Stage 1: Inverness to Culbokie

Inverness Castle

Distance | 15.5 miles / 25 km     Status |  Green 

The first stage of the JOGT is entirely walkable by the average fit walker. There are no obstacles. Most of the stage is on quiet back roads. The route goes along city streets of Inverness and crosses the Kessock Bridge (pedestrian walkway). It then goes through woods and along quiet back roads the rest of the way.

Challenges
The Kessock Bridge is a very high bridge and while the pedestrian walkway is very secure with a tall railing, it may lead some walkers to experience unease. Road walking, even on quiet back lanes such as on this stage, can always be dangerous. Walk on the right except at right curves. Please also note that like much of rural Scotland, ticks may be an issue in areas of long vegetation.

Notes
Normally you cross the Kessock Bridge on the west walkway (left side as you walk north). If the west walkway is closed (which it often is), follow these directions to use the east walkway: If northbound, keep along the Inverness waterfront and pass under the bridge, then walk up the grass embankment and cross the guard rail to get onto the east side walkway. If southbound, on coming down from Ord Hill, do not cross the highway. Instead turn left along the highway and cross the bridge. When you reach the far side, cross the guard rail and descend the grass embankment, and turn left along the waterfront.

Stage End Information
Culbokie is accessible via car on B-roads and is just off the A9. The Stagecoach Bus 22 to/from Inverness stops on the Culbokie high street. Stagecoach Bus X99 between Inverness and Thurso will pick up and drop off along the A9 near the Cromarty Bridge, about a ten minute walk from Culbokie. Culbokie has a shop and a pub, as well as the Netherton Farm B&B and other B&Bs.

More information
https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/lochness/inverness-culbokie.shtml

Accommodation