….. If You’re Lucky

Chanonry Point is on the east side of the NC500 Tourist Route – just north of Inverness. Although we were not following the road trip, it was with a sense of excitement and anticipation that we decided last minute to stay near Chanonry Point to see the Bottle Nosed Dolphins as a part of our own mini east to west Road Trip. (See link)

It seemed that it would be a ‘dead cert’ to see them, and they had been out the day before, but luck wasn’t on our side. According to locals, spring to August is probably a better time of year, and we were a little late in the season.

However we loved the area and found that the Black Isle has way more to offer than just Chanonry Point.

• Where is it: The Black Isle – rather than being an island- is actually a peninsular and we found it to be a very pretty one too. It is located just north of Inverness, and Chanonry Point is an inlet between Fortrose and Rosemarkie on the Black Isle.
• Parking: Parking at Chanonry Point is limited, and it gets busy. There is a ban on campervans and motorhomes – so the best tip would be to park at the Fairy Glens and walk over to Chanonry Point, or walk from Fortrose Campsite if you are staying there. There is plenty of great parking around the Black Isle in general, in the various villages and towns.
• Walks: There are many and varied walks in the area, especially the Fairy Glen at Rosemarkie. Loch Lundie, Cromarty and Millbuie Forest also have lovely walks but unfortunately we were limited for time; we hope to come back and explore more.
• Where to stay: If you are camping or motorhoming, the perfectly located Fortrose campsite is right next to the sea, and a short walk to Chanonry Point, with the golf club next door and regular buses. There are also plenty of other options to stay, including hotels, guest houses and airbnb’s in the area.
• Wildlife: The main draw for the Black Isle is dolphins, along with seals, otters and porpoises. The birds are also fantastic, with several RSPB reserves nearby. Notable birds are Wigeon, Pink Footed Geese, Bar Tailed Godwits, Shelduck, Terns and many waders. It is a top spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Other Local Interest. Fort George. Active Stephenson Lighthouse. Rosemarkie golf club, Black Isle Brewery, Pictish Trail.

• 7 Day Road Trip Scotland East to West: https://naturallyoutdoorsy.com/2025/10/19/low-cost-7-day-campervan-road-trip-scotland/
• Black Isle Visit Scotland Link: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/black-isle-p1364431
• Fortrose Campsite: https://www.fortrosebaycampsite.co.uk/