Begin your journey by crossing the Kessock Bridge from Inverness to The Black Isle. Stop at the 13th-century Fortrose Cathedral and Chanonry Point, where you might spot dolphins.

Continue to Groam House Museum in Rosemarkie to see a collection of carved Pictish stones from the 8th century AD. Then, head to Cromarty, a charming town perfect for a brief wander and a coffee.

Board the Cromarty-Nigg ferry to explore Pictish sites and stones at Nigg, Shandwick, and Hilton of Cadboll. Enjoy a beach walk at Balintore and Hilton, and keep an eye out for mermaids. There’s a great lunch opportunity here before continuing on your journey to meet a Pictish Queen at The Tarbat Discovery Centre, Portmahomack, the epicenter of the 8th-century Pictish monastic estate.

Take a quick diversion to see Tarbat Ness lighthouse before viewing the final Pictish stone of the day, the Edderton Cross Slab.