When I knew we would be heading to the Scottish Highlands on a press trip I couldn’t wait to see what the area had to offer for us to visit.
We were staying at Eagle Brae and what a treat this was. It was incredible peaceful and stunning. But whilst I love the peace I also love to explore areas that I’m staying at and see what they have to offer. My sister in law is from Scotland and always talks about how stunning Loch Ness is and this was top of my list to visit.
On our second day we had a full day planned to see what Inverness had to offer.
Loch Ness Cruise
Jacobite offered us a cruise across Loch Ness and this is the perfect way to see the Loch Ness. We were booked onto the Freedom Tour where you have a 30 minute cruise across the Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle, where you get an hour to explore. Before a 30 minute cruise back again.
I suffer with travel sickness and I had forgotten by travel bands to wear. But I didn’t have to worry because the Loch Ness was so calm, there was not a bump in our journey and I didn’t feel sick at all.
We were totally spoilt with the weather, considering it was the beginning of January and we were expecting it to be freezing and even snow. We were treated to glorious sunshine! I was able to sit back and take in the sights. And what spectacular sights they were, it was truly stunning and I would recommend anyone taking a trip if you get the chance.
It wasn’t long until Urquhart Castle came into view, with it right on the waters edge. It is one of Scotlands most popular destinations to visit and I can see why.
Once we got onto dry land we had an hour to explore the castle before the boat would return to take us back.
Urquhart Castle
There is the option to have a guided tour, or you can explore the castle at your leisure. We decide to do this, as there was just too many photo opportunities not to be missed.
I love visiting castles, there is something about the history they hold and Urquhart Castle has jumped to the top of the list of my favourite castles. With these stunning views I’m sure you can see why.
There was plenty to see and in one part of the castle, which is a ruin. There are stairs that take you right down to the bottom and also right up to the top. There is plenty of information plaques around for you find out more about different parts of the castle if you haven’t taken the guided tour.
As our hour came to an end it was time to head back to pick up our boat for the return journey back. It was a wonderful trip and one I would love to do again with my family.
Kingsmill Hotel
After our wonderful day at Loch Ness we headed back to Eagle Brae for a little rest, freshen up before we headed into the centre of Inverness for dinner.
We’d been invited by The Kingsmill Hotel, a four star luxury hotel to come and have dinner with them. We were welcomed by Tracey and she gave us a tour around.
The Kingsmill Hotel offer a variety of luxurious rooms and the rooms were some of the biggest rooms I’ve seen in a hotel. They had thought of their guests and especially families. There were rooms that had a separate children’s room with bunk beds in them.
They also offer their guest the use of a spa, swimming pool and gym. If it’s a hotel you are looking for then they offer lovely accommodation.
Whilst sipping on a glass of Prosecco, we were introduced to Bill, the resident bag piper and he was just wonderful and gave us a personal performance. It was the first time I had heard bag pipes live like that and it was wonderful.
He then led us into our own private dining room and it was a real honour to follow him in. He went on to tell us all about how Robert Burns had dined in this very room.
We were then treated to some of the most gorgeous food I’ve ever eaten and I don’t think I’ve ever been as full as I was that night.
We started off with Cullen Skink, a smoked haddock, potato and leek soup. Followed by a Haggis Tower with whiskey cream sauce.
We were then served Feather Blade of Scottish Beef, with spinach potatoes, caramelised shallots, chantenay carrots, braising jus. The quality of this beef is some of the best I’ve ever had. I was really full at this point, but I couldn’t stop eating it.
It was followed by spiced apple and raisin crumble and cinnamon ice cream.
It was a lovely evening, with gorgeous food and equally gorgeous company.
We had a lovely few days in the Scottish Highlands and there was lots of do. I would love to go back and explore more of Inverness.
Disclosure: We were kindly invited by Jacobite and The Kingsmill Hotel in return for an honest review. All views, opinions and photos are my own.
