Columba House Recommended Links

Here are some links to other websites, as recommended by Myra Shearer, proprietor of the Columba House Hotel.

More Images of Columba House Hotel

http://wired.st-and.ac.uk/~nickel/images/columbahouse/

For more images of the Hotel please visit http://wired.st-and.ac.uk/~nickel/images/columbahouse/

general links

http://www.rspb.org.uk/

RSPB nature reserves provide excellent opportunity to watch birds and other wildlife in some of the most beautiful parts of the country.Scotland's wild beauty supports much of the UK's most important wildlife. For sheer numbers of birds, such as spectacular seabird colonies in summer or flocks of barnacle geese in winter, our nature reserves in Scotland are special. Our reserves here are also home to rare breeding birds, the corncrake, the osprey and the red-necked phalarope to mention a few. Scotland has some of the UK's last true wilderness areas: the ptarmigans of the high peaks and the capercaillies of the ancient Caledonian pine forests are so suited to these conditions that they can live nowhere else. The habitats in Scotland are often on a grander scale than in other parts of the UK, and our reserves reflect this. For example, Abernethy (formerly Abernethy Forest) and Forsinard are among the largest nature reserves in Europe.Loch Ruthven for the rare Slavonian grebe.

http://newtonmore.com/haflinger/

Haflinger Pony Trekking Centre Enjoy trekking in the company of our famous sure footed and quiet natured Austrian Haflinger Ponies. Trekking for all the family, with no road work involved. Non-commercialised trekking centre, personally run by Jim and Yolande Robertson, catering for people who enjoy the countryside and love animals.We are located in the heart of the Highlands where the hit BBC TV series 'Monarch of the Glen' continues to be filmed amidst spectacular scenery. Trekking high into the Scottish mountains overlooking Glenbogle in Monarch of the Glen Country, look north to the Monadhliath Mountain, east to the Cairngorms and west to Loch Laggan and the Grey Corries.Quiet trekking through pine woods, birch trees and heather moorland.

http://www.landmark-centre.co.uk/

Welcome to Landmark Forest Theme Park web site! Here you will discover all you need to plan your next great day out to Landmark. . . enjoy the tour! Season Tickets - Why not buy (or upgrade to on the day of the visit) a season ticket for less than the cost of one extra day visit and you can come every day for a whole calendar year! Unbelievably good value . . . Best wishes from all the team at Landmark. Freephone 0800 7313446 | landmarkcentre@btconnect.com

http://www.leaultfarm.co.uk/

Enjoy the excitement of seeing these animals performing under full control of their handler in the beautiful Highland surroundings of Badenoch and Strathspey. As part of our sheep dog demonstrations you will also get to see firsthand sheep shearing, bottle feeding of orphan lambs, duck herding demonstrations, friendly collie pups, and dog training tips from Neil Ross. Souvenirs available after every demonstration. We also offers specialist demonstrations. Call or email for more information.

http://www.reindeer-company.demon.co.uk

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd are Britain's only herd of reindeer, found free ranging in the Cairngorm mountains in Scotland. These extremely tame and friendly animals are a joy to all who come and see them. There are currently around 130 reindeer, approximately 50 of them ranging the Cairngorm Mountains and the remainder on the Glenlivet Estate; the locations being some 30 miles apart. There is a daily visit to the reindeer, weather permitting, departing from the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre at 11.00 am. There is an additional visit at 2.30 pm during the Summer months. During the Winter months, this may be dependent on whether we can find them. We said they're free-ranging and we mean't it ! Under the supervision of our trained guides, our visitors can feed and stroke the reindeer. They are not camera shy, so you'll be able to take some memorable snaps. One thing that the odd one or two reindeer are not keen on is mobile phones.

http://www.shinty.com/

THE CAMANACHD ASSOCIATION - In Gaelic Comunn na Camanachd - is the ruling body of the ancient and unique stick sport of shinty in its modern dynamic form. It is played locally, there is great rivalry between Kingussie and Newtonmore, in the areas of Scotland related to the Gaelic population. Also in the cities and the universities of the nation. The object of the Association is to foster and develop the national game sustaining the recreational traditions of skill, courage and stamina dating back over countless generations to the earliest roots of the Celtic race.

http://www.scottishgolfcourses.com/highlands/kingussie.html

Kingussie Golf Course. With the River Gynack coming into play on select holes and the course rising to approximately 1,000 feet above sea level at its highest point, Kingussie is a wonderful setting to enjoy the royal and ancient game. The legendary Harry Vardon was commissioned to design the course and the result of his labour is still enjoyed today by thousands who pay tribute every year. It opens unusually with a par three before moving onto some steady yet challenging par fours and demanding par fives. The closing hole runs beside the River Gynack and is the perfect finish to a great round.

