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Scottish Highlands   Travel Guide

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11 Best Things To Do in Scottish Highlands

Updated February 11, 2021

The best way to tackle this wildland is to figure out what kind of adventure you want to have. If you're looking for heart-pumping hikes, hit up the mountainous Cairngorms National Park or traverse the U.K.'s tallest peak, Ben Nevis . For low-level

• All Things To Do

Isle of Skye Isle of Skye free

If you only had time to visit one part of the Scottish Highlands, let it be the Isle of Skye. Located on the west coast of the Highlands, Skye is the largest island of the Inner Hebrides. The island is filled to the brim with otherworldly landscapes. There's a lot to see on this island, but travel experts and visitors say you can't leave without peeping these gems: the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point and the Fairy Pools.

The Quiraing is the perfect introduction to Skye's spellbinding geography. As you descend down the Quiraing, you'll be greeted with sweeping views of stunning geography: Cracked plateaus with craggy cliffsides lead the way to an expansive valley of verdant rolling hills, stately rock formations and alpine lakes. Situated 13 miles south is the Old Man of Storr, a single, pinnacle-shaped rock which stands out for its looks; it's so tall and distinct, it can easily be spotted from sea level miles away.

Glencoe Glencoe free

You may hear the word "glen" a lot during your trip to the Scottish Highlands. A glen is another word for a narrow valley and the Highlands is filled with them. The most popular glen for visitors – not to mention one of the most popular attractions in the Scottish Highlands – is Glencoe. Glencoe is situated 23 miles south of Ben Nevis along Loch Leven in the central Highlands. The valley is consistently lauded by both travelers and locals for its awe-inspiring landscape, with many recent visitors describing its terrain as "out of this world." The A82 highway conveniently cuts right through the verdant Glencoe valley. Many visitors report only driving through Glencoe due to time constraints, but many express regret at not being able to explore this stunning area more. Luckily, if you are short on time, travelers do say the scenic drive certainly impressed and there are multiple viewing spots along the highway.

If you do have time to explore Glencoe, you'll find the area offers spectacular hikes and great water activities on Loch Leven. The Coire Gabhail, or Lost Valley hike, is a popular 2 ½-mile trail that weaves through a wooded gorge between some of Glencoe's munros and ends in a wide, open valley tucked away from the view of the highway. If you want to hike to the top of a munro, try the 5-mile-long Buachaille Etive Beag or the 7-mile-long Bidean nam Bian for sweeping views of the Glencoe valley. 

Cairngorms National Park Cairngorms National Park free

Cairngorms National Park is its own world. You could easily spend days exploring the many mountains, lochs, rivers, forests and villages that comprise the United Kingdom's largest national park. Measuring 1,748 square miles, Cairngorms not only boasts four of Scotland's five tallest mountains but also five of the U.K.'s six tallest peaks. In addition to plenty of hiking, biking and skiing trails, the park also features unique attractions. Here you'll find ancient castles – including Balmoral Castle, a favorite of Queen Victoria – and an impressive number of breweries and distilleries, as well as Britain's only free-grazing reindeer herd, the Cairngorm Reindeer.

With so much to see and do, the park may be overwhelming for first-time visitors. The most popular activities in the park are hiking, seeing the Cairngorm Reindeer and riding the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, which transports passengers 3,500 feet up into the park's mountain range. For a low-level trek, try the 5-mile-long Kingussie to Newtonmore trail, which weaves along the base of the Monadhliath Mountains and the peaceful River Spey.

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Eilean Donan Castle Eilean Donan Castle

Of all the castles to visit in the Scottish Highlands, Eilean Donan Castle is the one worth taking the detour for. Located near the small town of Dornie in the northeastern Highlands, Eilean Donan Castle is considered an icon among locals for its rich history and picturesque placement at the junction of three different lochs (Loch Alsh, Loch Duich and Loch Long all meet here). The castle was originally built in the 13th century by Alexander II of Scotland to guard the area against possible Viking invasions. The castle stood in grandeur for hundreds of years until the 18th century, when the Jacobites (Catholic Scottish opposition group to the Protestant, English-ruling government) took over the castle and occupied it. Soon after, English forces descended upon the castle and destroyed it in battle, leaving Eilean Donan in ruins for hundreds of years. It wasn't until the early 1900s that a lieutenant colonel bought the land the castle occupied and rebuilt Eilean Donan from the ground up.

Inside the castle, you'll find period decor, as well as weaponry and artifacts from the Jacobite era. However, most travelers admit making time for Eilean Donan primarily for its scenic address. The castle is situated on a very small island surrounded by lochs lined with leafy munros. Accessible only by an old stone footbridge, it's easy to see why the castle is considered such a special place for Scots. Travelers do say that since this is such a popular attraction, it's best to get there early as coach buses are known to stop here on tours of the Scottish Highlands.

Glenfinnan & the West Highland Line Glenfinnan & the West Highland Line free

The "Harry Potter" movies were filmed throughout the Scottish Highlands (the location of Hagrid's hut can be found in Glencoe ), but the most recognizable location is in Glenfinnan. Remember that stately, stone bridge the Hogwarts Express always crossed on its way to Hogwarts? That's the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The Jacobite Steam Train, which shares a striking resemblance to the Hogwarts Express, runs along the Glenfinnan Viaduct. If you can swing it, you should consider a ride on the train, even if you aren't a "Harry Potter" fan. That's because train follows the West Highland Line, considered one of the most scenic train routes in the world. The West Highland Line travels along the west coast of Scotland, through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and remote Highlands areas inaccessible by car. Note: The Jacobite Steam Train follows part of the West Highland Line, not all of it; the ScotRail operates the route in full. 

If you aren't riding the train, you can get a great view of the viaduct from the Glenfinnan Trail View Point, which starts conveniently at the Glenfinnan train station. Travelers who visited the Glenfinnan Viaduct recommend coming when the Jacobite train is scheduled to pass by. "Harry Potter" fans particularly enjoyed the view, saying it was fun to imagine that they were watching the Hogwarts Express on its way to school. Others travelers offered mixed reviews, with some saying it was nothing more than a train passing over a bridge.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park free

Scotland's first national park houses Loch Lomond, Britain's largest loch. The park is much smaller than its northern neighbor ( Cairngorms National Park is 1,748 square miles while Loch Lomond & The Trossachs measures 720 square miles), but it still offers plenty of things to do. While Cairngorms is known for its mountains, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs stands out for its many beautiful bodies of water. Along with the grand Loch Lomond, the park has 22 other lochs to its name, yielding about 39 miles of coastline for visitors to enjoy, as well as 50 rivers. 

The park is divided into four distinct areas. Loch Lomond is considered its own distinct area and is the most visited, offering villages for visitors to stay, shop and sightsee in. The second most-visited area is the Trossachs, situated northeast of Loch Lomond. The Trossachs stands out for housing two National Scenic Areas, the Great Trossachs Forest and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, the former of which stands as one of the U.K.'s largest national nature reserves. The Trossachs is an endless sea of munros (mountains higher than 3,000 feet) overlooking glittering lochs, including the popular Loch Katrine. For breathtaking loch views, hike Ben A'an, a 1,491-foot-tall hill that overlooks both Loch Katrine and Loch Achray. If you're looking for something a little more leisurely, hit up part of the 30-mile-long Great Trossachs Path, which passes by Loch Katrine, Loch Arklet and Loch Venachar.

Loch Ness Loch Ness free

You can't leave the Scottish Highlands without visiting the infamous Loch Ness, Scotland's largest loch (by volume). Loch Ness is known worldwide for housing the mythical, dinosaur-like monster, Nessie. The loch spans 23 miles in length and is 700 feet at its deepest, making the Nessie conspiracy all the more plausible. Aside from the Nessie legend, Loch Ness offers stunning scenery, with forest-filled mountains flanking either side of the serene loch. Most travelers choose to enjoy Loch Ness by cruise. Sailings depart from various towns along the loch, including Fort Augustus, Drumnadrochit and Inverness.

There are also multiple points of interest and hikes worth exploring offshore. One of the most popular attractions is the thousand-year-old Urquhart Castle, which sits in ruins at the edge of Loch Ness in Drumnadrochit. Drumnadrochit is also home to the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition, perfect for those wanting to learn more about the legend of Nessie. For hiking, you'll find plenty of trails in and around Loch Ness. The Fall of Foyers trail, which is close to 3 miles in length, takes travelers to the popular Fall of Foyers, the shores of Loch Ness and atop hills overlooking the loch as well. For more of a trek, try the highest hill in Loch Ness, Meall Fuar-mhonaidh. This nearly 6-mile trek takes travelers to the top of the hill, offering expansive views of both Loch Ness and the general Great Glen area (which spans from Inverness to Fort William). 

Scottish Highlands Beaches Scottish Highlands Beaches free

If you really want to take in the full spectrum of the Highlands' geographical grandeur, make time for its beaches. Some of the beaches feature waters so clear and sands so white they resemble the kind of shorelines you'd find in the Caribbean. In contrast, there are also a plethora of beaches in the Highlands that are much more dramatic in landscape, akin to the rocky, mountainous coastline you'd come across in the Pacific Northwest.

If you're on the west coast, start at Camusdarach Beach in Morar. Camusdarach Beach is a lengthy shore backed by soft dunes and flanked by green hills and craggy bluffs. The beach also offers views of the mountains on distant isles, including the Isle of Skye . For a more Caribbean feel, head to Achmelvich Beach, located in the northwestern town of Lochinver. It features clear, turquoise waters and nearly white sands. For something a little more remote (with far fewer crowds), trek to Sandwood Bay. This beach requires visitors to traverse an 8-mile round-trip coastal hike, but is consistently lauded as one of the best beaches in Britain for its rich blue waters and striking cliffs situated on either side of the shore. If you'd prefer a shorter walk, Sango Bay in Durness offers similar scenery.

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Scottish Highlands Golf Courses Scottish Highlands Golf Courses

If you're a golfer and happen to be in the Scottish Highlands, you'll want to take advantage of the region's beautiful courses. In fact, the Scottish Highlands is home to some of the best golf courses in the world. Here, you can find courses both along the water and inland as well as in remote areas and well-connected locales. The highest concentration of golf courses can be found in Caithness, Ross-Shire, Speyside, Sutherland and Inverness, though there are noteworthy courses spread out elsewhere as well. 

There is truly a course for all types of golfers in the Scottish Highlands. If you prefer your golf with a side of Scotch whiskey, travel south to Speyside (a known distillery hub in Scotland) to enjoy the Speyside Golf Experience . If you're looking for something more remote, head up to the Brora Golf Club in Sutherland, where instead of yardage markers you'll likely run into sheep on the course. If you want to golf where King Edward VII once did, head up the Royal Dornoch Golf Course (after he visited, the course altered its name to include "Royal" in the title).

Duncansby Head Duncansby Head free

England has the White Cliffs of Dover, Ireland has the Cliffs of Moher and the Scottish Highlands has Duncansby Head. Located on the northernmost tip of Scotland's east coast, Duncansby Head features jagged cliffs – draped in rich, evergreen vegetation – that stretch as far as the eye can see. While you'll likely find this kind of geography in other parts of the coastal Highlands, what makes Duncansby Head stands out are its stacks. The Duncansby Stacks are a series of striking rock formations that stand less than a mile off the coast of Duncansby Head. With their rocky silhouettes so closely resembling that of the mainland's edge, it almost looks as if they are puzzle pieces that could easily fit right back into the slits of the cliffs.

The trail to get to the Duncansby Stacks is a little more than 5 miles in length and incredibly scenic, according to recent visitors. The trail lines the edge of the coast, starting at John O'Groats, a small village nearest Duncansby Head. Before you get to the cliffs, you'll pass by a few low-level beaches. Once you get to the lighthouse, you'll reach Duncansby Head and be less than a mile from the stacks. Visitors note that they had to traverse through grassy meadows along this part of the trail and, considering the damp nature of the area, strongly suggested sturdy boots. Visitors also reported very windy conditions, so bring a sturdy jacket with you as well. When you reach the stacks, don't forget to look down. Travelers say that they were able to spot seals and puffins around the cliffs and on the beaches.

