When you think of Scotland, there are certain things that come to mind: thistles, whisky, castles, haggis and the Highland cow. These majestic, auburn-coloured beasts with their long, uniquely shaped horns are a magnificent sight to behold and lots of visitors seek them out for a photo. Unlike the more common sheep which you will frequently see grazing in fields and on the hillsides, spotting a Highland cow in these parts can be more of a challenge. We have had many guests asking us where they can find a Highland cow close to Distant Hills Guest House.
This article will tell you of two different places where you are mostly likely to spot a Highland cow; however, these are not guaranteed as farmers will move their cattle around according to the time of year and weather conditions. Before we divulge these locations, let us tell you a little bit of history about Highland cattle and why they are so special.
A Brief History of the Highland Cow
It is believed that Highland cattle originated in the Highlands and the Outer Hebrides as early as the 6th Century. The first written records of Highland cows date back to 1200 AD; however, archaeological evidence suggests that they can be traced back to as far as 1200BC. The Highland cow is the oldest registered breed of beef cattle in the world! These magnificent beasts can also be found in certain parts of Europe (Cameron and I were amazed to find a small herd grazing on a high Austrian pasture), Australia, New Zealand as well as North and South America.
The Highland cow has a double layered coat equipping it for the harsh wild weather conditions. When Highland cattle were first bred, they were mostly black but this has changed over time to rusty, auburn being the predominant colour. They are rather friendly and docile creatures and are referred to by some Scottish people as ‘hairy coos’.
So, where can you find a hairy coo near us?
The Highland Cows of Glen Nevis
This is perhaps the least reliable of the two locations to spot Highland cattle as the cows have a larger area to roam and sometimes disappear from view of the road but it’s still a stunning drive. Simply head in towards Fort William and turn first left at the Ben Nevis Highland Centre roundabout following signs to Glen Nevis. It is a fabulous drive through the Glen offering superb views of the surrounding towering mountains as well as the River Nevis. As you wind along this quiet road, keep a lookout to your left on the green pasture areas as well as down by the river. If you do spot the cows, please park responsibly and do not get too close to the cattle.
It is worth driving to the Lower Falls car park and parking up for a few minutes to take a look at the Polldubh Falls. If the mood takes you, you can also walk along the river path as far as the Steall Waterfall. This is quite a way though. There is another car park at the very end of Glen Nevis called the Upper Falls car park. This is the most popular place to park to walk to Steall Waterfall.
Highland Cows at Creag Meagaidh Nature Reserve
If you turn right out of Distant Hills Guest House and drive for half an hour along the A86, you will come to Creag Meagaidh Nature Reserve situated on your left. Park your vehicle in the large car park and there are usually several Highland cows in the field behind the picnic benches. If the Highland cows are not in this field, we have sometimes spotted them in the field on the other side of the road but be mindful of the traffic. Since you’re in the Creag Meagaidh Nature Reserve, why not follow one of the signposted walks. There are walks for all abilities, two of which feature on our Distant Hills Walking Holidays programmes. Read more out our Distant Hills Walking Holidays here.
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