http://www.spudthepiper.co.uk/index.htm

Spud the Piper welcomes you to the definitive website for Wedding Bagpiping. Also known as Calum Fraser, from Aviemore in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Spud has piped at weddings and other events throughout Scotland, the UK and beyond.Spud has played for Madonna, Ashley Judd, Jamie Lee Curtis and a host of other stars and he would be delighted to play for you on your special wedding day.No stranger to receiving awards and accolades Spud was delighted to be recognised by the Scottish Wedding Directory with their VOWS Awards. Spud won the best Wedding Music & Entertainment category for 2005.

http://www.nnr-scotland.org.uk/reserve.asp?NNRId=21

Creag Meagaidh at 1128 metres high, is a Scottish "Munro" (a mountain over 3000 feet or 914 metres in height).The magnificent ice-carved crags of Coire Ardair are just one of the attractions of this varied reserve stretching from loch shore to mountain top. It provides a vivid demonstration of how readily native woodland of birch, alder, willow, rowan and oak recovers when the number of grazing animals is controlled. It is also a National Nature Reserve run by Scottish Natural Heritage. The mountain has a rounded plateau top but carved deeply into it are classic glacial corries of Coire Coille-rais with its lochan and Coire Ardair with a lochan and formidable cliffs. There is a strenuous but highly scenic circular walk going up from Aberarder Farm past Coire Ardair and back down along the ridge between Coire Ardair and Coire Cholle-rais. Allow from 7 to 9 hours for this 16 km (10 mile) walk.Since it was taken over by SNH ,sheep have been removed and deer numbers reduced considerably.

http://www.sled-dogs.co.uk

Situated in Aviemore, at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountain Range, The Cairngorm Sleddog Centre offers a wide range of activities for the whole family. From Kennel & Museum Tours to Sleddog Trips and Safaris. Alan Stewart & his family offer a unique opportunity to experience the awesome thrill and power of a top class sleddog team in training for European events & Mountain expeditions. Meet our team and have as much hands-on with the dogs as you want, with spectacular views of the Cairngorm Mountains and the wildlife in the surrounding area. Have a look at the different courses we have on offer, click here. For the new 2009-2010 season we will be adding some new exciting sleddog experinces. The next Aviemore Dog Sled Rally, the biggest and most gruelling event of its kind in Europe, Jan. 2010 Every year, mushers from throughout the UK gather in the forests around Aviemore for the biggest event in the British husky calendar.

http://newtonmore.com/dalwhinnie/

A visit to Dalwhinnie, at 1,073 feet above sea level the highest distillery in the land, is an opportunity to sample the ‘Gentle Spirit’ of the glen. Here you can see the distillers at work, harnessing the snow fed waters of the Allt an t’ Sluic, fresh from their journey through moorland heather, producing a full-bodied malt with a surprisingly delicate taste. And as you savour your complimentary dram of Dalwhinnie, the highland representative of the ‘classic malts’ range, you can also enjoy a panorama unchanged since the drovers of old paused to enjoy the view and the local malt. You’ll find the doors of the distillery in the mountains open to visitors all year round with restricted hours in the snowy depths of the highland winter.

http://pages.123-reg.co.uk/basecamp-627134/basecampmtb/index.html

Laggan Wolftrax is the latest purpose built mountain bike centre in Scotland, designed and built by mountain bikers for mountain bikers. The trail network offers some of the best mountain biking in Scotland encompassing challenging and unique features for all abilities from the fun blue to the highly technical black, you won't be disappointed. There is a mixture of mature forest and open country riding allowing you to make the most of the big mountain views.

http://heathercentre.com/

A multi-award winning Visitor Attraction run by David and Betty Lambie and their two sons Craig and Iain. The Lambies and their friendly, helpful staff are pleased to welcome you and will do all that is necessary to make your visit to the Centre an enjoyable one. Clootie Dumpling - Scotland's famous pudding, rich in fruit and flavour as well as tradition! Exclusive products created from preserved heather, faux or a combination of both. Giftboxed complete with Heather Legend. The proprietors and the Centre have appeared frequently on BBC, ITV and Channel 4 Television programmes.

http://www.houseofbruar.com/index.asp?cookies=True

The House of Bruar is Scotland's most prestigious country store and for many, no trip to Scotland is complete without visiting 'The Home of Country Clothing'. A treat for anyone who loves to shop for speciality foods and drink, stylish country clothing. Comprehensive colour and understated style is carefully combined with practicality and has resulted in a collection of clothes of superb quality, cut and wearability. Within its unique environment nestling at the side of the famous Bruar Falls, The House of Bruar offers a variety of shopping opportunities rolled into one. If you are unable to visit in person, do browse our online store - here you will find a carefully selected range of our elegant and refined country clothing - just a taste of our Scottish delights.

http://www.clan-macpherson.org/

The USA maintained Clan website - great for all you Macphersons out there, and a good source of Clan contacts and historical background for researchers. Jubilee 2006 - See who's coming and pledge your attendance.

Self-Catering.','','scrollbars=yes,width=780,height=600')" href="#"> http://www.lovetoescape.com" class="Hyperlink-C">Self-Catering.