Ben Nevis Ben Nevis free

The most popular trail in the Scottish Highlands is also one of its most challenging. Ben Nevis, the U.K.'s tallest mountain, sits just 7 miles southeast of Fort William. Nevis clocks in around 4,406 feet high, yielding incredible views at the top for those tough enough to ascend its summit. Of all the 125,000 travelers who visit the mountain per year, only 25,000 successfully conquer Ben. The trail is nearly 11 miles total and, according to the Fort William tourism board, takes about seven hours to complete (four hours up and three hours down), though some hikers reported that it can take less time in ideal weather conditions. Travelers who did reach the top say the trek was completely worth it for the unmatched views of the Highlands.

Echoing the concerns of the Fort William tourism board, hikers said the weather conditions in Ben Nevis are unpredictable and can change rapidly, even during a perfect summer's day. Always check the weather beforehand. Wind conditions in particular are known to get more intense the closer you get to the summit, regardless of the temperature. And because the terrain is entirely composed of rock, you'll want to wear the proper hiking shoes. Plan to carry lots of water and snacks, and know that the only restrooms available are at the bottom of the mountain.

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Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

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The Scottish Highlands belong on every traveler's bucket list, but, in particular, the beautiful region of Scotland is coveted by nature lovers and outdoorsy adventurers. Located in the western and northern areas of Scotland, the Highlands feature unparalleled scenery, from towering mountain ranges to sweeping, green countryside to sparkling lochs. It's the sort of place that feels otherworldly, especially when you leave the beaten path and get into the more remote areas of the Highlands. It can be difficult to decide what to include on a Highlands itinerary, but you really can't go wrong, especially if you give yourself plenty of time to explore.

The Top Destinations in the Scottish Highlands

The Highlands represent a massive area of northern Scotland, including numerous towns, national parks, and wilderness areas. Deciding what to see can be intimating at first, especially when looking at a map, so it's best to narrow your visit down to a few solid destinations. While there are many places to go around the Scottish Highlands, some of the best and most memorable include Cairngorms National Park, Loch Lomond and Glencoe.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is one of the most famous areas in the Highlands, boasting magnificent views you won't forget. The vast area is the largest national park in the U.K. and welcomes both day-trippers and those who hope to spend a few days (or even a week) exploring its lakes, mountains, and natural formations. Camping is particularly popular in Cairngorms and there are numerous campsites, for both tents and camper vans, throughout the park.

Cairngorms National Park isn't just for hiking and camping, either. The park features numerous museums, historic sites, and even castles, all of which should be part of your itinerary. Look for Balmoral Castle, Ballindalloch Castle, and the Highland Folk Museum , which showcases living history.

Scotch lovers shouldn't miss the Glenlivet Distillery , where the distillery showcases whiskey-making and even includes a tasting on its tours (which should be booked in advance).

Isle of Skye

Located off the west coast of Scotland, Isle of Skye is famous for its rugged yet picturesque landscapes and its beautiful coastline. There are numerous villages throughout the island, including Portree and Dunvegan. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye to spot its varied wildlife and enjoy its iconic hikes. Isle of Skye is best visited during the warmer months, when you can better enjoy the hiking trails and beaches.

There's a lot to see and experience on Skye, so it's best to stay at least a few days, whether it's in a holiday home rental or a campsite. Check out the Talisker distillery and Dunvegan Castle and Gardens , which has been the ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod for 800 years. Many visitors also opt to take a boat tour around the island, if you'd like to join one look for tours leaving from Elgol or Portree. If you don't have a car or a rental, stay in one of the main areas, like Portree, but the more remote destinations on the island are recommended for a quiet, nature-focused getaway.

Inverness and Loch Ness

The city of Inverness, located in the far north of Scotland, has a sizable airport and a bustling downtown with nice restaurants and shopping areas. The city is also the gateway to Loch Ness, a beautiful destination that has far more to offer than just its mythic monster. Hiking, fishing, cycling, and skiing are all popular activities in the scenic areas around Inverness, but there's also plenty of history, from Inverness Cathedral to Fort George.

To best explore Loch Ness, book a boat cruise. After the cruise pay a visit to the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition . Families will also enjoy Nessieland, a small theme park with play areas and attractions based on Nessie herself. Adventurous travelers should rent a bike and ride the Loch Ness 360° Trail , which circles the entirety of Loch Ness.

Fort William and Ben Nevis

Found in the western part of the Scottish Highlands, Fort William is a town best known as the gateway to Ben Nevis, the U.K.’s tallest peak that was once an active volcano, and the Glen Nevis valley. While many visitors will want to come during the summer for hiking and outdoor activities, the mountains also boasts great skiing at Nevis Range during the colder months. There area has numerous hikes, in varying degrees of difficulty, and many people attempt the steep trek to the top of Ben Nevis via one of its two faces.

Fort William itself is a small town with nice bed and breakfasts and holiday cottages, and there are also several surrounding villages to explore. There are also great pubs and seafood restaurants in the area, including the Ben Nevis Inn, located at the base of the mountain's footpath.

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan is a small island in the western highlands where Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh meet, and standing atop the island is the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. It's a place you'll recognize from a lot of movies, including the "The World Is Not Enough" and "Highlander." The historic castle, which dates back to the 13th century, welcomes visitors year-round (although opening hours vary by season). Visitors can also book into the castle's vacation cottages. The castle is located near the village of Dornie, another scenic spot to visit during your journey.

Glencoe, found in the Glencoe valley, is best known for its walking trails and the Glencoe Folk Museum , which showcases 18th-century heritage as well as the history of the Glencoe massacre of 1692. The winter brings skiing and sledding at Glencoe Mountain, while spring and summer invite visitors to bike, go sea kayaking and dip into Lochaber Geopark .

Don't miss Glencoe Lochan, a forested wilderness area north of Glencoe's village, and nearby Loch Leven, where you can follow the Loch Leven Heritage Trail around the lake. Hop a boat or kayak to the uninhabited island of Eilean Munde, the burial place of Glencoe's Macdonald clan, in Loch Leven.

Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond

The famed Loch Lomond can be found in the Trossachs National Park , a vast park known for its amazing views and water sports. Camping is popular in the Trossachs, with wild camping permitted if you want to go more remote. There are also lots of trails for hiking and cycling, and there are six long-distance trails that make their way through the park (each is about 25 miles long and takes several days to complete). Golfing is also popular, with numerous courses available for visitors, including the Buchanan Castle Golf Club and the Aberfoyle Golf Club. At Loch Lomond, look for the Luss Heritage Path, which traverses the countryside as well as the ancient village of Luss.

There are many towns in the Trossachs, many of which lay alongside one of the lochs. Look for St. Fillans, on Loch Earn, and Callander to get a taste of small-town Scottish life. While there is some public transportation around the park, it's best to rent a car or camper van when exploring Trossachs National Park.

Things To Do in the Scottish Highlands

There's a lot to see and do in the Highlands, some of which is dependent on what time of year you visit. Most travelers prefer to tour around the Highlands during the spring, summer, or early fall to take advantage of the nice weather and long hours of daylight. Whether you prefer to explore national parks, uncover historical sites or hang out in the town pub, there's something to do for every type of visitor, including families with kids.

• Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Highlands, particularly in the national parks and around Glencoe. Be sure to look for advice from the local visitor's center on the best trails for your ability level and be mindful of any weather conditions. Scotland also features numerous long-distance walking trails, in case you want to make a several-day trek through the wilderness.
• Camping is another highlight of the area, especially since Scotland allows wild camping (which means you can camp anywhere, as long as you follow the rules of the particular area). Many travelers opt to camp for a few nights or even their entire trip, so make sure you have the right gear and you get any necessary permits ahead of time.
• Golf courses are a dime a dozen in the Highlands and many boast impressive views. Look for famous courses like the Castle Stuart Golf Links and the Dragons Tooth Golf Course.
• Outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, cycling, and rock climbing can be found throughout the Highlands, and many towns have shops offering boat and bike rentals, as well as fishing gear rentals.
• Scotland's history dates back hundreds of years, which is evident in the numerous historical sites and castles around the Highlands. You could make an entire itinerary of just castles, which can be found all over the area, often in remote locations. Do some research in advance to ensure the sites are open during your visit as many involve long drives to access them.
• The Highlands are also known for their whiskey distilleries. Most of the 47 local distilleries welcome visitors, including the area's oldest, Glenturret at Crieff and Balblair at Tain. Those interested in malt whiskey should embark on the Malt Whisky Trail, which features eight distilleries around Speyside.

How To Get There

The Highlands are relatively remote and quite vast, so the best way to visit is via rental car. International travelers can fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh, and rent a car there before traveling north. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Inverness, a smaller airport in the north of Scotland, and then drive to their chosen destination. You can also opt for a camper van to help simplify your travel as wild camping is legal in Scotland.

Those looking for a more scenic route should book a train journey from Glasgow or Edinburgh, both of which are three to five hours away from various Highlands destinations, including Fort William and Aviemore (which offers access to Cairngorms). The journey from Edinburgh to Fort William includes the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and picturesque scenery included in the "Harry Potter" movies as the Hogwarts Express makes its way from London to the wizards' school. Use the Trainline website to find the best route when booking a train. Buses are also available from Glasgow to Fort William or Glencoe.

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10 Days in the Scottish Highlands: The Ultimate Itinerary

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Europe , Scotland | 14

The Highlands are arguably Scotland’s crowning glory. This mountainous region draws many visitors for its promise of solitude, glorious landscapes and castle ruins among other things. 

In this article, I’ll walk you through this 10-Day Scottish Highlands itinerary so you can make the most of your trip.

This itinerary was booked through Byway Travel, a low-impact travel company that does all the fiddly planning for you so you can sit back and enjoy the trip. It can be completely tailored to you too.

Encompassing Scotland’s northwestern side, highlands itineraries tend to include some of the Western Isles along the coast and for good reason.

The seafood is absolutely outstanding here and the beaches are simply breathtaking (some of the best in Europe!) 

So, when it comes to planning your Scottish Highland Itinerary, you’re spoilt for choice. How can you make sure you see the best of everything? A low-impact UK tour operator, Byway Travel, is here to help.

They take into account your preferences to create a tailored itinerary that’s kind to the planet. 

It’s perfect for solo travellers or couples who love adventure but want the ease of having the finer points planned.

The trip allows you to immerse yourself in nature with minimal impact on the environment. 

If you love mountains, islands, cosy guesthouses, pubs with roaring fires, organic whisky distilleries and quite possibly some of the best train journeys in the world then this itinerary is for you.

And hey, if you would prefer to organise this Scottish Highlands road trip yourself then you can replicate this itinerary too. 

Map of this Highlands & Islands itinerary

Why you should visit the scottish highlands & islands.

The majestic Kilchurn Castle

The Scottish Highlands and the Western Isles are where nature and adventure meet. Here, the sparsely populated landscape is rugged and wildlife is abundant.

The Inner Hebrides claim to have some of the best beaches in the world and you can spend your time hiking, island-hopping, visiting distilleries and enjoying fresh seafood. 

The Highlands, in particular, are known for their beauty. Although hardly a best-kept secret, they’re remote enough to make you feel like it’s just you and nature. 

You can journey up the Western Highlands by train past dramatic ruined castles, ride a steam train over Scotland’s most famous viaduct and enjoy lochs galore at every turn.

What’s more, wildlife lovers can catch sightings of porpoises, dolphins, minke whales, seals, eagles, deer and so much more!

Wondering what to pack for a trip to Scotland? Read my complete guide here.

So, what is Byway Travel?

