Discover Alness

Alness lies on the Cromarty Firth. The River Averon flows through the town, dividing it into two parts. A stay here brings together walking trails, heritage and sporting activities. Options vary by activity, route length and surface.

River, Firth and trails

A waymarked circular route crosses the bridge over the River Averon and passes the golf course on the eastern bank. South of the bridge, the Cromarty Firth estuary can be reached from both banks; there are opportunities for walks there, including along the route of the Dalmore Distillery railway. In the town centre, you can follow the garden paths. Coulhill Woods offers numerous walking trails.

The Highland Council Core Path Plan, dated September 2011, lists routes that differ in length and surface:

• Crawl Park–Riverside Path: a 1.2 km surfaced path with a grass surface.
• Yankee Pier route: a 1.4 km path with a grass surface.
• Route through Coulhill Wood: a 2.1 km woodland path.
• Golf Course Circular Path: 2.9 km with earth, grass and paved surfaces.
• Fyrish Path: a 3.7 km surfaced path.
• Ballachraggan cycle path: a 1.6 km surfaced path with a tarmac surface.

As these details date from September 2011, check trail conditions again before setting out.

Local history and the Fyrish Monument

The Fyrish Monument is near Alness and can be accessed from the town. This picturesque late-18th-century monument stands on Cnoc Fyrish and offers views across the Cromarty Firth. The Alness Heritage Centre offers a different perspective on history: it preserves photographs, artefacts and personal stories about life in the local community. Its themes include crofting roots, wartime service, distilleries, railways and everyday life, all of which have shaped the Highland town.

Tastings and sporting activities

The Dalmore Distillery experience includes a guided tasting of whiskies from the Principal Collection and Distillery Exclusive Range. Availability is limited; if you plan to take part in a tasting, check what is available in advance. The distillery is in Dalmore, Alness IV17 0UT.

Alness Golf Club offers a scenic, challenging 18-hole course with views across the Cromarty Firth. The course suits a range of abilities. Golf buggies, clubs and trolleys are available to hire; booking before your visit is recommended. At Alness Angling Club, visitors can fish club waters across five beats along two miles of river.

Alness Leisure Centre has a 25 m swimming pool with six lanes and a movable floor. It also has an outdoor floodlit all-weather pitch that can be booked. Alongside trails and heritage, there are specific options for golf, fishing, swimming and outdoor sports.

Discover more destinations: Onich, Foyers, Letterfearn, Spinningdale, Kyle Of Lochalsh, Strathan, Avoch, Castletown

For the broader travel overview: Highland.