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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Fort George features in the new campaign\u2026Picture: James Mackenzie<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The new trail at Fort George aims to offer \u201cplaces to pause, reflect and allow visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds around the fort\u2019s natural setting,\u201d according to monument manager John Gibbon.<\/p>\n
Already, the trail has been visited by Scottish influencer Alistair Heather, known online as \u201cHistoric Ally\u201d, who tried the walk for himself accompanied by Mr Gibbon – with footage available on the Instagram account of HES.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Visitors to the fort can enjoy the walk to and from Ardersier, with the bay on one side and meadows on their other.<\/p>\n
Some of the wildlife visible at Ardersier Bay includes ringed plovers, rock pipits, ospreys and bottlenose dolphins.<\/p>\n
While, on the other side of the path, visitors can walk along a meadow home to roe deer, rabbits and stoats.<\/p>\n
Butterflies, including the rare Dingy skipper butterfly, can also be seen flying through the gorse and meadowsweet.<\/p>\n
\u201cFort George is huge, and there\u2019s plenty to explore within its walls \u2013 but I always recommend visitors try to carve out time to explore the area leading to Ardersier Village,\u201d Mr Gibbon added.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe trail I\u2019ve recommended is great for anyone looking for a bit of peace and quiet, while also enjoying a fantastic historic setting.<\/p>\n
\u201cPausing by the bay and watching for dolphins always makes me feel more connected to nature.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo matter how many times I see them leap from the water, it always takes my breath away.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever much time you have to spare, the area leading to Ardersier Village is truly incredible.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s so much to see and it\u2019s a good way to reduce stress and feel more connected to nature \u2013 and to yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n