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Science and Innovation

Inside the Hydro Ness, Inverness. (Credit: Airborne Lens)
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In the Highlands and Islands, the links between the landscape and innovation are strong. From dams to canals, and from energy hubs to fishing ports, environment and development are intertwined.

Today, whether it is pioneering thinking in peatland restoration, wind and wave power, or rural health care, the Highlands and Islands continues to build on its heritage of cutting-edge science and innovation. With opportunities to explore bold new conservation projects and new energy generation alongside long-standing industries such as fishing, there is a world of big endeavour to experience here – in a big land where travel itself has been hard-won by road, rail and ferry.

EXPLORE THE SPIRIT OF SCIENCE AND INNOVATION IN THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS

Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve, Assynt (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Nature 4 Health walk at the Caledonian Canal, Inverness (Credit: Nature 4 Health/Stephen Wiseman)
Stromness, Orkney Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Hydro Ness, Inverness (Credit: Airborne Lens)
The MV Leirna at Lerwick, Shetland Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
North Uist, Outer Hebrides (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Laggan Locks on the Caledonian Canal. (Credit: Visit Scotland/ Luigi di Pasquale)

Itineraries

Beyond Extraordinary

Follow in the footsteps of 19th and 20th century Orkney pioneers.

The Coastal Marvels of Millport

Unwind and explore the wonders of Millport’s coastline in this short, self-guided itinerary.

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Locations

FSC Millport Learn about the rich history of marine research at this unique field centre. Add FSC Millport to an itinerary
Glenfinnan Viaduct Admire a marvel of engineering against the scenic landscape of Lochaber. Add Glenfinnan Viaduct to an itinerary
Hoy High Lighthouse A marvel of engineering on the 'Green Isle' of Orkney. Add Hoy High Lighthouse to an itinerary

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Be inspired

Glen Affric in winter with mountains in the top half of the image covered in snow. Clouds brush the top of the mountain peaks under a clear blue sky.
Learn How the Nature of Conservation is Changing
A blue and white ferry, the MV Leirna, is sailing in the centre of the image. A small wooden canoe boat with a large mast in buoyed in the forefront, visible in the bottom half of the image.
Ferries Provide Travellers with a Different Perspective
Inside the metal grates of the Hydro Ness, a generator for hydroelectric power. The River Ness lined with trees is visible on the left of the image.
Power to the People from Great Highland Rivers
The flat plains of the Flow Country, Caithness under cloudy skies.
Go with the Flow (Country)!
Pier heads out to water at Loch with mountains and reflections along the water.
World Leading Innovation