7 villages to visit in the Highlands
Today, we’re taking a look at some of the lovely Highland villages near Eagle Brae. Perfect for a visit during your stay at our hilltop log cabin resort. We are located in Struy, near Beauly, and there are so many picturesque and historic places to see nearby. Here are just a few of our favourites, under an hour’s drive away…
Struy
Distance from Eagle Brae: 2 miles
Struy is our closest village. Although small, it has a great restaurant called The Struy Inn, along with a village shop and post office. This is the gateway to Glen Strathfarrar and is a magnificent area to explore on foot or by bike, with a range of routes for all levels. For experienced walkers, there are several Munros at the head of Glen Strathfarrar. Come and see us at reception and we can recommend a route for you.
Cannich
Distance from Eagle Brae: 5 miles
A visit to Cannich and the surrounding area is a must during your stay at Eagle Brae. Just down the road from here, you’ll find some of the most amazing local walks, including Loch Affric, Dog Falls and Plodda Falls. Great for wildlife spotting and fishing too.
Beauly
Distance from Eagle Brae: 12 miles
Beauly is a larger village, around a 20-minute drive from here. There are plenty of things to see here, including the historic Beauly Priory, dating from around 1230 and made more famous by the popular Outlander book and TV series. Beauly has a selection shops and Campbell’s of Beauly is a particular highlight. This store was established in 1858 and still has some of the original fixtures and fittings. It’s a wonderful place to browse traditional Scottish clothing and luxury gifts. The River Beauly is also a great spot for salmon fishing.
Muir of Ord
Distance from Eagle Brae: 15 miles
Just north of Beauly, Muir of Ord is by the western boundary of the Black Isle. Home of the Glen Ord Distillery, where The Singleton Whisky is made. Here, you can go on a distillery tour, learn all about the production process and sample some Scotch whisky for yourself. Keen golfers may also wish to book a tee time at Muir of Ord Golf Club, an 18-hole course with stunning views of Ben Wyvis and the Beauly Firth.
Drumnadrochit
Distance from Eagle Brae: 17 miles
Within a half-hour drive, you can reach the Loch Ness village of Drumnadrochit. Home of Nessie herself! Top attractions nearby, apart from the infamous loch, include Urquhart Castle, Corrimony Chambered Cairn and the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. You can also book a boat trip with Loch Ness Cruises and hunt for Nessie on the water with a local guide.
Strathpeffer
Distance from Eagle Brae: 23 miles
This small village was a Victorian spa town and has some attractive architecture from the era. Perhaps best known for the annual Strathpuffer endurance mountain biking event. And also the site of Castle Leod, another Outlander location, which is the seat of Clan Mackenzie. You can visit the castle on public open days or arrange a private tour, to learn more about the history of this beautiful and well-preserved building.
We hope you enjoy exploring these Highland villages during your stay at Eagle Brae near Beauly. If you need any further ideas of places to visit in the Scottish Highlands, just ask! We are always happy to help you plan your adventures.
