📌 Nature reserve in Forsinard, Highland
★★★
Large parts of the far northern interior of Scotland are covered by vast areas of seemingly featureless peat and pools – making up 5% of the world’s blanket bog, and the largest habitat of this type in Europe. One small part of this special landscape can be accessed by wooden boardwalks and flagstone paths from the tiny village of Forsinard, with a striking tower providing an elevated viewpoint over miles of wilderness. The region is an important habitat for carnivorous plants, mosses, invertebrates, moorland birds and divers – keep an eye out for lizards sunbathing on the boardwalks on warm days. Blanket bogs also store large quantities of carbon, helping to regulate atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. This is a truly memorable place – plan a visit at sunrise or sunrise for the very best views.
🌍 Location
📌 Off the A897, southwest side of Forsinard. Lookout tower is at:
🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NC 886421
🛰️ GPS coordinates: 58.353103,-3.905080
🚆 Forsinard
🚗 Car park at railway station, 🧭 NC 891425 / 🛰️ 58.356951,-3.897372
📝 Key info
⌚ Always open (visitor centre: daily, April to October; weekdays, November to March)
🎫 Free
💬 From the car park & visitor centre it’s a 10-min walk (each way) to the viewing tower, mostly on level, wooden boardwalks (⬤ Easy). Start by crossing the railway at the level crossing and follow the road for a short distance, soon branching right onto the reserve path. Flagstone paths can be used to explore the reserve further – these can be slippery and wet in places.
