The best walks and hikes around Kirkhill And Bunchrew

Yes, the area is very family-friendly. A great option is the Grotto Archway, Reelig Glen loop from Inchmore. It's an easy walk through a magical woodland famous for its towering trees, which is sure to capture the imagination of younger walkers. The paths are well-maintained, making it accessible for most.

Most trails in the woodlands and open country around Kirkhill and Bunchrew are suitable for dogs. However, you should always keep them under control, especially near farmland or during bird nesting season. The expansive trails in Kirkhill Forest offer plenty of space for a good run.

Yes, many of the best walks in the area are loops, so you can end your hike where you started. For a moderate challenge with rewarding scenery, consider the Great Glen Way – Bench With a View of Inverness loop from Inchmore, which combines a section of the famous long-distance path with other local trails.

For panoramic views, the climb up Craig Phadrig is highly recommended. From its summit, you can see across the Beauly Firth and towards Inverness. Another excellent viewpoint is Phoineas Hill, the site of an ancient fort, which offers fantastic vistas over the village of Beauly and the surrounding landscape.

You'll find a real mix of surfaces. Many paths, especially in Reelig Glen, are well-maintained gravel or earth tracks. As you venture onto higher ground or more remote trails, expect more rugged conditions with uneven, rocky steps and potentially muddy sections, particularly after rain. Waterproof footwear is always a good idea.

Yes, you can find some lovely water features on the local trails. The Forest Stream Waterfall loop from Inchmore is a beautiful moderate hike that takes you past a charming waterfall within the woodland. For a more dramatic cascade, the famous Falls of Foyers are a short drive away and offer a spectacular sight.

Absolutely. The Great Glen Way passes through the area, and several local routes incorporate sections of it. This allows you to experience a part of this iconic Scottish trail without committing to the full multi-day journey. The Stone Ruins – Great Glen Way loop from Inchmore is a short, easy walk that gives you a great taste of the path.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the majestic tall trees in Reelig Glen, which many describe as a 'magical' experience. The variety of walks, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging hill climbs with rewarding views, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

For a beautiful walk with sea views, head to the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve. This popular spot on the edge of the Beauly Firth has paths that offer fantastic views of bird life and marine mammals against the backdrop of the Black Isle. Alternatively, the trails around Loch nam Bonnach provide a more tranquil, inland lochside experience.

There's a good balance of difficulties. You'll find plenty of easy, relatively flat trails suitable for all fitness levels, particularly in the lower sections of Reelig Glen. There are also several moderate routes that involve more significant climbs and rougher terrain, offering a good workout for more experienced walkers. There are currently no designated 'difficult' or expert-level mountain routes starting directly from the area.

The main car park for accessing the popular trails in Reelig Glen is located just off the B9164. For other routes, you may find smaller lay-bys or designated parking areas near trailheads, such as those for Kirkhill Forest. It's always best to check the starting point of your chosen komoot Tour for specific parking information.

Yes, there are several options for a shorter walk. The Hiking loop from Inchmore is a pleasant 5 km circuit that can be completed in just over an hour and explores the local woodland without too much strenuous climbing.