Transcript
Page 1: 2015 · our beautiful wildlife, landscapes, and heritage. This programme in 2015 gives you details of hundreds of events such as guided walks, archaeology trails, story-telling, wildlife

Ranger Walks, Events and Activities in the Scottish Highlands

Cuairtean, Tachartasan is Cur-seachadan nam Maor-dùthcha ann an Gàidhealtachd na h-Alba

2015

Page 2: 2015 · our beautiful wildlife, landscapes, and heritage. This programme in 2015 gives you details of hundreds of events such as guided walks, archaeology trails, story-telling, wildlife

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Explore DeepTimeWith Geo-Routes, Geo-Tours, Trails, Geo-Adventuresand more there is something for the whole family toenjoy in the North West Highlands Geopark.

Follow the Rock Route, visit Knockan Crag NNR and the new Geo-centreexhibition and café at Unapool to enjoy spectacular views over Loch Glencoul.Experience the 3 billion year story of our landscape and become a Geo-Explorer.Cycling TrekkingKayaking SailingHiking ClimbingSandy BeachesWilderness WalksGuided Walks and Bus ToursFor details of events please visit our website, email, join us on social media or just give us a call.

www.nwhgeopark.com [email protected] (t) 01971 521301

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Ranger MapMapa Maoir-dùthchaWe have divided the Highlands into four main countryside ranger zones and have colour-coded them throughout the booklet as follows:

• Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey (purples) • Lochaber• Caithness and Sutherland (blues)• Ross, Cromarty, Skye, Lochalsh & the Great Glen (greens)

Scottish Great Trails

• Great Glen Way• West Highland Way• Speyside Way

For more details about events in each countryside area, contact either the ranger for each event, or if you don’t know, email [email protected] and we’ll be able to help you.

Great

Glen W

ays

Speysid

e Way

West

Highland Way

continues to Milngavie

continuesto Buckie

Wick

Tain

Brora

Nairn

Thurso

Alness

Dornoch

Arisaig

Portree

Dingwall

Gairloch

Aviemore

Ullapool

Inverness

Helmsdale

Fort William

Lairg

Kyle ofLochalsh

Grantown

Invergordon

Durness

Lochinver

Kinlochbervie

Bettyhill

Uig

Dunvegan

Strontian

Drumnadrochit

Achnasheen

Fort Augustus

Lochaline

Mallaig

Broadford ●

●●

●●

●● ●

● ●●●

●●

●●●

●●●

SutherlandSutherland

LochaberLochaber

Ross & CromartyRoss & Cromarty

Skye & LochalshSkye & Lochalsh

Badenoch& Strathspey

Badenoch& Strathspey

InvernessInvernessNairnNairn

AssyntAssynt

CaithnessCaithness

N

North CaithnessRanger (Dunnet)

East CaithnessRangers

Mid & EastSutherland Ranger

Assynt Ranger

Northwest Sutherland Ranger

Wester Ross Ranger

Ross & Cromarty East Ranger

Inverness &Nairn Rangers

Badenoch & Strathspey Rangers

Great Glen WayRangers

Skye & Lochalsh Rangers

Sound of Arisaig Ranger

West Lochaber Ranger

Glen Nevis & WestHighland Way Rangers

North Sutherland Ranger

NTS Kintail

NTS Inverewe

FCS Balnain

RSPB Abernethy

RSPB Insh Marshes

RSPB Forsinard

NTS Glencoe

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IntroductionRo-ràdhTogether with our colleagues we are encouraging visitors into the Scottish countryside, with natural stunning beauty and biodiversity, promoting ways in which we can all enjoy our beautiful wildlife, landscapes, and heritage. This programme in 2015 gives you details of hundreds of events such as guided walks, archaeology trails, story-telling, wildlife talks and family events for all interests and levels of fi tness.

Our 2015 events booklet includes more ways to get out into the Highlands of Scotland as this year we have teamed up with listing events from RSPB Forsinard, RSPB Insh Marshes, and RSPB Abernethy Forest, along with National Trust for Scotland Inverewe Estate, NTS Kintail and NTS Glencoe and Forestry Commission Inverness. This makes the 2015 events booklet a great place to fi nd a diverse range of events for the whole family.

If you want a particular event and cannot fi nd it here, email [email protected] and we may be able to create and develop something specifi c for your needs. Check out the website where you will fi nd all of the events listed here and many more…

www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk

Key for event gradingIuchair airson Rangachadh

A Grade A Walking on established path.

B Grade B Walking over paths and rough ground at low level. Reasonable level of fitness required.

C Grade C Walking over rough/boggy ground and some hills. Reasonable level of fitness required.

D Grade D Walking through and over mountainous terrain. Good level of fitness required.

Suitable for Access may be limited in some places. wheelchairs Please check when booking.

Childrens’ All children must be accompanied with an adult. Event A limit of 3 children per adult.

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Produced by: The Highland CouncilDevelopment and InfrastructureGlenurquhart Road,Inverness IV3 5NXwww.highland.gov.uk

Follow us on Our Facebook pages

Highland Council Countryside Rangers

Great Glen Ways

Skye, Lochalsh and Ross & Cromarty Countryside Rangers

Caithness and Sutherland Countryside Rangers

Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Countryside Rangers

Lochaber Countryside Rangers

National Trust for Scotland Rangers

Glencoe Rangers & Visitors Centre

Kintail Ranger Service

Inverewe Garden & Estate

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Rangers

RSPB North Scotland

Forestry Commission Scotland Rangers

Forestry Commission Scotland

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Remembereverythinghere...

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Plastic Bottles

Paper and Card

Tins and Cans

Tel: 01349 886603 Email: [email protected] Web: www.highland.gov.uk

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Further events and informationFor all walks and events, it is important to come prepared for the unpredictable Scottish climate. Please pay special attention to the key as this gives good advice on the suitability of all events and walks. If you require further information, please contact the relevant Ranger organising the event(s) you are interested in.

It is advisable to contact the rangers PrIor to attending and more importantly, book when it is essential. Please be aware that the programme may change due to poor weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Ranger events on your websiteIf you would like to receive either a PDF or MS Word version of Ranger events in your area to upload or post on to your business’s website, then please get in touch with the Development and Marketing Offi cer on 01463 255289 or email [email protected].

Large print versionThis booklet is also available in large print. Please check out our website www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk/rangers to download your free electronic version.

Photographs and advertisingAll photographs, unless otherwise stated, are copyright and the property of The Highland Council. Income generated from advertising and events goes towards producing this booklet. To advertise in this booklet next year please contact Lynda Dodd, Countryside Rangers and Long Distance Routes Development and Marketing Offi cer on 01463 255289 or email [email protected].

On your event with us, photos may be taken by the ranger and these will be used to promote the work of the rangers in publications and website throughout the year. If you do not want your photo taken please let the ranger know who is leading your event.

Events Calendar – alerts for Google accountsAn easy to use calendar has been created to make events easy to fi nd by date order. If you have a Google account, you can add a reminder for an event by copying the event to your calendar with one click.

www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk/calendar

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Lochaberhighland Council Countryside rangers

on.fb.me/LochaberRangers

eilidh-ann PhillipsWest lochaber 01967 402232 [email protected] Centre, Strontian, AcharacleArgyll, PH36 4HZ

michelle melvilleglen nevis01397 [email protected] Glen Nevis Visitor CentreGlen Nevis, Fort William, PH33 6PF

angus macIntyresound of arisaig01687 [email protected] Marine PlaceMallaig, PH41 4RD

Jennie abellglen nevis01397 [email protected] Glen Nevis Visitor CentreGlen Nevis, Fort William, PH33 6PF

Fiona macleanglen nevis01397 705922fi [email protected] Nevis Visitor CentreGlen Nevis, Fort William, PH33 6PF

national Trust for scotland, glencoe fb.me/GlencoeRangersVisitorCentre

rachael mckerralnational Trust for scotland01855 [email protected] and Events Ranger Glencoe Visitor Centre, GlencoeArgyll, PH49 4HX

Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspeyhighland Council Countryside rangers

on.fb.me/INBSrangers

katy martin Inverness, nairn, badenoch & strathspey01463 [email protected] TowerInverness Castle, Inverness, IV2 3EG

Jenny grantInverness West01463 [email protected] Round TowerInverness Castle, Inverness, IV2 3EG

John orr Inverness east and nairn01463 [email protected] Tower Inverness Castle, Inverness, IV2 3EG

saranne bishbadenoch & strathspey north01479 [email protected] Courthouse, The SquareGrantown-On-Spey, PH26 3HG

Ranger Contacts for 2015 eventsSeòlaidhean Maoir-dùthcha airson Tachartasan 2015Please feel free to contact any of the rangers for more information on events in this Guide, membership and loyalty cards, extra events, wildlife/environmental advice, private walks and much more.

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general ContactInverness and nairn Team01463 [email protected] Round TowerInverness Castle, Inverness, IV2 3EG

Forestry Commission scotland, balnain fb.me/enjoyscotlandsforests

sandra reid recreation ranger01456 [email protected] Commission ScotlandInverness, Ross and Skye District, Balnain Offi ce, Glenurquhart, IV63 6TJ

royal society for the Protection of birds fb.me/rspbnorthscotland

alison greggans Community ranger, abernethy01479 [email protected] Abernethy National Nature Reserve, Forest LodgeNethy Bridge, PH25 3EF

Pete moore Insh marshes Warden01540 661518 [email protected] Insh Marshes National Nature Reserve, Ivy Cottage, InshKingussie, PH21 1NT

Caithness & Sutherlandhighland Council Countryside rangers

on.fb.me/CSrangers

andy summersassynt01571 [email protected] Visitor CentreLochinver, Sutherland, IV27 4LX

marina swansonCaithness east01955 [email protected] Buildings, Sinclair TerraceWick, KW1 5AB

kirsty rosieCaithness east01955 [email protected] Bruce Buildings, Sinclair TerraceWick, KW1 5AB

donald mitchell north West sutherland01971 [email protected] Information CentreSangomore, Durness, IV27 4PN

Paul Castle n. sutherland & n. Caithness01847 [email protected] Seadrift Visitor CentreDunnet Bay, Dunnet, Thurso, KW14 8XD

Ian Patersonmid & east sutherland01549 [email protected] Visitor CentreLairg, Sutherland, IV27 4TP

royal society for the Protection of birds Forsinard fb.me/rspbnorthscotland

Paul TurnerrsPb Forsinard01641 571 [email protected] Forsinard FlowsForsinard, Sutherland, KW13 6YT

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Highland Long Distance Routeshighland Council Countryside rangers

on.fb.me/GGWrangers

Jock macgillivary WhW & ggW01397 [email protected] Nevis Visitor CentreGlen Nevis, Fort William, PH33 6PF

angus macleanWest highland Way01397 [email protected] Glen Nevis Visitor CentreGlen Nevis, Fort William, PH33 6PF

Clelland mcCallumgreat glen Way01320 [email protected] Glen Way Offi ceAuchterawe, Fort Augustus, PH32 4BT

bruce kocjan-briggsgreat glen Way01320 [email protected] Glen Way Offi ceAuchterawe, Fort Augustus, PH32 4BT

Skye, Lochalsh, Ross and Cromartyhighland Council Countryside rangers

on.fb.me/SLRCrangers

John Phillipsskye & lochalsh 01471 [email protected] Offi ce C, Old Corry Industrial EstateBroadford, Isle of Skye, IV49 9AB

ellie maclennanskye & lochalsh01471 [email protected] Offi ce C, Old Corry Industrial EstateBroadford, Isle of Skye, IV49 9AB

reuben brownWester ross01854 [email protected] Point, North RoadUllapool, IV26 2XL

martin hindeaster ross01349 [email protected] BuildingsStrathpeffer Road, Dingwall, IV15 9QN

national Trust for scotland fb.me/KintailRangerService fb.me/InvereweGarden

rule andersonkintail, West affric & Falls of glomach ranger08444 [email protected] Frarm, Kyle of Lochalsh, IV40 8HQ

Carol mackintoshInverewe garden and estate01445 [email protected], By AchnasheenWester Ross, IV22 2LG

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Inverness & Nairn Inbhir Nis agus Inbhir Narann

©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger

TOP 5 MUST SEESMerkinch Local Nature Reserve Try to spot dolphins or ospreys in the Moray Firth.

Nairn Beach Stroll, run or paddle along the sand.

Glen Affric Is this Scotland’s most beautiful glen?

Clava Cairns Soak up the atmosphere at these remarkable Bronze Age monuments.

Falls of Foyers A spectacular waterfall and gorge, cloaked in trees. Try to spot a red squirrel.

March Am Màrt

Saturday March 07, 201510am - 12.30pmStories in the Woods, Drumnadrochit

Celebrate World Book Day as we read woodland stories and lead you on a fantasy walk. Meet some familiar characters and create some of your own tales. Suitable for all ages, including the young at heart.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Saturday March 28, 20157.30pm - 9pmEarth Hour in Beauly

Turn off everything at home and celebrate our brilliant planet on this torch lit walk through Beauly town to the river. As part of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Earth Hour we will be trying to spot wildlife, have fun and tell stories as we embrace the darkness. Bring a torch.

Meet at the gate entrance of the Beauly Priory, Beauly. Grid ref: NH 527464. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

April An Giblean

Tuesday April 07, 201510am - 11.30amWe are Going on an Egg Hunt - In Search of the Dragon’s Nest, Cannich

This Easter there have been some dragon sightings in Cannich. Can you help track them and fi nd their rare eggs for scientifi c research? Suitable for families with children 4-10 years and a sense of adventure.

Meet in the car park at Cannich Village Hall. Grid ref: NH 343315. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 08, 20152pm - 3.30pmGo Fly a Kite at Abriachan

Have a go at making a kite out of bits and pieces and see how they fl y.

Meet at Abriachan Forest car park. Grid ref: NH 540353. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Saturday April 11, 20152pm - 3.30pmSpring at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

Discover the wildlife gem that is Merkinch LNR. We’ll be looking for the wildlife that lives here.

Meet by the Old Ferry Ticket Offi ce, The Turning Circle, Kessock Road, Inverness. Grid ref: NH 655472. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

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Sunday April 12, 2015 2pm - 3.30pm Dragon Walk at Tradespark

Do dragons really exist? There’s only one way to find out! Be brave and join us for a dragon hunt. Suitable for families with children 4-10 years and a sense of adventure.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 15, 2015 1.30pm - 4pm Inverness Town Treasure Hunt

Join us for a Treasure Hunt around Inverness City Centre and find out the stories behind the ‘treasure’ you find at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Free event. Contact Cait on 01463 237114 or [email protected].

Friday April 17, 2015 6pm - 12 midnight Midnight on the Great Glen Way

Walk a section of the Great Glen Way when all other walkers have gone to bed and the best wildlife has just come out. Limited transport back to the start of the walk is available on a first come first served basis.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Saturday April 25, 2015 5am - 7.30am Dawn at the River Beauly, Kilmorack

Start this walk in darkness then enjoy the dawn chorus of birds as a new day begins. Bring warm clothing and a torch.

Meet at the Black Bridge, Kilmorack. Grid ref: NH 497439. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Tuesday May 05, 2015 10am - 3.30pm A Walk to the Top: Meall Fuar-mhonaidh, Drumnadrochit

Enjoy the sights and sounds of spring as we climb this prominent hill near Drumnadrochit. The views are worth it! Participants must wear appropriate hill walking clothing and footwear. Please bring lunch and water.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Saturday May 09, 2015 4.30am - 7am Dawn Chorus

There’s a whole world out there that most people miss, come along and get an introduction to bird calls and the secrets they tell each other.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Thursday 28 May, 2015 11am - 3pm Shieling Walk

Bag some exercise and views of mountains on the historic track along the Allt na Imrich River. Hear how crofters lived and hopefully see some of the present inhabitants. Off-track and strenuous walking. Bring a packed lunch, good boots, waterproofs, midge hood. Weather permitting. Before walk, car sharing will be needed to leave some at other end of walk.

Booking essential. Meet at Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhain Car Park, Glen Affric. Free event. Contact Sandra on 01463 791575 or [email protected].

June An t-Ògmhios

Sunday June 07, 2015 10am - 1pm Freshwater Pearl Mussel Day, Invermoriston

Join the rangers and The Ness & Beauly Fisheries Trust, as we explore the fascinating lives of our rare fresh water pearl mussels and other river creatures. Learn from the experts, observe an electrofishing demonstration and take part in some activities. Suitable for all ages. No dogs please.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Wednesday June 10, 2015 10am - 2.30pm Spring Flowers and Trees above Loch Ness

Enjoy a scenic walk while discovering spring flowers and their medicinal uses. Marvel at the Woodland Trust’s native woodland and learn about the history of this old path from Abriachan to the loch side and back up the hill again.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

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nSaturday June 13, 2015 2pm - 4pm Summer at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

Flowers are at their peak now. Join us as we explore and look for some of the orchids and find out the stories behind them. Bring waterproof footwear please.

Meet by the Old Ferry Ticket Office, The Turning Circle, Kessock Road, Inverness. Grid ref: NH 655472. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Sunday June 14, 2015 11am - 3pm Shenachie Stroll

A beautiful walk above the Findhorn River, up Tom na Slaite Hill (426 m) and down to the ruins of Shenachie Croft.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Thursday June 18, 2015 11am - 2pm A Plod at Plodda, Tomich

A slow-paced walk along forestry tracks to view the falls at Plodda. Learn about the history and wildlife of this site and have a picnic like the Victorians may have done.

Meet at Plodda Falls car park, Tomich. Grid ref: NH 279237. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Sunday June 21, 2015 8pm - 9.30pm Ardersier Sunset Walk

Take a midsummer’s eve walk into the sunset along Ardersier Bay to Fort George. Learn about the landscape and find what lives on the shore as we walk towards the setting sun on the longest day.

Meet at the Pocket Garden car park, Ardersier. First left after the Gun Lodge Hotel. Grid ref: NH 780554. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Sunday June 21, 2015 11am - 3pm Fathers Day Dad Woodland Skills Day

Learn and teach your kids bushcraft and woodsman skills that you and they will be able to take with them for the rest of their days. Sorry, Dad’s and kids only.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Thursday 25 June, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Affric Trees Walk

Can’t see the wood for the trees? Go for a walk to have a closer look at the pinewoods. Hear about the conservation of this National Nature Reserve and what makes Glen Affric so special. Bring good boots and waterproofs, midge hood/repellent.

Meet at Dog Falls Car Park, Glen Affric. Free event. Contact Sandra on 01463 791575 or [email protected].

Saturday June 27, 2015 10am - 12pm Butterfly Rescue Mission, Ardersier

Help the scarce small blue butterfly at Ardersier Bay by planting its favourite food plant along the shore path. All equipment provided.