Our holiday accommodation is listed on lovetoescape.com, which also has a great range of Self-Catering

http://www.treezone.co.uk

Aerial Adventure Course, an exhilarating, nature-based outdoor activity experience that lasts around 2 hours. An exciting playground suspended from wires high up in the pine forests of Rothiemurchus, Aviemore.

http://www.lodging-world.com/

Lodging World.com

http://www.welcometoscotland.com/things-to-do/aviemore-cairngorms

Comprehensive information on everything there is to see and do in the area.

http://www.iknow-scotland.co.uk/highlands/aviemore/holiday_cottages/

About the Highlands

http://www.hirecars.co.uk/traveldestinations/just-cheap-car-hire-dalcross-airport-scotland-inv.html

Find the cheapest deals for car hire at Inverness airport using the easy to use car hire comparison site, absolutely free.

http://www.Cairngorms-Park.com

Cairngorms-Park.com lists holiday accommodation, B&Bs, Self-catering, Hotels and Hostels in Cairngorms National Park Scotland – Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, Laggan, Newtonmore, Kingussie, Kincraig, Aviemore, Boat of Garten, Carrbridge, Grantown-on-Spey, Tomintoul, Ballater and Braemar.

http://www.cairngormmountain.com

The highest mountain railway in the UK and the only one in Scotland. Spectacular views. The highest panoramic restaurant and shopping in the UK. An inspirational and unforgettable mountain experience that will delight any visitor - no matter what age or physical ability. Open daily all year.

http://www.monarchcountry.com

Kingussie is in the area known as "Glenbogle" of the BBC drama Monarch of the Glen

http://www.great-houses-scotland.co.uk

Blair Castle just South of Kingussie on the A9. Bagpipes played every day of the season. Events such as Atholl Highlanders' Parade, Gathering and Highland Games. International Horse Trials. Country Fair. Piping and Fiddling Champion ships.

http://www.easyjet.com

For low cost flights to Inverness Airport (Dalcross International) direct in the heart of Scottish Highlands. Car hire available please email for details.

http://www.eden-court.co.uk

Internationally acclaimed Theatre,in a beautiful location on the River Ness, in the centre of Inverness

http://www.albagames.co.uk/Highland_games2000.htm

Check out albagames for the locations and dates of Highland Games throughout Scotland during your holidays. Maybe you would like to stop off at the Games en route to Columba House, or on the day of departure.

http://www.highlandwildlifepark.org

Exciting Wolf Territory, a raised walkway takes you right into the heart of the enclosure.Discover the amazing variety of wildlife in present day Scotland. Then step back in time. Meet creatures that roamed the Highlands thousands of years ago. The animals of your ancestors. Get closer than you ever thought possible, as past meets present. And say hello to the unfriendly and argumentative grouse who does not like having his photo taken. Tigers also now and Camels coming soon.

http://www.jacobitecruises.co.uk

Discover the Haunting Beauty of Loch Ness on the Jacobite Queen. A wonderful, unforgettable experience, cruising amongst some of Scotland's dramatic scenery. Sail throughout the year along the Caledonian Canal and onto Loch Ness, Nessie Spotting. Combined coach/ cruise trips, and private hire also available.

http://www.lochinsh.com

Multi-activities on scenic Loch Insh of sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, river trips, rowing, salmon & trout fishing, dry ski slope skiing, archery, mountain biking and hill walking. Hire and/or instruction by the hour, day or week.

http://www.aviemore.co.uk

Loch Morlich Watersports offers a comprehensive range of activities that can be tailored to suit the needs of groups and individuals. School and youth group activity specialists. Beautiful sandy beach without a tide. Laze on the hot sands and view the snow on the high mountain tops of the Cairngorms.

http://www.rothiemurchus.net

Highland Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms.Loch an Eilein one of the most picturesque places in Scotland with a dramatic island castle.Estate Larder Kitchen with farmhouse cheeses handmade locally.Guided walks with the Ranger Patrol & Landrover Safari with Highland Cattle & Red Deer.Victorian Lodge with roaring log fires.See Ospreys at the Fishery. Clay Pigeon Shooting,mountain biking 4x4 off road driving.All with spectacular panoramic views and alongside Loch Morlich with its beautiful sandy beach and various water sports.An excellent day out for all the family.Special 10% discounts for vistors to the Estate from Columba House.

http://www.castlesandwhisky.com

Click on the link to see how you can purchase just one ticket for endless attractions and save a packet! Historic Scotland a 3 day adult ticket only £12

http://www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk

The Strathspey Railway, located in the Central Highlands of Scotland. With the Cairngorm Mountains at close hand the area is a favourite tourist attraction for its natural beauty and the wide range of outdoor pursuits that such an area can offer. The Strathspey Railway aims to offer the visitor an experience of a Railway of the 1950s to 1960s period. Why not take a trip on the train to re-capture the nostalgia of this era ? Individuals, couples and families alike will enjoy the experience and whether you require a light snack or lunch, our new catering service is here to serve your needs.

http://www.highlandfolk.com

Award winning museum in Newtonmore. A brilliant day out. Discover the world of the Highlander. For opening hours and more details highland.folk@highland.gov.uk