Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
EAST COAST
In both landscape and character, the east coast of the old counties of Ross and Sutherland is
where the real wilderness of the Highlands begins to unfold. While the interior is domin-
ated by the mournful moor-and-mountain landscapes of Sutherland, along the coast great
heather-covered hills heave themselves out of the wild North Sea. Rolling farmland drops
suddenly into the icy waters, and small, historic towns are moored precariously on the
coast's edge.
Strathpeffer
POP 900
Strathpeffer is a charming old Highland spa town, its creaking pavilions and grandiose ho-
tels dripping with faded grandeur. The spa rose to prominence during Victorian times,
when fashion-conscious gentlemen and ladies flocked here in huge numbers to bathe in,
wash with and drink the sulphurous waters from the Morrison Well. The influx of tourists
led to the construction of grand Victorian buildings and architectural follies.
Sights & Activities
Locals have put together some excellent interactive
tours
of the village that you can down-
load to a smartphone or tablet via the website
www.strathpeffervillage.org.uk
,
or use by
hiring an iPad (£2) from one of several participating places around the centre.
The
Eagle Stone
(follow the signs from the main drag) is well worth a look. It's a
pre-7th-century Pictish stone connected to a figure from local history - the Brahan Seer,
who predicted many future events.
There are many good signposted walking trails around Strathpeffer.
The Strathpeffer & District Pipe Band plays in the town square every Saturday from
8.30pm, mid-May to mid-September. There's Highland dancing and a festive air.
Highland Museum of Childhood
(
01997-421031;
www.highlandmuseumofchildhood.org.uk
; Old Train Station; adult/
child £2.50/1.50; 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 2-5pm Sun Apr-Oct)
Strathpeffer's former
Victorian train station houses a wide range of social-history displays about childhood in the
MUSEUM
