Invereshie and Inshriach National Nature Reserve, National nature reserve in Highland, Scotland
Invereshie and Inshriach National Nature Reserve is a protected area in the Cairngorms with ancient pinewood forests, wetlands, moorlands, and high plateaus. The landscape features rolling terrain with open spaces and forest patches that support diverse plant and animal life.
The Forestry Commission acquired the land in the 1960s and planted non-native trees for timber production. From the 1990s onwards, efforts shifted toward restoring the original native forest composition.
The reserve protects native pinewood that is natural to the Scottish Highlands and shapes how locals view their landscape. You will see how the land is used for both nature conservation and outdoor recreation.
The reserve is accessible through various walking trails of different difficulty levels, from gentle paths to more challenging mountain routes. Plan your visit during the warmer months when conditions are most favorable for exploring.
The reserve supports one of Scotland's strongest populations of capercaillie, a large woodland grouse, along with rare Scottish crossbills. These birds are adapted to old-growth forest conditions and are challenging to spot during a visit.
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