Stop in 24
PLACES STOP IN 24
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KIRKTON FARM Nr THURSO
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This is one magical place for all the Family.
Stop by and get up close and personal with animals that live on a Highland Farm.
With reviews like:
"What a fantastic tour of your beautiful farm!
It was a dream to meet and be close to my favourite highland cows.
They were magnificent!
Thank you for such an informative and fun visit.
Really enjoyed learning about farming in the highlands.
Such a beautiful area, and the buggy ride was brilliant!
One of the highlights of our Scottish adventure! "
Farm Buggy Tours is a definite stop for all Families of all ages.
Travelling with kids, then give them a trip with fun adventures and memories that will last.
Too Easy to Highly Recommend this Place; it's brilliant.
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Go on make a memory in 24
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CHECK THEM Out
http://www.kirktonfarmholidays.co.uk/
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GREAT PLACES TO VISIT
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ALLT CHRANAIDH WATERFALL
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If you are looking for a hidden gem on Scotland's Route 66, visit Allt Chranaidh Waterfall.
This stunning waterfall, also known as the Wailing Widow, is located near Lochinver on the west coast of Scotland.
Here are some reasons why you should visit Allt Chranaidh Waterfall:
It is easy to access. You can park near the A894 road and follow a short path to the waterfall. The walk is about 15 minutes and is suitable for most abilities.
You will cross a small bridge over the Allt Chranaidh stream and then follow it upstream until you reach the waterfall.
It is spectacular. The waterfall plunges about 50 meters from a rocky cliff into a deep pool below. The water is crystal clear and reflects the greenery of the surrounding hills. The sound of the falling water is soothing and relaxing. You can admire the waterfall from different angles and take some fantastic photos.
It is secluded. Different from other waterfalls in Scotland, Allt Chranaidh Waterfall is not very crowded or touristy. You might have the place or share it with a few other visitors. You can enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of nature without any distractions.
It is close to other attractions. If you visit Allt Chranaidh Waterfall, you can also explore other highlights of Scotland's Route 66, such as Lochinver, Suilven mountain, Eas a Chual Aluinn waterfall (the highest in Britain), and the Thrust Trail (a geological wonder). You can also sample some delicious seafood and local delicacies in Lochinver.
Allt Chranaidh Waterfall is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. It is a perfect place to visit if you love nature, waterfalls, and scenic views.
If you plan a trip to Scotland's Route 66, take advantage of this fantastic spot!
Here is a Great Wee Video by Rob Pullen, and we thank him for allowing us to share it.
THINGS TO DO ON THE ROUTE
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FLY LIKE A GOLDEN EAGLE
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If you are looking for an exhilarating adventure in a stunning location, you should visit the Golden Eagle Zip Line near Durness.
This is the most northerly zip line in the UK, and it offers thrilling flights next to the Atlantic Ocean, up to 100 feet above one of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland.
The Golden Eagle Zip Line is located at Ceannabeinne Beach, near Durness.
It is open from April to October, weather permitting, and no booking is required. You can turn up, approach the launch at the top of the cliff, and have a go whenever they are open.
The zip line is 37 meters high and 227 meters long, and you can reach up to 45 mph speeds.
You will feel the adrenaline rush as you soar over the pristine white sand and turquoise water of Ceannabeinne Beach, with amazing views of the rugged coastline and the mountains beyond.
The zip line is suitable for anyone over 8 years old and under 120 kg. You will be provided with a safety helmet and harness and instructed by a friendly and professional staff member.
The zip line has a braking system that slows you down at the end of the flight, so you don't have to worry about anything except enjoying the ride.
If you are feeling extra adventurous, you can also try the cliff jump, a free fall from a platform on the cliff's edge. You will be attached to a device that controls your descent and ensures a safe landing on the beach below. The cliff jump is an optional extra that costs £5 per person.
The Golden Eagle Zip Line is a fun and exciting activity that will make your visit to Durness unforgettable. You will experience nature's beauty from a unique perspective, and you will have a story to tell for years to come.
Don't miss this opportunity to fly like an eagle over one of Scotland's most scenic beaches.
WEBSITE: https://www.durnesszipline.com/
TELEPHONE: 01971 511404
EMAIL: info@durne
MUST GO IN 23
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DUNNET HEAD
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Sadly this is a place many people fail to visit. Many visit nearby John o'Groats, which is great,, but if you travel the Route,, ensure you also visit Dunnet Head.
A 30-minute drive along the Coast Road takes you to the Most Northernly Place on Mainland Britain.
This Peninsula on the Caithness coast has views over the Pentland firth towards the Orkney Islands.
From here, you may well catch a glimpse of the Ferry that sails between Scrabster to Stromness operated by NorthLink; it is the oldest continuous ferry service across the firth, started in 1856 as a continuation of the railhead at Thurso. The Far North Line opened on 28 July 1874.
The Firth is well known for the strength of its tides, which are among the fastest in the world, with a speed of 30 kilometres per hour (16 km) being reported close west of Pentland Skerries. The force of the tides gives rise to overfalls and tidal races, which can occur at different stages of the tide. Combined with gale force winds, they often give rise to highly violent sea conditions, which have caused accidents such as the 2015 sinking of the cargo ship MV Cemfjord, resulting in the death of eight crew members.
