Things to do in Dornoch

Travel from Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, across the Black Isle to Dunrobin Castle on this guided day trip. First, stop at Dunrobin Castle, a stately home in Sutherland, one of Britain's oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s. Explore the French château with its fantastic gardens, 189 rooms, museums, ancient wardrobes, and clan artifacts, admiring the architecture from various angles. Get plenty of time to roam the grounds and soak up the history of this historic site. Then, stop for lunch in Dornoch, a Highland town popular with golfers and is home to an impressive cathedral. With a full belly, it's time to journey along the coast, where you'll take a jaunt out to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse. At the tip of the peninsula, be treated to an incredible view. Continuing your coastal adventure, you may just spot a bronze mermaid and a Pictish stone, so keep your eyes peeled and your driver will stop when they can for further exploration. With a small group, get more time off the bus and on the back roads. Arrive back in Inverness in the early evening.

Step into Scotland’s wild and ancient past on this three-day Orkney adventure from Inverness. Follow the rugged coastline north, taking in the grandeur of Dunrobin Castle and the fresh sea air at John O’Groats before crossing the Pentland Firth. On Orkney, uncover Kirkwall’s Viking heritage, marvel at the Neolithic wonders of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, and soak up the untamed beauty of this legendary archipelago. Day 1: Begin your journey in Inverness and travel north, following the scenic coastline to the fairytale-like Dunrobin Castle. Admire its grand architecture and stunning views over the Moray Firth before continuing along the famous North Coast 500. At John O’Groats, the UK mainland’s most northerly point, breathe in the crisp sea air and take a moment to capture this iconic landmark. Then it’s time to cross the wild Pentland Firth to Orkney. Keep your eyes peeled for grey seals, porpoises, and even orcas. Once on the islands, enjoy free time in Kirkwall, where you can explore its charming streets, visit St Magnus Cathedral, or simply soak up the town’s Norse heritage. Arrive at your accommodation by late afternoon, giving you time to relax before tomorrow’s adventures. Day 2: Step back in time to discover Orkney’s remarkable prehistoric sites. Your first stop is the Standing Stones of Stenness, one of Britain’s oldest stone circles, before visiting the awe-inspiring Ring of Brodgar, an ancient ceremonial site shrouded in mystery. Next, explore Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village hidden beneath sand dunes until its discovery in 1850. As you journey along Orkney’s rugged coastline, pause at the striking Yesnaby Cliffs, where towering sea stacks and Atlantic waves create a dramatic backdrop. If the tide allows, visit the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island rich in Viking and Pictish history. Day 3: Before saying goodbye to Orkney, visit a local farm to meet its most unusual residents: Mangalitsa pigs, known for their woolly coats and friendly nature. Then, it’s on to the Italian Chapel, a beautifully preserved symbol of hope and resilience built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII. After a morning of discovery, sail back to the mainland, where more wonders await. At Duncansby Head, take in sweeping views over the North Sea and marvel at its striking sea stacks. The journey continues to the charming fishing village of Lybster before reaching the final stop, the historic town of Dornoch, home to a stunning cathedral and inviting streets steeped in history. By early evening, return to Inverness, bringing the adventure to a close and leaving you with memories of Orkney’s untamed beauty and ancient past.

Discover some of the most amazing sights, sounds and tastes the highlands has to offer with tours from invergordon cruise port. our local guide will meet you as you disembark from your cruise ship and take you on a scottish highland shore excursion like no other. Go on your own personal highland adventure, taking in the natural beauty of Dornoch and Millionaire’s View points and then Delve into the history of Dunrobin Castle, gardens and grounds, on to loch fleet a sea loch were can see seals if were are lucky and take time for culture and shopping at the famous town of Dornoch. Finally sample one of our well-known exports, the ‘water of life,’ at clynelish distillery, before heading back in good time to re-join your ship.

Discover the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a guided tour from Inverness. Explore the Isle of Skye, see the rolling hills, majestic mountains, and shimmering lochs, and visit the famous Loch Ness. Sample some of the finest whiskey at a local distillery. Meet your guide, a local of Inverness, and set off on your adventure. As you travel, hear stories and anecdotes about the history and heritage of the Highlands. Make stops at some of the finest whiskey distilleries in the area. Scotland is renowned for its whiskey, and what better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than by sampling a few drams. Providing Tours all over Scotland Explore the Isle of Skye, and see the rolling hills, majestic mountains, and shimmering lochs that make this region so enchanting. And of course, don't forget about the famous Loch Ness and its elusive resident, Nessie. While you can't guarantee a glimpse of the monster, you can assure yourself that the experience of being in the presence of such natural beauty will leave a lasting impression.

