of its Valliscaulian monks and the ravages of Cromwell’s forces. Although the priory is currently closed, the view from the gate offers a glimpse into its storied past.

Continue your journey over Culnakirk Hill to Drumnadrochit, where the majestic Urquhart Castle stands sentinel over Loch Ness. The castle’s ruins, steeped in history, offer stunning views of the loch, where the legendary Nessie is said to dwell. As you explore the castle, let your imagination wander back to the days of St. Columba and the battles that once raged here.

The Heart of the Highlands: Inverness and Its Surroundings

Inverness, the cultural heart of the Highlands, beckons with its blend of history and modernity. As you approach the city, the Hill of the Fairies and the imposing Inverness Castle come into view. The castle, with its rich history dating back to 1057, offers a glimpse into the region’s past, while the statue of Flora MacDonald stands as a testament to the resilience of the Scottish spirit.

A visit to the Old High Church reveals the somber history of the Jacobite prisoners, with musket holes still visible in its walls. Nearby, Leakey’s Second-hand Bookshop invites you to lose yourself among its shelves, housed in a former church that once served as a hospital after the Battle of Culloden.

For those with a penchant for the mystical, the Clava Cairns offer a journey back 4000 years. These ancient burial sites, with their stone circles and cleft stones, inspired the Outlander series and continue to captivate visitors with their enigmatic presence.

Reflections on Culloden: A Battlefield of Memories

No visit to Culloden Moor is complete without a Private Tour of the battlefield, where the echoes of the past linger in the air. The Battle of Culloden, fought in 1746, marked the end of the Jacobite uprising and forever changed the course of Scottish history. As you walk the battlefield, the memorial cairn and clan gravestones stand as silent witnesses to the lives lost in this pivotal conflict.

The visitor center offers a comprehensive look at the battle’s history, with exhibits that bring the events of that fateful day to life. As you explore, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made and the enduring legacy of the Jacobite cause.

End your day with a visit to Cawdor Castle, reopening in April 2024, where the Thanes of Cawdor have resided since 1370. The castle’s gardens and woodlands provide a tranquil setting to contemplate the day’s adventures, while the Dowager Countess of Cawdor’s presence adds a touch of living history to your visit.

“A Special Highland Experience - Today was a thrilling day with Kevin. The scenery, stories, fun, kindness. Without a doubt one of the best tours we have ever experienced. Long ago I became committed to private tours. Today reminded me why. I came away enriched and joyful. The memories will last a lifetime.” - Reviewed on 2024-08-27

As the sun sets over the Highlands, the memories of your autumn exploration in Culloden Moor will linger, a testament to the enduring allure of Scotland’s past and present.