Welcome to Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands!
With its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and exciting history, Inverness is the perfect destination for an outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there are plenty of great walks to choose from.
Here’s a list of our top 15, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
So grab your walking boots and let’s explore the best of Inverness on foot!
River Ness Walk
You’ll love the River Ness Walk – a scenic stroll along the banks of the River Ness!
This picturesque path is the perfect way to take in the sights and sounds of Inverness, Scotland. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, the River Ness Walk has something for everyone.
With its winding pathways and lush green foliage, you’ll be mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the area. The River Ness is a must-see for all visitors, with its gently flowing waters, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of challenging routes up and down the river that’ll take your breath away. Soak in the fresh air and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you make your way along the trail.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a heart-pumping adventure, the River Ness Walk has it all.
Culbin Forest Walk
Experience the beauty of nature on the Culbin Forest Walk – a tranquil journey through an ancient Scots pine forest.
The Culbin Forest Walk, located near Inverness, is a must for nature lovers. It’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The path is lined with majestic Scots pine trees, which are believed to be over 400 years old. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning views of the Moray Firth and the surrounding hills.
You’ll also pass by the ruins of Culbin Castle, a 15th-century ruin which adds to the walk’s mystique.
There’s also plenty of wildlife to be found, including red deer, badgers, and birds of prey.
The Culbin Forest Walk is a great way to explore nature and get back in touch with the outdoors.
Castle Wood Walk
Discover the captivating beauty of Castle Wood Walk, a serene journey through history and nature. Located on the Southside of the River Ness, this walk is perfect for those looking to explore the area’s rich history.
On the one-mile path, you’ll pass the ruins of a 14th-century castle, as well as a picturesque waterfall and unique flora and fauna. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you take in the sights of the historic castle, along with the ancient trees and surrounding greenery.
There’s also a variety of wildlife to be seen on the walk, from birds to butterflies and even wild deer. With stunning views of the river and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, Castle Wood Walk is an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or an adventurous hike, this is the perfect place to explore Inverness.
Ness Islands Walk
Take a journey through time and nature on the enchanting Ness Islands Walk. This picturesque walk is located in the Inverness city center, and it’s the perfect way to connect with nature while also exploring the city. The walk consists of several small islands connected by bridges, each of which has its own unique charm.
Whether it’s the lush green vegetation that covers the islands, the abundance of wildlife, or the views of the city, the Ness Islands Walk offers something for everyone. The walk is also home to many historical sites, including the ruins of a castle and a number of beautiful churches.
The route follows the River Ness, giving visitors a chance to experience the city from a different perspective. Regardless of the time of year, the Ness Islands Walk is a great way to get out and explore the outdoors and discover the beauty of Inverness.
Culloden Battlefield Walk
Explore the hauntingly beautiful Culloden Battlefield Walk to get a glimpse of Scotland’s history. This walk is located east of Inverness and is a great way to get a true feel of the area’s past.
The battlefield is where the Jacobite Rising of 1745 took place and is now a historic site. Visitors can explore the area and learn about the events that took place here.
On the walk, visitors will find a visitors’ center, museum, and memorial cairn. There are also an audio tour and interactive exhibits to give visitors a more in-depth experience.
This walk provides a great opportunity for hikers to learn about the area’s history and take in the beautiful views. The easy terrain makes the Culloden Battlefield Walk accessible to all visitors, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Torvean Golf Course Walk
Moving away from the historical significance of Culloden Battlefield, my next stop is a little closer to the city of Inverness.
Set on the banks of the River Ness, the Torvean Golf Course is a fantastic place for a walk. With its rolling hills and lush greenery, the golf course offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere in which to wander.
Although it’s a relatively flat walk, there are some challenging sections which provide a great workout.
As you explore the course, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the river, with the hills of the Black Isle in the background.
Wildlife is also abundant, so you may be lucky enough to spot a deer or two.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an invigorating hike, the Torvean Golf Course Walk is sure to satisfy.
Merkinch Nature Reserve Walk
Discover the natural beauty of Merkinch Nature Reserve with a stroll through the tranquil forest and meadows. This is a great spot for a leisurely walk and to spot some of the local wildlife.
Merkinch Nature Reserve is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The reserve is full of diverse wildlife such as deer, birds, and badgers. With a rich variety of plants and trees, it’s a great spot for a nature lover.
The paths are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it a great choice for a family walk.
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon in the beautiful surroundings of Merkinch Nature Reserve and explore the natural wonders of Inverness.
CUlloden Moor Walk
Immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere of Culloden Moor with a leisurely walk through the rolling hills and heather-covered plains.
Taking a walk through the misty moorlands of Culloden is a great way to connect to Scotland’s past and the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
The moor is home to a variety of wildlife and provides stunning views of the Moray Firth and the surrounding hills.
This walk is perfect for those looking to explore the area and take in the beautiful landscape.
The path is easy to follow and provides plenty of opportunities to spot wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife.
It’s a great way to get some fresh air and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the sights of the moor as you wander through its rolling hills and heather-covered plains.
