Hill: Hill of Nigg
Category: Sub2k/Marilyn
Height: 205m
From Cromarty harbour there are a lot of rigs around the bay today as well as big grey skies.

Cromarty Bay rigs

The forecast was for rain mid afternoon so we decided on a shortish walk over at Nigg this morning, should be another easy Sub2k for the good lady.

Hill of Nigg behind ferry

Our outing began by getting the UK’s smallest car ferry, two cars (Highland Ferries), for the 10 minute crossing from Cromarty to Nigg, a different start to a walk giving good views of the construction yard and the rigs. Interesting watching the cars reverse off the ferry onto a steep slip, not for the nervous drivers.
As we docked the heavens opened and we had to take cover in the bus shelter for a while, an ominous message.

Winding road ahead and grey skies

We headed straight up the steep winding private road to the quarry, dull but in dry conditions. Passing a large mixed flock of small birds including siskin’s and chaffinch.
Past the quarry and head straight down the road to the working farm, the road goes through the middle of it. As we approached the farm a red kite was mobbed by 3 crows then the skies erupted as the rookery on our right rose as one, what a racket, kite disappears.
Soon after passing the farm the heavens opened and we got drenched, only light gear with us. No shelter just walk on and curse.
Nigg hill is not marked on the OS map, just the height but straightforward.

Over this fence

We crossed this gate and headed up through the field of sheep towards the shed in the corner. The rain has thankfully relented.

Good lady approaching summit

Cross another gate and aim for the highest point which is just after the line of trees on your left.

Moray Firth from top

A small stone cairn hardly rises above the grass but this is it. The rain has cleared the air, great views all around. We scan the water where we saw the Minke whale calf yesterday but nothing to be seen today.
Another black heavy rain weather front is approaching so we head back the same route. On a better day we would have extended the walk.

Cromarty Bay from top

On the descent there are views of the rigs in the bay standing out and further on Ben Wyvis is so clear. The construction yards are quiet but a large liner is docked at Invergordon, a different one each day.

At least this rain missed us

As we wait for the ferry I spot a large gathering of agitated birds out at sea and through the binos we can see a pod of dolphins passing through heading back out to sea.
Apart from getting soaked a super little walk, highly recommended if you are in the area.

Wildlife: Red Kite, Buzzard, Hooded Crow, House Martin, Siskin, Chaffinch, Dolphin.
Time: 2.29
Ascent: 238m
Distance: 8.9km