Meet at Ardersier picnic site car park. Grid ref: NH 779557. Grade A. Free event. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

TheCaledonianCanalTheCaledonianCanal

stephen@scottishwaterwaystrust.org.ukwww.scottishwaterwaystrust.org.ukwww.scottishwaterwaystrust.org.uk

John Muir AwardJohn Muir AwardWellbeing walksWellbeing walksOnline mapsOnline mapsFilms & infoFilms & infoWalks & talksWalks & talksGroup activitiesGroup activitiesVolunteeringVolunteeringWildlife skillsWildlife skills

Through our canals we create brighter futuresThrough our canals we create brighter futuresfor people, places and wildlifefor people, places and wildlife

The natural choice!

01463 725561scottishwaterwaystrust

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July An t-Iuchar

Saturday 04 July, 2015 2pm - 3.30pm Nature Detectives

Follow the trail to work out the clues to solve the mystery of what lives in the woods and how they live there. Family event. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring good footwear and waterproofs, midge hood/repellent.

Meet at Craigmonie Woodland, Drumnadrochit. Free event. Contact Sandra on 01463 791575 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 07, 2015 10am - 12.30pm Art in the Forest, Abriachan

Join us for a morning of forest art and crafts at Abriachan Forest Trust. Try your hand at sculpture, natural dying, charcoal drawing and more. This event is suitable for all ages and creativity levels.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Thursday July 09, 2015 11am - 12.30pm Culloden Creature Trail

Meet some creatures of the forest on this fun, family quest for treasure.

Meet at the Doocot car park, off Barn Church Road, Culloden. Grid ref: NH 720462. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Saturday July 11, 2015 2pm - 4pm Den Building at Farr

Try your hand at building a shelter and learn about staying warm and dry outdoors.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 15, 2015 2pm - 3.30pm Nairn Aquabeasts! A Look in the River

Dip your nets in the River Nairn to find some watery wildlife and learn all about them.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Thursday July 16, 2015 10am - 4pm Exploring the Three Glens (1): Glen Cannich

Head for the hills in beautiful Glen Cannich. From the summit of the Corbett, Sgorr na Diollaid, we hope to have views towards the hills of the neighbouring glens; Glen Affric and Glen Strathfarrar. This walk is on rough ground. Please wear suitable hill walking clothing and footwear and bring lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Friday July 17, 2015 11am - 4pm The Nairn Seashore Roadshow

Crafts, kite making, guided walks, activities, displays and entertainment at this seashore related open day.

Meet at Nairn Central Links. Grid ref: NH 880569. Grade A. Free event. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 22, 2015 2pm - 3.30pm Dragon walk at Abriachan

Do dragons really exist? There’s only one way to find out! Be brave and join us for a dragon hunt. Suitable for families with children 4-10 years and a sense of adventure.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Thursday 23 July, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Dragons and Damsels

Do you know your damsels from your dragonflies? Walk to Coire Loch to look for and find out about the lives of these amazing insects. Bring waterproof boots and waterproofs, midge hood/repellent. Weather permitting.

Meet at Dog Falls Car Park, Glen Affric. Free event. Contact Sandra on 01463 791575 or [email protected].

Friday July 24, 2015 8pm - 4am Dusk till Dawn on the Great Glen Way

Take in one of the most spectacular sections of the Great Glen Way as the sun goes down and when it comes back up. An experience that you’ll carry with you for years to come. Limited transport back to the start of the walk is available on a first come first served basis.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

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nFriday July 31, 2015 9am - 2.30pm From River to Firth - A Fish’s Tail, the Beauly Firth

The story of creatures that use both the sea and fresh water are always fascinating. Join us and The Ness & Beauly Fisheries Trust for a day of exploration around the Beauly Firth and neighbouring burns as part of the Highland Seashore Project. See the salmon, trout and eels in action. Places are limited so book to avoid disappointment.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Free event. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

August An Lùnastal

Thursday August 13, 2015 9am - 1pm First Time Fisherman

If you’ve never fished before and fancy giving it a try, or fancy getting your kids into it, then come along and give it a go.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Friday August 14, 2015 7pm - 9pm Nairn Bat Walk

A short presentation and a wander around Viewfield Park, using bat detectors to help us find these elusive night time fliers.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Sunday August 23, 2015 10am - 4pm Exploring the Three Glens (2): Glen Strathfarrar

The second glen to explore this summer in the Strathglass area is magical Glen Strathfarrar. Get off the beaten track and onto the hills for a day in this wild place. Bring lunch and wear clothing & footwear suitable for hill walking.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Sunday August 23, 2015 11am - 3pm Whiteness Head & Back

Enjoy an extensive 6 km/4 mile walk by salt marsh and shingle to the end of this unusual and remote spit.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Friday August 28, 2015 8.30pm - 10pm Dusk at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

Dusk is a lovely time of day when night time animals begin to emerge and plants scent strongly. Join us to walk through the LNR looking for wildlife - we might be lucky enough to find bats and moths. Please dress warmly and you may want to bring a torch to light your feet.

Meet by the Old Ferry Ticket Office, The Turning Circle, Kessock Road, Inverness. Grid ref: NH 655472. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

September An t-Sultain

Saturday September 05, 2015 2pm - 4pm Highland Harvest at Farr

Autumn in the Highlands is a time of harvest. We will be foraging for fungi, fruits and anything else that catches our eye while learning more about the organisms themselves.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Friday September 18, 2015 6.30pm - 9pm Dusk at the River Beauly, Kilmorack

The gloaming is a special time of day when some animals get ready to sleep and others begin to wake up. On this walk we will watch and listen for bats, jumping fish, the evening bird chorus and more as day becomes night. Bring a torch.

Meet at the Black Bridge, Kilmorack. Grid ref: NH 497439. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

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Active Learning in Abriachan in 2014

Please contact: [email protected] for detailswww.abriachan.org.uk or www.facebook.com/abriachancommunity

Just come to visit or book up to join in our biking ,bushcraft , archery or free play days. Exploretreehouses, find treasure troves, build dens and more...treehouses, find treasure troves, build dens and more...treehouses, find treasure troves, build dens and more...

ABRIACHAN FOREST also provides bespoke physical butfun activities for families, groups, school classes or staffOutdoor Learning CPD throughout the year.You suggest a theme - we can rise to the challenge...

Active Learning in Abriachan in 2015

The Highlands have a fifth of Scotland’s coastline - some of the most dramatic scenery in the World is here. The Highland Seashore Project is a three year ini-tiative that encourages people to enjoy and explore this amazing environment. Working in partnership with the Council Rangers, the Project supports events to help locals and visitors discover and learn about the heritage and diversity of the coast. Look out for the Project logo in the event listings of this booklet for a Ranger-guided Highland Seashore event.

Visit our website to find out more about the Seashore Project, its surveyors network, publications and the two festivals planned for 2015.

www.highlandseashore.org.uk

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nThursday September 24, 2015 10am - 5pm Exploring the Three Glens (3): Glen Affric

In our third of the glen walks in this area, walk around Loch Affric taking in the sights and sounds of the stunning Glen Affric. This is a 18.5 km/11.5 mile long walk, so please bring plenty of food and water.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Saturday September 26, 2015 11am - 3.15pm Raigmore Cairn Discovery Day

Discover the story behind the Raigmore cairn. We start at IMAG to examine the finds from the site and hear its story. Then, after lunch we head to the Raigmore cairn for a walk around. We’ll be back at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery for 4pm. Please bring lunch and outdoor clothing.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Free event. Contact Cait on 01463 237114 or [email protected]

October An Dàmhair

Saturday October 10, 2015 7pm - 10pm History of Star Gazing

An introductory experience of star gazing and how it’s changed our human understanding of everything in the universe and our standing in it.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 13, 2015 10am - 2pm Archaeology and Autumn at Corrimony, Cannich

Explore RSPB Corrimony at this fantastic time of year. Starting with some Archaeology we will look at the Corrimony Cairns then on to look for fungi, seeds, fruits, harvestmen and other wildlife and history as we walk through the reserve.

Meet at the Corrimony Cairns car park. Grid ref: NH 383303. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Wednesday October 14, 2015 2pm - 4pm The Slochd Shielings

Follow the Old Military Road up to the shieling remains on the hillside.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 20, 2015 2pm - 4pm Clava Cairns Up Close

A hands on tour around the mysterious Clava Cairns with some activities for everyone.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Saturday October 24, 2015 1pm - 4pm Apple Day

A celebration of all things appley! Join us to find out about apple types, apple produce and how to grow apples. Lots of family fun. Keep an eye out for details in the press nearer the time.

Meet at Floral Hall, Inverness. Grid ref: NH 657436. Grade A. Free event. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Thursday October 29, 2015 5.30pm - 8pm The Stars of Halloween, Abriachan

Learn more about some of the animals that feature at Halloween; bats, spiders, slimy things and more. Make some creepy creatures, listen to stories and get ready for guising at the weekend. Dress up if you want!

Meet at Abriachan Forest Trust outdoor classroom. Grid ref: NH 540353. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

November An t-Samhain

Wednesday November 04, 2015 2pm - 3.30pm Loch Bellivat Loop

A short walk around this secluded lochan with beautiful autumnal colours all around.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

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Saturday November 07, 2015 10am - 12pm Wild Technology, Balnain

Join us for a gentle woodland walk, returning to Balnain Hall to view things more closely using technology; electronic microscopes, wildlife apps, stealth cameras and more. If you have any devices with wildlife apps, digital cameras or sound recorders, please bring them along.

Meet at Balnain Hall, Balnain. Grid ref: NH 446302. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Saturday November 14, 2015 2pm - 3.30pm Autumn at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

The leaves are changing and the seasonal wheel is turning. Join us to see what autumn brings to Merkinch LNR. Please dress warmly.

Meet by the Old Ferry Ticket Office, The Turning Circle, Kessock Road, Inverness. Grid ref: NH 655472. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Katy on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

December An Dùbhlachd

Thursday December 10, 2015 11am - 2pm Winter Wander, Belladrum

Warm up with a stomp to the top of Phoineas Hill then wander the grounds of Belladrum Estate, take in the winter scenes and discover the history of this beautiful place. Bring lunch and a hot drink.

Meet at the Canadian Road car park, Belladrum Estate. Grid ref: NH 523422. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Jenny on 01463 255291 or [email protected].

Monday December 21, 2015 9am - 4pm Winter Solstice on the Great Glen Way

Celebrate the Shortest Day/Longest Night in style and take a break from all the Christmas stress. Walk on a breath-taking section of the Great Glen Way few people see. Limited transport back to the start of the walk is available on a first come first served basis.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Come and join us for a breath of fresh Loch Ness air.Hourly (1 hour) Cruises from 10am till 6pm daily (except 1 pm) from Easter till end October.

Note: Sailings are subject to local weather conditions and passenger numbers.TARIFF: Adults £14.00 Children (1 to 16) £9.00 Senior Citizens £12.00

(Family tickets: 2A+2C = £41.00 2A+3C = £49.00 2A+4C = £58.00) We carry a maximum of 12 passengers per trip, so we take pride in our ability to provide our guests with a more

personal experience of the LochThe MV Morag mo Chridhe has GPS, Side & Down scanning Sonars, VHF Radio, Radar, and an Audio/Visual presentation system.

Private cruise for a special occasion? Please contact 07831 434691

Tickets/Bookings: Loch Ness Gifts shop. Opposite the main (FREE) car park in Drumnadrochit. Route A82 Glasgow to Inverness. Tel: 01456 450695

Proprietor: J.R.G. Menzies, Temple Pier West, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XR tels: 01456 450205 07831 434691www.lochnesscruises.com e-mail: [email protected]

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Tuesday 21 April, 201510am - 1pmGuided walk, Insh Marshes NNR

Join the reserve Warden to look for breeding waders and wildfowl on the marshes with the Monadhliath Mountains as a stunning backdrop. We will also explore the aspen woodland to listen for singing migrants such as tree pipit and redstart and learn fascinating facts about aspen and its associated rare wildlife. The pace will be slow. No need for wellies, walking boots are fi ne. Children under 16 go free. Dogs welcome if kept on a lead.

Meet at Insh Marshes car park. Grid ref: NN 773998. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve offi ce on 01540 661518 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 29, 20155am - 7amLords of the Dance, Kincraig

An opportunity to witness the spectacle of a black grouse lek and other wildlife, in beautiful surroundings. Tea and coffee available.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

Badenoch & StrathspeyBàideanach agus Srath Spè

©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger

TOP 5 MUST SEESRoches Moutonees Glacially scraped rocks, creating dramatic scenery.

Loch Imrich A hidden woodland gem in the heart of Newtonmore.

Red squirrel Try to spot this charismatic creature in the pine forest.

Uath Lochans Beautiful pools surrounded by woodland. A good place to spot dragonfl ies.

Ellan Wood Pine woodland in Carrbridge, home to lovely wild fl owers and wood ant colonies.

March Am Màrt

Saturday March 28, 20157.30pm - 10pm Ghost Walk, Carrbridge

Celebrates this year’s Earth Hour by exploring Ellan Wood and the riverside path with your head torch. We’ll be listening for sounds of the night and checking for stars and planets on the way. Hot chocolate and cakes await us in the woods. Good dogs very welcome. Suitable for families.

Meet at the Community Wood car park, Carrbridge. Grid ref: NH 904228. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

April An Giblean

Tuesday April 14, 20152pm - 4pmGo Fly a Kite in Carrbridge

A chance to make kites out of bits and bobs and weather permitting, fl y them!

Meet at the Carrbridge village car park. Grid ref: NH 908228. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

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May An Cèitean

Wednesday 06 May, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 13 May, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Saturday May 16, 20152pm - 4pmLet’s Make Homes for Wildlife!

Some fun activities to create your very own wildlife homes for you to put in your garden.

Meet at the Town House, Grantown. Grid ref: NJ 034280. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

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sPÈTuesday 19 May, 201510am - 1pmGuided walk, Insh Marshes NNR

Join the reserve Warden to look for breeding waders and wildfowl on the marshes with the Monadhliath Mountains as a stunning backdrop. We will also explore the aspen woodland to listen for singing migrants such as tree pipit and redstart and learn fascinating facts about aspen and its associated rare wildlife. The pace will be slow. No need for wellies, walking boots are fi ne. Children under 16 go free. Dogs welcome if kept on a lead.

Meet at Insh Marshes car park. Grid ref: NN 773998. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve offi ce on 01540 661518 or [email protected].

Wednesday 20 May, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 27 May, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

June An t-Ògmhios

Wednesday 03 June, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 10 June, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 16, 20156pm - 9pmOrchids Galore, Newtonmore

A gentle stroll around part of the Wildcat Trail in search of orchids and other wildfl owers. We’ll be hearing about some of the stories associated with them.

Meet at Newtonmore Station car park. Grid ref: NN 715984. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

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Wednesday 17 June, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 17 June, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Tuesday 23 June, 201510am - 3pmGuided walk, Insh Marshes NNR

Join the reserve Warden to explore the diverse habitats of the Invertromie trail. Learn fascinating facts about aspen trees and their associated rare wildlife. Look for fl owers, butterfl ies and dragonfl ies. No need for wellies, walking boots are fi ne. Children under 16 go free. Dogs welcome if kept on a lead. Bring a packed lunch.

Meet at Insh Marshes car park. Grid ref: NN 773998. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve offi ce on 01540 661518 or [email protected].

Wednesday June 24, 20152pm - 5pmBog life in the Mossie, Grantown-on-Spey

A chance to have an in depth look at the weird and wonderful plants and animals that call the Mossie ‘home’.

Meet at the Town House, Grantown. Grid ref: NJ 034280. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

Wednesday 24 June, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Saturday June 27, 20152pm - 5pmBogs, birds and birches at Anagach, Grantown-on-Spey

A family friendly event to explore the bogs at Anagach Woods. We’ll be using nets to catch some of the special insects in the air, on the land and in the water. Please wear wellies.

Meet at the Town House, Grantown. Grid ref: NJ 034280. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

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July An t-Iuchar

Wednesday 01 July, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 08, 20152pm - 4pmPeeking into a Pond, Loch Vaa

Everyone enjoys peeking into the unknown depths of a body of water! Join us to fi nd out what fabulous beasties lurk in this beautiful pond. Wear wellies.

Meet at Laggantygown Cemetery car park. Grid ref: NH 910174. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

Wednesday 08 July, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 15 July, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Dalfaber Road | Aviemore | PH22 1PXTel: +44 (1479) 810 000

E-mail: [email protected]

Self catering log cabins, chalets and apartments on the banks of the River Spey. Less then a 10 minute walk to the village centre and a 15 minute drive (or bus) to the Cairngorm Mountain area. Wide selection of places to eat and drink, with relaxation, adventure and nature all on your doorstep.

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Wednesday 22 July, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Sunday July 26, 201512pm - 4pmTop Dogs Day Out, Glenmore

Dog agility courses, displays, quizzes and all sorts of doggy craziness! Register your dog on the day (fi rst come, fi rst served basis), or simply come and watch the fun. Refreshments available. Joint event with the Forestry Commission Scotland.

Meet at Hay Field, Glenmore Forest Park. Grid ref: NH 980093. Grade B. Adults £5 per dog, . Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

Tuesday 28 July, 201510am - 3pmGuided walk, Insh Marshes NNR

Join the reserve Warden to explore the diverse habitats of the Invertromie trail. Learn fascinating facts about aspen trees and their associated rare wildlife. Look for fl owers, butterfl ies and dragonfl ies. No need for wellies, walking boots are fi ne. Children under 16 go free. Dogs welcome if kept on a lead. Bring a packed lunch.

Meet at Insh Marshes car park. Grid ref: NN 773998. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve offi ce on 01540 661518 or [email protected].

Wednesday 29 July, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

01540 651 272

www.lochinsh.com

www.lochinsh.com

Watersports

Self Catering Log cabinsB & B Bunkhouse

Watersports

01540651272Kincraig

01540

LOCH INSH& Boathouse

Restaurant

CanoeingSailing, SUP

WindsurfingArchery, Bikes

Dry ski slopeWildlife Tour

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August An Lùnastal

Wednesday 05 August, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 12 August, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Tuesday 18 August, 201510am - 3pmGuided walk, Insh Marshes NNR

Join the reserve Warden to explore the diverse habitats of the Invertromie trail. Learn fascinating facts about aspen trees and their associated rare wildlife. Look for fl owers, butterfl ies and dragonfl ies. No need for wellies, walking boots are fi ne. Children under 16 go free. Dogs welcome if kept on a lead. Bring a packed lunch.

Meet at Insh Marshes car park. Grid ref: NN 773998. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve offi ce on 01540 661518 or [email protected].

Wednesday 19 August, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

Wednesday 26 August, 20159.30am - 1pmCaledonian pine guided walk, Abernethy Forest

A gentle amble through Caledonian pine woodland. Breathtaking views span loch shores to mountain tops - home to otters, goldeneye, common sandpiper and osprey. Forest favourites include redstarts and red squirrels, spotted fl ycatchers and crested tits and keep an eye out for roe deer as they melt into distant trees. The pace is slow to ensure we see all we can, so bring a snack and drink. Please note there are no seats en route. It’s free for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Loch Garten Osprey Centre car park. Grid ref: NH 977183. Grade B. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Osprey Centre on 01479 831476 or [email protected].

