Dingwall

The Highland town that sits where three ancient roads once converged still feels like a meeting place today. Dingwall spreads across the northern shores of the Cromarty Firth, its Georgian architecture a reminder of when it was Ross-shire's county town. The surrounding hills rise sharply from the coastal plain, creating a dramatic backdrop that changes colour with the weather.

Cnoc Fyrish dominates the eastern skyline, topped by the curious Fyrish Monument - a replica of the Gates of Negapatam built by a homesick general. It's a proper climb to reach it, but the views across the firth to the Black Isle are cracking. Mount Eagle offers another excellent vantage point, while the archaeological remains at Càrn na Fèinne hint at much older settlements.

Evanton Wood provides lovely walking through mixed woodland, and the area's aviation heritage comes alive at the Royal Airforce Seaplane Base Memorial and Evanton Airfield Memorial. The countryside here feels wild despite being well-connected - you're only 16 miles north of Inverness, yet red deer graze the hillsides and golden eagles patrol overhead.

The Black Isle peninsula stretches south across the firth, accessible via the A9. Findon Waterfall makes for a pleasant short walk, while Alness Old Parish Church offers a glimpse into medieval Highland life.

Staying at one of the nearby parks puts you right at the heart of this landscape. You can explore the firth's shoreline in the morning, tackle the hills after lunch, and still be back for a dram by evening. The setting works brilliantly as a base for day trips to Inverness or the north coast, but there's enough here to keep you busy for a fortnight.