Glendoe Eagle Statue

There's a sizeable bronze eagle perched on a hillside near Inverness, and it's the sort of thing you either make a point of visiting or stumble upon by accident while exploring the Highlands. The Glendoe Eagle Statue commemorates the reintroduction of white-tailed eagles to Scotland - proper significant stuff if you care about wildlife conservation.

The statue itself is commanding without being showy. It's a working monument rather than some touristy photo stop, though people do stop to photograph it. The real appeal lies in the setting. You're up in the hills with views across the landscape, and the walk to reach it isn't brutal but it's not a stroll round a car park either. Allow a good hour if you're coming from Inverness, longer if you fancy the walk up to the statue itself.

Historically minded visitors and birdwatchers will get the most from it. Kids might find it interesting for five minutes, then ask if there's anything else. It's free to visit and there's no set opening hours - it's an outdoor monument in the wild.

If you're staying at Loch Ness Highland Resort, it's close enough for an afternoon excursion without eating into your day. The location makes it a natural pairing with exploring the wider Highlands rather than a destination in itself. Go if you're in the area and keen on eagles; don't plan a trip around it.