Here at the Head, you may well, depending on the time of year see the Fabulous Puffins who breed here between March and July.
Nicknamed “sea parrots” – and sometimes “clowns of the sea“! – Atlantic puffins have black and white feathers and a large parrot-like beak. They are small seabirds measuring around 25cm in length.
Puffins spend most of their lives at sea, resting on the waves when not swimming.
At Dunnet Head, you also have the RSPB Nature reserve and the chance to see many birds, including razorbills, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes, gannets and herring gulls.
So, add it to your Itinerary and enjoy this fabulous place, and check out the stunning visit by Local Photograher Alan McGee.
For more Stunning stuff from Alan visit
Best Recommended B&B for 2023
BEST RECOMMENDED B&B FOR 2023
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AIDEN HOUSE
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This Year we have had many more votes for our winner than the previous Year, and we thank everyone for participating.
As for our original 9 nominees, they are all winners in our mind.
The Highlands are blessed with so many excellent 5 Star B&B, and over the years, what they offer has got better and better, and you'll be hard-pushed to find better anywhere in the UK.
Aiden house is like an Old friend these days. But, every time we mention B&B, they are always one that pops in the Top 3 on each occasion, making it easy to see why they Topped the Poll this year, so a Big Hearty Congratulations to Alexandra & Kenny for the dedicated and hard work they put in throughout the Year.
DRIVING ON SINGLE-TRACK ROADS
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"TURN AROUND WHERE POSSIBLE"
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This is one topic that always gets the locals going…….one of their pet hates is the visitor who doesn't know how to drive on single-track roads.
If you have never been, we strongly suggest you learn the rules of single-track roads.
One of the manoeuvres you may have to carry out on these roads is to reverse, and sometimes it can be some distance.
Think, how would you manage then think, how would I manage in a Highland Winter ...
2023 IS NEAR
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WHAT'S YOUR PLAN ?
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For anyone planning a trip, it is crucial you have all the right tools and necessary advice at your disposal.
Here at Scotland's Route 66, that is what we try to provide.
Along with our partner at Tailor-Made Itineraries, our brand New updated App and our many Maps available online and in Paper form if you need it or chat with us anytime; we love to Help.
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Our Online Shop
https://store.scotlandsroute66.co.uk/
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Scotland's Route 66 New App
TIME IS NEARLY NIGH
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SCOTLAND'S ROUTE 66 APP
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We have some great and exciting news regarding our App.
Firstly these apps can cost thousands, and being a tiny wee lot here at Scotland's Route, it is always challenging to find the pennies to create the Perfect App.
After the initial release 2 years ago, we are aware of issues with our Old App.
Working with the brilliant folk at Fresh Play Ltd, we can finally announce that the brand new wiz bang Big, Bright, Brilliant has been tested and tested and is soon to be released.
Watch this Space for the Date.
Thinking of Planning? If so, you will soon be able to get your hands on the perfect App that will allow you to create your own personal Maps for whatever you choose to plan.
We are excited about this New Release, and we are more than sure anyone with the App or Purchasing the App will be pleased with the work that's been done.
WHO'LL BE NUMBER ONE
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BEST RECOMMENDED B&B 2023
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As we head to dark nights and cold days here at Scotland's Route 66 are already thinking toward 2023.
Last year we announced our Best Recommended B&B for 2022,, and from a final 4, the public voted Applecross as our No1.
We are blessed with many excellent B&Bs who continually work hard to offer a real Highland Welcome. The last few years has been a difficult one fr many and none more so than the Hospitality.
Later this year we will start our search for our Recommended B&B's for neaxt year.
We therefore seek your Help and ask where would your vote go.
Let us Know, after all They are More than Just B&B's..
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APPLECROSS BED & BREAKFAST
https://applecrossbedandbreakfast.co.uk/
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AIDEN HOUSE B&B
https://www.aidenhouse.co.uk/
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BURNSIDE COTTAGE
https://www.burnside-cottage.co.uk/
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B&B PHILOSOPHY
https://www.bnbphilosophy.com/
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MAPPED
WHERE TO RECHARGE
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With more and more vehicles travelling the Route it is good that we see more and more using Electric Vehicles.
Some people worry that the Highlands may not have sufficient points to recharge the Vehicles, but we can assure you that there are 0lenty and more being added.
Click below for our Electric Changing Map.....
CLICK FOR MAP
https://tiny.one/SCR66Charging
DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT
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WALK
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Travelling the route, people should remember we have always said, "It is More Than Just a Journey", which allows you to do much more than just driving......
Walking is undoubtedly one way to see much more of the Highlands than sitting in your vehicle and what walks there are available.
The John O'Graots Trail is a 147-mile coastal walking route from Inverness to John o’ Groats, traversing shorelines, cliff tops, back lanes and footpaths of the Scottish Highlands.,
It is certainly, without doubt, one of the best ways to see places and the stories that go with them whilst on the route.