September An t-Sultain

Wednesday September 16, 20158pm - 10pmBat Walk, Grantown

Ever wondered what bats do for us? Or how they fi nd their way in the dark? Join us for a bat walk in Grantown to fi nd out what bats we have around us. Please dress warmly and bring a torch.

Meet at Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey. Grid ref: NJ 033279. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

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Friday September 25, 20158pm - 10pmBat Walk to the River Spey, Grantown

Ever wondered what bats do for us? Or how they fi nd their way in the dark? Join us for a bat walk to the River Spey in Grantown to fi nd out what bats are about. Please dress warmly and bring a torch.

Meet at Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey. Grid ref: NJ 033279. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

Wednesday September 30, 20154.30pm - 7pmMonarchs of the Glen, Laggan

The red deer rut is one of Scotland’s fi nest wildlife spectacles. The glens are echoing to roaring of stags at this time of year. We will be looking for other wildlife too.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

November An t-SamhainWednesday November 04, 201510.30am - 12.30pmMeditate to the autumn colours at Craigellachie NNR, Aviemore

De-stress on Stress Awareness Day in a mindful fashion! We’ll wander through the gorgeous birch woods of Craigellachie National Nature Reserve and have a go at meditating outside - a wonderful experience! Perhaps we’ll see some migrating birds too?

Meet at the dry ski slope car park, MacDonald’s Aviemore Resort, Aviemore. Grid ref: NH 892123. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

December An DùbhlachdTuesday December 01, 20156.30pm - 8pmChristmas Arts & Crafts Winter Lights Switch-on, Grantown

Try your hand at making your own natural Christmas decorations as the town is lit up with festive lights. Look for details in the press nearer the time.

Meet at the Town House, Grantown. Grid ref: NJ 034280. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child. Contact Saranne on 01479 873914 or [email protected].

SPEYSIDE WILDLIFEHOLIDAYS | DAY TRIPS | HIDES | TAILORMADE TOURS

Spend an evening in our own hide watching Pine Martens, Badgers and Red DeerExperienced guides available for tailored days out

[email protected]

WWW.SPEYSIDEWILDLIFE.CO.UK

01479 812498

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©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©Caithness Biodiversity Collection ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger

TOP 5 MUST SEESDunnet Head Most northerly point of the British mainland.

Seadrift Centre Free visitor centre focussing on wildlife, geology and local history.

Drum Hollistan Largest puffi n colony in the area and dramatic sea cliffs.

Keiss Castle A beautiful ruin with picturesque harbour and sandy beach nearby.

Castle Sinclair A wonderful castle ruin surrounded by spectacular views over Sinclair’s bay

March Am Màrt

Sunday 15 March, 201511am - 1pmNavigation for Numpties!

Want to learn some basic navigation & map reading skills? Why not join in on a hill walk around the Ulbster area where we hope to fi nd some interesting archaeological remains including chambered cairn, stone rows and a hill fort. Walking boots and outdoor gear required. Bring compass if you have one. Rough walking in parts.

Booking essential. Meet at Loch Watenan car park. Grid ref: ND 319408. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Saturday 28 March, 20158.15pm - 9.30pmEarth Hour Star Gazing

A fascinating look at the earth in space, making the most of our unpolluted Caithness night skies. Slide show and guided star gazing provided by the local astronomy group, then a night walk to the pond. No astronomy knowledge needed. Please bring a torch and binoculars if you have them. Places limited.

Booking essential. Meet at Newtonhill Croft car park. Grid ref: ND 362511. Grade A. Free event. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Saturday 28 March, 20157pm - 9.30pmDunnet Beach by Night

As part of the Earth Hour celebrations join the countryside Ranger on an after dark evening walk and activities along Dunnet beach from the south end to the north end. We will fi nish with a warm drink and toasted marshmallows around an open fi re on the beach. Bring a sense of fun, warm clothing and a torch. All children must be accompanied.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

April An Giblean

Sunday 05 April, 20152pm - 3pmFamily Easter Treasure Hunt

It’s not just chocolate eggs at Easter time! Search for clues & learn about different types of animal eggs at the beautiful Geise woodland, near Glengolly.

Booking essential. Meet at Geise farm car park. Grid ref: ND 109649. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

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Monday 06 April, 2015 2pm - 4pm Easter Egg-case Hunt at Sandside

Come along and join the hunt to see how many mermaids purses (skate, ray and shark egg-cases) we can find, especially the large common skate egg cases. Any finds will be recorded to help in the conservation effort for these rare fish. All children must be accompanied.

Meet at the car park by Sandside Harbour in Reay. Grid ref: NC 957659. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Saturday 18 April, 2015 11am - 2pm Dunnet Beach Clean

Please help us to give Dunnet Beach a good clean ready for the coming summer season. Gloves, bags and a free hot drink provided. Please help if you can and stay as long as you are able.

Meet at Dunnet beach car park by the Seadrift Centre. Grid ref: ND 219706. Grade A. Free event. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Friday 24 April, 2015 11am - 2pm Woodland Burn and clifftops of Forse

A hidden gem of a coastal walk, with waterfall, spectacular cliff formations, castle and beautiful pocket sized native woodland. Please wear sturdy boots and bring a packed lunch. Some fence lines to cross. Exact route will depend on the height of the burn on the day.

Booking essential. Meet at North Shore Pottery car park, Forse Mill. Grid ref: ND 216344. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Wednesday 06 May, 2015 11am - 1pm Sea Watch at Holborn Head

Help the Countryside Ranger look for and record whales, dolphins and porpoises using our telescopes. Bring your binoculars and learn about the species we may find here. All records will be sent to the Sea Watch Foundation to help in cetacean conservation. Wrap up warm.

Meet at Scrabster Harbour at the bottom of road up to the lighthouse (please do not drive to the lighthouse). Grid ref: ND 107706. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Sunday 10 May, 2015 11am - 3pm Berriedale Strath Guided walk

Follow the river from Berriedale up the strath passed the ruins at Strath Cuil & to the beautiful Millery pool, returning through the woodlands on the south side. Please wear walking boots and outdoor clothing and bring a packed lunch.

Booking essential. Meet by the Berriedale phone box. Grid ref: ND 120228. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Sunday 24 May, 2015 10am - 12noon Seashore Shenanigans at Keiss

Fun family morning with activities based around ‘Herring’.

Meet at Keiss Harbour area. Grid ref: ND 350610. Grade B. Free event. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Sunday 24 May, 2015 3pm - 5pm Seashore Shenanigans at Lybster

Fun family afternoon with activities based around ‘Herring’.

Meet at Waterlines, Lybster Harbour. Grid ref: ND 244349. Grade B. Free event. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Sunday 31 May, 2015 10.15am - 6pm Ship a Hoy, to Orkney

Annual boat trip directly across to the Orkney Island of Hoy from John O Groat’s. Choose either a leisurely walk to the Old Man of Hoy sea stack or enjoy a more strenuous walk over Ward Hill, hopefully with time to visit the native Berriedale Wood en route to Rackwick. Suitable outdoor clothing and packed lunch are needed for both walks. Porpoise, minke whale and orca seen on last year’s boat trip. £44 - Charge covers ferry ticket, bus ticket and Ranger charge.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £44.00, no concessions, . Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

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June An t-Ògmhios

Friday 05 June, 2015 10.30am - 3.30pm Bilbster to Wick, River Walk

Follow the river downstream from Bilbster to Wick Bay. We’ll stroll the fisherman’s beats whilst the sand martens fly over our heads. We will be surveying the plant life as we travel along this natural transect line.

Booking essential. Meet at bridge to the rear of Bilbster Mains Farm. Grid ref: ND 281531. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Monday 08 June, 2015 7.30pm - 9pm Clowns of the Ocean

Enjoy an illustrated talk on ‘An Introduction to Caithness Seabirds’ with some coffee/tea & home baking before taking a short walk to view a puffin colony.

Booking essential. Meet at Laidhay Tea Rooms. Grid ref: ND 175308. Grade A. Adults £7.00, conc. £6.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Friday 12 June, 2015 10.30am - 3pm Explore the back of beyond, Munsary

A guided wildflower walk into Scotland’s only plantlife nature reserve. Join the reserve manager to learn about the techniques used to preserve this unique haven for boggy flora. Take in the local history and birdlife along the way. Bring your lunch.

Booking essential. Meet at Munsary Reserve car park (by Stemster Loch, Achavannich). Grid ref: ND 186424. Grade A. Free event. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Sunday 14 June, 2015 11am - 3pm Photography Workshop

Be dazzled by Ken Crossan’s own photography before putting his tricks of the trade into action during an outdoor practical session in the Coronation meadow at Dunnet Links where we hope to see Primula scotica alongside other fascinating plants. Please bring suitable outdoor gear and packed lunch.

Booking essential. Meet at Seadrift Visitor Centre. Grid ref: ND 219706. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Wednesday 24 June, 2015 10am - 12.30pm Puffin Watch

Join the ranger at the largest puffin breeding colony in the area. Watch the antics of these charming birds through our telescope and bring your binoculars and cameras. Some rough walking required so walking boots recommended.

Meet at the Sutherland and Caithness boundary sign on the A836 road. Grid ref: NC 921645. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Friday 26 June, 2015 6pm - 9pm Puffin Watch

Join the ranger at the largest puffin breeding colony in the area. Watch the antics of these charming birds through our telescope and bring your binoculars and cameras. Some rough walking required so walking boots recommended.

Meet at the Sutherland and Caithness boundary sign on the A836 road. Grid ref: NC 921645. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

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Monday 29 June, 201511am - 4pmDuncansby to Skirza

Experience some truly inspiring coastal scenery during this clifftop walk from Duncansby Head to Skirza. Enjoy breathtaking views of seastacks, caves & geos and amazing seabird colonies, including puffi ns. Please wear walking boots and outdoor clothing, and bring a packed lunch.

Booking essential. Meet at Duncansby Head Lighthouse car park. Grid ref: ND 405735. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

July An t-Iuchar

Friday 03 July, 20156pm - 8pmBumblebee Safari at Dunnet

Learn to identify our local bumblebees on a guided bumblebee safari through the dunes and forest at Dunnet. See if we can fi nd a rare great yellow bumblebee and discover how you can help these important buzzing pollinators.

Meet at Dunnet beach car park by the Seadrift Centre. Grid ref: ND 219706. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Wednesday 08 July, 201511am - 12.30pmDamsels & Dragons

A pond life family event including pond dipping & craft activities.

Booking essential. Meet at Newtonhill Croft Woodland car park. Grid ref: ND 362511. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Wednesday 15 July, 201511am - 12noonRockpool Rummage

Discover life below the waves. Search for weird & wonderful creatures including fi erce meat-eating predators. Wellies essential.

Booking essential. Meet at Keiss beach layby. Grid ref: ND 344601. Grade B. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Thursday 09 July, 201511am - 12.30pmFairies & Wizards of the Wick River

Children’s event most suitable for under 8s. Come for a magical time up the Wick Riverside with wand & fl ower potions.

Booking essential. Meet at Wick Riverside car park. Grid ref: ND 362511. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Wednesday 15 July, 20151pm - 3pmThurso Rock Pools

Kids bring your nets or use ours and have fun discovering the fascinating creatures found in the Thurso rock pools. Wear wellies and warm clothing. All children must be accompanied.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Thursday 16 July, 201511am - 12noonFairies & Wizards of Dunnet Forest

Children’s event most suitable for under 8s. Come for a magical time in Dunnet forest with wand & fl ower potions.

Booking essential. Meet at Dunnet Forest car park. Grid ref: ND 222698. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

Wednesday 22 July, 201511am - 12noonThe Very Hungry Caterpillar

Join the caterpillar as he munches his way around Argyll Square. Inspired by the work of Eric Carle’s fantastic book, this hands on interactive story walk is suitable for children aged 3-6.

Booking essential. Meet at Argyll Square gardens. Grid ref: ND 365505. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

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IbhThursday 23 July, 201511am - 12noonThe Very Hungry Caterpillar

Join the caterpillar as he munches his way through Dunnet Forest. Inspired by the work of Eric Carle’s fantastic book, this hands on interactive story walk is suitable for children aged 3-6.

Booking essential. Meet at Dunnet Forest car park. Grid ref: ND 222698. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Friday 24 July, 201511am - 1pmThurso Viking Ventures

Become a young Viking and see if your team can be victorious in the different challenges to decide which team gets the glory of setting sail on a Viking raid. Numbers are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Monday 27 July, 201511am - 1pmMask Making at Seadrift Centre, Dunnet

Kids use your imagination and have fun making your very own mask from everyday items. All materials are provided but numbers are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

Booking essential. The Seadrift Visitor Centre, Dunnet Bay. Grid ref: ND 219706. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Wednesday 29 July, 201511am - 12noonNursery Rhyme Trail

The under fi ves will enjoy the songs and activities on this interactive nursery rhyme trail around Thrumster woods. Watch out for the crocodile!

Booking essential. Meet at Thrumster House. Grid ref: ND 332452. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Bringing to life the history and culture of Caithness

MUSEUM EXHIBITION GALLERY CAFE FREE WIFI GIFT SHOPOpen All Year Mon Sat 10am-6pm Sun 11am-4pm (April—Sept only)

Free AdmissionOld Town Hall, High Street, Thurso, Caithness KW14 8AJ

www.caithnesshorizons.co.uk [email protected] 01847 896508

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Thursday 30 July, 201511am - 12noonNursery Rhyme Trail

The under fi ves will enjoy the songs and activities on this interactive nursery rhyme trail around Dunnet Forest. Watch out for the crocodile!

Booking essential. Meet at Dunnet Forest car park. Grid ref: ND 222698. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

August An Lùnastal

Tuesday 04 August, 201511am - 1pmEat the sun for lunch - family science workshop

How does the energy from the sun get inside plants and end up in our bodies? Learn about the amazing science beneath the leaves. Demonstrations and hands-on activities for kids and big kids. Children must have adult supervision. Event supported by International Year of Light – Celebratory Events in Caithness.

Booking essential. Meet at Seadrift Visitor Centre. Grid ref: ND 219706. Grade A. Free event. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Wednesday 05 August, 201511am - 1pmBush Craft with Volcanoes

Did you know Caithness had volcanic vents? Learn about our geology and try out some fi re lighting skills to create your own smoldering volcanoes by the lava rocks at Sannick. Unsuitable for under 6s due to fi re danger.

Booking essential. Meet at Sannick beach layby, on road to Duncansby Light House. Grid ref: ND 400733. Grade B. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child, family £7.00. Contact Kirsty on 07501 784123 or [email protected].

Friday 14 August, 201511am - 1pmKite Making at Seadrift Centre, Dunnet

Assemble and fl y your very own kite made from everyday household items. All materials provided but limited numbers so book early to avoid disappointment. Kite fl ying will take place only if conditions are suitable.

Booking essential. The Seadrift Visitor Centre, Dunnet Bay. Grid ref: ND 219706. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, £3.00 per child. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Friday 28 August, 20158pm - 9pmBatty about Bats!

Enjoy a slide show about our fabulous midge munchers before wandering round Thrumster woods. Please bring a torch & stout footwear. Event is weather dependent.

Booking essential. Meet at Thrumster House. Grid ref: ND 332452. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

September An t-Sultain

Friday 04 September, 20158.30pm - 9.30pmBats and Marshmallows

A moonlit search around the harbour and woods for these fl ying mammals with a taste for midges. Marshmallow toasting and hot chocolate to fi nish. Wrap up and bring a torch.

Booking essential. Meet at Latheronwheel Harbour. Grid ref: ND 191322. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Friday 04 September, 20158pm - 9.30pmCastle of Mey Bat Walk

Use our bat detectors to discover the fl ying midge munchers around the castle at night. Wrap up warm and bring a torch. All children must be accompanied.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Sunday 13 September, 201511am - 1pmFossil Fish Forray

Search for the remains of creatures older than the dinosaurs! Learn about the fascinating fossil fi sh of the Caithness beds & try to fi nd a specimen to take home.

Booking essential. Meet at Achanarras Quarry car park. Grid ref: ND 157536. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Marina on 07818 588256 or [email protected].

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IbhWednesday 16 September, 2015 8pm - 9.30pm Castle of Mey Bat Walk

Use our bat detectors to discover the flying midge munchers around the castle at night. Wrap up warm and bring a torch. All children must be accompanied.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

October An Dàmhair

Saturday 03 October, 2015 11am - 2pm Loch of Yarrows to Whaligoe

A walk through history in classic Caithness landscape. The route is peppered with archaelogical sites spanning several thousand years; burial cairns, broch, hill fort and ending at the breath taking steps at Whaligoe harbour. Rough hill walking in parts. Bring lunch and walking boots. Drivers returned to start.

Booking essential. Meet at Loch of Yarrows car park. Grid ref: ND 307433. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Kirsty on 07500 784123 or [email protected].

Opening Hours

April - October inclusiveMonday - Friday 10am-5pm

Saturday 11am-4pmWinter and all other times, by appointment

Groups welcome

1 High StreetElgin

Moray IV30 1EQScotland

Tel. 01343 [email protected]

www.elginmuseum.org.uk

“Finalist in Telegraph Kids’ Friendly Awards 2014”

FREE FOR 2015

Welcome to theIsle of Rum

Discover Rum with theCommunity Ranger!

Inspirational and innovative guided walks, talks andevents throughout the year

Visitisleofrum.com/wildliferanger

for informationVolunteering opportunities

also availablealways something new to discover!

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©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©Silvia Duckworth ©HC Ranger

TOP 5 MUST SEESSmoo Cave at Durness Massive sea cave of phenomenal proportions.

Clachtoll Split Rock Stunningly beautiful beach and crofting township.

Farr Glebe Bumblebee reserve at Bettyhill packed with wonderful wildfl owers in July.

Achness Falls, Rosehall Great place to see salmon leaping and spectacular after rainfall.

Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve with year round interest and rare fl owered wintergreen.

April An Giblean

Tuesday 07 April, 201510.30am - 1.30pmTalmine to Port Vasco

Very beautiful coastal walk in an exquisite remote location; cliffs, beaches, moorland.

Meet at Talmine Pier car park (please do not block access). Grid ref: NC 587632. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Wednesday 08 April, 201510.30am - 1.30pmScourie Seacliffs

Join us on this undulating coastal walk with cliffs, caves, wild fl owers and signs of otters.

Meet at Free Church car park at the south end of village. Grid ref: NC 152434. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Wednesday 08 April, 201510.30am - 12.30pmKite Making, Brora

Come along and make kites and fl y them.

Booking essential. Meet at the Brora Heritage Centre, Brora. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Thursday 09 April, 201510.30am - 12.30pmGreen Woodworking, Lairg

Make a three-legged stool using the tools and techniques of green woodworking.

Booking essential. Meet at the Shin Falls car park, Lairg. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Sutherland Cataibh

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Friday 10 April, 201510.30am - 12.30pmWillow Models, Brora

Make animal models with willow and tissue. Superb, creative, messy fun.

