Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve - map and other informations

Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve is a stunning wilderness area that covers over 20,000 hectares of bog, heather-clad moorland, and peatland. The reserve is situated near the village of Forsinard in Sutherland Parish, and it is easily accessible by road and rail.

Designated as a national nature reserve in 1951, Forsinard Flows is renowned for its unique landscape, wildlife, and plant species, which have adapted to living in the harsh and challenging environment of Scotland's remote uplands.

Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing, as well as exploring the area's fascinating cultural heritage and history.

One of the most popular hikes is the Forsinard Trail, a 6-mile circular route that takes you through the heart of the nature reserve. Along the way, you can expect to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including golden eagles, red deer, and the ever-elusive Scottish wildcat.

For bird enthusiasts, the Forsinard Flows are an ornithologist's paradise, home to over 60 different species, including rarities such as the hen harrier and the long-tailed skua. Bird hides are available throughout the reserve, which affords visitors an opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures undisturbed.

The reserve is also recognized for its diverse plant life, which includes unique floristic species like the sundew and the cloudberry, as well as thousands of different mosses and liverworts. Due to its importance in conservation, much of the Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), which helps to protect its significant environmental and ecological value.

For those in search of fishing opportunities, Forsinard Flows offers some of the best-undisturbed loch and river fishing in Scotland. Local permits are available, and anglers can expect to catch brown trout and lively salmon.

In summary, Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve offers visitors a truly unique experience of exploring the Scottish Highlands wilderness. With its incredible biodiversity, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Scotland.