This summer, take a different family holiday and venture to the North Highlands of Scotland to experience the thrills of traditional Highland Games

Around since the early clan gatherings, Highland Games originate from rival chieftains pitting warrior against warrior to determine the worthiness of his clan.

In the spirit of tradition, the games today consist of an exciting mix of sporting, cultural and social events. The fast-paced field and track events, the piping and Highland dancing competitions, and the 'heavy events' like tossing the caber and tug-o-war are just a few reasons to visit the various games taking place at locations across the North Highlands this summer.

The atmosphere is vibrant, with Highland dancers and pipers reveling in the sporting but fierce competition. Set against the grandeur of the Scottish landscape, the Highland Games are a must for anyone wanting to enjoy a fun-filled day in northern Scotland.

Chairman on North Highland Tourism, Murray Lamont, is looking forward to the arrival of this summer's visitors to the North Highlands. 'The games are an essential part of Scottish tradition and are popular with locals and tourists alike,' he said. 'Rich heritage is just one of the reasons people choose to visit Scotland alongside stunning scenery, fine food and drink and researching family histories. There are traditional gatherings happening locally across the Highlands this summer and it's something everyone should experience.'

Some of the main games taking place in the North Highlands this summer are:

Durness Highland Gathering

A typical Highland Games day in the most north-westerley mainland town, Durness, will come alive with the sounds of pipers and athletes testing their skills in the field and track events including the usual 'heavy' events and special children's events.
When: 25 July
Where: Shore Park, Durness

Halkirk Highland Games

Over 100 competitors will battle it out in nearly 100 events for the biggest Highland games prize purse. Pipe music from the Thurso and Kirkwall City pipe bands.
When: 26 July
Where: Recreation Park, Halkirk

Royal British Legion Mey Highland Games

With long links to royalty continuing to this day, Mey hosts its annual games on 2 August where HRH Prince Charles is honorary president and regularly visits. Heavy events, track and field and solo piping will be among the highlights.
When: 2 August
Where: Queen's Park, Mey

Dornoch Highland Games

Held since 1887, these games are situated in the Royal and Ancient Burgh of Dornoch, very close to the Cathedral. The ranges of events are accompanied by the Dornoch Pipe Band, and 'Mini games' are available for children to take part in.
When: 3 August
Where: Meadows Par, Dornoch

Assynt Highland Games

For something extra special, enjoy the Assynt Highland Games in Lochinver, you'll get to experience all the usual fun, plus the North of Scotland's Trout and Salmon Fly Casting Championships and a craft and flower show.
When: 8 August
Where: Culag Park, Lochinver

Tain Highland Games

Tain is host to the usual traditional Highland games events, but with the highlight of the British light and heavy hammer championships included in the line-up.
When: 11 August
Where: Glenmorangie, Tain

Helmsdale Highland Games

Another traditional Highland Games, including the novelty event of Haggis Hurling, with side shows and trade stands.
When: 16 August
Where: Couper Park, Helmsdale

Invergordon Highland Gathering

This year the organisers of the gathering are planning to host a taste of Scotland to celebrate the year of culture, and will also be holding mini Highland games for primary school children.
When: 25 August
Where: Academy playing fields, Invergordon

Invercharron Highland Games

All the best traditional Highland events, including a heavy events section, and an open Junior and Senior Solo Piping competition.
When: 20 September
Where: Balblair Farm, Bonar Bridge

For more information about the Northern Highlands and to find information on all the Highland Games taking place this summer, visit www.northhighlandsscotland.com and explore the events calendar.