Black Isle Brewery, Fairy Glen Falls & the Dolphin Coast

Discover the beauty, culture and wildlife of the Black Isle on this brilliant one day tour from Inverness. From storybook villages and ancient legends to craft beer and coastal viewpoints, it’s the perfect day trip, with great chances to spot dolphins along the Moray and Beauly Firths.

Explore Beauly and its Highland charm

Your Black Isle tour departs Inverness in the morning and heads east to the picturesque village of Beauly, a name that comes from the French for “beautiful place”. Stroll the streets, soak up the scenery, and if you fancy, visit the historic Beauly Priory.

Visit the legendary Clootie Well

Next, we stop at one of the most fascinating sites on the Black Isle, the Clootie Well at Munlochy. Steeped in myth and tradition, visitors have long tied a “cloot” (a small piece of cloth) to the trees after dipping it in the well’s waters, said to bring healing or good luck. You’re welcome to join in, just make sure anything you leave behind is biodegradable.

Tour and tasting at the Black Isle Brewery

We then continue to the Black Isle Brewery, home to award winning organic beers. Enjoy time for a tour and tasting, and browse local produce in the shop, ideal if you’re looking for a unique souvenir from the Highlands.

Wander the Georgian streets of Cromarty

After sampling the local brews, we make our way to Cromarty. This beautiful Georgian town is a highlight of the day, with time to explore, grab some lunch, and take in views over the harbour. Keep your eyes on the water too, dolphins are sometimes spotted here.

Walk to the Fairy Glen waterfalls

From Cromarty, our journey continues to Rosemarkie and the Fairy Glen. Enjoy a peaceful woodland walk through the gorge, ending with a stunning viewpoint over the twin waterfalls, a hidden gem on the Black Isle.

Step back in time at Fortrose Cathedral

We then head to Fortrose, where you can visit the atmospheric ruins of Fortrose Cathedral. It’s a quiet, historic stop with plenty of character, and another lovely place to stretch your legs.

Dolphin spotting at North Kessock

As we travel back towards Inverness, we finish the day at North Kessock on the Beauly Firth. With views across towards Chanonry Point, it’s a superb final stop for a last look out for dolphins, and a chance to reflect on a memorable day exploring the Black Isle.