Avoch

The coastal village of Avoch on the Moray Firth is in the Ross and Cromarty area of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. The village and surrounding area are popular with walkers, climbers, outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The area around Avoch is well known for the breathtaking contrasts of its landscapes as well as being home to some of the oldest rock formations in Europe that date from the Cambrian and Precambrian age. There is a long and rich history here and Avoch is home to the remains of the once mighty stronghold, Ormond Castle. It is believed that Ormond Castle may have been one of the two castles known to have been erected on the Black Isle during the reign of William the Lion as royal fortresses. By the mid 17^th century, the castle was destroyed by Oliver Cromwell, in order for him to build his fortress at Inverness.

Avoch grew and developed from its fishing industry but today it is tourism that is the major industry; with wildlife-watching boat trips taking visitors to see the dolphins in the inner Moray Firth at Chanonry Point. Avoch offers some amenities and is within reach of other towns that offer additional choices for dining, shopping and leisure. Some visitors come to visit 'Craigie Well' where offerings of coins and ‘clouties’, of rags wool and human hair are placed as charms against sorcery and fulfilment of vows.