Moray Firth Coastal Path Walk
Experience the breathtaking views of the Moray Firth as you explore the coastal path walk.
This scenic pathway stretches for over 50 miles, winding along the coast of the North Sea and mesmerizing visitors with its majestic beauty.
The path passes through a variety of landscapes, from gentle seaside cliffs to rugged moorland, making it the perfect place to explore the wild and wonderful beauty of Scotland.
Walking along the coastal path, you can explore a variety of delightful villages and towns, including Burghead, Lossiemouth, and Cullen.
You can also take a detour to the beautiful beaches of Findhorn Bay, which offer stunning views of the Moray Firth.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy along the way, such as bird watching, fishing, and swimming.
With its stunning views and many attractions, the Moray Firth Coastal Path Walk is a must-see for any traveler to the area.
Brahan Woods Walk
Take a stroll through Brahan Woods and be captivated by the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. This is an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll, with plenty of wildlife to spot and plenty of foliage to take in.
You can take a leisurely walk along the trails, with a few benches to rest and take in the view. The woods are also home to a variety of wildlife, like birds and deer, so keep your eyes peeled.
There are a number of well-marked trails to take, so you can easily find your way around. The trails can also be used for mountain biking and horse riding, making this a great spot for a variety of outdoor activities.
Whether you take a stroll around the woods or a leisurely bike ride, you’re sure to enjoy the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Allt nan Uamh Gorge Walk
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Allt nan Uamh Gorge on a picturesque walk through the area. Located near Inverness, this natural gorge is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers alike.
The gorge is carved from the surrounding limestone hills by the Allt nan Uamh River, which flows through it. The walk takes you through lush green valleys, past crystal-clear pools and towering cliffs. Along the way, you’ll spot a variety of wildlife, including deer, otters, and the occasional red deer. There are also plenty of opportunities to take pictures of the stunning scenery.
The gorge is also home to a variety of wild plants and flowers, making it a great place to explore and appreciate the natural world. The walk is also relatively easy, with a couple of steep sections that can be easily navigated. At the end of the walk, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.
Allt nan Uamh Gorge is a must-visit for anyone looking for a beautiful and peaceful walk in Inverness.
Nairn Beach Walk
Leaving the Allt nan Uamh Gorge behind, I’m now heading to Nairn Beach for the next leg of my adventure.
This walk is a great one for beach lovers, as it takes you along a 3-mile stretch of golden sand.
The long beach provides plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the Moray Firth and the nearby mountains.
The wide expanse of sand also makes this an ideal spot for walking and running, as well as beach combing and wildlife spotting.
The beach is also popular with surfers who come here to ride the waves.
The beach is also a great spot for a picnic and to watch the sun set.
It’s a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon and take in the spectacular views.
Inverness Botanic Gardens Walk
Exploring the lush gardens of Inverness Botanic Gardens is a must-do for nature lovers. It offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Botanic Gardens is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and it’s a great place to witness wildlife in action.
During my visit, I saw a family of ducks swimming in the lake. I was lucky enough to spot a few birds of prey soaring in the sky. I also explored many of the walking trails in the park, taking in views of the surrounding countryside.
One of my favorite parts of the Botanic Gardens was the magnificent blooming flowers. They filled the air with a sweet scent. It was a beautiful and peaceful experience. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get away from the city and connect with nature.
Beinn a’ Bhuird Walk
Climbing Beinn a’ Bhuird is an awe-inspiring experience, providing breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands. This amazing walk is located in the Cairngorms National Park, and is one of the most popular and accessible hikes in the area. It’s not too strenuous, and can be done in four to five hours.
The trail follows the path of the River Dee, and passes through meadows, forests and high moorland. The summit of Beinn a’ Bhuird is reached by a steep climb which can be challenging, but the views from the top are worth it. The panoramic views of the Cairngorms, Ben Avon, and the Spey Valley will leave you in awe.
The wildflowers and wildlife of the area make the walk even more special. Beinn a’ Bhuird is a great way to experience Scotland’s majestic beauty, and will provide an unforgettable experience.
Tomnahurich Hill Walk
After the exciting ascent of Beinn a’ Bhuird, the next adventure on the list of best walks in Inverness is the Tomnahurich Hill Walk.
This is another rewarding journey, located just north of the city center, providing a great opportunity to explore the area.
The walk begins with a short but steep climb from the banks of the River Ness. This will offer a chance to take in the sweeping views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Once at the summit, it’s time to enjoy the views of the Caledonian Canal and the hills of the Monadhliaths.
The descent is just as enjoyable as the ascent, with a gradual decline and plenty of time to take in the beauty of the area.
The path ends back at the banks of the River Ness. This is a great walk to add to any itinerary in Inverness and a great way to get some exercise while exploring the area.
Conclusion
Wrapping up my list of the 15 best walks in Inverness, I can confidently say I’ve got something for everyone!
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll through the city streets or a challenging hike up a mountain, Inverness has the perfect walk for you.
No matter what your preference, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest and offers an incredible experience.
So, get out there and explore Inverness on foot – you won’t regret it!