Cromarty beach / Cromarty Links

The beach at Cromarty is a proper revelation if you're staying anywhere near Inverness. This long stretch of golden sand sits at the mouth of the Moray Firth, and on a clear day you can watch dolphins working the waters while you're trying to eat your picnic without it blowing away.

What makes it work is the sheer space. Unlike those crowded Highlands beaches that get rammed with school holidays, Cromarty feels genuinely quiet. The Links - the grassy dunes behind - run for a good couple of miles, so there's room to actually breathe. Kids can charge about without constant supervision, walkers get a decent stretch for the legs, and if you're into wildlife you'll spot seals and that aforementioned dolphin activity without any faffing about with boat tours.

Timing matters. Low tide reveals way more beach, which is better if you've got little ones. Winter can be moody and atmospheric, but spring through early autumn is when you'll actually want to linger. Bring layers - the wind off the Firth is genuine.

If you're glamping at Delny just down the road, this is an obvious morning mission. Works as an afternoon backup too when the weather's decent. Free, naturally. Allow a couple of hours minimum if you're not just doing a walk-through. The drive from Inverness is straightforward enough, and you'll have the place to yourself compared to the better-known spots.