Booking essential. Meet at the Brora Heritage Centre, Brora. Grade A. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Tuesday 21 April, 201510.30am - 12.30pmFaraid Head Dunes

Guided walk amongst a fascinating dune system plus a walk across beautiful Balnakeil beach.

Meet at Balnakeil Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 392687. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 23 April, 201510.30am - 1.30pmGarnets & Dikes, Scourie

Guided coastal walk, fi ne views, seabirds, geology, wildfl owers, signs of otters.

Meet at Scourie Beach bird hide. Grid ref: NC 151446. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 30 April, 201510.30am - 1.30pmLoch Leathad Trail, Scourie

Guided hill and lochside walk.

Meet at Scourie Depot Road, 300 m south of village sign. Grid ref: NC 157437. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Monday 04 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 05 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Thursday 07 May, 201511am - 2pmArd Mor Guided Walk, Bettyhill

Early season guided walk around this lovely headland at Bettyhill with lots of plants and hopefully seashore wildlife to enjoy. Suitable clothing and footwear required.

Meet at the River Naver Pier at Bettyhill. Grid ref: NC 700619. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Thursday 07 May, 201510.30am - 1.30pmNorth Shore, Scourie

Guided coastal walk, outstanding views, moorland, seabirds, and a bit of geology.

Meet at village pier car park. Grid ref: NC 155448. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 11 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 12 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 12 May, 201511am - 2pmStrathy Point to Aultivullin Guided Walk

Fantastic rocky coastal cliff walk with superb geology and wildlife. Another vehicle required to help return drivers to the start, please phone if you can help. Some high, steep coastal cliffs on this walk, suitable clothing and boots recommended.

Meet at Strathy Point car park (Totegan). Grid ref: NC 827687. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Tuesday 12 May, 201510.30am - 1.30pmCastle Bharraich Walk

Guided walk to this enigmatic ruin and beyond.

Meet at Tongue village car park near the bank. Grid ref: NC 592566. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Tuesday 12 May, 201511am - 3pmDrumbeg peat road

Stunning walk in the remote Assynt “cnoc and loch” landscape. We will be walking through the Drumbeg Common Grazing land full of history and teeming with wildlife.

Meet at Drumbeg View Point car park. Grid ref: NC 120330. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 14 May, 201511am - 3pmClachtoll coastal walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Sunday 17 May, 201511.00am - 2.00pmThe Big Bog walk, Crask Inn

Explore a part of the famous Flow Country looking for rare birds and man’s attempts to exploit the water.

Booking essential. Meet at the Crask Inn, between Lairg and Altnaharra. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Monday 18 May, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 18 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 19 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 19 May, 201511am - 3pmBone Caves, Inchnadamph

This is a fascinating walk back in time to the ice-age where the bones of reindeer, polar bears and even humans were discovered in the caves. Stout footwear is essential.

Meet at Bone Caves car park, 2.5miles south of Inchnadamph. Grid ref: NC 254179. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 21 May, 201511am - 3pmDubh Clais Clearance village

We will search out the ruins of the clearance township at Dubh Clais and learn about how they lived. Lots of woodland and river edge wildlife to see as well.

Meet at Assynt Visitor Centre, Main Street Lochinver. Grid ref: NC 094225. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Monday 25 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 26 May, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 26 May, 201511am - 3pmClachtoll Coastal Walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

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Wednesday 27 May, 201511am - 3.30pmMoine Path Guided Walk

Hill walk from the south end of Loch Hope over the historic Moine path by Ben Hope to the Kyle of Tongue at Kinloch; moorland wildlife, chance of seeing eagles and deer, beautiful remote scenery. Bring suitable clothing, waterproofs and lunch. We may share vehicles, leaving cars at either end of route, please help if possible.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Thursday 28 May, 201511am - 3pmAchmelvich coastal walk

Come and see brilliant orchids, jewelled rocks and marvellous machair as we walk along a coastline steeped in crofting history, to the old mill at Altanabradhan.

Meet at Achmelvich Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 058248. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Sunday 31 May, 201512noon - 3pm4x4 Safari, Forsinard Flows

Our staff-led 4x4 safari is one of the best ways to explore the vast Forsinard Flows nature reserve. Join us to fi nd out more about this fascinating and internationally important habitat and see some fantastic scenery along the way. Includes tea/coffee and delicious homebaking. Booking is essential as there are limited spaces - please phone the reserve offi ce to book and let us know of any special requirements you may have. Not suitable for children under 12.

Booking essential. Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Adults £25.00, conc. £20.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

June An t-Ògmhios

Monday 01 June, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 01 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 02 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 02 June, 201511am - 4pmTraligill Valley Caves, Inchnadamph

Walk with us on this brilliant walk in the valley of the trolls and see the fantastic fl owers and view the evidence of stunning forces which have built mountains and created deep caves.

Meet at Inchnadamph car park. Grid ref: NC 251216. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 04 June, 201511am - 3pmClachtoll coastal walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

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Monday 08 June, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 08 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 09 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 09 June, 201511am - 3pmSecrets of Glen Leireag, Drumbeg

Visit the lost township of Glen Leireag and discover the secrets of this magical woodland glen. Seek out moorland wildlife and golden eagles.

Meet at Nedd Bridge, 2 miles east of Drumbeg. Grid ref: NC 148315. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 11 June, 201511am - 3pmBone Caves, Inchnadamph

This is a fascinating walk back in time to the ice-age where the bones of reindeer, polar bears and even humans were discovered in the caves. Stout footwear is essential.

Meet at Bone Caves car park, 2.5 miles south of Inchnadamph. Grid ref: NC 254179. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Sunday 14 June, 201510.30am - 1.30pmEmbo Orchid Walk

A walk from Dornoch to Embo visiting one of the best sites for Lesser Butterfl y Orchids in Scotland.

Booking essential. Meet at the Beach car park, Dornoch. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Monday 15 June, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 15 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 16 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 16 June, 201511am - 3pmAchmelvich Coastal Walk

Come and see brilliant orchids, jewelled rocks and marvellous machair as we walk along a coastline steeped in crofting history, to the old mill at Altanabradhan.

Meet at Achmelvich Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 058248. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Wednesday 17 June, 201511am - 2pmStrathy Peatland Pools and Priest’s Stone

Walk out to a lovely bog pool system with breeding birds, amphibians and lots of peatland plants then on to the Christianised Pictish Priest’s Stone. Warm waterproof clothing and waterproof footwear recommended.

Meet at the roadside parking at the beginning of road to Strathy Point. Grid ref: NC 829656. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Thursday 18 June, 201510.30am - 1.30pmKyle of Durness Walk

Guided walk around a stunning coastal area, masses of wild fl owers and stunning views.

Meet at Durness Golf Course car park. Grid ref: NC 389687. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 18 June, 201511am - 3pmDrumbeg peat road

Stunning walk in the remote Assynt “cnoc and loch” landscape. We will be walking through the Drumbeg Common Grazing land full of history and teeming with wildlife.

Meet at Drumbeg View Point car park. Grid ref: NC 120330. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Monday 22 June, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 22 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 23 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 23 June, 201511am - 3pmClachtoll Coastal Walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Wednesday 24 June, 201510.30am - 1pmWildfl ower Extravaganza at Oldshoremore

Guided walk over the dunes and beach near Kinlochbervie.

Meet at Oldshoremore Beach car park 4miles north of Kinlochbervie. Grid ref: NC 203585. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 25 June, 201510am - 5pmGlas Bheinn hill walk

A walk to the top of one of Assynt’s less-visited mountains Glas Bheinn – the Green Mountain (776m), with some wonderful views. If the weather is not good we will do a shorter low level walk.

Booking essential. Meet at the layby by Loch na Gainmhich on the A894. Grid ref: NC 240290. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Sunday 28 June, 201512noon - 3pm4x4 Safari, Forsinard Flows

Our staff-led 4x4 safari is one of the best ways to explore the vast Forsinard Flows nature reserve. Join us to fi nd out more about this fascinating and internationally important habitat and see some fantastic scenery along the way. Includes tea/coffee and delicious homebaking. Booking is essential as there are limited spaces - please phone the reserve offi ce to book and let us know of any special requirements you may have. Not suitable for children under 12.

Booking essential. Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Adults £25.00, conc. £20.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Monday 29 June, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 29 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 30 June, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 30 June, 201511am - 4pmOff the beaten track at Glencanisp, Lochinver

Wonderful walk over the patterned landscape of Glencanisp. Come and learn about the wildlife that lives on the community owned Glencanisp estate and possibly see some eagles.

Meet at the Assynt Visitor Centre, Lochinver and we will share transport the one mile to Glencanisp lodge. Grid ref: NC 094225. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 30 June, 201510.30am - 1.30pmTalmine to Port Vasco

Very beautiful coastal walk in an exquisite remote location; cliffs, beaches, moorland.

Meet at Talmine Pier car park (please do not block access). Grid ref: NC 588632. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

July An t-Iuchar

Thursday 02 July, 201510.30am - 1.30pmCoast Walk at Kinlochbervie Pier

Fascinating walk with superb views, past the pier, over the hill and out to the point.

Meet by the Old Mission at the pier. Grid ref: NC 220560. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 02 July, 201511am - 1pmBlack-throated Divers

Accompany the Ranger to look for these stunningly beautiful birds on a traditional breeding loch. A speciality of this area, its eerie calls are some of the most evocative sounds of the remote lochs in Assynt.

Meet at Assynt Visitor Centre, Main Street Lochinver. Grid ref: NC 094225. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Monday 06 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 07 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 07 July, 201511am - 3pmDrumbeg Peat Road

Stunning walk in the remote Assynt “cnoc and loch” landscape. We will be walking through the Drumbeg Common Grazing land full of history and teeming with wildlife.

Meet at Drumbeg view point car park. Grid ref: NC 120330. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 07 July, 201510.30am - 12.30pmRockpools, Helmsdale

The best rockpools in East Sutherland, full of weird and wonderful sea creatures. Bring your wellies.

Booking essential. Meet at Helmsdale Harbour car park. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Tuesday 07 July, 20151.30pm - 3.30pmGold Panning, Helmsdale

Try your hand at gold panning at the site of the famous 1868 gold rush. Bring your wellies.

Booking essential. Meet at Helmsdale Harbour car park. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

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Wednesday 08 July, 201510.30am - 12.30pmMud Lark, Loch Fleet

Explore the unique habitat of estuary mud fl ats and see who lives in this strange place. Bring your wellies.

Booking essential. Meet at the entrance to Balblair Woods on the Golspie-Littleferry road. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Thursday 09 July, 20159pm - 11pmBat Watching, Lochinver

Join us to watch one of nature’s amazing spectacles as up to 100 pipistrelle bats leave their roost. We will start with a short illustrated talk on bats at the Assynt Visitor Centre.

Booking essential. Meet at the Assynt Visitor Centre, Lochinver. Grid ref: NC 094225. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 09 July, 201510.30am - 12.30pmBushcraft Apprentice (1), Skelbo Wood

The fi rst of our series on bushcraft covering shelter building and fi re lighting.

Booking essential. Meet at Skelbo Wood, between Golspie and Dornoch. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Monday 13 July, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 13 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Monday 13 July, 201511am - 1pmWildlife Crime Scene, Lochinver

Wildlife CSI. This is a family adventure for amateur animal detectives. Investigate several crime scenes in the countryside and work out what was the crime and who committed it - search for clues and gather the evidence.

Booking essential. Meet at Woodside car park, Culag Woods, past Lochinver Primary on the road to Inverkirkaig. Grid ref: NC 093213. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 14 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 14 July, 201510.30am - 1pmWildfl ower Extravaganza at Oldshoremore

Guided walk over the dunes and beach near Kinlochbervie.

Meet at Oldshoremore Beach car park 4 miles north of Kinlochbervie. Grid ref: NC 203585. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 14 July, 201510.30am - 12.30pmPond Dipping, Skelbo Wood

Come and explore the best pond in East Sutherland for the variety of life in it. Bring your wellies.

Booking essential. Meet at Skelbo Wood, between Golspie and Dornoch. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Wednesday 15 July, 201510.30am - 12.30pmTern Walk, Brora

A walk along the lovely beach to observe the comings and goings at the Arctic tern colony and seabirds offshore.

Booking essential. Meet at Brora Golf course. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Thursday 16 July, 20152pm - 4pmPortskerra Rockpools

Kids bring your nets or use ours and have fun discovering the fascinating creatures of Portskerra rock pools at Melvich. Wear wellies and warm clothing. All children must be accompanied.

Meet at Portskerra Old Harbour (not the pier). Grid ref: NC 877664. Grade B. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Thursday 16 July, 201510.30am - 1.30pmScourie Seacliffs

Join us on this undulating coastal walk with cliffs, caves, wild fl owers and signs of otters.

Meet at the Free Church car park at the south end of village. Grid ref: NC 152434. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 16 July, 201510.30am - 12.30pmBushcraft Apprentice (2), Skelbo Wood

This time we will make cord, charcoal and whittle some wood.

Booking essential. Meet at Skelbo Wood, between Golspie and Dornoch. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Monday 20 July, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 20 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 21 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 21 July, 201511am - 1pmBettyhill Viking Ventures

Become a young Viking and see if your team can be victorious in the different challenges to decide which team gets the glory of setting sail on a Viking raid. Limited numbers so book early to avoid disappointment.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 21 July, 201510.30am - 1.30pmTalmine to Port Vasco

Very beautiful coastal walk in an exquisite remote location; cliffs, beaches, moorland.

Meet at Talmine pier car park (please do not block access). Grid ref: NC 588631. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 23 July, 201511am - 3pmClachtoll Coastal Walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 23 July, 201510.30am - 1.30pmScourie, Garnets & Dikes

Guided coastal walk, fi ne views, seabirds, geology, wildfl owers, signs of otters.

Meet at Scourie Beach bird hide. Grid ref: NC 151446. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Sunday 26 July, 201512noon - 3pm4x4 Safari, Forsinard Flows

Our staff-led 4x4 safari is one of the best ways to explore the vast Forsinard Flows nature reserve. Join us to fi nd out more about this fascinating and internationally important habitat and see some fantastic scenery along the way. Includes tea/coffee and delicious homebaking. Booking is essential as there are limited spaces - please phone the reserve offi ce to book and let us know of any special requirements you may have. Not suitable for children under 12.

Booking essential. Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Adults £25.00, conc. £20.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Monday 27 July, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 27 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 28 July, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 28 July, 20151pm - 3pmBumblebee Safari at Farr Glebe and Farr Bay

Learn to identify our local bumblebees on a guided bumblebee safari at the wonderful Farr Glebe Bumblebee Reserve and Farr Bay in Bettyhill, North Sutherland. See if we can fi nd a rare Great Yellow Bumblebee and discover how you can help our little pollinating friends.

Meet at the Tourist Information Centre (café) car park in Bettyhill. Grid ref: NC 716622. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 28 July, 201511am - 4pmTraligill Valley Caves, Inchnadamph

Walk with us on this brilliant walk in the valley of the trolls and see the fantastic fl owers and view the evidence of stunning forces which have built mountains and created deep caves.

Meet at Inchnadamph car park. Grid ref: NC 251216. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 28 July, 201510.30am - 1.30pmKyle of Durness Walk

Guided walk around a stunning coastal area, masses of wild fl owers and stunning views.

Meet at Durness Golf Course car park. Grid ref: NC 389687. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 30 July, 201512noon - 2pmRockpools at Clachtoll

We have some of the best rockpools in the British Isles. Join us and meet some of the really weird wildlife living here. Rocks can be steep and slippery.

Booking essential. Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 30 July, 201510.30am - 1.30pmScourie, Loch Leathad Trail

Guided hill and lochside walk.

Meet at Scourie Depot Road, 300 m south of village sign. Grid ref: NC 157437. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

August An Lùnastal

Monday 03 August, 20152pm - 4pmPuffi n Walk, Durness

Guided walk to a small colony of puffi ns at Faraid Head. See the full ad on page 34.

Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Monday 03 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 04 August, 20157.30pm - 8.30pmIllustrated Talk on Otters

The secret life of the otter in Assynt, come along and hear about how to fi nd them.

Meet at the Assynt Visitor Centre, Lochinver. Grid ref: NC 094225. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 04 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 04 August, 201510.30am - 12.30pmRockpools, Embo

Great, easily accessible rock pools full of wonderful creatures.

Booking essential. Meet at Embo Pier, Grannies Heilin Hame. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 04 August, 201511am - 1pmTale of the Snail and Whale

“This is the tale of the tiny snail and a great big grey-blue humpback whale.” Theatre workshop, for families with children 4 - 10 years old.

Meet at Achmelvich Beach car park 1.5 miles off the B869. Grid ref: NC 058248. Grade A. Adults free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Wednesday 05 August, 201510.30am - 12.30pmDinosaur Geology, Helmsdale

The geology of Helmsdale is from the time of the dinosaurs. Come along and have the geology unravelled and fossils found.

Booking essential. Meet at Helmsdale Harbour car park. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Wednesday 05 August, 20151.30pm - 3.30pmGold Panning, Helmsdale

Try your hand at gold panning at the site of the famous 1868 gold rush. Bring your wellies.

Booking essential. Meet at Helmsdale Harbour car park. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Thursday 06 August, 201511am - 3pmBone Caves, Inchnadamph

This is a fascinating walk back in time to the ice-age where the bones of reindeer, polar bears and even humans were discovered in the caves. Stout footwear is essential.

Meet at Bone Caves car park, 2.5miles south of Inchnadamph. Grid ref: NC 254179. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 06 August, 201510.30am - 1.30pmNorth Shore, Scourie

Guided coastal walk, outstanding views, moorland, seabirds, bit of geology.

Meet at village pier car park. Grid ref: NC 155448. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 06 August, 201510.30am - 12.30pmBushcraft Apprentice (3), Skelbo Wood

The challenge this time is to learn knots and construct a bridge over a great deep pool. Are you brave enough to cross it?

Booking essential. Meet at Skelbo Wood, between Golspie and Dornoch. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Monday 10 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Monday 10 August, 201510.30am - 12.30pmFaraid Head Dunes

Guided walk amongst a fascinating dune system plus a walk across beautiful Balnakeil Beach.

Meet at Balnakeil Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 392687. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Tuesday 11 August, 20159.15am - 12.15pmBrora - Golspie Coastal Walk

Catching the train to Brora we will then return along this lovely stretch of coast looking for birds and seals (train fare not included).

Booking essential. Meet at Golspie Railway Station. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 11 August, 20152pm - 4pmStrathy Point Sea Watch

Bring along your binoculars and use our telescopes at this hot spot to look for whales, dolphins and porpoises. Learn about the different species seen here and help in their conservation. Wrap up warm and do not drive to the lighthouse - private road.

Meet at Strathy Point car park (Totegan). Grid ref: NC 827697. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Tuesday 11 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 11 August, 201512noon - 1.30pmClachtoll Sand Sculpture Contest

Why not enter? Or just come along to admire the many amazing sculptures for free! Loads of really good prizes. Judging at 1.30pm.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. To enter the competition: Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 11 August, 20152pm - 4pmClachtoll Seashore roadshow

Following the sand sculpture contest, this is a day for the family. Lots to do- rockpools, crafts, puppets, quizzes, cakes and more. All from 0 to 100 yrs old welcome!

