The best walks and hikes around Beauly

Yes, the area around Beauly is very welcoming for dogs. Most trails in the Highlands are suitable for walking with your dog, but it's essential to keep them on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock or during bird nesting season (typically April-July). The woodland and riverside paths offer plenty of exciting smells and space for them to explore safely.

For a gentle family outing, the trails in Reelig Glen are a fantastic choice. It's known for its 'Tall Trees Trail' which feels magical for all ages, winding through a mossy glen beside a stream. Another great option is the Lovat Bridge loop from Kilmorack, a mostly flat walk that offers a peaceful experience along the river without being too strenuous for little legs.

The region is home to some spectacular waterfalls. Plodda Falls in Glen Affric is a must-see; it's one of the most impressive in the area, cascading over 46 meters. There are well-maintained paths and a viewing platform that juts out over the top of the falls. For a different experience, Dog Falls, also in Glen Affric, offers a series of beautiful cascades through ancient pinewoods and is another popular spot for a scenic walk.

Many of the most popular hikes around Beauly are circular, allowing you to enjoy a variety of scenery without retracing your steps. You'll find numerous loops that take you along the river, through forests, and up to viewpoints before bringing you back to your starting point. For example, the Loch nam Bonnach loop from Kilmorack is a wonderful circular walk through woodland.

Parking is available at popular trailheads, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. At Plodda Falls, there is a dedicated car park which makes access to the viewing platforms straightforward. For less-known spots like the Falls of Orrin, parking is more informal with only a small layby available. It's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.

Absolutely. Many trails start or finish in or near Beauly village itself. After a refreshing walk along the river or in the nearby hills, you can easily head into the village to find a welcoming pub or café for a well-deserved meal and drink. This is a great way to experience both the local hospitality and the beautiful landscape.

Reelig Glen is a truly enchanting place, famous for housing some of Britain's tallest trees. The 'Tall Trees Trail' takes you on a journey through a narrow, steep-sided gorge alongside the Moniack Burn. You'll be walking amongst giant Douglas firs that tower over 65 meters high, creating a serene, cathedral-like atmosphere. The ground is covered in lush moss and ferns, making it feel like a fairytale forest.

The trails offer a great deal of variety. You'll find plenty of easy, relatively flat walks, particularly along the River Beauly, which are perfect for a relaxed afternoon. There are also moderate routes, such as the 9-mile Beauly Priory – Loch nam Bonnach loop from Beauly, that involve more climbing and reward you with expansive views. While there is one difficult-rated trail, the majority of hikes are accessible to people with a reasonable level of fitness.

The hiking routes around Beauly are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery of the ancient Caledonian pine forests, the tranquility of the riverside paths, and the excellent views from the hilltops overlooking the Beauly Firth.

Yes, the area is also great for two wheels. The community-managed Abriachan Forest, a short drive from Beauly, has a superb network of trails specifically designed for mountain biking, catering to various skill levels. These routes offer a fun alternative for exploring the local woodlands and moors.

There's a wide selection to choose from, with over 40 curated hiking routes in the immediate vicinity of Beauly. This collection includes everything from short, easy strolls to more demanding all-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every type of walker.

Ascending the hills around Beauly is well worth the effort. From summits like Cnoc Croit na Maoile (Ord Hill), you can get spectacular panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see across the Beauly and Cromarty Firths, with the mighty Cairngorms visible in the distance and the rugged hills of the west completing the stunning vista.