Out of Doors

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Out of Doors: Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Railway

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Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Railway

BBC Radio Scotland - Out of Doors, Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Railway

Mark Stephen and Euan McIlwraith explore the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh railway line.

The Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh railway runs for 82 miles through some of the most picturesque landscapes of Scotland. It was first built in 1870 as far as Stromeferry on Loch Carron to improve transport links to the Highlands and the West Coast. It was then possible to take a steamer from Stromeferry to Skye and beyond, and this was a key stop for the herring industry. The line was completed to Kyle in 1897 and soon became popular as a tourist route. It has survived various threats of closure during its history, but now is busier than ever.

In this special edition of Out of Doors, Mark and Euan take the trip from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. In Dingwall, they discover the remnants of what was once a significant terminal, especially during the war years. They take a diversion to the spa town of Strathpeffer and learn about the once celebrated waters there. As the country changes into more open hill landscape, they meet outdoor enthusiast Pammy Johal who shares her deep passion for Lochluichart. Onwards to Achnashellach, and a beautiful woodland walk before stopping off for a refreshment at the tiny Strathcarron Brewery. Then a wander around the beautiful Attadale Gardens before visiting the once bustling Stromeferry where riots occurred over fish being transported on a Sunday. And a trip out on a boat from the idyllic village of Plockton before arriving at Kyle of Lochalsh, the gateway to Skye and beyond.

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