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade A. Free event. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Wednesday 12 August, 201510.30am - 12.30pmWildlife Crime Investigators, Golspie

Come and unravel the clues at the crime scenes and develop your tracking skills to solve the crimes.

Booking essential. Meet at the Big Burn car park, Golspie. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Thursday 13 August, 20152.00pm - 4.00pmBushcraft Shipwrecked, Brora

Cast ashore on the beach we will fi nd buried treasure, build shelters and cook over an open fi re.

Booking essential. Meet at Brora Golf Course. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

Thursday 13 August, 201512noon - 2pmRockpools at Achmelvich

We have some of the best rockpools in the British Isles. Join us and meet some of the really weird wildlife living here. Rocks can be steep and slippery.

Booking essential. Meet at Achmelvich Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 058248. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 13 August, 201510.30am - 1.30pmScourie Seacliffs

Join us on this undulating coastal walk with cliffs, caves, wild fl owers and signs of otters.

Meet at the Free Church car park at the south end of village. Grid ref: NC 152434. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Sunday 16 August, 201511.00am - 2.00pmGlen Cassley walk

A lovely walk in Golden Eagle country with interesting hydro works to marvel at.

Booking essential. Meet at Rosehall Log cabin for car share and onward travel. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ian on 01549 402638 or [email protected].

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Monday 17 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 18 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 18 August, 201511am - 3pmClachtoll Coastal Walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 18 August, 201510.30am - 1.30pmSpectacular Hill Walk [307m] at Tongue

Guided walk up the Watch Hill with amazing views across the Kyle of Tongue, moorland, loch & wildlife.

Meet at the roadside car park on the A836 at Coldbackie. Grid ref: NC 609601. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 20 August, 201510.30am - 1.30pmScourie, Garnets & Dikes

Guided coastal walk, fi ne views, seabirds, geology, wildfl owers, signs of otters.

Meet at Scourie Beach bird hide. Grid ref: NC 151446. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 20 August, 201510am - 5pmQuinag hillwalk

Explore this fantastic Assynt mountain (808m). Look for Mountain Hares and Ptarmigan. If the weather is not good we will do a shorter low level walk.

Booking essential. Meet at the car park 3km north of Skiag Bridge.. Grid ref: NC 232274. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Monday 24 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

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Tuesday 25 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Tuesday 25 August, 201511am - 5pmCulkein to Stoer Lighthouse

Amazing cliff top walk round the point and past the Old Man of Stoer. Great for seabirds, bonxies, peregrines, seals and we may even see some dolphins. We will leave a vehicle at the lighthouse to take people back to their cars.

Meet at the Beach at Culkein Stoer. Grid ref: NC 038332. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 25 August, 201510.30am - 1.30pmCoastal Moorland Hike by Kylestrome

Guided walk over rough hill ground by the spectacular Eddrachilles bay, chance of seeing deer and eagles.

Meet at the roadside car park on the A894 at the top of Kylestrome Brae. Grid ref: NC 211350. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Thursday 27 August, 20158.30pm - 10pmBat Walk at Skerray

Use our bat detectors and learn all about the bats found feeding around the village of Skerray at night during a guided bat walk. Wrap up warm and bring a torch. All children must be accompanied. Very weather dependant.

Meet at Skerray Village Hall. Grid ref: NC 674624. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Paul on 01847 821531 or [email protected].

Thursday 27 August, 201510.30am - 1.30pmLoch Leathad Trail, Scourie

Guided hill and lochside walk.

Meet at Scourie Depot Road, 300 m south of village sign. Grid ref: NC 157437. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Donald on 01971 511756 or [email protected].

Sunday 30 August, 201512noon - 3pm4x4 Safari, Forsinard Flows

Our staff-led 4x4 safari is one of the best ways to explore the vast Forsinard Flows nature reserve. Join us to fi nd out more about this fascinating and internationally important habitat and see some fantastic scenery along the way. Includes tea/coffee and delicious homebaking. Booking is essential as there are limited spaces - please phone the reserve offi ce to book and let us know of any special requirements you may have. Not suitable for children under 12.

Booking essential. Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Adults £25.00, conc. £20.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

Monday 31 August, 20152pm - 4.45pmGuided walk, Forsinard Flows

This walk is a great way to explore the internationally important Forsinard Flows National Nature reserve. Discover the wild peatlands, spot some of the plants and animals which make their home here and learn more about the work being done to protect and restore this magnifi cent landscape. Please come prepared for changeable weather, and bring a waterproof. We’ll be heading off the track and crossing open peatland, so wellies/walking boots are essential.

Meet at Forsinard Flows Reserve Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NC 891425. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Reserve Offi ce on 01641 571225 or [email protected].

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September An t-Sultain

Tuesday 01 September, 2015 11am - 2pm Fungi at Culag Community Woodlands, Lochinver

Explore the marvellous world of fungi. Meet the different characters and learn their secrets in one of the best woods for fungi in Sutherland.

Meet at Woodside car park, Culag Woods, past Lochinver Primary on the road to Inverkirkaig. Grid ref: NC 093213. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Thursday 03 September, 2015 11am - 3pm Clachtoll coastal walk

Join us on this beautiful coastal walk through a crofting township rich in wildlife, to the iron-age broch. Hear the stories of skeletons, ancient saunas and “catastrophic collapse”. Find extraordinary ancient life forms.

Meet at Clachtoll Beach car park. Grid ref: NC 040273. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 08 September, 2015 11am - 3pm Bone Caves, Inchnadamph

This is a fascinating walk back in time to the ice-age where the bones of reindeer, polar bears and even humans were discovered in the caves. Stout footwear is essential.

Meet at Bone Caves car park, 2.5 miles south of Inchnadamph. Grid ref: NC 254179. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 15 September, 2015 11am - 2pm Fungi at Culag Community Woodlands, Lochinver

Explore the marvellous world of fungi. Meet the different characters and learn their secrets in one of the best woods for fungi in Sutherland.

Meet at Woodside car park, Culag Woods, past Lochinver Primary on the road to Inverkirkaig. Grid ref: NC 093213. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

Tuesday 22 September, 2015 11am - 1pm Birdwatching at Culkein Stoer

Explore the bay of Culkein where we hope to see ringed plovers, redshanks, whimbrel, other seabirds and maybe an otter.

Meet at Culkein Beach. Grid ref: NC 038332. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Andy on 01571 844654 or [email protected].

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Lochaber Loch Abar

©Homepage.ntlworld.com ©HC Ranger ©Tanscotland.com ©Mikehardwell ©Ardnamurchan.com

TOP 5 MUST SEESChai aig Waterfall, Achnacarry At the end of the Dark Mile, you will hear it before you see it.

Steall Gorge and Falls A truly beautiful walk through the gorge to the tiny glen at the top.

Loch Morar The deepest fresh water loch in the British Isles.

Glencoe Lochans Tranquil woodlands and lochans to wander around.

Garbh Eilan Wildlife Hide The hidden gem of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula on shores of Loch Sunart.

April An Giblean

Saturday April 04, 20151pm - 3pmEaster Eggstravagansa

Easter treasure hunt for families around the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Limited to 100 children. Drop in between 1pm and 3pm.

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday April 07, 20151pm - 3pmVictorious Vikings Treasure Hunt, Ballachulish Quarry

Viking themed Easter treasure hunt for families around Ballachulish Quarry. Drop in between 1pm and 3pm.

Meet at the Ballachulish Quarry. Grid ref: NN 085585. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday April 14, 20151.30pm - 4.30pmStories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad above.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 15, 20151pm - 3pmBeautiful Butterfl y Challenge, Glen Nevis

Butterfl y themed challenge for children accompanied by an adult. Members of Girlguiding UK can gain the Butterfl y Challenge badge at the event subject to availability.

Meet at Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

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Tuesday April 21, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday April 28, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Tuesday May 05, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Wednesday May 06, 2015 1pm - 2pm Share the Fun, Glen Nevis

Outdoor fun for pre-school children aged 1-5. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday May 12, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Monday May 18, 2015 6pm - 8pm Dragons in the Quarry Evening Treasure Hunt, Ballachulish

Drop in for a family treasure hunt and discover the dragons in the quarry.

Meet at Ballachulish Quarry. Grid ref: NN 085585. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday May 19, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday May 26, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Monday June 01, 2015 9am - 5pm Buachaille Etive Beag Guided Walk

A high level walk along the Buachaille Etive Beag ridge taking in both munros. There are fantastic views from both summits and opportunities to hear all about this stunning area. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £30.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 02, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 09, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Saturday June 13, 2015 1pm - 3pm Campfire Challenge, Glen Nevis

Bushcraft adventure for families - build your own shelter, make a fire and cook some food. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

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Tuesday June 16, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Friday June 19, 2015 9am - 6pm Buachaille Etive Mor Guided Walk

A high level walk along the ridge of Buachaille Etive Mor taking in both munro summits. This all day walk along the iconic ridge has stunning mountain scenery to be viewed in all directions, and fantastic wildlife to discover. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £30.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 23, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 30, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

July An t-Iuchar

Tuesday July 07, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Sunday July 12, 2015 10am - 4pm Mountain Flower Walk in Coire Nam Beith

A mountain walk into Coire Nam Beith in the company of Glencoe’s ecologist. Discover some of the rarer upland plants that nestle into the crags beneath Bidean nam Bian and learn some identification techniques along the way. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £15.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 14, 2015 1pm - 4pm I’m a Survivor Get me Out of Here, Ballachulish Quarry

Family survival challenge with a twist. Girlguiding UK members can gain the ‘I’m A Survivor, Get Me Out Of Here’ badge subject to availability.

Meet at Ballachulish Quarry. Grid ref: NN 085585. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 14, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Thursday July 16, 2015 12pm - 4.30pm Pirates over the Loch

Family journey over the loch to a secret beach where we’ll set up a pirates camp, look for crabs and make a fire to cook s’mores.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £6.00, conc. £6.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

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Saturday July 25, 2015 9am - 6pm Bidean Nam Bian Guided Walk

A chance to walk up Glencoe’s highest mountain, the munro Bidean nam Bian: Peak of the peaks. A full day high level walk in the hills will reward you with staggering views of stunning mountain scenery and perhaps a chance to glimpse some of the wildlife that lives here. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £30.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

August An Lùnastal

Tuesday August 11, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Thursday August 13, 2015 12pm - 4.30pm Pirates over the Loch

Family journey over the loch to a secret beach where we’ll set up a pirates camp, look for crabs and make a fire to cook s’mores.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £6.00, conc. £6.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 18, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 25, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Friday August 28, 2015 9am - 6pm Bidean Nam Bian Guided Walk

A chance to walk up Glencoe’s highest mountain, the munro Bidean nam Bian: Peak of the peaks. A full day high level walk in the hills will reward you with staggering views of stunning mountain scenery and perhaps a chance to glimpse some of the wildlife that lives here. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £30.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

September An t-Sultain

Tuesday September 01, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday September 08, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Friday September 11, 2015 7pm - 10pm Batty about Bats & Magnificent Moths, Glen Nevis

Family event to learn more about the bats and moths that can be found in the glen.

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday September 15, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

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Saturday September 19, 2015 9am - 6pm Buachaille Etive Mor Guided Walk

A high level walk along the ridge of Buachaille Etive Mor taking in both munro summits. This all day walk along the iconic ridge has stunning mountain scenery to be viewed in all directions, and fantastic wildlife to discover. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £30.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

Tuesday September 22, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Saturday September 26, 2015 10.00am - 4.00pm Highland Natural Larder

Come and experience the Highlands that most people pass by without seeing: The treasures hidden under every leaf and around the next corner! Experience the culinary delights of the Highlands’ natural larder. Discover how to find, harvest, prepare and cook wild foods and mushrooms.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Clelland on 01320 366633 or [email protected].

Tuesday September 29, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

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October An Dàmhair

Saturday October 03, 2015 9am - 5pm Buachaille Etive Beag Guided Walk

A high level walk along the Buachaille Etive Beag ridge taking in both munros. There are fantastic views from both summits and opportunities to hear all about this stunning area. Please bring walking boots, waterproofs, spare clothes, packed lunch and a drink.

Booking essential. Meet at Glencoe Visitor Centre (there will be a short drive to the start from here). Grid ref: NN 112576. Grade D. Adults £30.00 per person. Contact Rachel on 0844 4932222 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 06, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Saturday October 10, 2015 1pm - 3pm Time Travellers, Glen Nevis

A chance for the whole family to dig through history and have a go at activities from the distant past.

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Eilidh-Ann on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 13, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 20, 2015 1.30pm - 4.30pm Stories of The Fort

Join the Ranger on a circular walk from Fort William to Inverlochy. See full ad on page 52.

Booking essential. Contact Angus on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

Wednesday October 28, 2015 6pm - 8pm Halloween in the Glen, Glen Nevis

Bring the whole family to Glen Nevis for a spooky evening of Halloween fun. Prizes for the best fancy dress and best decorated pumpkin. Please bring a torch as it will be dark!

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Eilidh-Ann on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

December An Dùbhlachd

Saturday December 05, 2015 1pm - 3pm Frozen Snow Challenge, Glen Nevis

Family snow challenge and Christmas crafts. Members of Girlguiding UK can complete a relevant challenge badge subject to availability.

Meet at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Grid ref: NN 124731. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Michelle on 01397 705922 or [email protected].

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Skye & Lochalsh An t-Eilean Sgitheanach agus Loch Aillse

©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger

TOP 5 MUST SEESThe Black Cuillin A mountain range in miniature. Climb them or just enjoy looking at them from afar!

Dun Caan The highest point on Raasay – a fl at-topped feature you can see from miles around.

Biod an Fhithich One of the lower Glen Shiel hills and easily accessible from the A87 via a good path.

Spar Cave Well worth a visit – make sure you visit at low tide and take a torch with you.

Preshal Beag An amazing hill, formed from columnar basalt, best reached from Talisker.

March Am Màrt

Saturday March 28, 20158pm - 9.30pmEarth Hour 2015, Duirnish

Join the Rangers to celebrate Earth Hour 2015 with a night-time wander through woodland and open moor. Listen out for nocturnal wildlife and if the skies are clear, do some stargazing. Please bring a torch and warm clothing. Hot drinks and home baking provided!

Booking essential. Meet at the Duirinish Church car park, Dunvegan. Grid ref: NG 251479. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

April An Giblean

Saturday April 04, 20159.30am - 12noonKinloch Reptile Survey

Volunteers wanted! We plan to continue the work of Skye and Lochalsh Environment Forum in 2014 in surveying the reptile fauna at Kinloch Forest. This will be a training and awareness raising session with the hope of encouraging volunteers to walk a prearranged route through the area throughout the year noting the presence or absence of reptiles along the way. Will reschedule if weather unsuitable.

Booking essential. Meet at Kinloch Forest car park. Grid ref: NG 704160. Grade A. Free event. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

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Friday April 10, 2015 10am - 3pm Wild West Coast (1), Galtrigill to Glendale

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at Glendale Village Hall to car share to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 178496. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Tuesday 14 April, 2015 9.30am - 4.30pm Sea Kayaking Taster Day

We offer guided sea kayaking days around the coast at Kintail, Kyle or Plockton from April to October. No experience is required and all equipment is supplied. So why not join us for a great day out, that is perfect for families, exploring our wonderful local coast? Minimum child age 10 years. Please contact us for a copy of our 2015 activities leaflet.

Booking essential. Meet at Kintail Ranger Office, Morvich. Grid ref: NG 961210. Adults £50.00, conc. £25.00, family £150.00. Contact Willie on 01599 511231 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 15, 2015 2pm - 4pm Ainmean Nàdarra Gàidhlig: Gaelic Names for Nature 1. Place names of Skye and Lochalsh

A series of events exploring the use of Gaelic in the natural environment. Have you ever wondered what all the Gaelic on the Ordnance Survey maps means? Come along and explore the topic with John Phillips, Gaelic learner and a Countryside Ranger for 26 years!

Booking essential. Meet at the meeting room, The Highland Council Offices, Broadford. Grid ref: NG 637237. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Saturday April 18, 2015 12pm - 3pm Earth Hour 2015, Staffin

Come and see the fossils at Staffin Museum and learn about the dinosaurs which once roamed Skye! Then take a walk to the beach where there are giant dino footprints, and have a go at making your own! Suitable for children aged 6-12.

Booking essential. Meet at Staffin Museum. Grid ref: NG 506657. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Monday April 20, 2015 2pm - 5pm Skye’s Big Five (1) Seal Appeal

Taking advantage of a very low tide, join the Ranger on a walk out to the tidal island of Lampay via Coral beach, part of a Special Area of Conservation designated for common seals. We’ll return via Cnoc Mòr a’ Ghrobain, which gives fantastic views to Waternish and Dunvegan Head.

Booking essential. Meet at Coral Beach car park. Grid ref: NG 232537. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Monday 20 April, 2015 9am - 5pm Sea Kayaking Courses

3 and 5 day beginner and intermediate sea kayaking courses starting on this date. Accommodation is provided at the Kintail Outdoor Centre and all equipment is supplied. Come and learn some new skills and have fun exploring our world class local coastline.

Booking essential. Meet at Kintail Ranger Office, Morvich. Grid ref: NG 961210. Please contact us for pricing information. Contact Willie on 01599 511231 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Thursday May 07, 2015 10am - 1pm Birds of Ardnish

Join the Rangers and local bird expert Bob McMillan on a visit to Ardnish, a popular pit stop for a wide variety of migratory birds traveling to and from their northern breeding grounds. Brent geese, bar-tailed godwits, whimbrel and great northern divers to name but a few mingle with the resident breeders, making a spring visit to this site well worth it for any keen bird watcher. Bring binoculars.

Booking essential. Meet at Broadford car park to car share to site. Grid ref: NG 643235. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday May 15, 2015 11am - 4pm Wild West Coast (2), Glendale to Neist Point

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at Neist Point to arrange car share back to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 132477. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

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Wednesday May 20, 2015 10am - 12.30pm Ainmean Nàdarra Gàidhlig: Gaelic Names for Nature 2. Birds of Land and Sea

A series of events exploring the use of Gaelic in the natural environment. Did you know that the Gaelic for Oystercatcher is Gille Brìghde (St. Bride’s servant) and that Snipe in Gaelic is Gobhar Adhair (goat of the air)? Learn the Gaelic names for lots more birds on this easy walk round one of Skye’s best birding sites.

Booking essential. Meet at Broadford main car park to car share to the start of the walk. Grid ref: NG 637237. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Tuesday May 26, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Harvest (1) Spring, Portree

Thought there was no such thing as a free lunch? Think again! Join the Rangers on a series of foraging forays to discover the variety of fare nature has to offer. Learn how to identify and prepare different natural foodstuffs found across a range of seasons and habitats. Wild garlic, ground elder and dandelion - we have all the makings of a spring salad already. Lets see what else we can find to go along with it.