Byway Travel is a new tour operator on the block that specialises in bespoke package holidays for the UK and some parts of Europe.

The wonderful thing about this travel company is that their whole ethos centres around helping you have off-the-beaten-track experiences through slow travel. 

Every tailored trip is a no-fly holiday. You’re invited to explore by train and boat, stop at unique stays and enjoy lesser-known activities en route. 

Byway is your go-to travel planner. They sort everything from your accommodation to your activities as well as all your transfers. They’re on hand to help you every step of the way, including during the trip itself. 

When arranging your tour, the Byway team will take your preferences into account to make sure the trip is tailored to you. You’ll also get expert advice on all the hidden gems and local favourites in the area you’re planning to visit. 

Byway is an environmentally friendly travel company. They create trips that don’t rely on flying and they recommend sustainable places to stay that support the local community wherever possible. 

They’ve also recently become a Certified B Corporation.

B Corps are businesses that balance purpose and profit. This means that they’re legally required to scrutinise their impact on their employees, customers suppliers, community and environment. 

You can read more about B Corporations here. 

To be honest, I think more businesses should be B Corps!

Read More:  10 of the Best Tour Operators in the World

Your perfect 10-day Scottish Highlands itinerary

Byway Travel are specialists in adventure and this amazing tour was put together specifically for those who love nature, wildlife and the remote wilderness.

The tour focuses on the Western Highlands and Scottish Isles, including the Inner Hebrides so you can get the best of the mountain landscape and rugged coastline.  I did this tour myself so I can attest that it’s a brilliant trip.

Scottish Highlands trip details 

Length: 10 days

Start-end: Glasgow

Adults: 1 (the tour is designed for solo travellers but it can be customisable)

Extras: The tour can be completely tailored to you

Price: From £1,257 per adult (including transport and accommodation but not activities)

Below is your Scotland 10-day itinerary. Like any Byway tour, it’s completely customisable to you: 

Day 1: Glasgow to Loch Lomond

The first stop on your trip is Glasgow. It’s a beautiful city, well-known for its 18th-century and art nouveau architecture.

Although Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, Glasgow is much bigger. It’s also a cultural hub, home to the National Theatre of Scotland and the Scottish Ballet. 

Glasgow is a fascinating city, well worth a look around before you head over to Queen Street Station to catch the West Highland Line northbound. 

This train journey is particularly beautiful, so there will never be a dull moment outside the window. In fact, it’s easily one of my all-time favourites. Get ready to feast your eyes on deep forests, rugged mountains and shimmering lochs all the way up.  

Before long, you’ll reach the iconic beauty that is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Hop off at Arrochar and Tarbet Station to stretch your legs and explore for a couple of hours. 

Loch Lomond makes for a fantastic lunch stop. Afterwards, you can go walking on one of the many popular hiking routes, take a kayak out on the water or simply sit and admire the view. 

Read More:  10 of the Most Epic Train Journeys in the World

Loch Lomond to Isle of Mull 

For the next leg of your journey, rejoin the West Highland Line to reach the port of Oban. Once again, you’ll be spoilt for scenic views speeding by your window.

Stunning highlights include the dramatic sight of the ruined Kilchurn Castle at the top of Loch Awe. Awe is right as the ruins cut a striking image that’s mirrored in the dark waters of the loch. It’s really quite something to see!

Once you arrive at Oban, take your time grabbing a bite at one of its many eateries. You won’t regret it as this little resort town is Scotland’s seafood capital. You bet they will be serving the best fresh fish around! 

Day 1-4: Explore the Isle of Mull

To reach Mull, you need to get on a 45-minute ferry. Tobermory on Mull is an excellent place to set up base for a few nights.

You have an abundance of coastal walks, cosy pubs and eateries with delicious, fresh seafood on your doorstep. Seriously though, the seafood is out of this world here – especially the crab!

For the next four days, allow yourself to really sink into island life. There are plenty of things to do on Mull. You can head down to the beach for wildlife spotting. On a good day, you can see the likes of dolphins, porpoises, otters, white-tailed eagles and plenty of seals. 

The Ross of Mull is an excellent place to go wild swimming, crag climbing, cycling and kayaking. You can go island-hopping on Ulva, Staffa (for puffins!) and Iona .

I recommend doing this wildlife boat trip to the dramatic island of Staffa and Fingal’s Cave. I saw cormorants, dolphins, seals and rare feeding minke whales!

You can also take a water taxi to Drimnin to visit Nc’Nean , an organic whisky distillery. 

If you want to see more of the Scottish islands, south of Mull lies Islay which is famous for its whisky. I recommend staying at the beautiful Glenegedale House. You can r ead a review of it here. 

Where to stay: Harbour View B&B

Where to eat: Fisherman’s Pier (for award-winning fish ‘n’ chips!)

Day 5: Visit remote Corrour

Today you’ll take the ferry back to the mainland and travel to Corrour.

It’s a particularly special stop for those who want to go somewhere really remote. Corrour is only accessible by train, bike or a twenty-minute walk. There are no public roads.

If you stay here for a night, you can ramble through the surrounding moorland, visit the beautiful Loch Ossian and hike up Beinn na Lap (although you will need to have the right equipment with you!). 

Corrour is also a fantastic place for stargazing as there’s hardly any light pollution. It’s just you and uninterrupted views of the sky all night long.

Where to stay: Corrour Signal Box (from March – otherwise Corrour Station House in the winter)

Where to eat: Corrour Station House

Day 6: Corrour to Glenfinnan

Now if you’re a bit of a Harry Potter fan then you’re going to absolutely love this part of the Scottish Highlands itinerary. If not, well, it’s just as thrilling, don’t worry. 

You’ll leave Corrour and board the train northbound to Fort William.

Here, you’ll have a chance to get on the Jacobite Steam Train – otherwise known as the Hogwarts Express – which will take you over the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct. 

This viaduct is an iconic Scottish landmark located at the top of Loch Shiel. Most people know it as the train route to Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, although it has an impressive list of other film credentials to its name.

It’s also the longest concrete bridge in Scotland. 

If you want to spend a bit more time here, head close to the shores of Loch Shiel where you will find the Glenfinnan Monument and Visitor Centre.

The Monument was erected in 1815 as a tribute to the Jacobite Clansmen who fought and lost their lives in the cause of Prince Charles Edward Stuart (known as ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’). 

In the Visitor Centre, you’ll learn about the 1745 Jacobite Rising, Prince Charles’ campaign to regain the British throne and his final defeat at the Battle of Culloden. 

You can also climb to the top of the Monument and be treated to panoramic views of Loch Shiel and the surrounding Highlands.

Another ‘eek’ moment for Harry Potter fans – you might recognise Loch Shiel’s island as the location where the Triwizard Tournament was held!

Editor’s tip: If you want to ride the Jacobite Steam Train, your ticket includes a return as standard. It goes directly from Fort William to Mallaig and back again – no stops.

If you want to see the steam train go over Glenfinnan – and explore the area – you will need to get the ScotRail and get off at Glenfinnan. Here’s a guide to the steam train schedule.

Day 6-10: Knoydart Peninsula and the Small Isles OR Isle of Skye

After a thrilling ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, head to Mallaig and the Knoydart Peninsula where Byway recommends you stay for another four nights. Here you can make the most of the Small Isles, including Eigg, Muck and Rum.

The Guardian called Eigg Britain’s most eco-friendly island in 2017. This remote Scottish Isle is said to be a pioneer in sustainability.

Virtually 100% of its energy is produced by the first grid in the world to be powered by a combination of wind, solar and hydro schemes.

What’s more, all those cables are underground to protect the island’s unspoilt beauty.  

A popular activity on Eigg is hiking up An Sgùrr, the island’s highest peak. This dramatic hill has stunning panoramic views of Eigg, the other Small Isles and across to Skye. 

Where to stay: The Glebe Barn

Where to eat: Galmisdale Bay Cafe & Bar

if you don’t want to spend as long on Knoydart, I recommend tailoring your trip to include the Isle of Skye too.

Skye is particularly famous for its geological features such as the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, Dunvegan Castle and the Cuillin. You can also visit the stunning Fairy Glen and Fairy Pools. 

From Mallaig, you can get the ferry over to Skye (it’s pretty short!) then drive or take the bus up to Portree.

If you’re castle-hunting, another one not to miss nearby is Eilean Donan Castle but you’ll need to drive or get the number 917 bus from Portree to get there as it’s technically on the mainland.

Stay at Viewfield House , a cosy country estate with an amazing breakfast. Or check out this guide to Skye accommodation here.

Read More:  31 Sustainable Tourism Destinations for Solo Nature Lovers

Day 10: Mallaig to Fort William

It’s home time but not before you’re treated to another selection of jaw-dropping views via the Mallaig to Fort William train.  It’s back over Glenfinnan Viaduct so you have another opportunity to admire the view.

Fort William to Glasgow 

The last leg of your journey down to Glasgow takes you past the Horseshoe Curve and Ben Dorain en route. Sit back, relax and enjoy a Scottish Highlands and Islands holiday well spent. 

Spending a bit longer in Fort William? Discover these epic day trips nearby!

So that was your Highlands itinerary!

Byway’s Scottish Highlands tour gives you a perfect snapshot of the country’s wild and iconic landscapes.

This epic 10-day itinerary gives you mountains, lochs and islands galore. You also have fantastic hiking opportunities (so bring your boots!) and a chance to see some incredible wildlife.

The great thing about this tour is that it’s completely accessible by train and ferry. You don’t need to fly or hire a car anywhere. To get up to Scotland, they usually arrange for you to travel on the Caledonian Sleeper.

You can also easily turn it into a road trip itinerary if you would prefer.

Everything is sorted for you from your transport to your accommodation. It’s an effortless way to adventure in the Scottish wilderness. 

Book your Highlands tour with Byway. Visit the website for more information. 

• 10 Best Activities for the ULTIMATE Edinburgh Solo Travel Itinerary
• 9 Best Scotland Small Group Tours You Need To Book (2022)
• The Most Unique Eco-Friendly Getaways in Scotland
• Hotel Review: Schloss Roxburghe, The Scottish Borders
• The Best Time To Visit The Isle Of Skye For The Perfect Trip
• How To Get To Glenfinnan Viaduct From Fort William (A Complete Guide For 2024)

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About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

14 Comments

Wow, this looks incredible! As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that I enjoy visiting scenic, sparsely populated places far more than big cities. Would love to visit Scotland one day!

Thank you! Yes me too. There’s something so soothing about nature. Scotland is just such an incredible place. Edinburgh is one of my all-time favourite cities.

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

Thank you! It really is.

This looks like an amazing itinerary in the Scottish Highlands! It’s been on my bucket list for years. Pinning it for future planning!

Thank you! It really has the best of everything.

You make me miss the Highlands and Islands so much! I did an Outlander tour around Inverness but missed so much of what you highlight here. Thank you for this! I’ll go back with your tips in tow. #TravelBlogTuesday

Outlander tour sounds amazing! I would love to do that too.

Oh my! This is so incredible. I’ll probably change my next destination to Ireland! Bookmarking this 😉

Definitely! 🙂

What a fantastic itinerary! With a few places I haven’t been to too 🙂 and it’s very reasonably priced!! Will have to consider them for future adventures 🙂

Absolutely! Something to look forward to after the pandemic.

It’s an excellent itinerary. I haven’t set foot out of Scotland outside of Edinburgh so following this route might be a good start. The Isle of Mull seems brilliant for wildlife.

Absolutely! This itinerary would be a fab place to start. Nice and easy!

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Hello, I’m Francesca

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Last Updated on 04/05/2024

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The Scottish Highlands

Why we love the scottish highlands.

Located in the northern reaches of Scotland, the Highlands are about beauty and adventure. With islands for exploring, thick pine forests to wander and peaks to climb, it’s packed with picture-perfect scenery and exhilarating experiences. From the valleys of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, to the heights of Ben Nevis or the soaring hills of the Cairngorms, expect everything from folk festivals to adrenaline-fuelled off-roading.

