Discover Strathpeffer

Strathpeffer brings together spa history, scenery and a range of opportunities for walks and activities. If you’re looking for a hotel in Strathpeffer, the place’s specific themes and timings can help you plan your stay. The Spa Gardens shape the village’s appearance and contribute to its picturesque landscape. They provide a range of habitats for wildlife, especially birds.

Spa history and museum

Strathpeffer Pavilion was built in 1881 as a meeting place and venue, and was an important addition to the spa facilities. It is an important surviving building from the early years of Strathpeffer’s development as a spa resort. While evidence of human settlement in the valley dates back more than 5,000 years, the Pavilion marks a later stage specifically associated with the spa’s development.

The Highland Museum of Childhood is housed in Strathpeffer’s old Victorian railway station. Its collection includes toys and games, clothing and textiles, teaching materials, photographs, books, and larger items such as prams and cradles. The collection’s breadth offers a glimpse into different aspects of childhood and learning. Families with children of all ages can take part in museum activities and explore the collections; check in advance which facilities are available.

Routes and timings

The Peffery Way follows the former railway line between Dingwall and Strathpeffer; some sections are still under development. The completed sections are suitable for bicycles, pushchairs, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and trishaws, as well as for walking and running. Strathpeffer is also surrounded by a network of paths, suitable for everything from short evening strolls to more challenging hikes.

For planning your time, two different routes are available: the Touchstone Maze Trail in Blackmuir Wood is 3.6 kilometres long and takes about an hour and a half; the walk around Strathpeffer’s notable buildings is shorter, at about an hour, and does not include Castle Leod. These details help you take into account both the time required and the route’s focus. Please respect private property and any access conditions on this walk. The Blackmuir Wood car park is less than a mile (1.6 km) from the village centre.

Cycling, golf and getting here

Strathpeffer is a cycling hub, with forest tracks and singletrack trails. Strathpeffer SPA Golf Course is an 18-hole parkland course with extensive panoramic views. Cycling and golf offer different experiences: the forest tracks and singletrack trails are all about cycling, while the golf course combines a parkland setting with panoramic views.

Strathpeffer also has a community-run playground. The first phase opened in 2024; the facilities may continue to develop. Buses run from Inverness to Strathpeffer. If you’re travelling by bus, check the timetable before you set off.

Discover more destinations: Kyleakin, Bonar Bridge, Dunbeath, Keiss, Duntulm, Knockbain, Kyle Of Lochalsh, Plockton

For the main travel overview: Highland.