Chanonry Point and the Black Isle Coastal Walk

Chanonry Point is a narrow spit of shingle and shell-sand jutting into the Moray Firth from the Black Isle, and it has earned an international reputation as one of the finest places in Europe to observe wild bottlenose dolphins at close range from shore. The dolphins feed in the tidal race at the point's tip, and sightings are most reliable in the two hours either side of a rising tide from spring to autumn, though winter sightings are not unusual. The walk from the car park follows the golf-course edge along the spit to the lighthouse at the point, with the Moray Firth opening on both sides and views across the water towards Fort George on the south shore.

This is a superb dog friendly walk with outstanding off-lead potential along the shingle beach. The flat, firm surface suits all ages and sizes of dog, and the open space of the spit gives dogs room to run without restriction. Livestock risk is zero. The dolphin watching aspect adds an element that most walks cannot offer: the experience of watching a dozen dolphins hunting at close range while your dog investigates the tideline is a uniquely Highland pleasure. The car park has toilets. Fortrose a short drive away has cafés and pubs, most of which welcome dogs outside. The Black Isle beyond Fortrose has numerous other walks for those spending more time in the area.