Booking essential. Meet at Sgoirebhreac car park (on the coast directly below the Cuillin Hills Hotel). Grid ref: NG 488438. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Friday May 29, 2015 Time given out on booking. Wild Isles (1): Soay

Board the “Misty Isle” to voyage from Elgol to Soay, an island rich in history but little visited. Explore Gavin Maxwell’s basking shark fishery, hear tales of evacuation and re-occupation, and enjoy the unique and varied wildlife.

Booking essential. Meet at Misty Isle booking office, Elgol Jetty. Grid ref: NG 516135. Grade C. Adults £15.00 plus boat fee, conc. £7.50 plus boat fee. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Saturday May 30, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Herbal (1) Husabost

A spring session exploring the variety of plants used as remedies by early medical practitioners in the Highlands. The first in this series of 3 walks takes place close to the ancestral home of the Beatons of Skye, hereditary physicians to the Lords of the Isles. Some of the plants, like valerian and lesser celandine are still in use as medicines today whilst others like bogbean and white water lily have long fallen into disuse.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

June An t-Ògmhios

Tuesday June 02, 2015 10am - 2pm Skye’s Big Five (2) Regal Eagles

A fantastic hill walk in a beautiful coastal position, Beinn Tianavaig offers fabulous views of Portree harbour, the Storr and across to Raasay. With Creag na h-Iolaire (‘Eagle Crag’) sitting below the summit, there is great potential to see both white-tailed and golden eagles.

Booking essential. Meet at the parking area on the shore of Camustianavaig. Grid ref: NG 508388. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday June 05, 2015 11am - 3pm Wild West Coast (3) Neist Point to Ramasaig

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at Glendale village hall to arrange car share to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 178496. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Saturday 06 June, 2015 9am - 5pm Glen Affric to Kintail Guided Walk

A two day walk through some of Scotland’s finest scenery - from the beautiful woods of Glen Affric to wild and rugged Kintail. We will overnight at the Glen Affric Youth Hostel and accommodation is available before and after the walk at the Kintail Outdoor Centre. Transport is provided.

Booking essential. Meet at Kintail Ranger Office, Morvich. Grid ref: NG 961210. Grade C. £100.00 per person. Contact Rule on 01599 511231 or [email protected].

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Thursday June 11, 2015 10am - 1pm Bell of the Brae

A gentle woodland walk through swathes of bluebells and wild garlic to take in the views from Armadale hill, listen to the spring birds singing and watch the new lambs playing. Ending with tea and cake at the Stables this is a real treat for the senses.

Booking essential. Meet at Clan Donald Centre car park. Grid ref: NG 639044. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Wednesday June 17, 2015 10am - 4pm Highland Dragonflies

A workshop exploring the life cycles and ecology of Highland dragonflies and damselflies. Led by Jonathan Willet of the British Dragonfly Society, learn how to identify and record your sightings of these amazing insects.

Booking essential. Meet at Highland Council Service Point, Tigh na Sgire, Portree. Car share to afternoon site. Grid ref: NG 482437. Grade B. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Thursday June 18, 2015 2pm - 5pm Ainmean Nàdarra Gàidhlig: Gaelic Names for Nature 3. Sea and Shore

A series of events exploring the use of Gaelic in the natural environment. Explore the low shore on a spring tide to learn the Gaelic names for seaweeds and other shore life. Here are a few to get you started: feamainn = seaweed; slige = shell; partan = crab; faochag = whelk and faoileag = gull.

Booking essential. Meet at the parking area at An Corran (Staffin Beach). Grid ref: NG 491685. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Saturday 20 June, 2015 9am - 7pm South Glen Shiel Ridge Guided Walk

This strenuous hill walk takes in 7 Munros along one of Scotland’s finest mountain ridges. For those that would prefer not to do the whole ridge in one day we can also do it over two days. We repeat this walk regularly from May to October. Please contact us for a copy of our 2015 activities leaflet.

Booking essential. Meet at Kintail Ranger Office, Morvich. Grid ref: NG 961210. Grade D. £40.00 per person. Contact Rule on 01599 511231 or [email protected].

Wednesday June 24, 2015 Time given out on booking. Wild Isles (2): Rona

A day trip to Rona on board the Brigadoon. An island as rich in wildlife as it is in cultural history, visit the Church cave and abandoned villages, soak up the 360 degree views which showcase the best of Scotland’s beautiful west coast, and walk among the diverse flora and fauna.

Booking essential. Meet at Portree Harbour. Grid ref: NG 485434. Grade B. Adults £15.00 plus boat fee, conc. £7.50 plus boat fee. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 30, 2015 11am - 2pm Skye’s Big Five (3) Otter Spotter

A walk to Kylerhea otter hide and eagle exhibit where a turning tide offers great opportunity to see white-tailed and golden eagles, as well as seals and if we’re really lucky, otters too.

Booking essential. Meet at Forestry Commission car park, Kylerhea. Grid ref: NG 786211. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

July An t-Iuchar

Wild Isles (3): Isay Island Time given out on booking.

We’re teaming up with Diver’s Eye Boat Trips for a visit to Lochbay, an area with a rich diversity of wildlife including common seals, porpoise, otter and an array of breeding seabirds. With time ashore on Isay Island to visit abandoned villages, hear tales of times past and explore the foreshore, this is sure to be a day to remember. This trip will take place in July 2015. Date to be confirmed, please call for further details.

Booking essential. Meet at Stein car park. Grid ref: NG 263564. Grade B. Adults £15.00 plus boat fee, conc. £7.50 plus boat fee. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday July 03, 2015 10am - 1pm Queen’s Path

One of the lesser-known walks on Raasay. Take a relaxed stroll through natural woodland alive with birdsong and wild flowers to the pebble beach below, a lovely spot for lunch with stunning views across the sea towards Portree and Trotternish. Short drive required to walk starting point.

Booking essential. Meet at Raasay Ferry Terminal. Grid ref: NG 545363. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

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Wednesday July 08, 2015 2pm - 5pm Ainmean Nàdarra Gàidhlig: Gaelic Names for Nature 4. Woodland Plants and Trees

A series of events exploring the use of Gaelic in the natural environment. With its roots in Irish Gaelic, the Gaelic tree alphabet is well known however many of the names have changed through time. Bring yourself up to date with these and the names for a range of woodland plants on this wander through some of Skye’s scarce ancient woodland.

Booking essential. Meet at the shore parking area by the Ord River. Grid ref: NG 616131. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Thursday July 09, 2015 10am - 1pm The Art of Survival, Camus na Sgianadin

Have you got what it takes to survive in the wild and become the next Bear Grylls? Come along and learn how to build a shelter, navigate, forage for wild food, track animals and make fire. Suitable for children aged 6-12. Expect to get muddy!

Booking essential. Meet at Camus na Sgianadin parking area. Grid ref: NG 625254. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday 10 July, 2015 9am - 6pm Five Sisters of Kintail Guided Walk

This strenuous hill walk takes in 3 Munros and offers fantastic views over one of Scotland’s most beautiful areas. We repeat this walk regularly from May to October. Please contact us for a copy of our 2015 activities leaflet.

Booking essential. Meet at Kintail Ranger Office, Morvich. Grid ref: NG 961210. Grade D. £40.00 per person. Contact Rule on 01599 511231 or [email protected].

Saturday July 11, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Herbal (2) Portree

A summer session exploring the variety of plants used as remedies by early medical practitioners in the Highlands. Some of the plants, like valerian and lesser celandine are still in use as medicines today whilst others like bogbean and white water lily have long fallen into disuse.

Booking essential. Meet at Sgoirebhreac car park (on the coast directly below the Cuillin Hills Hotel). Grid ref: NG 488438. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 14, 2015 10am - 12pm Mammal Magic, Lochalsh Woodland

Using camera and small animal traps, come along and see what magical mini mammals we can discover! Learn some fun facts about the mammals we find, and how to spot the signs of those we don’t. Suitable for children aged 6-12.

Booking essential. Meet at Lochalsh woodland park entrance. Grid ref: NG 802279. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday July 17, 2015 10am - 5pm Wild West Coast (4) Ramasaig to Orbost

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at Orbost to arrange car share to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 257431. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

GIANT MACASKILL MUSEUMTells a story of Angus Macaskill the tallest True giant.

Features a model of Angus.

Dunvegan t. 01470 521296

COLBOST CROFT MUSEUMMuseum showing how people lived in the 19th century.

Dunvegan t. 01470 521296

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Thursday July 23, 2015 10am - 12pm Monstrous Mini-beasts, Sluggans Wood

Hiding under every fallen tree, leaf pile and in every pond lurks a secret kingdom of mini monsters! Come along and discover the wondrous world of mini-beasts using traditional and digital means. Suitable for children aged 6-12.

Booking essential. Meet at Sluggans Wood entrance. Grid ref: NG 471448. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 28, 2015 10am - 3pm National Whale and Dolphin Watch (1): Rubha Hunish

In support of the Seawatch Foundation’s National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week, join the Ranger on a walk out to Rubha Hunish, the northernmost point of Skye and one of the best places on the island for watching marine mammals. Learn about the different species we have in our waters, and how to record your sightings. This is also a great place to get close to nesting seabirds.

Booking essential. Meet at Rubha Hunish car park at the start of the Shulista Road. Grid ref: NG 422742. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Thursday July 30, 2015 1pm - 4pm National Whale and Dolphin Watch (2): Neist Point

A walk out to Neist Point, a great location for land-based whale and dolphin watching. Here we’ll conduct a second marine mammal survey as part of National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week. Come along and learn about the different species of cetaceans we have in our waters, and how to record your sightings. This is also a great place to spot seabirds and basking sharks.

Booking essential. Meet at Neist Point car park. Grid ref: NG 132478. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday July 31, 2015 10am - 3pm National Whale and Dolphin Watch (3): Point of Sleat

A walk to the Point of Sleat to conduct our final marine mammal survey as part of National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week. A lovely walk past white sand beaches to the lighthouse, with views across to Rum, Eigg and beyond.

Booking essential. Meet at the car park at end of A851, Aird of Sleat. Grid ref: NG 588007. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

August An Lùnastal

Tuesday August 04, 2015 2pm - 5pm Commotion by the Ocean, Ord

Come along for a day of marine mayhem, funded by the Highland Seashore Project! Go on a rockpool ramble, a seashore scavenger hunt, sculpt some sand shapes and create a bit of beach art. Weather depending we’ll have a BBQ too! Suitable for children aged 6-12. See www.highlandbiodiversity.com/seashore.asp for more information.

Booking essential. Meet at Ord, shore parking area. Grid ref: NG 616131. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday August 07, 2015 10am - 3pm Wild West Coast (5) Eabost - Struan

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at the parking place at Struan. Grid ref: NG 348382. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Friday 07 August, 2015 10am - 4pm Falls of Glomach Guided Walk

Join us on the walk to this remote waterfall which is amongst the country’s highest and most spectacular. There will be time to enjoy the wonderful views and look out for wildlife including deer, eagles and wildflowers on the way. We repeat this walk regularly from May to October. Please contact us for a copy of our 2015 activities leaflet.

Booking essential. Meet at Kintail Ranger Office, Morvich. Grid ref: NG 961210. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £5.00, family £35.00. Contact Rule on 01599 511231 or [email protected].

Thursday August 13, 2015 7pm - 9pm Things that go Bump in the Night, Armadale

Come along for an evening of nocturnal nature exploration! Listen and look for bats, moths and owls. Learn some fun facts about the animals we discover and have a go at our night-time noises quiz! Suitable for children aged 6-12.

Booking essential. Meet at Clan Donald Centre car park, Armadale. Grid ref: NG 639044. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

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Saturday August 15, 2015 2pm - 4pm Spar Cave

Hear about the legends and history of this Skye cave - in Gaelic, Slochd Altrumain - the Nursling Cave. The cave featured in the work of Walter Scott who famously bypassed the locked gate then blocking off the cave entrance “by the assistance of a rope and some ancient acquaintance with orchard breaking”. That barrier is long gone now but we still need to ensure we visit at low tide! If time allows, we may visit the nearby promontory fort, Dun Grugaig as well.

Booking essential. Meet at Elgol Village Hall to car share to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 519135. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Wednesday August 19, 2015 11am - 4pm Sea to Summit

A short boat trip across Loch Scavaig passing the local seal colony on the way, followed by a walk to the top of Sgurr na Strì. Despite standing only 494 m high, it boasts arguably the best view on Skye, taking in Loch Coruisk and the Black Cuillin Ridge.

Booking essential. Meet at Misty Isle office, Elgol jetty. Grid ref: NG 516135. Grade C. Adults £8.00 plus boat fee, conc. £4.00 plus boat fee, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday August 21, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Harvest (2) Summer, Achmore

Thought there was no such thing as a free lunch? Think again! Join the Rangers on a series of foraging forays to discover the variety of fare nature has to offer. Summer herbs will be ripe for picking and there should be some berries ready too as well as Britain’s answer to the groundnut, a member of the carrot family called pignut.

Booking essential. Meet at Achmore Village Hall. Grid ref: NG 855335. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 25, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Herbal (3) Trotternish

An autumn session exploring the variety of plants used as remedies by early medical practitioners in the Highlands. Some of the plants, like valerian and lesser celandine are still in use as medicines today whilst others like bogbean and white water lily have long fallen into disuse.

Booking essential. Meet at Lochan nan Dùnan car park. Grid ref: NG 467706. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Friday August 28, 2015 10am - 3pm Wild West Coast (6) Gesto - Drynoch

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at the layby close to the junction between the A863 and the B8009 to Talisker. Grid ref: NG 415312. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

September An t-Sultain

Wednesday September 02, 2015 2pm - 4pm Ainmean Nàdarra Gàidhlig: Gaelic Names for Nature 5. Mountain and Moorland

A series of events exploring the Gaelic names for elements of the natural environment. Mountain and moorland are two of the dominant habitats of the highland landscape. Just as the Inuit are reputed to have 100 names for snow, there are a similar number of Gaelic names for hills and mountains. Come along and learn how to tell cnoc from cnap and creag from cruach!

Booking essential. Meet at the meeting room, The Highland Council Offices, Portree. Grid ref: NG 481436. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

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Friday September 04, 2015 10am - 3pm Skye’s Big Five (4) Whales of Waternish

A walk from Trumpan to Waternish Point, a beautifully wild spot with panoramic sea views, and one of the best locations on Skye for spotting whales, dolphins and basking sharks. The route showcases the best of the island’s varied flora and fauna, as well as encompassing several areas of archaeological interest and the site of Skye’s bloodiest clan battle.

Booking essential. Meet at Trumpan car park. Grid ref: NG 224613. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Saturday September 12, 2015 10am - 4pm Highland Spiders

Led by the Highland Spider Group, come along to this workshop and learn about the different species of spider found in the Highlands, their ecology, life histories, and how to identify them.

Booking essential. Meet at the Highland Council Countryside Ranger office, Broadford. Grid ref: NG 638237. Grade B. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday September 25, 2015 10am - 4pm Wild West Coast (8) Talisker to Eynort

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at Eynort to arrange car share to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 378264. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Saturday September 26, 2015 11am - 2pm Salmon of Snizort

Celebrate World Rivers Day with a walk along the River Snizort, the longest and best salmon & trout river on Skye. As we make out way towards the falls, learn about the history and current conservation status of wild salmon on Skye, and see if we can spot any ‘on the run’. We will also visit the hydro scheme and salmon hatchery, which have played a key role in the successful re-stocking of this river.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Monday September 28, 2015 11am - 4.30pm Wild Isles (4): Eilean Fladday

Walk out from Torran to Eilean Fladday, a tidal island off the north-west of Raasay. At one time the children of the island used to walk to school in Torran and back as the tide allowed. Changed days indeed! We will explore the abandoned village, hear some of the tales of times past on Fladday and walk out past Loch Mòr towards Uamh nan Daoine (the People’s Cave).

Booking essential. Meet at Raasay Ferry Terminal. Grid ref: NG 545363. Grade B. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Wednesday September 30, 2015 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Harvest (3) Autumn, Torrin

Thought there was no such thing as a free lunch? Think again! Join the Rangers on a series of foraging forays to discover the variety of fare nature has to offer. With winter coming, it is time to get out and see what nature has to offer in the way of food to feed us through the coldest part of the year. Wild fungi will be in season together with nuts and berries. Lets see what we can find and what we can do with it!

Booking essential. Meet at Torrin Outdoor Centre. Grid ref: NG 573210. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

October An Dàmhair

Saturday October 03, 2015 11am - 3pm Archaeology Festival 2015, Glenelg

Explore the stunning archaeological features of this remote Highland glen, including two brochs, Dun Troddan and Dun Telve, a massive round-house and a fort, Dun Grugaig, overlooking the steep gorge of the Abhainn a’ Ghlinne Bhig (Glen Beag River). Other artefacts to look out for include a chambered cairn, two cup-marked stones and a ruined whisky still - all signs of significant use of this area in times gone by.

Booking essential. Meet at Glenelg Community Hall to car share to start of excursion. Grid ref: NG 814194. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

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Saturday October 10, 2015 10am - 4pm Skye’s Big Five (5) Roaring Reds

In the last of the series, join the Ranger on a circular route through the Red Hills, to listen and look for the resident red deer stags as they battle for dominance. There is also the potential to see eagles hunting and salmon leaping. Expect wet ground.

Booking essential. Meet at Strollamus. Grid ref: NG 602266. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Wednesday October 14, 2015 2pm - 4pm Ramble on the Ridge

Designated a Special Area of Conservation owing to its species rich grasslands and unique geological features, this walk along the Trotternish Ridge to Bioda Buidhe offers panoramic views over the Quiraing, the land-slipped mass of Cleat and lochs below, and along the Ridge towards the Storr.

Booking essential. Meet at the summit of the minor road between Staffin and Uig. Grid ref: NG 440679. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 20, 2015 10am - 5pm Clearance Coast

This circular walk to the abandoned villages of Boreraig and Suisnish, emptied during the highland clearances, brings into perspective the stark contrast between Skye’s beautiful scenery and one of its uglier periods in history.

Booking essential. Meet at Cill Chriosd ruined church, B8083. Grid ref: NG 616207. Grade B. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday October 30, 2015 10am - 4pm The Wild West Coast (9) Eynort to Glenbrittle

Explore some of the less-walked parts of the west coast of Skye. See full ad on page 58.

Booking essential. Meet at Glenbrittle to arrange car share to start of walk. Grid ref: NG 409206. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

November An t-Samhain

Saturday November 07, 2015 10am - 12pm Snug as a Bug, Portree

It’s getting chilly outside and the wildlife in our gardens needs a helping hand to survive the wintry weather. So let’s get creative and make some homes and feeders for nature! Suitable for children aged 6-12.

Booking essential. Meet at Highland Council Service Point, Tigh na Sgire, Portree. Grid ref: NG 482437. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Friday November 27, 2015 1pm - 3.30pm Highland Harvest (4) Winter

Thought there was no such thing as a free lunch? Think again! Join the Rangers on a series of foraging forays to discover the variety of fare nature has to offer. In times of famine, the seashore offers a source of food when all other options fail. From seaweeds to shellfish there is lots to eat on the shore. Join us to explore what there is to eat on one of the low spring tides of the year.

