Inverness: Black Isle Brewery, Fairy Glen and Dolphin Coast

Experience the best of the Black Isle on this unique day tour from Inverness, combining culture, nature, and wildlife. Visit the historic village of Beauly and the mystical Clootie Well, then enjoy a craft beer tasting at Black Isle Brewery. Explore the charming town of Cromarty, walk to the hidden Fairy Glen waterfalls, and discover Fortrose Cathedral. With stunning coastal views and excellent chances to spot dolphins along the Moray and Beauly Firths, this tour offers a perfectly balanced Highland experience in one unforgettable day. Please Note: Dolphins are wild animals, so sightings can never be guaranteed - however, the Inner Moray Firth / Black Isle is one of the best areas in Scotland for shore-based dolphin spotting, with a well-studied local population of bottlenose dolphins protected within the Moray Firth Special Area of Conservation.

1. 1

   Beauly

   40 min

   Your Black Isle tour departs Inverness in the morning and heads west 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.

2. 2

   Clootie Well

   30 min

   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.

3. 3

   Black Isle Brewery

   1 hour

   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.

4. 4

   Cromarty

   1.2 hours

   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.

5. 5

   Fairy Glen Falls

   45 min

   Enjoy a peaceful woodland walk through the gorge, ending with a stunning viewpoint over the twin waterfalls, a hidden gem on the Black Isle.

6. 6

   Fortrose

   30 min

   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.

7. 7

   North Kessock

   30 min

   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 seals, and a chance to reflect on a memorable day exploring the Black Isle.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Minimum age is 4 years old
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark the bus

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.