Reelig Glen

A rushing burn, and an ancient woodland of tall trees

Reelig Glen is a narrow, steep-sided gorge, cut by the rushing waters of the Moniack. The woodland is a mixture of old conifer and broadleaved trees, but its real glory is a stand of Douglas Fir trees that are well over 100 years old. They soar above you to a height of about 170 feet (50 metres).

One old giant measured over 200 feet (64 metres) in the year 2000 – the tallest tree in Britain at the time. After a local competition, it was named Dùghall Mòr – Big Douglas! 

This old policy woodland had belonged to the Fraser family for some 500 years until it was sold to the Forestry Commission in 1949. The way Reelig Glen looks today owes much to James Baillie Fraser (1783-1856) who planted many of the trees.

Walking trails

Reelig Glen route card (PDF)

Walking

Tall Trees Trail

Explore a magical mossy glen towered over by some remarkable firs, cedars and spruces. Pass Dùghall Mòr, at 62m once Britain’s tallest tree.

Firm, mostly wide gravel surface with uneven and muddy sections. Includes some steep slopes and steps. One narrow bridge and a short section along the road.

1 miles / 1.7 km

Allow
¾ hour

More information

A charming route through cathedral-like Douglas Firs with the sound of the Moniack burn tumbling below. Look out for the 19th century stone bridge and grotto at the top of the trail. They're based on features the owner admired during his travels on the continent.

Walking

Upper Reelig Trail

Take a walk through the magnificent beech, pine and fir woodland above the glen. 

Long steep slopes and some uneven rocky steps. Mostly wide, uneven earthy surface. Some exposed tree roots and muddy sections.

1 ¼ miles / 1.9 km

Allow
1 hour

Facilities and access

Walking

Parking

Picnic area

Life's essentials

There are toilets and places to eat in Beauly.

Getting here

From Inverness, take the A862 west towards Beauly. After about 6½ miles (10.5 km), turn left onto a minor road signposted to Moniack and Clunes. Take a left fork after a long straight stretch of road and continue for another ½ mile (800 metres) mile to reach the small car park.

Using SatNav?

IV5 7PR is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

Buses to Moniack pass within ½ mile (800 metres) of Reelig Glen. Check Traveline Scotland for details.

Get directions

Find out more

• Forests near Inverness