The King's Route
King James IV of Scotland, sometimes known as Scotland's Renaissance Prince, encouraged a flowering of art, poetry, music and architecture in the country.
In the 20 years from 1493 to 1513, he travelled on pilgrimage to the shrine of St Duthac at Tain at least 18 times, and probably more often.
Occasionally he came alone or with a few servants; more often he journeyed with a larger group, including courtiers, Italian musicians, falconers, huntsmen, archers and perhaps his cook, a poet and a jester. His last journey was shortly before his death, along with many other Scottish nobles, at the Battle of Flodden.
The King's Ferry
In the time of James IV, travel was difficult and the easiest and most important route was along the coast, crossing a series of ferries. When you follow the King's Route today you are passing along an ancient highway and you can still cross over the King's Ferry, between Cromarty and Nigg. It operates a frequent service between Easter and October and is now the smallest car ferry in Britain.
Where It Starts
The King's Route begins at the tourist information centre above the village of Kessock where, until recently, a ferry crossed from the Inverness shore.
Clootie Well
Your first stop is the eerie Clootie Well, an ancient spring dedicated to St Curidan, where rags (cloots) are still hung on the surrounding bushes and trees. This was once a common practice at holy wells throughout Scotland. The Clootie Well was once thought to have had the power to cure sick children, who were left there overnight. You can detour to visit the wildlife park with its variety of wild and domestic species and a picnic area.
Avoch
In the fishing village of Avoch (pronounced ''Auch'') look out for signs directing you to the annual heritage exhibition, and stroll through the narrow, twisting lanes of the fishertown. In Fortrose you can explore the Red Sandstone ruins of the 14th century Cathedral of Ross, whose history is explained on interpretive panels within the grounds.
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