Booking essential. Meet at the small car park at Gedintailor, Braes. Grid ref: NG 524350. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

Friday November 27, 2015 1pm - 3.30pm Highland Harvest (4) Winter

Thought there was no such thing as a free lunch? Think again! Join the Rangers on a series of foraging forays to discover the variety of fare nature has to offer. In times of famine, the seashore offers a source of food when all other options fail. From seaweeds to shellfish there is lots to eat on the shore. Join us to explore what there is to eat on one of the low spring tides of the year.

Booking essential. Meet at the small car park at Gedintailor, Braes. Grid ref: NG 524350. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact John on 01471 820526 or [email protected].

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Winter 2016 Geamhradh 2016

Friday January 15, 2016 2pm - 4pm A Voyage to the Hebrides

Thomas Pennant was a Welsh naturalist and traveller who wrote illustrated books on British, Arctic and Indian ecology, though he never actually travelled to the Arctic or India! He did however visit Skye and the Dun Beag Broch, during his second tour of Scotland in 1771.

Booking essential. Meet at Dun Beag car park, Struan. Grid ref: NG 337385. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Saturday January 23, 2016 10am - 12pm RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch, Armadale

Lend a helping hand to the RSPB by taking part in the world’s biggest bird survey. Learn how to identify and record the birds we see, and make some feeders to help them survive the frosty weather. And to keep us warm, there will be hot chocolate and cake!

Booking essential. Meet at Clan Donald centre car park, Armadale. Grid ref: NG 639044. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

Thursday February 18, 2016 10am - 1pm Wonderful Winter Wildfowl Wander

A walk around Portree Bay, which at this time of year will be alive with visiting winter ducks, gulls and waders. A must for any keen birder, bring binoculars and wellies, and join the Rangers for coffee and cake at Aros to finish.

Booking essential. Meet at Aros Centre car park, Portree. Grid ref: NG 477425. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Ellie on 01471 820527 or [email protected].

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April An Giblean

Tuesday April 14, 20152pm - 3.30pmEaster Egg Hunt and Pond Dip, Kinlochewe

Come to Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve for a fun afternoon for all the family. Ever wondered what lurks beneath the water? How many different beasties can we fi nd? Hunt for Easter eggs on the way to the pond, with prizes for everyone.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Thursday April 16, 201510am - 12noonBird’s Eye View, Ullapool

Climb up Ullapool Hill for fantastic views of Loch Broom, the town and surrounding hills. Learn about the area and its natural history along the way.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Wester Ross Ros an Iar

©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger

TOP 5 MUST SEESStac Pollaidh An iconic wee mountain – wild but accessible. Terrifi c scrambling and outlook.

Corrieshalloch Gorge A mind-blowing box canyon that’s a designated National Nature Reserve.

Redpoint Beautiful beaches with nature-spotting and prehistoric archaeology.

Loch Torridon Pretty villages, wildlife and geology, amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Bealach na Bà A historic pass, home to incredible views and mountain wildlife.

Wednesday April 22, 201510.30am - 3.30pmAchnahaird to Garvie Bay, Achiltibuie

Prepare to step back in time on this stunning, geology-themed coastal walk, with a glimpse into fossil records of the fi rst life to appear on earth. Walk through the fallout of a meteorite strike preserved in the rock. It’s also a great walk for spotting seals, seabirds and otters, plus the views are stunning. Bring sturdy footwear and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Wednesday May 06, 201511.30am - 3.30pmFairy Lochs, Gairloch

Take a wild ramble through the small hills south of Gairloch, with stunning views to the Torridon hills, and a visit to the atmospheric crash site of a WWII plane. Bring sturdy footwear and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

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Saturday May 09, 2015 10am - 4.30pm Mountain Navigation Course, Ullapool

Gain the confidence to take to the mountains. A one-day course focusing on map-reading and use of a compass. Beginning in the classroom, we’ll then head out onto Ullapool Hill for an afternoon working on our skills. Bring a compass, sturdy footwear, and OS Explorer Map 436.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Wednesday May 13, 2015 10am - 1pm Leacanasigh Woods and Shore, Lochcarron

Enjoy this beautiful ramble around mixed woodland and a secluded shore, exploring a variety of habitats. Look for otters, bird life, and caves that might have been used by early Scots. Bring sturdy footwear.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Friday May 22, 2015 10am - 4pm An Groban Hill Walk, Gairloch

At only 383 m, An Groban is not massive like its neighbours, but what a view! A delightful riverside walk through historic Flowerdale Estate leads us to a pretty waterfall and the start of our climb up the rocky hill. With careful route-finding it is easier than it looks, but it is steep! Bring sturdy footwear and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

June An t-Ògmhios

Tuesday June 02, 2015 11am - 1pm Ramble Through Rassal, Kishorn

Come and discover the abundant flowers, wildlife and geology of the most northerly ash woods in Scotland. Look out for orchids and mountain avens flourishing on the limestone slopes. Bring sturdy footwear and a sense of exploration.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Wednesday June 10, 2015 10am - 4pm The Coffin Route, Dundonnell to Inverbroom

A wild day-long hike on a historic route. Once a coffin route to Clachan church, now part of the Cape Wrath Trail. Bring sturdy footwear and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Thursday June 18, 2015 11am - 4pm A Mountain-top Stroll, Applecross

Starting from one of Britain’s highest roads allows us to take in a Corbett summit (Sgurr a’ Chaorachain, 792 m) with magnificent views, for relatively little uphill walking. We’ll look out for mountain birds, deer, and upland plants. Note that this walk still contains rugged and exposed terrain, despite the modest ascent, so come prepared for a mountain day and bring lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Tuesday June 23, 2015 10.30am - 1pm Saunter Round Shieldaig Peninsula, Shieldaig

A stunning and easy coastal walk, looking for herons, otters and sea-eagles. Come and discover something about the history of the area and learn about the uses and folklore of the many plants along the trail. Suitable for all the family.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

July An t-Iuchar

Wednesday July 08, 2015 11am - 1pm Minibeast Hunt, Laide

Bugs and beetles, millipedes and moths. Come along to discover who’s hiding in the undergrowth, trees and ponds of Laide Community Woodland near Aultbea. Fun for all the family. Bring wellies.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

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rFriday July 10, 201510am - 4pmThe Mountain Trail, Kinlochewe

Visit the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve to discover a piece of the ancient pine forest that once covered vast areas of the Highlands, before climbing above the trees to fi nd a totally different habitat, resembling the arctic tundra. Learn about the natural history that makes this NNR so special. The trail is steep and rocky. Bring appropriate clothing/boots and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 14, 201511.15am - 12noonSecret Cameras

Relax over a cuppa at Inverewe Restaurant and watch footage of the birds and mammals on the estate captured on secret cameras. Our footage includes our resident otters and pine martens. Our Ranger will give an informal talk about the Estate and the wildlife on view and can answer any general questions you may have. A special morning coffee deal is available for all attendees whereby you can get a free tea or coffee from 11am.

Meet within Inverewe Restaurant, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 14, 20152.15pm - 3pmWildlife Watch

Loch Ewe provides home to many resident and migratory birds and mammals. Come along to the wildlife hide where our ranger will provide binoculars and a telescope to aid viewing – let’s see how many we can spot. Aside from the many garden birds on our feeders, otters, seals, eagles, oystercatchers, greenshanks, redshanks, cormorants and herons are regularly viewed. What will you see? Will you beat the numbers viewed by last weeks visitors?

Meet at Inverewe Wildlife Hide, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 15, 20152pm - 3pmMinibeast Mischief

Scavenge nature’s fl oor to fi nd materials to create your own minibeast ...Big or small? How many legs? How many eyes? Afterwards, meet the real thing. Seek out creepy crawlies and use magnifi ers to see them up close. Spindly spiders, curious centipedes, messy millipedes, wriggly worms, and slimy snails await you. Wear outdoor clothing and bring waterproofs. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Thursday July 16, 20159.30am - 1pmHigh Over Inverewe

Walk off the beaten track with the Ranger to explore Inverewe Estate. This ramble takes you over the hills to the highest point of the estate. There is a chance to see red deer, birds of prey, and a fantastic array of fl ora and fauna. With stunning views over lochs and mountains, this is a walk not to be missed for any nature lover/photographer. Bring water, sunscreen, waterproofs. This walk goes over boggy, uneven terrain - sturdy outdoor shoes essential. Not suitable for younger children.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday July 17, 20152pm - 3pmPond Dipping

Grab a net and discover what lurks on and beneath the surface of the ponds at Inverewe. Natty newts, bathing beetles, skaters and boatmen are there to be found......just be careful not to disturb the pond monster! This activity is free for visitors to Inverewe Garden. Normal garden admission charges apply. Entry is free to members of the National Trust for Scotland/National Trust. Family tickets are available, please call for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

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Tuesday July 21, 2015 3pm - 4.30pm Rock Pool Rummage at Rhue, Ullapool

Discover, catch and learn about the fascinating creatures that live in the secret world of this rocky shore. Suitable for all ages. Wear footwear with good grip.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 21, 2015 11.15am - 12noon Secret Cameras

Relax over a cuppa at Inverewe Restaurant and watch footage of the birds and mammals on the estate captured on secret cameras. Our footage includes our resident otters and pine martens. Our Ranger will give an informal talk about the Estate and the wildlife on view and can answer any general questions you may have. A special morning coffee deal is available for all attendees whereby you can get a free tea or coffee from 11am.

Meet within Inverewe Restaurant, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 21, 2015 2.15pm - 3pm Wildlife Watch

Loch Ewe provides home to many resident and migratory birds and mammals. Come along to the wildlife hide where our ranger will provide binoculars and a telescope to aid viewing – let’s see how many we can spot. Aside from the many garden birds on our feeders, otters, seals, eagles, oystercatchers, greenshanks, redshanks, cormorants and herons are regularly viewed. What will you see? Will you beat the numbers viewed by last weeks visitors?

Meet at Inverewe Wildlife Hide, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 22, 2015 10.30am - 12.30pm Teddy Bear Picnic

Our popular Teddy Bear Picnic returns in 2015 with new activities for children and bears of all ages to enjoy. Join us for lots of fun and games before enjoying a picnic lunch (provided). There is a prize for the best dressed Teddy. All children must be suitably dressed for outdoors and be accompanied by an adult. All teddy bears must be accompanied by a child! Family tickets are available, please call for information.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Adults £5.00, conc. £5.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Thursday July 23, 2015 9.30am - 1pm Seal Search

Join the Ranger for a wilderness walk to our captivating seal colony. Common and grey seals are resident on our Estate and this walk takes you to an ideal vantage point where you can see and photograph seals close up. This is a strenuous walk over uneven terrain and boggy ground so sturdy outdoor shoes are essential. Bring water, sunscreen, waterproofs, binoculars and cameras. Not suitable for younger children.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday July 24, 2015 2pm - 3pm Tree-Mendous

Discover facts about our most interesting trees. Where do they come from? How tall is our tallest tree? Learn how to measure and age trees and have fun doing tree based craft activities. Family fun for all ages. This activity is free for visitors to Inverewe Garden. Normal garden admission charges apply. Entry is free to members of the National Trust for Scotland/National Trust. Family tickets are available, please call for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 28, 2015 9am - 4.30pm Beinn na h-Eaglaise Mountain Walk, Torridon

Climb a great but uncelebrated mountain. Rising 737 m above Loch Torridon, Beinn na h-Eaglaise has magnificent views to the surrounding sandstone monoliths and beautiful coast. A big day in wild country - hillwalking experience required.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

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rTuesday July 28, 201511.15am - 12noonSecret Cameras

Relax over a cuppa at Inverewe Restaurant and watch footage of the birds and mammals on the estate captured on secret cameras. Our footage includes our resident otters and pine martens. Our Ranger will give an informal talk about the Estate and the wildlife on view and can answer any general questions you may have. A special morning coffee deal is available for all attendees whereby you can get a free tea or coffee from 11am.

Meet within Inverewe Restaurant, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 28, 20152.15pm - 3pmWildlife Watch

Loch Ewe provides home to many resident and migratory birds and mammals. Come along to the wildlife hide where our ranger will provide binoculars and a telescope to aid viewing – let’s see how many we can spot. Aside from the many garden birds on our feeders, otters, seals, eagles, oystercatchers, greenshanks, redshanks, cormorants and herons are regularly viewed. What will you see? Will you beat the numbers viewed by last weeks visitors?

Meet at Inverewe Wildlife Hide, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 29, 201510am - 12noonSurvival Skills

Could you survive in the woods? Come along and learn how to make a fi re, shelter and toasting sticks in the outdoors - you may even get a tasty treat! Children must be dressed for outdoors and be accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Thursday July 30, 20159.30am - 1pmKernsary Circular walk

Join the Ranger for this truly lovely walk around Loch Kernsary. This is one of the most beautiful walks on the Estate with stunning views over the loch and surrounding mountains. Learn about the fl ora and fauna, birds and mammals. Fabulous walk for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. This walk is mostly on a mountain path and has some steep inclines and boggy/muddy patches. Please wear appropriate footwear. Bring water, sunscreen and waterproofs. Not suitable for younger children.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday July 31, 20151pm - 3pmSand Sculpture Contest, Gairloch

The sand-sculpture contest is back! This year’s challenge is to sculpt your favourite marine creature - anything from a sea-snail to a minke whale. Fun for all the family. Prizes to be won. Bring buckets and spades and lots of imagination.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Friday July 31, 20152pm - 3pmVictorian Games

Can you imagine life without electricity? How did children play in Victorian times? We challenge you to live without your mobile and gadgets for 1 hour and learn new outdoor games and skills - do you accept the challenge?! This activity is free for visitors to Inverewe Garden. Normal garden admission charges apply. Entry is free to members of the National Trust for Scotland/National Trust. Family tickets are available, please call for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

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August An Lùnastal

Tuesday August 04, 2015 11.30am - 2.30pm The Coral Beaches, Applecross

A really beautiful walk to the white coral beaches of Ard Ban, where we can explore the shore and discover how the white sands are formed. Bring sturdy footwear and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 04, 2015 11.15am - 12noon Secret Cameras

Relax over a cuppa at Inverewe Restaurant and watch footage of the birds and mammals on the estate captured on secret cameras. Our footage includes our resident otters and pine martens. Our Ranger will give an informal talk about the Estate and the wildlife on view and can answer any general questions you may have. A special morning coffee deal is available for all attendees whereby you can get a free tea or coffee from 11am.

Meet within Inverewe Restaurant, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 04, 2015 2.15pm - 3pm Wildlife Watch

Loch Ewe provides home to many resident and migratory birds and mammals. Come along to the wildlife hide where our ranger will provide binoculars and a telescope to aid viewing – let’s see how many we can spot. Aside from the many garden birds on our feeders, otters, seals, eagles, oystercatchers, greenshanks, redshanks, cormorants and herons are regularly viewed. What will you see? Will you beat the numbers viewed by last weeks visitors?

Meet at Inverewe Wildlife Hide, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Wednesday August 05, 2015 10.30am - 12.30pm Teddy Bear Picnic

Our popular Teddy Bear Picnic returns in 2015 with new activities for children and bears of all ages to enjoy. Join us for lots of fun and games before enjoying a picnic lunch (provided). There is a prize for the best dressed Teddy. All children must be suitably dressed for outdoors and be accompanied by an adult. All teddy bears must be accompanied by a child! Family tickets are available, please call for information.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Adults £5.00, conc. £5.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Thursday August 06, 2015 9.30am - 1pm Roundhouse Ramble

Poolewe has a fascinating history dating back to the bronze age when the earliest settlers began crofting. Inverewe Estate has over 40 points of archaeological interest and this walk will encounter a few of them including a visit to a roundhouse and Trig Point, a WWII place of interest. Join the Ranger for thousands of years of history in just a few hours! This is a strenuous walk over uneven terrain and boggy ground so sturdy outdoor shoes are essential. Bring water, sunscreen, waterproofs.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday August 07, 2015 2pm - 3pm Tree-Mendous

Discover facts about our most interesting trees. Where do they come from? How tall is our tallest tree? Learn how to measure and age trees and have fun doing tree based craft activities. Family fun for all ages. This activity is free for visitors to Inverewe Garden. Normal garden admission charges apply. Entry is free to members of the National Trust for Scotland/National Trust. Family tickets are available, please call for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

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Tuesday August 11, 201511.15am - 12noonSecret Cameras

Relax over a cuppa at Inverewe Restaurant and watch footage of the birds and mammals on the estate captured on secret cameras. Our footage includes our resident otters and pine martens. Our Ranger will give an informal talk about the Estate and the wildlife on view and can answer any general questions you may have. A special morning coffee deal is available for all attendees whereby you can get a free tea or coffee from 11am.

Meet within Inverewe Restaurant, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 11, 20152.15pm - 3pmWildlife Watch

Loch Ewe provides home to many resident and migratory birds and mammals. Come along to the wildlife hide where our ranger will provide binoculars and a telescope to aid viewing – let’s see how many we can spot. Aside from the many garden birds on our feeders, otters, seals, eagles, oystercatchers, greenshanks, redshanks, cormorants and herons are regularly viewed. What will you see? Will you beat the numbers viewed by last weeks visitors?

Meet at Inverewe Wildlife Hide, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Wednesday August 12, 201510am - 12noonSurvival Skills

Could you survive in the woods? Come along and learn how to make a fi re, shelter and toasting sticks in the outdoors- you may even get a tasty treat! Children must be dressed for outdoors and be accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Adults go free with accompanying children, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Thursday August 13, 20159.30am - 1pmHigh Over Inverewe

Walk off the beaten track with the Ranger to explore Inverewe Estate. This ramble takes you over the hills to the highest point of the estate. There is a chance to see red deer, birds of prey, and a fantastic array of fl ora and fauna. With stunning views over lochs and mountains, this is a walk not to be missed for any nature lover/photographer. Bring water, sunscreen, waterproofs. This walk goes over boggy, uneven terrain - sturdy outdoor shoes essential. Not suitable for younger children.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday August 14, 20151.30pm - 3pmRock Pool Rummage at Old Dornie, Achiltibuie

Discover, catch and learn about the fascinating creatures that live in the secret world of this rocky shore. Suitable for all ages. Wear footwear with a good grip.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Friday August 14, 20152pm - 3pmVictorian Games

Can you imagine life without electricity? How did children play in Victorian times? We challenge you to live without your mobile and gadgets for 1 hour and learn new outdoor games and skills - do you accept the challenge?! This activity is free for visitors to Inverewe Garden. Normal garden admission charges apply. Entry is free to members of the National Trust for Scotland/National Trust. Family tickets are available, please call for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 18, 201510am - 4pmThe Mountain Trail, Kinlochewe

Visit the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve to discover a piece of the ancient pine forest that once covered vast areas of the Highlands, before climbing above the trees to fi nd a totally different habitat, resembling the arctic tundra. Learn about the natural history that makes this NNR so special. The trail is steep and rocky. Bring appropriate clothing/boots and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £8.00, conc. £4.00, family £20.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

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Tuesday August 18, 2015 11.15am - 12noon Secret Cameras

Relax over a cuppa at Inverewe Restaurant and watch footage of the birds and mammals on the estate captured on secret cameras. Our footage includes our resident otters and pine martens. Our Ranger will give an informal talk about the Estate and the wildlife on view and can answer any general questions you may have. A special morning coffee deal is available for all attendees whereby you can get a free tea or coffee from 11am.

