Haven for rare birds and blooms

Creag Meagaidh is a national nature reserve, cared for by Scottish National Heritage. The upland site covers almost 4,000 hectares (approx 10,000 acres) and is home to many rare mountain plants like alpine speedwell, tufted saxifrage and woolly willow.

Bird life on the plateau includes the very rare dotterel (below), and the land above the 2,460ft contour has been designated a Special Protection Area. Snow bunting also nest on the upper slopes.

The area, part of the Moy Estate, was bought in 1985 by the old Nature Conservancy Council. The culling of deer has allowed native plants and woodland to regenerate. Birch, willow and rowan now abound.

Wetter ground is carpeted by lush bog myrtle. Walking through it releases its wonderful scent – which makes up for the soaking

your feet get.