Base your stay at the gateway city of Inverness - also the start for the North Coast 500. Within easy reach of Edinburgh, it offers art and culture, foodie festivals to get your teeth stuck into, botanical gardens and a plenty for music lovers. Whether it’s a bracing wild swim, a warming whiskey tour or a royal fix at Balmoral, unleash your imagination in the Highlands.

Discover   the Highland’s TV h ighlights

Discover everything from Outlander filming locations to those made famous by  James Bond, Harry Potter and Braveheart . Lose yourself in the wildness film sets of the eerie ruins of Dunnottar Castle, or the mountain paths of Glen Coe and Glen Etive.

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Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Delve into the art, history and culture of the Highlands  and learn all about the people, places and traditions that have shaped the region – including bagpipes.

Get tickets for a Loch Ness Inspiration Tour

Explore scotland’s malt whisky trail.

The only trail of its kind in the world, set in the heart of Speyside, takes in seven world-famous working distilleries , one historic distillery and the Speyside Cooperage.

Things to do in The Scottish Highlands

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Lochaber Geopark

Mighty mountains, tranquil lochs and a wild, untamed coastline: welcome to some of the Highland’s most incredible scenery.

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Welcome to the highest mountain in Scotland. Sheer catnip for hikers, the summit has spectacular views of the Grampian range.

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Highland Games

With their one-of-a-kind sports, these traditional Scottish tournaments are the ‘Olympics of the Highlands’.

VisitBritain/Highland Games Academy

Inverness Botanic Gardens

A little taste of the tropics in Scotland, this thriving spot features coffee plants, pineapple plants and rare orchids – and is free to visit.

West Highland Way

Crossing open moors, lofty peaks, and forest-lined lochs, the West Highland Way serves up 96 miles (154km) of invigorating hiking.

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Eagle Brae log cabins

A sustainable hideaway in the romantic wilds of the Scottish Highlands.

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Strathglass

Surfing in the Inner Hebrides

Whether you’re a total beginner or a budding pro, Scotland’s west coast is a surfer’s dream.

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Pembrokeshire

Barrglen Equitation Centre

On the Kintyre peninsula, this family-run horse-riding centre offers equestrian adventures for all abilities.

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Scottish Islands

The largest ski resort in the UK, Glenshee has slopes for everyone from beginners to experienced skiers and snowboarders.

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Cairngorm Mountain Snowsports

The stunning Cairngorm Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland every year, with 19 miles (30 km) of ski runs, 10 lifts and a funicular railway.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

First stop for any visitors to the Highlands is the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, in the historic heart of the city.

Ewen Weatherspoon/ Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

Tain Pottery

Take home a true Scottish souvenir, with some hand-crafted Tain pottery from its workshop in Tain.

Speyside Whisky Distilleries

Take a tour of Speyside whisky distilleries in this famous whisky-making region of the Highlands.

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Rocpool Restaurant

When in Inverness, visit one of its culinary institutions – Rocpool restaurant, which prides itself on serving local ingredients with world-class flavour.

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Slow Food Highland Dining and Storytelling

Enjoy real Highland food and hospitality with the Cleikum Social Eating Club – a home-cooked dinner and storytelling experience.

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Braveheart Tour

Follow in the footsteps of William Wallace – and Mel Gibson – on the Braveheart Tour, taking in key spots in the historic Scottish hero’s life.

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Outlander Tour

If you’ve dreamed of travelling back in time on Outlander, then make it a reality with a bespoke Outlander Tour by insiders from the show.

Highland Folk Museum

Discover what Highland life was like in the past with this popular living history museum in the Cairngorms.

Highland Folk Museum/ Ewen Weatherspoon

West Highland Museum

Learn all about Bonnie Prince Charlie with the Jacobite treasures on display at the West Highland Museum in Fort William.

Gairloch Museum

Prepare to be surprised by the Gairloch Museum, with its inspiring displays housed in a former nuclear bunker.

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Beltane Fire Festival

Mark the start of summer with the famous Beltane Fire Festival. The parade and bonfire is one of Edinburgh’s must-see events.

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Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival

Party on at the popular Belladrum Tartan Heart music festival on the Belladrum Estate near Inverness.

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Shetland Folk Festival

Shetland comes alive over four days with its historic Shetland Folk Festival, celebrating local, national and international music.

North Coast 500

Hit the road with one of Britain’s most spectacular driving routes – the North Coast 500.

North Highlands

Cairngorm Mountain

Head to Cairngorm Mountain in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

The Cairngorms National Park

Isle of Eriska Hotel

You can’t get a more spectacular location than the Isle of Eriska Hotel, overlooking Loch Linnhe and the Morvern Mountains. This tranquil spot is at the mouth of Loch Creran, in West Argyll.

Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Island

The Ballachulish Hotel

Get away from it all with a stay at The Ballachulish Hotel, on the banks of Loch Linnhe, on the west coast of Scotland.

Give yourself a treat whilst in the Highlands and book a day spa treatment at Aspen Spa in Tain and Dornoch.

Balmoral Castle

Beloved by Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, you can visit Balmoral Castle and estate in Aberdeenshire.

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Wilderness Scotland

If you fancy a Highland adventure without the hassle, Wilderness Scotland can curate a tour for you, from adventure sports to retreats.

Highland Food and Drink Club

Join the slow food movement and take a sustainable culinary tour through the Highlands and Islands with the Highland Food and Drink Club.

Featured things to do

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Mountain biking for all

Hit the Lower Forest Trails in Fort William with options for all levels and abilities, or improve your mountain biking skills with professional lessons.

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Wild camping

Head off-the-beaten-track in Scotland’s remotest locations to really get up close to nature - just remember to leave-no-trace.

Make a splash

Try the fast-growing adrenaline sport of canyoning, swim in the bracing Atlantic or whip out your oars out at Great Glen Canoe Trail. Or walk to Scotland’s highest waterfall, Plodda Falls.

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Feed deer in the snowy Cairngorms

Take a guided tour to feed Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer in the Cairngorms National Park.

Places to stay in The Scottish Highlands

Embrace Highland heritage with a stay in the capital of the region - sample award-winning food and unique shopping, or set off on a cycling adventure.

Fort William

Often called the ‘outdoor capital of Britain’, Fort William has everything from sandy beaches to dramatic film locations and distilleries.

A popular stopping point on the North Coast 500 route, tuck into fresh seafood or hob aboard ferry services to the Isles of Lewis.

Explore nearby

Cairngorms national park.

The Cairngorms is a playground for wildlife lovers, hill climbers, thrill seekers and more.

From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

Jaw-dropping landscapes wrapped in tales of legends, the wild nature will stay with you forever.

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Getting to The Scottish Highlands

Inverness Airport is just 10 minutes from the city centre, and serves domestic destinations across Britain, alongside links to the Scottish Islands. There’s no direct access to the Highlands, but train connections are possible via Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen, all taking around 3-4 hours.

Getting around

Cyclists can hire a bike  using Ticket to Ride or Hi-Bike in Inverness, which doubles as the start point for the Loch Ness 360° Trail, a 80-mile (130km) circular route around the famous loch.

Scotrail operates services to locations across the Highlands, or jump aboard the Jacobite to cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct and experience one of the world’s best railway journeys.

The Highlands can be taken in on the North Coast 500 touring route, which brims with coastal scenery, castles and historical ruins. Where will your adventure begin?

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Scotland for insider tips and travel inspiration.

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Northern Highlands & Islands

Scotland’s vast and melancholy soul is here: an epic land with a stark beauty that indelibly imprints the hearts of those who journey through the mist and mountains, rock and heather. Long, sun-blessed summer evenings are the pay-off for so many days of horizontal rain. It’s simply magical.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Northern Highlands & Islands. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Outer Hebrides

Luskentyre is one of the biggest and most beautiful beaches in Scotland, famed for its acres of low-tide white sands and turquoise waters. A minor road…

Trotternish

Staffin Bay is dominated by the dramatic basalt escarpment of the Quiraing: its impressive land-slipped cliffs and pinnacles constitute one of Skye’s most…

Dunrobin Castle

Magnificent Dunrobin Castle, a mile past Golspie, is the Highlands' largest house. Although it dates to 1275, most of what you see was built in French…

Northwest Highlands Geopark

North & West Coast

As you head south from Durness, heather gradually gives way to a rockier landscape of Lewisian gneiss pockmarked with hundreds of small lochans. This is…

Sandwood Bay

South of Cape Wrath, Sandwood Bay boasts one of Scotland’s best and most isolated beaches, guarded at one end by the spectacular rock pinnacle Am…

Inverewe Garden

Ullapool to Kyle of Lochalsh

Six miles north of Gairloch, this splendid place is a welcome splash of colour on this otherwise bleak coast. The climate here is warmed by the Gulf…

Tarbat Discovery Centre

This intriguing museum has some excellent carved Pictish stones. When ‘crop circles’ appeared in aerial photos some years ago, the foundations of an Iron…

Wick Heritage Centre

Tracking the rise and fall of the herring industry, this great town museum displays everything from fishing equipment to complete herring boats. It’s…

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Experience the real Scotland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Northern Highlands & Islands with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Northern Highlands & Islands and beyond

Scottish Highlands and Islands: 13 best things to do

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Landscapes of wild and enigmatic beauty, imbued with a sense of myth and ancient history. Dense forests and forbidding mountains, lonely lochs and rivers at almost every turn – and craggy coastlines revealing stunning beaches to rival any in the Caribbean. An unparalleled playground for outdoorsy types, opportunities for adventures are endless. The Scottish Highlands and islands may be officially part of Britain, but they are a world apart.

1. Find solitude on the Knoydart Peninsula

2. spot wildlife, 3. attend a highland games, 4. hike around glen coe, 5. wild camping, 6. drive the north coast 500, 7. visit atmospheric castles, 8. dig your toes into white-sand beaches, 9. learn about scotland’s ancient heritage, 10. potter around tobermory, 11. take a tour of islay distilleries, 12. outdoor activities in the cairngorms, 13. attend a shetland festival.

If you’re looking for inspiring ideas of things to do in this outstanding area of Scotland, check our guide to the 13 best things to do in the Scottish Highlands and islands. And for even more ideas and practical information buy our Rough Guides Scottish Highlands and Islands .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

20 days  / from 2994 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1350 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

5 days  / from 638 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

If you truly want to get away from it all – two words: Knoydart Peninsula. This wild and beautiful area of the Highlands, just northwest of Fort William, has no roads and just one dinky hamlet. The only way to get there is by boat from Mallaig or on foot. Walking, most likely from Kinloch Hourn, or Loch Arkaig, will most likely take you two to three days, sleeping overnight in bothies, or wild camping. But with scenery this stunning – rugged monros, lochs and tufted moorland, and views out to neighbouring islands – what’s the rush? If you do need a dangling carrot, the village of Inverie is home to a welcoming pub. The Old Forge has fantastic loch views and holds regular live music sessions. It also happens to be the most remote pub in Britain.

Dawn on the Knoydart Peninsula © N Mrtgh/Shutterstock

Accommodation is mostly in Inverie, with a hostel, B&B, and self-catering options . And Doune Knoydart Hotel, six miles from the village, provides the perfect Highlands hideaway. Owners can pick you up by boat from Mallaig.

Start planning your unforgettable trip to Scotland today! Simply get in touch with our local experts who will tailor a unique itinerary to suit all your wishes.

From seals to whales, dolphins, beavers and birds of prey – when it comes to wildlife, the Scottish Highlands has it covered. It’s exciting to catch sight of a beaver, particularly as these furry water-loving creatures were hunted out of Scotland 400 years ago. But 2009 saw a project to reintroduce them into the wild around Knapdale Forest, in Argyll. Head to Dubh Loch for the most likely sightings and marvel at their construction of a 60-ft-long dam.

