Alness
Alness is a thriving town with a real sense of community spirit. Despite unemployment problems caused by the closure of the Aluminium Smelter and the downturn in fortune for the oil industry at Nigg, the town has made a success of itself and attracted investment. It is very proud of its achievements in the Scotland and Britain in Bloom competitions. The whole community works together to create the stunning floral displays and hanging baskets which brighten every corner of the town. And the first year Alness entered the Scotland in Bloom competition it won its category. It has been winning ever since and experiencing the true power of flowers.
At one time, Alness didn’t have a wonderful reputation. That’s changed.
There’s a real buzz about the place. Businesses are investing in the town and moving into the area. There are a number of prestigious new housing developments, proving Alness is a place people want to be.
The High Street is blooming with new shops opening and existing businesses having to move into larger premises thanks to demand for their services.
On Mitchell’s Lane, the wall is filling up with colourful plaques displaying the town’s success in the Scotland and Britain in Bloom competitions.
And there will be another award from the Britain in Bloom competition hung there again for 2008, as the town won a gold medal.
Looking for a challenge? The 18 hole golf course at Alness has some tricky holes which offers great views over the Cromarty Firth. The surrounding hills, including the magnificent Ben Wyvis frame your shots. If you enjoy fishing, the River Averon has many excellent pools and day tickets can easily be bought in town. Two large distilleries are also to be found in town. Dalmore and Teaninich are a fine introduction to the malt whisky produced in the Highlands.