Fortrose Bay Campsite

The air tastes of salt and seaweed here, with curlews calling across the mudflats of the Moray Firth and the ruins of Fortrose Cathedral visible through the morning haar.

This is a straightforward spot on the Black Isle for anyone who wants a Highland base without the full wilderness commitment — tent pitchers, tourers and campervans all welcome. You're in a proper Scottish coastal town with shops and a chippy in walking distance, but the views stretch north across the firth toward Ben Wyvis. Dolphin-watchers do well here; Chanonry Point's just along the coast and it's one of the best mainland spots in Britain for bottlenose sightings from the shore.

You've got toilets and showers onsite, and it's worth checking the campfire policy when you arrive if you're hoping for an evening by the flames. The vibe's low-key and functional rather than bells-and-whistles — a good-value pitch in a bonnie wee town, handy for Inverness but far enough out to feel like you've properly arrived in the Highlands.