Wild reindeer in the Cairngorms © A D Harvey/Shutterstock

You can see bottlenose dolphins and porpoises in Moray Firth, particularly in spring or summer, whales and puffins off the Isle of Mull, and basking seals on Mousa, in the Shetlands. And there's no match for the sight of 12,000 storm petrels flying in to the ancient broch, on the island at dusk. Eager bird spotters should also head for the Cairngorms for the chance to see ospreys, as they migrate from West Africa to Loch Garten, and possibly even golden eagles and peregrine falcons – if you’re really lucky. There’s also a herd of reindeer roaming the hills by Loch Morlich, and the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre offers guided trails into the mountains, with the opportunity to stroke and feed the animals.

Mention the Highland Games and you’ll probably imagine a tartan-wearing, muscled-up Scot, heaving a tree trunk into the air. And yes, tossing the caber is one of the biggest, and probably most spectacular, events featured during a Highland Games. But as well as sporting events, there’s a whole lot more to the games, such as dancing competitions involving the Highland Fling, and bagpipe-playing competitions. There’s also money to be made from winning, which adds a competitive edge to proceedings and a sense of drama to the day. The games take place between May and mid-September and the best-known events are held at Braemar – which usually sees a royal in attendance, Oban and Cowal. But smaller events can be the most fun and are well-worth a detour when visiting the Scottish Highlands.

Ceilidh dance competition at Scottish Highland Games © A. Karnholtz/Shutterstock

It’s no mere hype: this is Scotland’s most magnificent glen. It’s a stunning landscape of glacial valleys, flanked by steep-sided rocky munros in various shades of vibrant greens and earthy ochre – the summits often shrouded in moody cloud cover. It’s worth the drive just to gaze at the magnificent scenery, such as the peaks of Buachaille Etive Mhór, the Aonach Eagach ridge and the Three Sisters. However, to really get a sense of the wilderness at Glen Coe , get your hiking boots on and explore on foot. There are some seriously challenging routes for the more ambitious and experienced hiker, as well as less arduous expeditions. A good introduction to the glen is the half-day hike over the Devil’s Staircase, while one of the loveliest walks is the Buachaille Etive Beag circuit, which is somewhat easier on the thighs, as it doesn’t involve scaling a munro.

The peaks of Buachaille Etive Mhór at Glen Coe © Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

The wonderful hike and glorious views of the Allt Coire Gabhail hike belies the grim history attached to it, that of the terrible Glen Coe Massacre in 1692, the culmination of a feud between the MacDonalds and the Campbell clans. And the hike explores the so-called “Lost Valley”, where the MacDonald clan hid their cattle during this violent period.

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Why choose to pitch up away from relative campsite comforts and the sense of security offered by fellow campers sleeping just metres away under canvas? Well, for one thing – because you can. Unlike the rest of the UK, Scotland allows wild camping in open country, the proviso being, “leave no trace”. There’s no queueing for the loo in the morning, or listening to the sounds of other people snoring – apart from those you choose to zip inside your tent with.

Wild camping in the Sottish Highlands © Stefano Zaccario/Shutterstock

Secondly, there’s something life-affirming about spending the night slap bang in the middle of the wilderness, with nature and its drama on all sides. Whether you camp next to a stunning white-sand beach, or lonely loch, nestle yourself in a glen, or settle at the foot of a moody mountain, wild camping is one of the best things to do when you visit the Highlands.

The creation of the North Coast 500 may have been a canny marketing ploy, but “Scotland’s answer to Route 66” is up there in the hit parade of Europe’s best road trips. The 500 miles takes in the full roster of the Highlands’ draw-dropping landscapes, as it loops around the remote north and northwest areas – from Applecross, on the west coast, north to Durness, across the top to John O’Groats, and south along the eastern side. You’ll get incredible coastal views over rugged clifftops, with islands dotted out to sea, glorious beaches, wild moorland, lochs and brooding mountains, and crumbling castles.

The Kylesku Bridge on the North Coast 500 © Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

Rather than making it your mission to get around the route, take life in the slow lane. Picturesque Plockton, crofting village Achiltibuie, and the lovely fishing town of Cromarty are short detours off the route and well worth a wander.

Castles in Scotland ooze centuries worth of history – involving betrayal, conspiracy, fierce fighting and murder. There are atmospheric, crumbling ruins, such as picturesque, 15th-century Kilchurn Castle, at the tip of Loch Awe, in Argyll. And there are grand, wonderfully preserved, architectural piles, such as Dunrobin Castle in the north, and Blair Castle in Perthshire. Dunrobin was modelled on a Loire Chateau and bags the title of biggest pad in the Highlands. Turreted Blair Castle, meanwhile, dates from 1269, and is a gloriously sumptuous affair – all antlers, shields, muskets and bundles of antiques, as well as items belonging to Queen Victoria – and set within lovely grounds.

Blair Castle in Perthshire © inspi_ml/Shutterstock

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Last, but not least, is relative newcomer and delightfully over-the-top Kinloch Castle, on the Isle of Rùm. Built by millionaire Sir George Bullough in 1900, the red sandstone pile is a display of Edwardian extravagance and eccentricity. In its heyday there was a conservatory for growing exotic fruit, a greenhouse with hummingbirds, even some alligators until they were shot when on the loose. Guests were serenaded before dinner with tunes belted out from an orchestrion, an electrical barrel organ, which is on display. There are tiger rugs and stags’ heads, and a Steinway piano, which still bears the marks of a lady dancing on it in her high heels.

Gazing at any of those white-sand beaches and you could think you’re in Barbados. Ok, it’s definitely not as hot and, sure, the water temperature can be decidedly bracing. But the Highlands is blessed with stunning coastlines and oodles of gorgeous beaches. Stick a sweater on and you won’t know the difference.

Argyll has stunning sands at Kiloran Bay on Colonsay, and on Islay, Coll and Tiree. Beaches at Gruinard Bay in Wester Ross in the northwest Highlands are excellent, and routes north of Lochinver offer a string of them, such as the white sands and turquoise waters in the tiny bay at Achmelvich.

Further north is the jewel that is Sandalwood Bay, its sugar-white beach, backed by large dunes, taking top billing. To get there, however, it’s an eight-mile round trip of a walk from Blairmore. But, boy, it’s worth it.

Gruinard Beach in Wester Ross © Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

The Western Isles also has its share of beautiful beaches. Harris has the pick of the bunch, the best being the stunning swathe of golden sand at Luskentyre. And gorgeous, deserted beaches punctuate the coastlines of Barra, and neighbouring Vatersay. Make sure at least one of these is on your itinerary when you visit the Scottish Highlands.

From Iron Age forts, burial grounds and mysterious standing stones, to remains of Neolithic settlements, the ancient archaeological sites scattered across Scotland provide a window on past civilisations going back thousands of years.

A fair few have fetched up on Orkney, on the West Mainland, the best known being the Neolithic village Skara Brae . The amazingly well preserved, turf-covered group of houses were only discovered in 1850, after a storm blew away the dunes, which had been keeping them secret since 3000 BC. It’s fascinating to see the domestic interior – living room, fireplace, beds and cupboards, all fashioned from stone. West Mainland is also the site of one of Europe’s most impressive Neolithic burial chambers. Like Skara Brae, Maeshowe is well preserved – and even contains some racy Viking graffiti.

Neolithic settlement Skara Brae, on Mainland, in the Orkney Isles © LouieLea/Shutterstock

Other intriguing remains include the monolithic prehistoric standing stones at Callanish , on Lewis in the Western Isles, and the incredible archeological site of Jarlshof on Shetland’s South Mainland, which contains remains from the Iron Age, Bronze Age, Pictish and Viking.

Tobermory is the most attractive fishing town on Scotland’s west coast. Sitting at the northern tip of the Isle of Mull, it’s a paintbox of colour, the cluster of houses along the waterfront painted in bright shades of red, blue and yellow. You can easily while away an hour or two along the harbour, but during your visit, make time for the small, but wonderful, Mull Aquarium. It’s the only catch-and-release aquarium in Europe, which means that the jellyfish, octopus, sea scorpions, and whatever else they have at the time in the tanks, are released back to the sea within four weeks of capture. If it’s a rainy day (odds are), pop in to the Mull Museum to peruse the fascinating collection of exhibits, such as objects salvaged from a ship that sank during the Spanish Armada, in 1588.

The pretty harbour of Tobermory © TTphoto/Shutterstock

Wildlife seekers should take a wildlife-watching tour. Sea Life Surveys offers trips to see whales, dolphins, basking sharks and seals.

If you’re stopping overnight on Mull, Highland Cottage is a superb B&B high above the harbour, which also dishes out first-rate evening meals.

Islay doesn’t do whiskey by halves (which is fortunate, as a half-pint might put you under the table). With eight distilleries, the nation’s favourite tipple is serious business on this Hebridean island. And going on a guided tour is on many a tourist’s itinerary when they visit Scotland, not least because you’re likely to get a wee, or rather, generous, dram at the end of it. It’s also a great way to while away an hour or two during a burst of inclement weather, which, let’s face it, is likely to happen at some point on your trip.

Lagavulin Distillery on the Isle of Islay © Russell Ouellette IV/Shutterstock

Each whiskey has its own distinct characteristic, as does the distillery in which it was produced. For example, the saltiest and peatiest malt on the island is produced at Ardbeg , and the small, characterful distillery offers one of the best tours. The most central distillery is Bowmore , which does its own malting and kilning, while Bruichladdich is the most progressive and prides itself on its natural processes. And, should whiskey not float your boat, they also produce Botanist gin.

Britain’s biggest national park lures lovers of the outdoors. Sitting within the Cairngorms Massif, the largest mountain range in the UK, Cairngorms National Park is a vast, wild, and beautiful place, of craggy, vertiginous monros, dark lochs, and ancient forests – all teeming with wildlife. There are limitless opportunities for fantastic outdoor activities, walking being the most obvious. But there’s also mountain biking, pony trekking, kayaking, whitewater rafting and fly-fishing on offer. And, although it’s no match for its European counterparts when it comes to ski resorts, the slopes at Aviemore offer a fun day’s skiing and snowboarding when the gods are smiling and conditions are right.

Hiking in the Cairngorms National Park © iweta0077/Shutterstock

The area around Aviemore, such as the Rothiemurchus Estate, is also great for mountain biking, as are the trails within the Glenlivet Estate, whether you’re a beginner or up for a more challenging spin. If you want someone to lead the way, Full On Adventure specialises in guided biking tours. And G2 offers lessons and trips in watersport activities, as well as rock climbing and canyoning – and telemarking and back-country skiing in the winter.

From foot stomping folk music, to fire-wielding Vikings – the Shetland Islands hosts a bunch of fun and lively events during the year. The Up Helly-Aa fire festival in Lerwick ignites in January, with a procession of around 900 torch-bearing men decked out in Viking costumes, or other extraordinary (and somewhat random) outfits, such as giant insects – and culminates in the burning of a Viking longship. Get an invitation from a local, or buy a ticket for the Town Hall celebrations.

The highlight on the calendar, though, is the Shetland Folk Festival in May. It's a rollicking four-days (and into the small hours) of eclectic folk music, with local and international bands taking to stages big and small across the archipelago.

Up Helly Aa fire festival in Lerwick, Shetland Isles © Andrew J Shearer/Shutterstock

There’s even more fun for fiddle fans, with the week-long Fiddle Frenzy in Lerwick in July, and the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival held over a long weekend in October.

If our Scottish Highlands travel guide has inspired you to plan a trip to the Highlands and you want to find out more about the region, buy our Rough Guides Scottish Highlands and Islands . It’s packed with exciting ideas on things to do, along with practical tips and recommendations on where to stay. What’s more, if you purchase the guide, you can download a free ebook.

