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Clan Munro
The origins of the Clan Munro
are uncertain, but their roots go deep into Scottish history.
Tradition has it that, in the 11th century, a group of mercenary
Irish soldiers were given lands in Ross-shire by the King in
return for helping defeat Viking invaders. They established themselves
on the shores of the Cromarty Firth and gradually spread their
influence into the fertile plains of Easter Ross in the area
now known as the Black Isle.
The clan was loyal and generally
peaceful, but it has a proud martial tradition. Munro clansmen
helped form the backbone of the Scottish regiments that took
part in the great European struggles of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Day 1
Arrive in Inverness, the beautiful, bustling capital of the Highlands.
Just to the west of the city is the village of Clachnaharry where
there is a monument commemorating an ancient bloody battle between
your ancestors and men of the Clan Mackintosh.
Day 2
A short journey southwards from Inverness will take you to the
nearby villages of Kingussie and Newtonmore where you'll find
two fascinating Highland Folk Museums. Here, more than 400 years
of Highland life are brought to life in exhibitions which track
the everyday experiences of clansman and crofter. Then back north
where, on the outskirts of Inverness, you will find the atmospheric
battlefield of Culloden where, in April 1746, 'Bonnie' Prince
Charlie's Jacobite rebellion was crushed by Government forces.
Munros fighting at Culloden were on the Jacobite side.
Day 3
Today you leave Inverness and cross the Cromarty Firth to enter
the heartland of the Clan Munro. The clan seat is Foulis Castle
near the village of Evanton, just four miles from Dingwall. Note
that the castle, much of which dates from the 18th century, is
a private home and is open by appointment only. At the end of
your day in Munro country, drive the short distance to Dingwall
ready for tomorrow's exploration of this historic town.
Day 4
Situated at the head of the Cromarty Firth, Dingwall has a long
history including being a meeting place or 'Ting' in Viking times.
The Dingwall Heritage Trail is the easiest way to get to know
the town's history and can be completed in under two hours. Then
travel southwards to the tranquil village of Beauly with its
beautiful 13th century ruined priory. If you are captivated by
the charm of the priory and its setting then you are in good
company.
Day 5
Spend today enjoying the so-called Black Isle, though it is neither
black nor an island! This attractive peninsula, just across the
Cromarty Firth from your ancestral homeland, has many attractions.
In the seaside village of Rosemarkie, the Groam House Museum
will help you find out about the ancient Pictish people who inhabited
the area long before your ancestors arrived. Looking across the
Moray Firth you will see Fort George, built as a garrison after
the 1745 rebellion was suppressed.
Day 6
It is time to return to Inverness and say farewell to the Highlands
as you end your ancestral journey.
Prices are available on request
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