A new trail at Fort George is starring in a national campaign to encourage people across Scotland to visit heritage sites to boost their wellbeing.
A new free walking guide for visitors to the site has been created by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) as part of its Historic Places, Breathing Spaces campaign.
Fort George features in the new campaign…Picture: James Mackenzie
The campaign is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to help boost their wellbeing, after a recent HES survey found that 60 per cent of people reported improved wellbeing because of visiting a HES site, and 74 per cent of people felt a sense of connection to the sites after visiting.
The new trail at Fort George aims to offer “places to pause, reflect and allow visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds around the fort’s natural setting,” according to monument manager John Gibbon.
Already, the trail has been visited by Scottish influencer Alistair Heather, known online as “Historic Ally”, who tried the walk for himself accompanied by Mr Gibbon – with footage available on the Instagram account of HES.
Fort George spans more than 40 acres with many areas to explore inside, with nearby paths also offering plenty of spots for moments of calm, and an abundance of wildlife to see.
Visitors to the fort can enjoy the walk to and from Ardersier, with the bay on one side and meadows on their other.
Some of the wildlife visible at Ardersier Bay includes ringed plovers, rock pipits, ospreys and bottlenose dolphins.
While, on the other side of the path, visitors can walk along a meadow home to roe deer, rabbits and stoats.
Butterflies, including the rare Dingy skipper butterfly, can also be seen flying through the gorse and meadowsweet.
“Fort George is huge, and there’s plenty to explore within its walls – but I always recommend visitors try to carve out time to explore the area leading to Ardersier Village,” Mr Gibbon added.
“The trail I’ve recommended is great for anyone looking for a bit of peace and quiet, while also enjoying a fantastic historic setting.
“Pausing by the bay and watching for dolphins always makes me feel more connected to nature.
“No matter how many times I see them leap from the water, it always takes my breath away.
“However much time you have to spare, the area leading to Ardersier Village is truly incredible.
“There’s so much to see and it’s a good way to reduce stress and feel more connected to nature – and to yourself.”
Full details of the walk, as well as others around the country, are available here.
Visitors have also been encouraged to share their stories, videos and pictures from Historic Scotland sites to help build an online exhibition.
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