Top image: The peaks of Buachaille Etive Mhór at Glen Coe © Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

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11 Best Places to Stay in the Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are home to beautiful vast landscapes and a unique culture and history. With hundreds of hidden villages, historic towns, and a bustling city, there are many great places to base yourself and explore all that the region has to offer.

Staying in one place is a great way to slow down, relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family. Forget the stress of travelling to a new place every night and delve in deeper to the area you’re staying in. If you’re conscious of your carbon footprint, it’s also much more eco-friendly.

On top of cosy accommodation options, there is plenty to see, do, visit, and experience no matter where you decide to stay in the Highlands.

Nairn Nairn

High tide on the River Nairn

© Iain Fairweather. All rights reserved.

Only 30 minutes away from Inverness, the pretty coastal town of Nairn is one of the sunniest and driest places in Scotland, and the perfect base for your Highland adventure. This family friendly seaside resort boasts three beautiful beaches, two championship golf courses, great shopping and some fantastic cafés and restaurants. Reconnect with nature and take a relaxing stroll through the dunes and forest at the  RSPB Culbin Sands Nature Reserve  nearby. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – the  Moray Firth  is one of the best places in Europe to spot dolphins. Enjoy quiet country roads cycling to the 16th century  Brodie Castle  or visit fairytale  Cawdor Castle  and its stunning gardens.

Further south, see the mysterious 2,000 year old burial chambers of  Clava Cairns , said to be the inspiration for Outlander, or visit the atmospheric  Culloden Battlefield  and visitor centre, site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil.

• Transport: easily accessible by car, train at Nairn Station, and from Inverness Airport

Kingussie Kingussie

Uath Lochans, Kingussie.

© VisitScotland / Damian Shields

Just south of Aviemore, Kingussie is the capital of  Badenoch, the Storylands , in the  Cairngorms National Park . With ancient fortresses, unique wildlife, scenic nature trails and endless hiking opportunities, this is the perfect base to experience the true Highlands. Discover Badenoch’s immense cultural heritage at the  Highland Folk Museum , Britain’s first open air museum, or explore the area’s spectacular scenery on a guided canoe trip along the iconic River Spey with  Spirit of the Spey , combining wildlife, history and distilleries along the way.

Take a walk around the beautiful birchwoods of  Glen Tromie  and reach the impressive historical landmark of  Ruthven Barracks , which was once a stronghold during the Jacobite Rebellion and is said to be haunted by The Wolf of Badenoch. Head to the  Highland Wildlife Park  where you can see the resident polar bear, wolves, Scottish wildcat and red deer up close, or pay a visit to the  Dalwhinnie Distillery  nearby, which is the highest distillery in Scotland.

• Transport: easily accessible by car, train at Kingussie Station, or from Inverness Airport.

Dornoch Dornoch

Dornoch Sands, a beach on the Dornoch Firth, south west of Dornoch, Sutherland

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved

Only an hour north of Inverness, Dornoch is a lovely historic town and seaside resort, and a true little gem in the North Highlands. From beaches, golf courses and historical sites, to stunning scenery, great walks, and wonderful wildlife, you can do it all in Dornoch!

Probably best known for its championship golf course, Royal Dornoch, it is a great place to tee off whilst soaking in the beautiful views that surround the green. Enjoy family time with the kids at  Dornoch Beach , complete with shallow waters for paddling, sand dunes and miles of golden sands to wander along, or visit Embo Beach for breathtaking views. There is also a wealth of history linked to the town. Marvel at the beautiful 13th century  Dornoch Cathedral  or explore one of the Highlands’ only 5-star museums,  HistoryLinks . It even has its own Heritage Trail!

Further north, don’t forget to pay a visit to fairytale  Dunrobin Castle , the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and the largest in the North Highlands with 189 rooms.

• Transport: easily accessible by car, train at Dornoch Station, or from Inverness Airport

Looking over to Ackergill Tower on the south side of Sinclair's Bay, Caithness.

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

Transport yourself back hundreds of years to the time of the Vikings in the far north town of Caithness. Wick boasts fascinating ancient history, which you can uncover at the excellent  Wick Heritage Centre , which tells the story of the town. Just 3 miles north, visit  Castle Sinclair Girnigoe  – a dramatic cliff top ruin shrouded in mystery, that was once even occupied by English troops. Caithness is also home to some of the most spectacular archaeology in the country with more broch sites than anywhere else in Scotland. Get an insight into how Iron Age people lived at the dramatic  Nybster Broch  or discover  Dunbeath Broch , one of the best surviving examples of a broch in the area. If you fancy an exhilarating boat trip, head out on the water with  Caithness Seacoast  to see the spectacular cliffs and seabirds that make their home here. An interesting location to visit is  Sinclair’s Bay , which features two castles perched at both ends.

• Transport: easily accessible by car and train at Wick Station on the  Far North Line

Elgin Elgin

Elgin Museum opened in 1843 and is Scotland's oldest independent museum. The museum holds objects from all over the world with a focus on Moray and th

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Dating from the early medieval period, the capital of Moray Speyside, Elgin, has been a bustling town for centuries. Nestled on the picturesque Moray coast and surrounded by gorgeous scenery and picturesque coastline, it is the perfect place to base yourself to explore Scotland’s world-famous whisky region.

Follow the  Castle to Cathedral to Cashmere  trail to uncover the fascinating stories of the  Elgin Cathedral , also called the ‘Lantern of the North’. Or delve into the 222-year-old story of Scottish innovation and luxury and find the finest woollen and cashmere knitwear at  Johnstons of Elgin .

Further east, don’t miss the historic  Gordon Castle & Walled Gardens  which has one of the oldest and largest kitchen gardens in Britain, and makes award-winning  gin  using botanicals grown there. Enjoy the great outdoors and venture out along the  Moray Coast Trail  and admire marvellous landscapes, rugged cliffs, caves, sheltered coves, fishing towns and harbours, and sweeping stretches of sandy beaches along the way.

• Transport: easily accessible by car, train at Elgin Station, or from Inverness Airport

Thurso Thurso

Thurso in beautiful Caithness is a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Immerse yourself in wild nature at nearby  RSPB Dunnet Head Nature Reserve  with its stunning sea cliffs and coastal grassland. You might spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, kittiwakes, shags, and cormorants. Thurso is also a major surfing area and even hosts the annual Scottish National Surfing Championships. You can have a go at surfing the waves with  North Coast Watersports . Take a trip to the  Castlehill Heritage Centre  and walk round the Flagstone Heritage Trail which celebrates the memory of the flagstone industry in this part of Caithness. Further east, don’t miss the enchanting  Castle of Mey , which was previously the Caithness home of the Queen Mother. Perched only 400 yards from the coast, it boasts incredible views across the Pentland Firth and Orkney. If you fancy a tipple or two, or just want to learn more about Scotland’s whisky and gin history, head to  Dunnet Bay Distillery  and  Wolfburn Distillery .

• Transport: easily accessible by car and train at Thurso Station on the  Far North Line

Fort William Fort William & Lochaber

Shipwreck at Corpach by Fort William

If you’re looking for adventure and a holiday full of exciting activities, why not base yourself in Lochaber, the  Outdoor Capital of the UK ? Fort William is a bustling hub for getting outdoors and enjoying adrenaline-fuelled activities; from mountain biking at  Nevis Range Mountain Experience , conquering the mountains of Glencoe, to  open canoeing  on Loch Lochy or spotting unique wildlife on a  Wild West Wildlife Safari . Host of popular annual event, UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, Fort William offers the perfect terrain for tearing up the tracks with an exhilarating mountain biking experience. There are also many  cycle paths and routes  which you can explore whilst taking in the magnificent scenery that surrounds you. Or perhaps you’d like to explore the area by boat –  Crannog Cruises  offers a great water-based experience that lets you see all the sights and learn more about the area, history and geology all from their historic boats.

• Transport: easily accessible by car or train at Fort William Station (including the Caledonian Sleeper)

Lairg Lairg

Two cyclists make their way along a single track road near Lairg. A sign on the left in the foreground warns motorists that deer may cross nearby

© VisitScotland, all rights reserved.

Known as the crossroads to the north,  Lairg  is a tranquil little village located in the middle of the North Highlands, just off the North Coast 500 route. There’s plenty to see and do in Lairg! Marvel at the thundering  Falls of Shin  and witness salmons leaping upstream – one of the wonders of nature. With beautiful forest trails, you can go mountain biking, walking, and foraging with lovely views along the rocky banks of the Shin. Get back in touch with the Scottish landscapes at  Ferrycroft Visitor Centre  with displays, kids activities and more. There are also two walks that start from the centre; Ord Hill Archaeological Trail and Ferrywood, both featuring immense scenery and views to enjoy. Enjoy the great outdoors on a canoe trip to remember with  Go Wild Highland Canoe  or visit Loch Shin for a splendid lochside stroll or a bit of fishing. If you look out onto the loch, you might even spot ‘ Broon’s Hoose’ , a peculiar little house on a tiny island.

• Transport: easily accessible by car, train at Lairg Station, or from Inverness Airport

Strontian Strontian

Head on a short ferry crossing near Fort William to Corran and you’ll reach the  West Highland Peninsulas , a true hidden gem. Overlooking Loch Sunart, the village of Strontian is a magical place to be. Reconnect with nature and take a stroll through beautiful ancient oak woodlands to the  Garbh Eilean wildlife hide , where you might see otters, seals, and herons. Climb the scenic hill of  Beinn Resipole  for stunning views, or go a guided canoe trip at sunset along the loch with  Otter Adventures . Further away, you could head to the  Ardnamurchan Lighthouse  – the most westerly point on the British mainland and the only lighthouse in the world to be designed in an Egyptian style. You might even spot some dolphins or basking sharks. Don’t miss the magnificent sands of Sanna Bay while you’re there and visit the  Ardnamurchan Distillery  for a tour and tipple or two. If you prefer relaxing, visit Kingairloch Beach and soak in the picturesque views towards Loch Linnhe.

• Transport: best accessed by car

Ullapool Ullapool

Ullapool Harbour

Nestled on the shores of Lochbroom, Ullapool is the perfect base for exploring the north west Highlands. Take a stroll on Shore Street with its pretty white-washed cottages overlooking the sea. Visit the excellent  Ullapool Museum & Visitor Centre  and find some uniquely independent shops, from art and crafts to bookshops and the famous  Highland Stoneware Pottery . Head further north to the spectacular  North West Highlands Geopark , or follow the stunning trails at the  Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve  and see rocks that are over 3,000 million years old.

Get your adrenaline pumping on a guided rock climbing experience on the towering mountains, or try out sea kayaking, exploring sea caves and sandy beaches with  Kayak Summer Isles . For a chance to spot whales, dolphins and seals, explore the  Hebridean Whale Trail  on a boat trip to the beautiful Summer Isles. Further south, soak up the tranquillity of the Leckmelm Shrubbery and Arboretum or marvel at the dizzying depths of  Corrieshalloch Gorge  with its spectacular waterfalls. 

• Transport: easily accessible by car, bus, or ferry from the Outer Hebrides.

Inverness Highlands

Inverness Cathedral

Take a wander through the city centre, marvel at Inverness Castle and Inverness Cathedral – dedicated to St Andrew, and discover great museums, galleries, and shopping. For peace and relaxation, stroll along the riverside paths around the  Ness Islands  or visit the  Inverness Botanic Gardens .

How about some monster hunting? Take a trip from Inverness to Loch Ness for your chance to spot the elusive Nessie, or explore one of the country’s most iconic ruins,  Urquhart Castle .

Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the mountains and glens of this ancient landscape, from the stunning  Glen Affric National Nature Reserve  to the  Loch Ness 360 Trail , looping the entire circumference of Loch Ness. You could also go canoeing along the beautiful Caledonian Canal following the  Great Glen Canoe Trail  or experience mountain biking on the Kelpies Trails at nearby  Abriachan Forest .

