This guide brings together the best things to do in Lochardil and the surrounding Highlands. Start from your base in Lochardil, then paddle the canal, join a guided kayak trip on the Moray Firth, or try the Great Glen Canoe Trail for longer days on the water. For quick bursts of adrenaline, book archery, axe throwing or paintball in nearby woodlands. There are family friendly options, wildlife-minded sea kayaking, and practical skills courses for wild camping and gorge scrambling. Use this guide to plan active days, sensible routes, and places to return to each evening, so your Highlands vacation itinerary feels effortless and local.
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Step into the woods and aim for something different.
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What to expect
A short walk links a series of activity zones set among trees. Instructors give clear, patient coaching and you practice on a mix of static and themed targets, from traditional longbows to playful dinosaur and zombie targets. Sessions mix skills, light competition and outdoor skills such as basic bushcraft, often finishing beside a camp fire for a warm drink and a chance to whittle a keepsake.
Plan your visit
Book in advance, especially at weekends and in summer. Wear sturdy shoes and weatherproof layers, and bring a warm mid layer that you can move in. The team supplies all safety kit and instruction, so you only need to bring comfortable outdoor clothing and a sense of fun. Tell the organiser if you have a large group, as sessions take groups up to 30 and groups of eight or more can try Combat Archery.
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A woodland day of action and fresh-air fun, close to Inverness and the NC500.
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What to expect
You will find forest tracks, purpose-built game zones and simple, rustic camping spots. Instructors lead safety briefings and tailor equipment to ability, so beginners feel supported and more confident visitors can push their skills. Sessions move at a friendly pace, with plenty of hands-on coaching and a focus on safe, competitive fun.
Plan your visit
Book sessions in advance, especially for weekends or larger groups. Wear sturdy footwear and layered, waterproof clothing, and bring water and a small towel. Let the organisers know about injuries or mobility needs before you arrive. For corporate bookings mention team sizes and goals so they can plan suitable challenges and debriefs.
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Paddle, climb and roam the Highlands with a local guide.
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What to expect
You will get a clear safety briefing and hands-on coaching before you set off. Choices range from hire-only canoes and kayaks to guided paddles that include route notes, wildlife spotting and local stories. Guides know quieter water and nesting sites for birds of prey, and they adapt the route to your experience and the weather. The atmosphere is informal and geared to families, solo travellers and small groups.
Plan your visit
Decide whether you want a guided trip or hire-only, and tell the provider your experience level so they can recommend routes. Pack waterproofs, a warm mid layer, sturdy shoes that can get wet, a small dry bag for essentials and any prescription medication. If you have specific wildlife or photo aims, mention them when you book so the guide can choose the best launch and timing. The operator is used to flexible bookings, but confirm equipment needs and meeting logistics in advance.
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Gear up for hands-on combat in 50 acres of Highland woodland.
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What to expect
Expect a full safety briefing and marshalled games across varied terrain and purpose-built props. Staff take care of kit and match-making, so you can focus on tactics and team play. Scenarios range from small-team skirmishes to larger events, and the site welcomes families, stag and hen groups, corporate team-building and solo visitors. Equipment is generally well maintained, and staff are hands-on and supportive.
Plan your visit
Book in advance, especially for weekend slots and larger groups. Wear old, layered clothing and sturdy footwear you don’t mind getting muddy. Bring a reusable water bottle and sun or rain protection. If you plan to play paintball, consider buying paint in bulk on arrival. Tell the team about any accessibility or mobility needs when you book so they can set up suitable scenarios.
Image / In Your Element
Paddle the spine of the Highlands
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What to expect
Expect varied conditions: calm canal sections, long open crossings and sudden wind-driven waves on Loch Ness. You will pass locks and towpaths, find basic camping and a few small places to rest, and encounter wide views of hills and lochs. Some stretches feel remote, so plan for self-reliance and simple navigation. Many paddlers savour the steady rhythm of putting in each morning, making steady miles, then evening camp or a pub stop ashore.
Plan your visit
Plan your route and transport before you launch. Arrange a shuttle or use public buses to return to your start point, and consider local taxi services for one-way trips. Pack waterproof kit, buoyancy aids and drybags, and carry spare layers for wind and rain. Book campsites or basic accommodation in advance if you prefer not to camp. If you are unsure about open-water crossings, choose the longer shoreline route and travel with a partner or group. Tell someone your plan and check the weather forecast on the day.
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Hands-on Highland adventures on water and rock
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What to expect
Friendly, patient instruction from an experienced guide who adapts routes to weather and group ability. Briefings and full kit are provided for most activities, with an emphasis on practical skills and rescue techniques. Trips range from calm paddles that showcase coastal scenery to adrenaline-filled gorge scrambling. Families, solo travellers and groups are welcome, and guides tailor sessions to different ages and abilities.
Plan your visit
Book ahead and discuss ability levels or any access needs with the guide. Wear layered clothing and footwear with good grip, and bring a change of clothes, water and a waterproof bag for valuables. The operator is flexible with meeting points and can tailor sessions for families, corporate groups or youth programmes. Let them know about any medical or behavioural needs before you arrive.
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Paddle, learn and slow down on a loch framed by the Cairngorms.
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What to expect
Expect a practical watersports base with clear safety briefings, patient instructors and a mix of hire kit and guided sessions. Lessons suit first-timers and cautious learners, while hire options let you paddle at your own pace around the loch. Staff frequently help with kit and local tips. There’s a simple café above the centre and food is sometimes available for group gatherings.
Plan your visit
Book lessons or hire in advance for busy weekends and school holidays. Bring swimwear, a towelling layer and a waterproof bag for phones and cameras. Wear trainers or water shoes you don’t mind getting wet. If you plan a BBQ or café stop, check with the centre on availability. Combine your visit with a short walk in Glenmore Forest Park or a cycle round nearby trails.
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Riverside green for sport, events and easy days out.
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What to expect
You will find football and rugby training, park runs and casual play alongside occasional large events such as the Highland Games or bonfire night. Families come for the play equipment, boat rides and the miniature railway. Dog walkers and fitness groups use the lawns. Facilities are simple but convenient, with event infrastructure brought in when required.
Plan your visit
Check the local events calendar before you go if you want to catch a Highland Games, bonfire or community fair. Dress for changeable Highland weather and bring a picnic blanket for the grass. The park is well suited to families with small children and to dog owners. If you are on the NC500 route, this is an easy stop for a stretch of legs and a short riverside walk.
Image / www.highlandcoasthotels.com
Highland Coast Hotels is a collection of hotels across the Scottish Highlands, from Inverness to the far north coast. Each property sits within the landscape, with warm rooms, honest food and local knowledge at every stop on the North Coast 500. Choose your hotel and start planning your trip.
