Welcome to Inverness!
The Palace Hotel & Spa is at the heart of this fantastic city and here are some ways we recommend you might spend your time:
Day 1: Discover the Capital of the Highlands
Take it easy on your first day in Inverness and spend some time in this truly delightful capital. The hotel sits right on the banks of the charming River Ness looking onto stunning Inverness Castle. Dating from the1830's the Castle is now the setting for the Castle Garrison Encounter giving you the chance to sign up as an 18th Century soldier in this authentic costume re-enactment. Stroll down from the Castle and pass some of the fabulous gardens which have won Inverness the Britain in Bloom accolade. Find out about the area's heritage at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery in nearby Castle Wynd. Or enjoy the sounds of the Highlands at the home of Highland music, Balnain House, on the West bank of the River where you can try your might on the bagpipes.
For retail therapy, whether it be the latest fashions or some Highland mementoes, hit Inverness High Street and the recently extended Eastgate Shopping Mall only a few minutes stroll from the hotel. When you have exhausted yourself and need to rest your weary purse, head back to the hotel and relax in the leather sofas with a cappucinno or a glass of cold white wine.
Day 2: Experience the Beauty of Loch Ness and Spot that Monster!
A visit to world famous Loch Ness is a must when visiting Inverness. The breathtaking scenery and romantic isolation of ruined Castle Urquhart jutting onto the Loch will entice the imagination of all visitors. Keep your camera in focus though just in case the Loch's famous inhabitant, Nessie, makes an appearance. You can board a cruise of Loch Ness at Drumnadrochit or Fort Augustus and feel the vastness of the Highlands all around you. If you are a monster hunting enthusiast, stop off at the Loch Ness Monster Exhibition to hear more of the unusual and unexplained goings on in the depths around you.
Day 3: Discover a Wealth of Beauty & Activity in Fort William
In just over an hour, you can follow the Caledonian Canal west to pituresque and action packed Fort William. Start your day with a trip up the Cable Car at the NevisRange ski & mountain resort. From 2300 feet you can lose yourself in the West Highland landscape. Capture views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain. Visit Glen Nevis and stroll through the stunning scenery, location for the Hollywood epic Braveheart. From the pier on Loch Linnhe take a cruise down to Seal Island to see the seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the icy Loch. Finally, round off your day by enjoying a "wee dram" and discover a bit more about "the dew of Ben Nevis" at the Ben Nevis Distillery & Visitor Centre.
Day 4: Step into an Historic Adventure
Take your pick of routes today - the opportunities to emerge yourself in the history of the Highlands abound. Stay nearby and visit the National Trust for Scotland's Visitor Centre at Culloden where you can hear vivid tales of the story of the defeat of Jacobite forces led by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746. Or go further afield to Dalwhinnie, heading for the Malt Whiskey Trail and the River Spey.
Check out www.visitscotland.com for more ideas on how to get the most out of your stay in Inverness or see the links page.
