Nature & Landscape
The Scottish Highlands offer an extraordinary variety of natural places near Inverness. Expansive lochs, ancient woodland, sheltered glens and dramatic waterfalls reveal a landscape of remarkable contrasts. From the open waters of Loch Ness to the Caledonian pinewoods of Glen Affric, each setting offers a different perspective on the region.
Whether you are visiting Orenna for a private wellness experience or extending your time in the Highlands, this collection introduces four distinctive landscapes worth discovering at your own pace.
01 - THE LOCH
Loch Ness
Stretching through the Great Glen, Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s most recognisable landscapes. Its expansive waters, wooded shores and surrounding hills create a striking introduction to the natural character of the Highlands.
Beyond its famous legends, the loch offers opportunities to enjoy scenic viewpoints, discover woodland paths and appreciate the changing light across the water.
The villages and landscapes surrounding Loch Ness invite visitors to experience the area from different perspectives, whether enjoying a short stop or spending longer exploring its shores.
02 - THE GLEN
Glen Affric
Glen Affric brings together ancient Caledonian pinewoods, tranquil lochs, rushing rivers and expansive mountain scenery.
The landscape changes as the glen opens westwards, moving from sheltered woodland towards more remote Highland terrain. Its combination of native forest and open scenery makes it a distinctive place to experience the natural character of the region.
Visitors can discover woodland surroundings, enjoy lochside views or explore longer routes according to their interests and abilities.
03 - THE WOODLAND
Reelig Glen
Hidden within a sheltered glen near Inverness, Reelig Glen is known for its remarkable collection of towering trees.
Douglas firs rise above the woodland floor, while the Moniack Burn winds through the narrow gorge below. The combination of mature trees, moss-covered surroundings and changing woodland light gives the glen its distinctive character.
Walking routes offer opportunities to experience the scale of the forest and discover features including a historic stone bridge.
04 - THE WATERFALL
Plodda Falls
Surrounded by towering trees and woodland near Tomich, Plodda Falls offers a dramatic contrast to the open lochs and mountain landscapes of the Highlands.
Water descends through a steep, wooded gorge, creating a powerful natural spectacle. The surrounding forest is characterised by mature Douglas firs and other impressive trees, adding to the scale of the setting.
Woodland trails allow visitors to experience the surrounding forest and waterfall, although routes vary in difficulty and may include steep or uneven ground.
The landscapes around Inverness offer a variety of ways to experience the Highlands, from scenic viewpoints to woodland walks and more demanding routes. Before travelling, we recommend checking the latest information about access, weather, trail conditions and available facilities.
Some Highland destinations have limited mobile reception, narrow approach roads or uneven walking surfaces. Glen Affric and Plodda Falls, in particular, require additional journey planning.
For detailed accessibility information, current trail conditions and practical visitor guidance, consult the official resources below.
Your Time at Orenna
After a day of exploring, return to stillness. Our Private wellness experiences offer a space to rest, restore and reconnect, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Highlands
