Strathpeffer is a village and former Spa town in the Scottish Highlands, 5 miles west of Dingwall with a population of 1,469 [1]. It lies in a valley, with varying elevation from 200 to 400 feet above sea level, but is sheltered on the west and north and has a comparatively dry and warm climate.
The ascent of Ben Wyvis is commonly made from Strathpeffer.
History
The village was the scene of the fight between the MacKenzies and Macdonalds in 1478, and later between the MacKenzies and the Munros . The MacKenzies prevailed in both encounters.
In the Victorian era Strathpeffer was popular as a spa resort, owing to the discovery of sulphurous springs in the 18th century. Situated in the middle of the village is the pump-room, dating from 1819, and soon after a hospital and a hotel were also built. The pavillion dates from 1880, and was built to provide a venue for entertainment of the visitors. The arrival of the railways in Dingwall in 1862 did much to bring more visitors to the town. In 1885 a branch line from the Kyle of Lochalsh Line was built; ironically the most logical route for the line to Kyle of Lochalsh was through the town, but disagreements with landowners initially prevented the railway from crossing their land. The branch closed in 1951.
External links
Last updated: 10-12-2005 18:32:53