Discover the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a full-day tour from the Port of Invergordon. Travel in comfort in private air conditioned vehicle with a local Highlander as your driver guide. Travel north from Invergordon through the hills and glens where we take in the views from Struie Hill which across the hills and glens of the Kyle of Sutherland. Taking in the wonderful Falls of Shin where depending on the time of year the leaping Salmon may make an appearance as they attempt to return to the spawning grounds. Thereafter travel through the townships of Lairg and Rogart as we head to Dunrobin Castle. Time here to absorb the castle and the impressive castle gardens and witness the Falconry display on the shores of the North sea. Thereafter a visit to the Nature reserve at Loch Fleet where the basking seals can be seen taking in the sun when the tide is out. (Seals are not always visible very much dependant on the tide). A trip into the picturesque town of Dornoch with its quaint shopping boutiques and welcoming cafes. Finishing the day of with a wee dram at the choice of Glenmorangie or Balblair Distillery before returning to Invergordon and the ship. I remain 100% flexible throughout the day to ensure that the tour works for you, please do not hesitate to contact me should you wish to amend itinerary by removing or adding locations. This is a private tour with only your group being present within the vehicle. The vehicle will be an 8 seater minivan, airconditioned and although 8 seats, I limit the party size to predominately 5 persons. Additional persons can be included up to a total of 7 passengers but this will incur additional costs and also reduce overall comfort within the vehicle.

Take in the natural beauty of the land at Millionaire’s View, Black Rock Gorge, and Falls of Shin. Delve into the history of Dunrobin Castle, its gardens, and enjoy a live falconry show. Take time for culture and shopping at the famous town of Dornoch with its enriched central medieval Cathedral. Finally, to top off your day, sample one of the well-known exports, the ‘water of life,’ at the famous Glenmorangie Distillery. Start your day with a pick-up from your hotel in Inverness or Invergordon Cruise Ship Port. Travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to the Millionaire’s View, Black Rock Gorge, and Falls of Shin. Delve into the history of Dunrobin Castle, its gardens, and enjoy a live falconry show. Take time for culture and shopping at the famous town of Dornoch with its enriched central medieval Cathedral. Finally, to top off your day, sample one of the well-known exports, the ‘water of life,’ at the famous Glenmorangie Distillery.

Discover the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a guided tour from Inverness. Visit the historic Dunrobin Castle, see the ancient Pictish Standing Stone, and explore the town of Tain. Start your day with a pick-up from Inverness and head to Struie Hill for a scenic viewpoint. Continue to the Edderton Pictish Standing Stone and learn about its history. Next, visit the historic Dunrobin Castle and take a walk around the grounds. If you are lucky, you may be able to see a falconry show. Continue to the ancient defensive castle of Carn Liath and then to Dornoch Cathedral. See the old method of measuring plaid on the Els stone and visit Dornoch Jail for some shopping. Next, visit the Glenmorangie, Balblair, Dalmore, or Ord Distillery. Depending on the day, you may be able to visit one of them. Finally, head back to Inverness and stop in the town of Tain.

From Invergordon we will head north over Struie Hill which will afford magnificent views of the hills and glens of the Kyle of Sutherland. Taking in the wonderful Falls of Shin where depending on the time of year the leaping Salmon may make an appearance as they attempt to return to the spawning grounds. Thereafter travel through the townships of Lairg and Rogart as we head to Dunrobin Castle. Time here to absorb the castle and the impressive castle gardens and witness the Falconry display on the shores of the North sea. Thereafter a visit to the Nature reserve at Loch Fleet where the basking seals can be seen taking in the sun when the tide is out. (Seals are not always visible very much dependant on the tide). A trip into the picturesque town of Dornoch with its quaint shopping boutiques and welcoming cafes. Finishing the day of with a wee dram at the choice of Glenmorangie or Balblair Distillery before returning to Invergordon and the ship.

Discover the best of the Scottish Highlands on this private guided tour from Inverness. Visit a distillery to see the tallest stills in Scotland, be tutored in all things whisky, and sample some of the best, smaller, and lesser-known whiskies. Travel through some fantastic Highland scenery, villages, and towns. To ensure you get the most out of the day, enjoy a production tour and 2 tastings. Instead of joining the hundreds of visitors to Speyside distilleries, visit the Highland region of Single Malt Whisky for a more intimate and less rushed experience. Choose from distilleries such as Glenmorangie, Balblair, Clynelish, The Singleton, and Tomatin. For Portree departures, the distilleries are Torabhaig and Talisker. Although this is scheduled to start from Inverness, we can pick up with in a 30 mile radius including Invergordon, Ullapool and Portree ports.

Embark on a private shore excursion in modern luxury vehicle to the Northern Scottish Highlands departing from the port in Invergordon. Visit historic and scenic landmarks such as Struie Viewpoint, Dunrobin Castle (option)and the Loch Fleet Nature Reserve with a flexible itinerary to suit your interests. Start with pickup from the Port of Invergordon. Hop into the vehicle and travel north to Struie Viewpoint where a brief photo stop is made. Spot a number of natural landmarks including the Kyle of Sutherland along Dornoch Firth. Travel further and pass through the villages of Ardgay and Bonar Bridge to the next stop at Achany and Falls of Shin Waterfall where migrating salmon can often be seen jumping the falls as they migrate further upstream. Pass through the village of Lairg and onwards to Dunrobin Castle. Upon (optional) entry to the Castle explore the beautiful gardens, the fascinating museum, and the magnificent falconry display. Next, you may take an optional visit to Clynelish Distillery and, if desired, taste some whisky samples and browse in the shop on site. Set off southward with a drive along the shores of Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve with a photo stop. Stop in the medieval town of Dornoch where you can browse the shops for bespoke, locally-crafted items. Golfing enthusiasts can also visit the pro shop at the world-famous Royal Dornoch Golf Course. After some time in Dornoch, travel back towards the port in Invergordon to your cruise ship.