Midges, snow and long light

By the Just Highlands Dating editors · Checked 8 November 2026 · 2 min read

In shortSpring and summer bring long evenings, dolphins at Chanonry Point and festival weekends. Winter days are short, so plan walks for the middle of the day and keep an indoor option, like a film or a show in Inverness, for the evening.

Key facts

Dolphins at Chanonry Point	Best from April to August, from low tide onwards
Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival	29 to 31 July 2027, near Beauly
Loch Morlich Beach Trail	1.5 miles, about an hour, easy
Loch Morlich beach toilets	Open 1 April to 31 October; Glenmore village toilets all year

Highland seasons shape what makes a good date. Summer gives you light until late, and midges if the air is still. Winter gives you crisp walks and dark evenings, which are a good excuse for a film or a show.

Summer: dolphins on the Black Isle

From April to August, dolphins often follow the rising tide into Chanonry Point to feed. Arrive from low tide onwards and walk in from Fortrose or Rosemarkie, as parking is very limited. In autumn and winter sightings are less predictable.

Source: Black-Isle.info: Our dolphins, birds and other wildlife, checked 9 November 2026

July: a festival weekend near Beauly

Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival returns to the Belladrum Estate near Beauly from Thursday 29 to Saturday 31 July 2027. A festival is relaxed and full of things to talk about. Check prices and travel plans early, as it is a busy weekend.

Source: Skiddle: Belladrum returns for 2027, checked 9 November 2026

Winter: a short loch walk at midday

The Beach Trail at Loch Morlich is an easy mile and a half, about an hour, so it fits into a short winter day. The beach toilets close from November to March, but the ones in Glenmore village stay open all year. Check for storm closures before you go.

Source: Forestry and Land Scotland: Loch Morlich Beach, checked 9 November 2026

Questions

When are the midges worst?

Usually on still, damp summer evenings. A breezy spot, like a beach or a headland, is a better bet for an outdoor date.

What can we do when it gets dark mid-afternoon?

Walk in the middle of the day, then head indoors. A film or show at Eden Court in Inverness is an easy plan for a dark evening.

Is a hill walk a good first date?

Only if you both want it and know your limits. A short, well-used path is a better start than a big hill, and tell a friend your route.