• Transport: easily accessible by car, train at Inverness Station (including the Caledonian Sleeper), or from Inverness Airport

That was just a taste of what’s on offer. With such vast landscapes, there are plenty more amazing towns and villages to base yourself for your perfect  Scottish Highlands  holiday. From spending quality time with family and getting to grips with the local culture and heritage, to being part of the community and enjoying a relaxing getaway in Scotland, basing yourself in a Highland town is a great option.

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15 of the best things to do in the Highlands

Make the most of the scottish highlands and try everything from castle hunting and summit bagging to distillery road tripping.

T here’s something dazzling about the Scottish Highlands. Spectacular castles appear unexpectedly. Majestic lochs beckon behind hills. Gorgeous beaches appear abruptly by the roadside. Even after plenty of planning, you may realise you don’t have enough time to see everything. Few destinations pack in as much history, drama, and geographical complexity as the Highlands and Islands. This heathery expanse of moorland and mountain rewards with mesmerising beauty from the Great Glen to the Isle of Skye to the Grampians — and it’s the very real deal when it comes to the seafood, salmon, single malt, and spirit-soaring scenery of Scotland. Sláinte!

Main photo: a climber on Stac Pollaidh in the the North West Highlands Geopark (Getty Images)

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1. Spot Nessie from Urquhart Castle

Though hoaching with coach tours in summer, Loch Ness remains dramatic enough for visitors to get genuinely lost for words on approach along its western road. On a hump of land south of tourist-tainted Drumnadrochit, ground zero for monster-spotting tours and kitsch t-shirts, 16th-century Urquhart Castle sits as the ultimate tumbledown bastion, with collapsed towers, prison cells, and great hall. Were it not for a garrison of goons trying to blow the castle to kingdom come during the Jacobite rising, then it might well still be complete today. For atmosphere, come when the castle is veiled in mist and you can rewind to a thousand years’ prior.

2. Climb Ben Nevis, the hard way

Scotland ’s Munros — a lifetime’s worth of bitesize mountains to summit — are places where you reach for the skies and stretch your legs in wilderness that often feels endless. The highest is Ben Nevis and while most hikers follow the well-trodden route from the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre up the wide slope through scree, more rewarding is the awe-inspiring dogleg scramble via the dragon’s-back Carn Mor Dearg. In this peak paradise, you’d still be a fool to attempt the ascent lightly: traversing the jagged crest and pushing on to the summit takes around five and a half hours.

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3. Sneak off the North Coast 500

A victim of its own success, the North Coast 500 (aka Scotland’s Route 66) is now so popular with campers and caravans that a mini-Jacobite rebellion has taken place against it. So to see the 512-mile road trip around the seaboard of Sutherland, Caithness, and Ross and Cromarty the right way, help locals out by slowing down and detouring off the main route proper. Better still, go out of season, from October to March, when the single track, distilleries, guesthouses, and beaches are arguably at their most perfect. The downside is more unpredictable weather, of course, but the Highlands has never really been Hawaii, has it?

• Best of the North Coast 500

4. Explore Eilean Donan

No amount of time seeing Eilean Donan Castle on screen ( Highlander , The World Is Not Enough , Rob Roy , Elizabeth ) is worth as much as discovering this garrison fortress yourself. Set on a tidal island where Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh converge, the castle is inspiring enough for you to get the saltire-blue face paint on, regardless of your roots. Cross the stone bridge from the mainland to read up on its clan history; scale the ramparts, built to protect the castle from the Vikings; or savour the incredible views of the surrounding mountaintops as everyone does.

5. Go gaga for Glenfinnan

Loch Shiel, west of Fort William, is the stage for mountains crashing into freshwater, but also the site of the Glenfinnan Monument, a columnar memorial to the spot where folk hero Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard to kick off the Jacobite rising in 1745. Centuries later, it’s now a popular if spectacular place — the Young Pretender, as he was known, would likely baulk at the size of the visitor car park — and climbing the tower is worth it for the view of the amazing landscape. Also here are the railway arches of the 100ft-high Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Line. Harry Potter spotters should recognise it as a setting for the Hogwarts Express.

6. Camp in the Cairngorms

The largest national park in the UK, the Cairngorms can be as mild or as wild as you want them to be. There are long-distance walks, gullies to climb, and mountain bothies to sleep in where you might not see a soul for days. Alternatively, there are entry-level walks through lively Caledonian pine forest, salmon rivers to fly fish, and nostril-stinging distilleries to sup in (Royal Lochnagar is a standout for history). For a taster of Cairngorms National Park, camp amid the pines on the shores of life-affirming Loch Morlich, a cradle of watersports activity and home to osprey, red squirrel and capercaillie.

7. Explore the Isle of Skye

Arguably Scotland’s favourite island, the so-called “Misty Isle” has some serious propositions for the visitor. The Old Man of Storr and Quiraing, two of Britain’s most stirring hikes. Neist Point, the Fairy Pools, and Kilt Rock for cliffs, sea stacks and sublime swimming spots. Dunvegan Castle for clan myths and the Cuillins for heart-pumping certainty. And then there are the fabulous hotels and restaurants — the roll of honour includes The Three Chimneys, Flodigarry Hotel, Kinloch Lodge, and Michael Smith’s Loch Bay, to name a few. The island’s enlightened approach to tourism also means you’ll love it no matter the time of year you arrive.

8. Hike through history in Glen Coe

Before it became known to visitors thanks to James Bond, Braveheart, and JK Rowling’s bespectacled wizard, Glen Coe was known for the vicious feud between warring clans the Campbells and MacDonalds. The horror of the resulting bloody massacre will chill your bones at the Glencoe Visitor Centre, but the real thriller is the Hollywood skyline of the Aonach Eagach and the moody spine of mountains, including unforgettable Buachaille Etive Mor. To see the James Bond of Daniel Craig’s Skyfall , it’s the road down Loch Etive that you want.

9. Sample the world’s finest single malts

All the history and melancholy of Scotland is imbued in a dram of whisky and the spirit is the lifeblood of the Highlands. There are more than 130 malt and grain distilleries in the country — the greatest concentration in the world, in fact — and the Highlands is for many as much an old friend as a setting for personal pilgrimage. Consider visiting Strathisla (the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Highlands), The Glenlivet (the first licensed distillery in the country), Dalwhinnie (the highest in Scotland), or a born-again ghost distillery like Brora. Obviously, don’t drink and drive: join a guilt-free distillery tour instead.

• Best distillery tours in Scotland

10. Go on a whale safari

The west coast of Scotland does wildlife like nowhere else in Britain. For accessible, low-impact marine life-spotting from land, the Hebridean Whale Trail is a must and it pinpoints 33 sites across the West Highlands for their extraordinary diversity, from orca spots off Ardnamurchan to humpback and minke locations off the Isle of Lewis. The coastline is also home to basking shark, porpoise, and the world’s largest dolphin species, and a road trip for a week, or even a few days, is a window onto another world. Simply download the Hebridean Dolphin and Whale Trust’s app and map to get going.

11. Sail to the Small Isles

Closer than the Outer Hebrides to the mainland, yet somehow farther away in the minds of visitors, the Small Isles remain offbeat and outlying. Scotland’s sustainable efforts have been world-leading for a while now, and here you’ll find an unbeatable example in the Isle of Eigg. In 1997, the Isle of Eigg Trust bought the island on the behalf of the community; now, the island is self-sufficient on its own green energy reserves, with its first eco-brewery launching next year. Equally captivating nearby are ridge-backed Rum, with a Victorian-era castle; Canna, with 20,000 seabird pairs; and secluded paradise Muck.

12. Spot wildcats in Alladale

Alladale is a 23,000-acre wilderness reserve in the Affric Highlands once dominated by ancient Caledonian pine forests, where wolves and bears roamed freely. Today, it’s a wellspring of rewilding, with more than a million trees replanted and plans afoot to reintroduce native animals, including the Scottish wildcat and wolf. To complete this rousing scene, Trees for Life, a social and ecological movement based in Findhorn, is set to open the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre in early 2023. A world first, it’ll provide visitors with a direct forest experience through voluntourism and activities on accessible habitat.

13. Sea kayak Mull and Iona

Everyone spends plenty of time contemplating the waters of the Inner Hebrides, simply because there are so many preposterously turquoise bays to gaze at. While this is satisfying, a better plan is to don a drysuit and lifejacket for a paddle to see the coves and sea caves from a more rewarding angle. The southwestern corner of Mull around Fionnphort, Kintra, and Fidden proposes a holy trinity of kayaking spots, all with Iona and its dreamy Celtic abbey a short paddle across the dolphin-filled strait. Add beach camping to the picture — and a day’s gallivanting to Staffa and Fingal’s Cave, if your biceps and triceps are up to it — and you’ll realise this is the ultimate way to experience the full splendour of the west coast.

14. Beach hop on Harris

Cyclists, campervanners, walkers — everyone who comes to the Hebrides has to visit Luskentyre Beach’s dazzling curve on South Harris. Here the scene is shell-rich sand and supernatural-blue water colliding in front of An Cliseam, the Outer Hebrides’s highest peak, and the rewards are cold swims, T-shirt tans and beach combs. The trend for eye-popping beaches continues elsewhere, with Horgabost and Borve, Seilebost and Huisinis, and most have campsites and direct shore access from single-track roads that disappear into the machair. Need more? The beaches on Lewis hardly play second fiddle.

15. Get to grips with a Geopark

Lauded by Unesco and loved by locals, the North West Highlands Geopark only covers about 80 miles between Ullapool and Loch Eriboll. But in that clipped distance, it meditates on three billion years of geological history, proposing all sorts of wild adventures against a mountain range backdrop of Torridonian sugarloafs and the photo-wows of Assynt. Highlights abound, but a few stops to earmark are Smoo Cave, Stac Pollaidh, Suilven, and Knockan Crag, home to the park’s visitor centre.

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• DESTINATION GUIDE

The essential guide to visiting Scotland

Here’s everything you need to know about this land of lochs—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Scotland

Monumental mountains and misty glens. Castles with hidden stories. A dram of whisky straight from the source.

Best time to visit Scotland

Spring: Many attractions are open without summer crowds. Golf courses open in April; the season officially starts in May.

Summer: This is the ideal time for hiking and biking, although accommodations along the most popular routes—such as the West Highland Way —fill up well in advance. There are plenty of events, including the Edinburgh Festival and Highland Games .

Autumn: Changing leaves create arresting scenes in forests—it’s a great time to visit Perthshire , known as “Big Tree Country.” The Edradour and Glenturret distilleries are well placed for combining a walk with a whisky sampling.

Winter: The Edinburgh Christmas Market kicks off in November, and Scots prepare to celebrate Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). On January 25, pubs honor Burns Night —the birthday of national poet Robert Burns —with a dinner of haggis , neeps (turnips), and tatties (mashed potatoes).

Lay of the land

Cities: Well-heeled capital Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest performing arts festival . The medieval Old Town looms over Princes Street gardens and the New Town with art galleries and chic bars. Glasgow is boisterous and friendly, with a lively music scene. Craggy Stirling , topped by the eponymous castle, was the site of several historic battles. On the east coast, Dundee and Aberdeen pack museums and maritime history into their walkable downtowns.

Highlands: Hikers flock to the heather-bound moors and mountains of Cairngorms National Park ,   overlapping the Speyside whisky-producing region. The landscapes surrounding Glenfinnan and Glencoe have featured in films.

Hebrides: The Isle of Skye is famed for its otherworldly topography. Flawless beaches await on Lewis and Harris . On Mull ,   stop by the colorful coastal town of Tobermory or scale the rugged slopes of Ben More.

Northern Isles: Neolithic sites, including Skara Brae, are scattered across the Orkney Islands . View Viking sites and the eponymous ponies on the Shetland Islands .

