Testing the water
Whether you want a challenge to boost your adrenaline or an opportunity to slow down, Inverness and the Black Isle offers a chance to explore Scotland by water, says Stephanie Abbot
When planning an autumn break in Scotland, thoughts often turn to the boundless beauty of the hills. Offering hillwalking trails, magnificent wildlife, and a seemingly limitless landscape of purples, blues and greens to explore, there is something rather extraordinary about walking through the great mountains we find on our doorsteps. In the heart of the Highlands, though, there is so much more to enjoy.
With more than 30,000 freshwater lochs across the country, most of them scattered across northern and western areas, Scotland is an unrivalled haven for watersports enthusiasts. Of course, Inverness and the Black Isle offer visitors a secluded retreat from city life, but no Highland trip would be complete without experiencing the region’s crystal-clear waters. Though many of us wiled away hours as children playing in rock pools or making a glorious mess in muddy puddles, or building river dams with friends, it is unfortunate that we appear to ‘grow out’ of these simple pleasures in life (admittedly, the thought of water rising over your wellies and walking home in squelching socks is a little less appealing nowadays). That said, organised watersports activities – with the proper equipment – can be a great way of relaxing on holiday. In Your Element, an outdoor activity centre, is the ideal place to learn a new skill, or to brush up on an old pastime. With lots of activities based in Loch Ness,
Scotland is an unrivalled haven for watersports enthusiasts
you can tick off visiting Nessie from your bucket list, as well as canoeing through one of the largest bodies of water in the British Isles. Their ‘Early Morning Canoe Safari’ is another option, taking you through the Aigas Gorge and down the River Beauly to enjoy the northern scenery. (www.iye.scot)
Northern Xposure Adventure Training centre in Balloch also offers one-day canoeing introductions and multi-day expeditions, as well as advanced-level courses for experienced paddlers. ( www.northern-xposure.co.uk)
Although it is a sport that is often overlooked, rowing is one of the greatest ways of taking your mind away from the stresses of everyday life. If you have been inspired by the athletes at Henley Royal Regatta this year, Inverness Rowing Club regularly runs ‘come and try’ courses. ( www.invernessrowingclub.org.uk)
Based along the Caledonian Canal, the waterway’s twists and turns take you through lush scenery which is inspirational for youngsters and adults alike. With the added benefit of using around 85% of your muscles, rowing also means you can head for a nice meal afterwards, completely guilt-free. With Inverness just five minutes away, there are great options for a night out. Alternatively, you can drive 12 minutes to the Dores Inn for a beautiful view of Loch Ness, a local beer, and a hearty plate of home-made food.
Just half an hour north is the Muir of Ord, situated on the western edge of the Black Isle. In this beautiful corner of the
country, there is certainly no shortage of entertainment – you can visit the Glen Ord Distillery which was founded in 1838; Campbell’s of Beauly, a renowned country tailor and outfitter established in 1858; or the Black Isle Brewery. That is, of course, after paying a visit to Highland Diving. With no need for prior diving experience, the centre offers half-day ‘Discover Scuba Diving’ courses, as well as options for practiced divers. ( www. highlanddiving.co.uk)
If you prefer staying above water and would like to try a variety of watersports, Monster Activities is a wonderful facility in Fort Augustus that is worth bearing in mind. Both beginners and experts are welcome to go along and try canoeing, kayaking, or white water rafting down the River Garry. With land-based options available as well, the centre can create an activity package tailored to you. ( www. monsteractivities.com)
Further east are Loch Morlich Watersports and Loch Insch Outdoor Centre. Bordered by sandy beaches and thick forests, Loch Morlich is a secluded spot with spectacular scenery. With family trips and group courses available throughout August and September, it is the perfect place to enjoy precious family time. ( www.lochmorlich.com)
At Loch Insch, courses can be booked in paddle boarding, windsurfing, sailing or even powerboating throughout August, September and October.
With accommodation on site, it is a great base, allowing you to throw yourself into a few new activities (safe in the knowledge you can go back to base for a warm shower afterwards). If
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There are so many corners you turn where there’s a ‘wow’
the prospect of a group activity is not for you, Loch Insch also offers private lessons. ( www.lochinsh.com)
Inverness-based Kushi Adventures runs guided expeditions in canoeing and kayaking in locations such as Loch Ness, the Aigas Gorge and the Spey. ( www. kushiadventures.co.uk)
Russell Zenthon, managing director and senior instructor, moved from London to Scotland: ‘I love the fact that in Scotland there’s a freedom to travel and to enjoy the environment, and that’s something that isn’t available in many other countries in Europe.’
Encouraging people to enjoy the beauty of Scotland’s outdoors, he added: ‘The activities we offer are great, but it really comes down to the wow-factor. There are so many corners that you turn where there’s a “wow.” Whether it’s a tree, or a big view, or standing at the end of Loch Ness looking down the lake… It’s just amazing.’
No matter if you are a watersports novice or pro, Inverness and the Black Isle is the perfect area to rediscover happy childhood pastimes or to throw yourself in at the deep end and try a new activity.