Walking with these folk of John O'Groats Trail will allow you time to see the East Coast's natural hidden beauty.
Too many drive from Inverness to John O'Groats in a day with a stop at Dunrobin Castle. Consequently, they fail to realise the amount of fantastic scenery, coastline, wildlife, History and culture that they are missing out on.
With the John O'Groats Trail, you will have an experience that will make you come back for more.
Check them out, get out of your cars and experience the Highlands as it should be......
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JOHN O'GROATS TRAIL HOME PAGE
https://www.jogt.org.uk/
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SCOTLAND'S ROUTE 66 - 5 STAR RECOMMENDED
PULDAGON FARM SHOP & RESTAURANT
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Situated 10 minutes from Wick sits the very popular and family-run Pludagon Farm Shop & Restaurant.
In 2019 they transformed one of their old barns into a bright and modaurant and Farm Shop. And within a short space of time, they have become popular with Locals and Tourists as a great, friendly place for all who visit.
In their restaurant you'll find all your favourite cravings freshly prepared to order. From a full Scottish breakfast to fluffy pancakes with blueberries and Belgian chocolate, local Scrabster haddock and hand-cut chips to their very own home-reared, farm-to-table Highland beef burgers.
And it is a scrummy as it sounds.
Not after a meal and rather have a Wee Coffee then you are in for a Treat with freshly baked cream and jam scones washed down with a smooth flat white or a homemade meringue and summer berries with a rich strong americano.
And if you don't want a coffee then try one of the fab selections of TeaPigs herbal teas and Body, Mind and Soul Cannabis Tea.
They just have something for everyone...
Once you are here, we highly recommend their Farm Shop food hall and gift shop.
From artisan and craft products, both local producers and those further afield.
Whether it's a cuddly toy Highland Coo or a bottle of locally distilled gin you're looking for, you'll find it at Puldagon!
Their reviews speak volumes of this place, and we say get it added to your itinerary.
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WHAT3WORDS EXACT LOCATION
https://w3w.co/streak.ambushes.attracts
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THE PULDAGON FARM SHOP & RESTAURANT
https://puldagonfarm.co.uk
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PLACES TO GO
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SCOTLANDS ROUTE 66
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With current temperatures in the UK set to Rocket throughout the UK, it seems the Best Place to Go is actually the Scottish Highlands.
As Some places in southern England are about to sweat in Temperatures of over 40, many places in the Highlands may well hit 18.
I know where I'd rather be, there again, I'd rather be in the Highlands any day.
Where ever you are, Stay Safe, Stay Cool...
Remember, It Is More Than Just a Journey
The Highland games
HIGHLAND GAMES
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THEY ARE MUST
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Highland Games are as iconically Scottish as bagpipes, kilts and whisky and visiting one is really a must to experience.
Highland games are events held in spring and summer in Scotland as well as other countries with a sizeable Scottish diaspora as a way of celebrating Scottish and Celtic culture, especially that of the Scottish Highlands.
While centred on competitions in piping and drumming, dancing, and Scottish heavy athletics, the games also include entertainment and exhibits related to other aspects of Scottish and Gaelic cultures.
Visiting a Distillery is a must for many but the Highland Games is something for everyone and can be a great day out.
Planning a trip, then check out the list of games available in the next couple of months with many taking part off the Route, they are worth the effort of a Detour.
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CHECK THEM OUT
https://scotlandwelcomesyou.com/scottish-highland-games/
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GREAT VIDEO
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SCOTLAND AT ITS FINEST
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Came across a Great wee video by John Moore, who said he had the most amazing 10 days travelling the length of Scotland with his wife, 6-month-old son and 2 dogs.
He filmed & produced this for his business page whilst away.
He also said that he hopes you all enjoy watching it as much as he did visit Scotland.
We Did John and Haste you and your family back.
And if you want a look at his Business Page, which has some excellent videos and more, then click below; otherwise, enjoy John's Scotland.
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ZenPro Visuals
https://www.facebook.com/ZenProVisuals/
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LET'S GO A TRIMMING
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When you arrive in the Highlands, we do our best to ensure everything looks its best, including our Verges.
BEAR Scotland is contracted by the Highland Council to ensure the job is done, and it appears they do just that.
BEAR Scotland bosses have praised the dedication of a Highland worker filmed strimming grass in the snow – but confessed they should have stopped.
The hilarious clip shows a worker from Bear Scotland attempting to trim the grass at the side of the A9 Inverness to Wick road even though the ground is covered in snow.
The north and northeast have been experiencing snow and ice in recent days, which would not look out of place in December.
Embo resident, Fraser Bonthrone, posted the video to social media with the caption: “Gotta laugh. Bear Scotland can’t repair the potholes on the A9, but they can cut the grass in the snow.”
A spokesman at Bear Scotland said: “As required by our contract with Transport Scotland, the season for grass cutting on the trunk roads has commenced.
“The works this week have been impacted by somewhat unseasonal snow showers, and whilst we admire the dedication of our landscaping team, on this occasion, the works should have stopped. The team have been reminded.”
You just couldn't make it up, really.