2011 conference: location and travel
Strathpeffer, Scotland
Strathpeffer (57°36'N, 4°32'W) is a village 5 km west of Dingwall, and 20 km northwest of Inverness in Highland Scotland.
Its human population is 1,500. It lies in a valley ("strath" means a wide valley) with the River Peffery running through it.
One of the oldest historical signs in the village is a rock with Pictish carvings of an eagle.
The Picts lived in north and east Scotland 1,500 years ago. This Celtic tribe later amalgamated with Scots and Britons to form the Scottish nation.
Strathpeffer's strategic position led to inter-clan battles being fought in the area, notably between the MacKenzies and MacDonalds.
The current chief of the MacKenzie clan lives in nearby Castle Leod (pronounced "loud", as in "not quiet").
During Victorian times (19th century), Strathpeffer became famous as a spa town after the discovery of sulphurous springs. A pump was installed in 1819
and people flocked to drink this "health-giving" water (it tastes disgusting by the way) and bathe in the mud. A hospital and hotel were also built for cure seekers.
Strathpeffer still attracts tourists who enjoy the tranquil setting and scenery. The Highland childhood museum, cycling routes and chocolate shop (mmm!) are additional attractions.
Getting there
The nearest airport is Inverness airport with direct flights from UK
and some major continental European destinations: e.g. Amsterdam and Dusseldorf.
For delegates from overseas, somewhat larger airports are located in Edinburgh and
Glasgow. Strathpeffer can be reached in 3-4 hrs (car) to 4-5 hrs (bus)(or in a 2 days walk from these cities if you prefer).
Aberdeen airport is a little closer but serves mainly UK and European destinations.
Inverness can also be reached by bus and train from Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow. It is at the end of the main railway line from London. There are numerous websites providing information
on bus and train schedules and fares.
Strathpeffer can be reached by bus from Inverness. Bus timetables can be found here.
We plan to lay on a mini-bus service to Strathpeffer from Inverness airport, Inverness railway station and Inverness bus station (next to the railway station). More information will follow.
Getting around
Accommodation and lecture hall will be both located at the Ben Wyvis Hotel.
