THE HIGHLANDS
See Britain’s only herd of free-ranging reindeer in their natural habitat at the CAIRNGORM
REINDEER CENTRE near Aviemore. Follow a reindeer herder as you go to meet these hardy and wonderful creatures at their mountain enclosure, enjoying dramatic views over the Cairngorms National Park as you go. For those who don’t want to walk to the mountain enclosure, there is a small group of reindeer in a paddock at the centre, along with an exhibition, quizzes and crafts for children.
Gairloch in the West Highlands is one of the best places in Scotland to see marine wildlife, and HEBRIDEAN WHALE CRUISES offer trips in and around lovely Loch Gairloch and out into the open waters of the North Minch.
Minke whales and harbour porpoises are commonly seen and there are occasional sightings of humpback whales, orcas and bottlenose dolphins. Seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a sensation that will stay with you, whatever your age. You’re in for a treat with a trip to the HIGHLAND
WILDLIFE PARK in Kincraig, near Aviemore. Not only can you meet an adorable newborn polar bear cub (and its mummy), the first born in the UK in 25 years, you’ll see european grey wolves, red deer, Amur tigers, snow leopards, red pandas, european bison, northern lynx and many more wonderful creatures.
Alongside the animals, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained including regular feeding sessions, daily talks and more.
Hairy Highland cows are among Scotland’s most famous icons and very popular with visitors looking for that all-important selfie opportunity.
So why not find out more about these ‘canny’ beasts on a HAIRY
COO SAFARI at Rothiemurchus, near Aviemore? Guided by an entertaining and knowledgeable ranger, you’ll see them in the fields and learn about the history of raising cattle in the Highlands.
Ospreys are a common sight in Scotland during the spring and summer months, arriving here to breed and raise their chicks following a long and arduous migration from North Africa.
One of the best places to see these remarkable raptors is at the RSPB LOCH GARTEN OSPREY CENTRE, near Boat of Garten in the Cairngorms National Park, where they have been returning to nest since the 1950s. There’s lots here to keep the kids amused – hire an ‘explorer Bag’, spot fairy folk at their magic tree, build an osprey nest and get up close to woodland birds and red squirrels.
Tucked away on the shores of beautiful Loch Sunart in the West Highlands, GARBH EILEAN WILDLIFE HIDE by Ardery is a fantastic place to spot basking seals, herons and other local wildlife.
The hide is equipped with binoculars and a telescope and a knowledgeable ranger is usually on hand during the summer months if you have any queries. There are parking spaces for five cars and the hide is accessible to all.
KYLERHEA OTTER HAVEN, owned and operated by Forestry Commission Scotland on the Isle of Skye, is one of the best places in the UK to see wild otters and if you’re lucky you might see white-tailed sea eagles as well. This sheltered hide is easily reached via a 1¼-mile trail and inside the hide, there is information about otters, dolphins, sharks and more.
The Moray Firth is renowned as one of the best places to see bottlenose dolphins in Scotland, whether that’s from the shore at
CHANONRY POINT on the Black Isle or from the deck of a boat trip out of Inverness.
Seeing these magnificent maritime mammals swim alongside the boat or breaching in the Firth is an extraordinary experience and there are regular sightings, with the resident population numbering around 200.
DOLPHIN SPIRIT, a five-star wildlife experience, runs cruises from Inverness Marina four times a day – just remember to take your camera.