Meet within Inverewe Restaurant, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 18, 2015 2.15pm - 3pm Wildlife Watch

Loch Ewe provides home to many resident and migratory birds and mammals. Come along to the wildlife hide where our ranger will provide binoculars and a telescope to aid viewing – let’s see how many we can spot. Aside from the many garden birds on our feeders, otters, seals, eagles, oystercatchers, greenshanks, redshanks, cormorants and herons are regularly viewed. What will you see? Will you beat the numbers viewed by last weeks visitors?

Meet at Inverewe Wildlife Hide, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Wednesday August 19, 2015 10.30am - 12.30pm Teddy Bear Picnic

Our popular Teddy Bear Picnic returns in 2015 with new activities for children and bears of all ages to enjoy. Join us for lots of fun and games before enjoying a picnic lunch (provided). There is a prize for the best dressed Teddy. All children must be suitably dressed for outdoors and be accompanied by an adult. All teddy bears must be accompanied by a child! Family tickets are available, please call for information.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Adults £5.00, conc. £5.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Thursday August 20, 2015 3pm - 4.30pm Seashore Safari, Gairloch

Discover, catch and learn about the fascinating creatures that live in the secret world of this rocky shore. Suitable for all ages. Wear footwear with a good grip.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Thursday August 20, 2015 9.30am - 1pm Seal Search

Join the Ranger for a wilderness walk to our captivating seal colony. Common and grey seals are resident on our Estate and this walk takes you to an ideal vantage point where you can see and photograph seals close up. This is a strenuous walk over uneven terrain and boggy ground so sturdy outdoor shoes are essential. Bring water, sunscreen, waterproofs, binoculars and cameras. Not suitable for younger children.

Booking essential. Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Grade C. Adults £5.00, conc. £3.00. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday August 21, 2015 2pm - 3pm Pond Dipping

Grab a net and discover what lurks on and beneath the surface of the ponds at Inverewe. Natty newts, bathing beetles, skaters and boatmen are there to be found......just be careful not to disturb the pond monster! This activity is free for visitors to Inverewe Garden. Normal garden admission charges apply. Entry is free to members of the National Trust for Scotland/National Trust. Family tickets are available, please call for details. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet at Inverewe Visitor Centre, Poolewe. Grid ref: NG 862818. Free event. Contact Visitor Centre on 01445 781229 or [email protected].

Friday August 28, 2015 9am - 5pm Beinn Bhàn Mountain Walk, Applecross

A big walk from sea to summit to explore this majestic Corbett. Walking over the rocky skeleton of this glaciated landscape, we’ll take in giddy views of its corries, explore its impressive geology and look for flora and fauna, while hopefully enjoying views of the surrounding islands and hills. Hillwalking experience required.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

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September An t-Sultain

Tuesday September 08, 2015 9.30am - 4.30pm Sail Mhòr Mountain Walk, Dundonnell

One of the smallest Corbetts (767 m), but with legendary views. On the way up we’ll pass beautiful waterfalls before reaching open hill ground where wild goats and eagles live.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Tuesday September 29, 2015 11am - 2pm Archaeological ‘Buffet’ at Loggie, near Ullapool

Explore the remains of a bronze age fort, an iron age dun, a medieval fort, ruins of houses from the old village of Newton Loggie, a round house and a semi-broch, all in two short walks at Loggie! Plus enjoy fantastic views of Ullapool across Loch Broom. Bring sturdy footwear and lunch.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

October An Dàmhair

Friday October 02, 2015 11am - 1pm Sands of Time, Gairloch

Step into the past and discover how and where our ancestors lived, on a fascinating walk along the Sand Archaeological Trail. As well as revealing thousands of years of human activity, the moorland also harbours some fascinating geological and glacial features - this short walk has a lot to offer. Path can be boggy so wear appropriate footwear.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

Tuesday October 13, 2015 11am - 2pm A Trundle Through Torridon

Join in the Torridon Mountain and Sea Festival with a gentle bike ride along the shores of Loch Torridon. Mainly using vehicle tracks, we’ll explore picturesque bays, look for wildlife, and discover some of the area’s fascinating history. Bring lunch and an off-road bike if you have one. Free bike hire may be available courtesy of the Torridon Inn (please call 01445 791242).

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

November An t-Samhain

Thursday November 05, 2015 11am - 12.30pm Birds for Beginners, Ullapool

Wrap up warm for a walk along Ullapool’s shore and river mouth to look at the winter birdlife. Learn the differences between the gulls, look for waders, and hunt for dippers and wagtails by the river. Bring binoculars if you have them.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Reuben on 01854 613904/07881 502230 or [email protected].

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April An Giblean

Saturday April 11, 2015 10am - 1pm The Dark Mysteries of Blackrock Gorge, Evanton

Stroll through Evanton Wood visiting the haunting chasm of Blackrock Gorge learning the history that goes with it.

Meet at Evanton village car park. Grid ref: NH 607661. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 15, 2015 11am - 2pm Contin Views and Loch Cran

Take in the paths of Contin forest past View Rock up to Loch Cran looking out for Crossbills and other woodland birds.

Meet at FC Contin public car park just past the village on right going north. Grid ref: NH 453568. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday April 22, 2015 10am - 12.30pm Leg Stretchers, Tain Hill and Pulpit Rock

Stretch your legs on this walk up to the Pulpit Rock on Tain Hill listening for the birds and enjoying great views over the Dornoch Firth.

Meet at Tain Hill Forest car park up from Quarry Road, Tain just off the A9. Grid ref: NH 752812. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

May An Cèitean

Saturday May 16, 2015 10am - 1pm Spring Birdsong and Flowers at Teandore Oakwood

Visit the ancient oak wood and open air preaching site listening for summer migrants that breed here and learn about indicator plant species of ancient woods.

Meet beside the Urquhart New Cemetery on the B9163 between Alcaig and Urquhart, North Black Isle. Parking roadside so please park carefully. Grid ref: NH 578578. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Thursday May 21, 2015 10.30am - 1.30pm Loch Kinellan and the Black Loch

Explore the lochs above Strathpeffer for grebes and wildfowl and to see a green hairstreak or two.

Meet at Loch Kinellan car park. Grid ref: NH 473576. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Ross & Cromarty East Ros agus Cromba an Ear

TOP 5 MUST SEESCromarty Firth & the Sutors For wintering birds and summering basking sharks, whales and dolphins.

Strathrory Drove Road For a bit of history in the countryside.

The Pictish Trail Pictish stones with amazing carved art.

Tarbat Ness For coastal walking, gannets, skuas and other sea birds.

Beauly Firth For its coastal archaeology and birdlife.

©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger ©HC Ranger

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Thursday May 28, 2015 11am - 2pm Riverside Walk, River Sgitheach, Evanton

Wander along the river paths to Balconie Point visiting the amazing bluebell woods at this time. Look out for dippers and wagtails as we go.

Meet at Evanton village car park. Grid ref: NH 607661. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

June An t-Ògmhios

Tuesday June 16, 2015 11am - 2pm Who’s Piping on the Averon River? Alness

The riverside of the Averon is alive with bird-song at this time when dippers, sandpipers and other birds feed on invertebrates of the river. Come along and have a look.

Meet at Crawl Park across from the Alness Library. Grid ref: NH 655695. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Saturday June 20, 2015 9.30am - 4pm Glacial Secrets of Ben Wyvis, By Garve

Climb upwards and learn how glaciation has shaped the Ben. Learn to see the signs of glaciation on our high mountains with the Ranger and the Highland Geological Society.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grid ref: NH 410671. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday June 24, 2015 11am - 2pm Leg Stretchers, Struie Hill, by Edderton

Another leg stretcher up a wee hill with great views.

Meet at parking on the B9176 about 1 km south of the Struie Viewpoint. Grid ref: NH 650850. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

July An t-Iuchar

Wednesday July 22, 2015 1pm - 3pm Pond Dipping, Lily Loch, Muir of Ord

Explore the lochan for skaters, whirligigs and dragonflies, along with the weird and wonderful beetles and bugs that can live under or skim along the top of the water. Also explore amongst heather and rocks and have a close look at mosses and lichens.

Meet at the Lily Loch entrance next to the Black Isle Showground. Grid ref: NH 536496. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Thursday July 23, 2015 2pm - 4pm Tobar na Slàinte (Well of Health), Shandwick

Visit the old healing well and look out for the local rare butterflies beside the Seaboard Villages.

Meet at the Balintore Harbour car park. Grid ref: NH 862754. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Tuesday July 28, 2015 2pm - 4pm Rockpool Exploring, Rosemarkie

Ever wondered how crabs grow bigger and starfish feed on mussels? Well, come along and find out with the Ranger.

Meet at Rosemarkie Beach car park. Grid ref: NH 738577. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday July 29, 2015 2pm - 4pm Rockpool Exploring, Portmahomack

Hermit crabs, starfish and other weird creatures are hiding waiting for you to find them in the rockpools. So come along and have a good look!

Meet at Portmahomack Public car parks beside the blue beach flag. Grid ref: NH 914842. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

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August An Lùnastal

Saturday August 01, 2015 10am - 4pm Grab a Corbett - Beinn Liath Mhor a’ Ghiubhais, Loch Glascarnoch

Climb up to the summit and enjoy the grand vista of the surrounding mountains from this Corbett (weather permitting). We’ll look at the landscape and how it was formed and maybe hear and see a golden plover or two.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grid ref: NH 276742. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Monday August 03, 2015 1pm - 3pm Pond Dipping, Alness Point Pond

Enjoy catching and learning about stickleback, dragonflies, water scorpions and other aquatic creatures at the pond.

Meet at the Alness Point Business Park beside the A9. Grid ref: NH 650681. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 04, 2015 10am - 12noon Exploration North Kessock Seashore

Explore amongst the seaweed and rocks for slippery eels, sandhoppers and crabs before taking a trip up to the Dolphin Centre to learn more about whales and dolphins.

Meet at North Kessock village car park. Grid ref: NH 653479. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday August 05, 2015 10am - 12noon Exploration Cromarty Foreshore

When the tide is out there is a whole world uncovered so come along and look for King Rags, Luggies, Brittlestars and other sea creatures.

Meet at the Cromarty Links. Grid ref: NH 788675. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Thursday August 06, 2015 10am - 1pm Fossils and Fings, Eathie Coast, Black Isle

Walk down to the fishing bothies on the coast at Eathie and learn about fossils and the geology of this part of the coast. You might even find your own ammonite!

Meet at public car park on Eathie Road past the Rosemarkie transmitter just before Eathie Mains. Grid ref: NH 769635. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Tuesday August 11, 2015 2pm - 4pm Rockpool Exploring, Rosemarkie

Search for spiny urchins, nippy crabs and slippery blennies in the rockpools with the local Ranger and learn about the wildlife that lives there.

Meet at Rosemarkie Beach car park. Grid ref: NH 738577. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday August 12, 2015 2pm - 4pm Rockpool Exploring, Portmahomack

Even if you have been before there are still plenty of new things to find in the rockpools. So come along and look for sticklebacks, blennies and other creatures.

Meet at Portmahomack Public car parks beside the blue beach flag. Grid ref: NH 914842. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Thursday August 20, 2015 11am - 2pm Macfarquhar’s Bed and South Sutor from Cromarty

Sea cliffs, caves and arches lurk hidden away along this part of the coast. Visit it with the Ranger and and seek out the flowers and animals that inhabit the area. Exposed path down to the shore.

Meet at South Sutor Viewpoint car park. Grid ref: NH 807671. Grade C. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

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rSaturday August 22, 2015 10am - 5pm Unfrequented Summits of Ben Wyvis, Glas Leathad Beag

Ever wondered about the hills to the east of Ben Wyvis? Well why not come along and explore them and get grand views into the eastern corries of the Ben. Look out for the mountain inhabitants including hare, dotterel and golden plover and learn some geology on the way.

Booking essential. Meeting place given out on booking. Grid ref: NH 545689. Grade D. Adults £15.00, conc. £7.50. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Tuesday September 22, 2015 7.30pm - 10pm Out and about with the Bats, Dingwall

Have you seen bats flying around your house or when out walking the dogs at night? Do you want to learn more about them? Come along for a talk and walk in Dingwall.

Meet at Dingwall Community Centre, Tulloch Street, Dingwall. Grid ref: NH 550589. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Saturday October 03, 2015 10am - 1pm Knockfarral Iron Age Hill Forts, Strathpeffer

Come along and walk up to the largest hillfort in Ross-shire and learn about the Iron Age, other hill forts and duns in the area as well as the process of vitrification. Was it used on purpose as a technique to strengthen the fort walls or did it happen by chance? Excellent views as well.

Meet at the Old Victorian Railway Station in Strathpeffer. Grid ref: NH 485583. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Saturday October 10, 2015 10am - 2pm Mica Mines of Scatwell, by Contin

Look at the geology of the quarries and learn how mica was important during WWII with Highland Geological Society and the Ranger.

Meet at the Luichart Power Station, Lower Scatwell past Loch Achilty. Grid ref: NH 393571. Grade B. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

November An t-Samhain

Saturday November 07, 2015 10am - 12noon Salmon of the Blackwater, by Garve

Explore the Blackwater on this short walk with a chance to see salmon leap the falls and learn how hydro-electric schemes have affected them.

Meet at the Silverbridge car park on the Ullapool Road. Grid ref: NH 402638. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Wednesday November 18, 2015 1pm - 4pm Winter Birds of the Cromarty Firth, Dingwall

See the many birds that have migrated from the arctic lands of Iceland, Scandinavia, the Russian tundra and Greenland. Why do they come here? Come along and find out.

Meet at Ferry Point car park, Dingwall. Grid ref: NH 561583. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

Thursday November 26, 2015 10am - 1pm Winter Birds of the Cromarty Firth, Nigg

Pop into the RSPB bird hide for a look at the winter visitors before heading along to Nigg Ferry to search for long-tail, eider, divers and other ducks.

Meet at the RSPB Nigg Bay Bird Hide car park. Grid ref: NH 807730. Grade A. Adults £4.00, conc. £3.00, family £11.00. Contact Martin on 01349 868563 or [email protected].

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Leave No TraceNa Fàg FianaisTo leave no trace means exactly that. Here are a few top tips for you to help keep our beautiful Scottish countryside exactly the way it is when you are at an event.

LitterCarry out what you carry in. Litter in the countryside is unpleasant for both visitors and local people. It also poses a risk to wildlife. Bring a plastic bag to keep your litter in until you fi nd a bin and can dispose of it responsibly.

Toilet kitIf in a remote location, make sure to pack your toilet kit. This should include a trowel, re-sealable bags, antibacterial hand gel and biodegradable toilet paper.

Needing to “go”Make sure you are at least 30m away from running water and well away from the edge of any nearby paths. Dig a 30cm deep pit using your trowel and use biodegradable toilet paper. When you are fi nished, fi ll in the pit and cover it with leaf mould and soil. Carry away your paper in a re-sealable bag and dispose of it responsibly.

DogsParasites and disease can be transmitted to people and livestock through dog waste left on grazing land. Please always remove and dispose of dog waste responsibly.

Please keep your dog under control at all times and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code when out walking with your dog.

Scotland’s Great Trails in Highland

Great Glen Way 79 mi www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk/greatglenway

Great Glen Canoe Trail 60 mi www.greatglencanoetrail.info

West Highland Way 96 mi www.westhighlandway.com

Dava Way (Moray Way) 24 mi www.davaway.org.uk

Speyside Way 65 mi www.speysideway.org

…discover something different…

www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk www.scotlandsgreattrails.org.uk

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Seasonal Notes for the Scottish Countryside Notaichean Ràitheil airson Dùthaich na h-AlbaMidgesBetween May and October midges can be an unwelcome guest on outdoor events. Check out www.midgeforecast.co.uk for details and always be prepared with repellents and adequate clothing.

TicksThese small spider-like creatures live in long grass, the undergrowth and heather. They feed on mammals and have a painless bite, dropping off after a few days. It is important to recognise and remove ticks because some carry bacteria in their gut which cause infections like Lyme Disease.

Hunting, lambing and nesting seasonsThe north of Scotland has rich and diverse wildlife, and an associated program to manage and protect it. Please follow any diversions or instructions you see when outdoors during one of these periods and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Nesting season February to AugustLambing season March to MayGrouse shooting August to DecemberDeer stalking July - FebruaryPheasant shooting October to FebruaryFishing Contact permit issuer for informationWildfowl Shooting 1st September – 31 January Tidal areas 1 September – 20 February

Hire a Ranger for a private walk, event or activity Enjoy a seasonal walk with a theme e.g. wildflowers, fungi Take the family for an educational treat A special birthday present for those who have everything Say thank you to someone or a small group An interactive adventure for the kids Head off the beaten track and discover something different

We cover most areas in the Scottish Highlands. Book early to avoid disappointment!

For quotes and booking call 01463 255289 (office hours only)

Check out www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk for ideas on what you can do [email protected] Highland Council, Development and Infrastructure

RANGERS FOR HIRE

Page 84: 2015 · our beautiful wildlife, landscapes, and heritage. This programme in 2015 gives you details of hundreds of events such as guided walks, archaeology trails, story-telling, wildlife

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BEAUTIFUL GARDENS - STUNNING VIEWS OF LOCH EIL & BEN NEVIS - PET FRIENDLYOPTION - 5 MILES FROM FORT WILLIAM - FREE FISHING - WELL PLACED FOR DAY

TRIPS - BROCHURE SENT WITH PLEASURE - OPEN 15TH DECEMBER TO 31ST OCTOBER

Luxury CaravansDouble glazed option.Book stunning views.

Sleeps up to 6 peopleFull week or short

breaks.

Luxury ChaletsFull week or short

breaks.All heating, linen and

towels included.Sleeps 4,5 or 6 people.

Park FacilitiesLicensed shop, bakery,

and playroom,laundry, drying room,2 play parks, Private

beach & slipway.

Touring & CampingTerraced touring area.

Heated facilities.Full size bath.

RV service point.Friendly Atmosphere.

Linnhe Lochside HolidaysCorpach, Fort William, PH33 7NL

Tel: 01397 772376www.linnhe-lochside-holidays.co.uk

a warm welcome awaits...

BEAUTIFUL GARDENS - STUNNING VIEWS OF LOCH EIL & BEN NEVIS - PET FRIENDLY OPTION5 MILES FROM FORT WILLIAM - FREE FISHING - WELL PLACED FOR DAY TRIPS - WI-FI AVAILABLE

BROCHURE SENT WITH PLEASURE - OPEN 15TH DECEMBER TO 31ST OCTOBER


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