Southern Uplands: Stately homes and castles grace the Scottish Borders. Dumfries & Galloway is home to the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and the majestic Sweetheart Abbey .

North East:   Seek out royal connections at Glamis Castle in Angus, or Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire. Photogenic Perthshire is home to the prestigious Gleneagles hotel and golf course.

Central Belt: Relive the greatest victories of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace at Bannockburn and the National Wallace Monument , respectively. The John Muir Way spans 134 miles of lochs and woodlands.

Getting around Scotland

By plane: Daily flights operate from Glasgow to several Hebridean islands. Flights to   Sumburgh (Shetland) and Kirkwall   (Orkney) depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen.

By bus: National Express and Citylink operate buses between the major cities. Buses are limited in the Highlands and Islands.

By train: ScotRail runs most services in Scotland, mostly along the Central Belt. This reduces to a few main lines in the Highlands.

By car:   Driving in Scotland is on the left and requires an international driving permit. Road types include motorways (M), A-roads (A), and B-roads (B). Scotland’s main roads include the A1 from London to Edinburgh; the A74(M)/M74 from Gretna to Glasgow; and the M9/A9, stretching from just outside Edinburgh to Thurso on the north coast.

By boat: Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferries sail to 21 Hebridean islands; Northlink runs car ferries to Orkney and Shetland. Book well in advance.

Know before you go

Scottish languages: Scots Gaelic (pronounced “gaa-lik”) is still spoken by around 60,000 people, mostly in the Highlands and Islands. English, however, has been the main language spoken in Scotland since the 18th century. Though many believe it to be a dialect, Scots (descended from Northern English) is a distinct language , spoken by 1.5 million people.

Hours: Even in cities, restaurants can keep restrictive hours, with some kitchens closing as early as 8 p.m. On Sundays, businesses often open at 1 p.m. and may close by 4 p.m.

LGBTQ+:   Scotland legalized same-sex marriage in 2014. Glasgow hosts Scotland’s largest Pride festival, as well as the Scottish Queer International Film Festival (SQIFF) in autumn.

How to visit Scotland sustainably

Outdoors: Read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code before setting out. Avoid deer stalking areas between July and February. Refrain from stone stacking, which can cause erosion .

Dining:   Farm-to-table—or, indeed, sea-to-table—is easy to find in this nation of farmers and fishermen. It’s increasingly common for restaurants to display ingredient provenance on their menu.

Shopping:   Seek out independent farm shops and sustainable distilleries . Support Scottish artisans at rural markets and festivals, such as the Pittenweem Arts Festival . Check labels to be sure the products you’re eyeing were made in country.

Accommodation and attractions: The Green Tourism certification scheme, which now operates in 20 countries, was founded in Scotland. It assesses 70 criteria, such as ethical production, carbon, and waste. Certified members—including accommodations, attractions, and tours—display a Green Tourism plaque.

What to read

Scotland: A Concise History , by Fitzroy Maclean (Fifth Edition). The former soldier and politician brings bloody battles and national heroes to life. In the fifth edition, journalist Magnus Linklater adds chapters on Brexit and the 2014 independence referendum.

Rival Queens , by Kate Williams. The historian charts the alliance between Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England, which ends in devastating betrayal.

Rob Roy , by Sir Walter Scott. The celebrated writer’s classic work takes place during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715.

Raw Spirit: In Search of the Perfect Dram , by Iain Banks. A humorous travelogue of Scotland’s distilleries, from the iconic to the obscure.

( For more tips on what to do in Scotland, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE

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• EXPLORE THE REGION Unique experiences, finest local produce and accommodation to suit any traveller. Uncover what the Highlands and Islands have to offer for your next trip by diving into our landscape and the stories it holds! Discover More
• DISCOVER THE BEST OF AUTUMN EXPERIENCES From golden forests and autumn wildlife to atmospheric skies and northern lights, autumn is a truly enchanted time in the Highlands and Islands. Discover why this is the perfect destination for an autumn break off the beaten track. Discover More
• PLAN YOUR AUTUMN ADVENTURE Not sure where to start? Find inspiration for your perfect Autumn break with one of our self-guided itineraries based on ancient and modern stories. Discover More
• GET INSPIRED BY OUR PEOPLE The Highlands and Islands is a region of storytellers. Gather around a cosy log fire in a pub and listen to fascinating stories, local legends and tales handed down through generations. Explore our spirit through our stories! Discover More

INSPIRING STORIES, UNFORGETTABLE SURROUNDINGS

Autumn in the Highlands and Islands is stunning and the perfect time of year to escape into nature. From breathing in forests bathed in gold and red, to enjoying a brisk walk along a white sandy beach and feeling the warmth of roaring fires in the evening light, you won’t want to miss out on an Autumn adventure here.

Storytelling is an intrinsic part of the culture of the Highlands and Islands. Stories have shaped our land and people past, present and future! Become part of the story and share moments you’ll never forget this Autumn.

Acknowledgements

The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project is a partnership project between The Highland Council and High Life Highland , which will be delivered in collaboration with VisitScotland

with thanks to our funders

Inverness and Highland City Region Deal , European Regional Development Fund , Scottish Government , NatureScot and Highlands and Islands Enterprise

Research and insights on tourism in the Highlands.

• Statistics on the volume and value of visitors to individual regions of Scotland are collated from several national surveys. These include the International Passenger Survey, the Great Britain Tourism Survey and the Great Britain Day Visits Survey.
• These national surveys were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and associated travel restrictions. Prior to the pandemic, three year average figures were produced for individual regions due to some having lower sample sizes on an annual basis.
• We are currently reviewing the full year 2022 data to establish what is feasible at a regional level. It may be that some regions will require to be amalgamated to produce an indication of regional performance until more data is available.
• The latest detailed factsheet available is for 2019. Headline statistics for 2022 are available on page.

Highland factsheet 2019

Published December 2020

This report provides a summary of statistics on tourism in the Scottish Highlands. It gathers information from a suite of tourism monitors, national statistics and commissioned research.

In this article:

1. key statistics, 2. scotland visitor survey 2023.

1.9 million

overnight trips by International visitors and GB residents in 2022

6.6 million

day trips by GB residents in 2022

7.3 million

nights spent in accommodations by International visitors and GB residents in 2022

£1.1 billion

total spend by International visitors and GB residents in 2022

Figures shown represent tourism performance for the Highlands, 2022. Sources: International Passenger Survey, Great Britain Tourism Survey, Great Britain Day Visits Survey, 2022

We recently conducted the Scotland Visitor Survey. For this, we spoke to overnight leisure visitors at 135 sampling points across Scotland. The survey gathered insight on

• motivations for visiting
• experiences in Scotland
• how visitors rated aspects of their trip

Where we had a robust sample size we looked at the data at a regional level.

Regional factsheets will be available in spring 2024.

Scotland's regions

Tourism research and statistics.

We provide factsheets for Scotland, broken down across 16 different regions.

Related links

Visitors from the uk, domestic sentiment tracker , international visitors, scotland residents' views on the role of tourism.

5 Reasons Why Air Travel Is Vital For Keeping Scotland's Islands Connected

• Reliable connections are essential for people to live, work, and visit the Scottish islands, and both ferry and air services play a crucial role in maintaining these connections.
• Air travel offers faster and more flexible connections compared to ferry travel, with shorter travel times and more flight options available. This is beneficial for both locals and tourists.
• The efficiency and cost advantages of air travel, including the use of smaller aircraft and multiple flights, make it a cost-effective option, especially during off-peak periods. Additionally, reliable air services promote tourism and contribute to the economic development of the islands.

Scotland has had air routes connecting its many inhabited islands to the mainland for a long time. In fact, the route from Kirkwall Airport (KOI) in the Orkney Islands to Inverness Airport (INV) is the longest-running commercial air route in the UK. Ferry routes, of course, are also an option, but there is still a key need for air links - for several good reasons.

Reliable connections

There is no legal obligation on the Scottish government to provide transport connections to the Scottish islands. However, under current government policy, support (and funding) is provided for this. Providing reliable connections helps to maintain the ability and appeal for people to live, work, and visit. Having the option of both ferry and air service is essential here. This has been highlighted in 2022 and 2023 with some severe shortcomings in ferry services.

Get all the latest aviation news right here on Simple Flying

The main ferry operator in Scotland , Caledonian MacBrayne, has seen problems with boats being taken out of service for maintenance and delays in the delivery of new vessels, meaning it is unable to operate as many services as normal. An air alternative is very important here.

Fast (and flexible) connections

Boat travel may be seen as relaxing and convenient in some ways, but air travel is, of course, much quicker. The journey from Inverness to Stornoway (on the Outer Hebrides) takes around five hours by car and ferry, compared to just 45 minutes by air. (with Loganir up to four time a day) To the Shetland Islands is even more significant - over 12 hours by ferry from Aberdeen, compared to just over an hour by flight.

On many routes (including the ones just discussed), there are also more flight times and options available. The ferries tend to leave from one or two key ports, whereas flights are scheduled from several cities.

This is relevant for locals on the islands as well as visitors. Being able to travel off the islands quickly and easily can make a big quality-of-life difference for residents (and potentially encourage more to settle there).

Efficiency and cost

We won't get into an analysis of whether ferry or air travel is more environmentally friendly. However, there are definite advantages with the flexibility air travel can offer with multiple flights, and lower-capacity aircraft. Especially off-peak, when travel volumes are lower, operating a smaller aircraft will likely be more cost-effective than a large ferry. This applies t cargo transport just as it does for passenger services.

Promoting tourism

Having reliable and fast connections is very important for tourism. Many of the islands are popular tourist destinations and air links are more convenient for most. In many cases, ferry connections with a car are very difficult. And even with a car, the total ferry crossing costs can be very high. Flights from the main airports are more convenient, and tourists can then make tour or car hire arrangements on the islands.

Economic development

A final important point to consider is the impact on the economic development and opportunities for the islands. Like any location, the islands are keen to attract new business and investment, and guaranteed and reliable air services will help with this.

Get the latest aviation news straight to your inbox: Sign up for our newsletters today.

This has been a quick discussion of an issue very important in Scotland. Air services in the highlands and islands region are currently doing well in the country - we reported recently how passenger numbers are up 10% in summer 2023, and almost back to pre-pandemic levels.

Feel free to discuss the air services, options, and reasons further in the comments section below.

Scotland: Highlands and Islands

“My heart’s in the Highlands,” said Robert Burns – as will you, while traveling from city to country, mainland to island, on this sweet 12-day journey.  From loch to glen, encounter stunning natural beauty and welcoming clans in a small group limited to 24 travelers.  Discover vibrant Glasgow during a two-night stay, taking a tour highlighting the city’s distinct architecture.  A private tour reveals the Burrell Collection, a museum dedicated to the art collection of Sir William Burrell and Lady Constance Burrell.  Setting out for Fort William in the scenic Highlands, stop by the bonnie banks of storied Loch Lomond, Great Britain’s largest lake. Next is dramatic Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most beautiful spots.  Take a full-day excursion to the stunning Isle of Skye with Armadale Castle and Gardens and the imposing Cuillin Hills, then admire iconic Eilean Donan Castle. At fabled Loch Ness, best known for its rumored inhabitant, enjoy a boat ride, then see Urquhart Castle’s evocative ruins.  Experience Culloden Moor’s hallowed battle site.  Exploration of the Highlands continues from historic Inverness with an excursion along the ancient Pictish Trail and a falconry demonstration at striking Dunrobin Castle.  At a small local distillery, sample handcrafted single malt whisky.  Watch a sheepdog demonstration en route to legendary Saint Andrews, renowned as golf’s birthplace, for an overnight stay and touring. Reaching stately Edinburgh for a three-night stay, encounter its “New Town” and medieval “Old Town,” paying an inside visit to historic Edinburgh Castle and touring Holyrood Palace on the Royal Mile. Explore the city independently before the journey’s end.  

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