scotland's highlands & islands travel guide

Justin Foulkes

The Highlands & Islands

The wild landscapes of Scotland's Highlands and islands offer the ultimate escape – one of the last corners of Europe where you can discover genuine solitude.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Giza, extraordinary Skara Brae is one of the world's most evocative prehistoric sites, and northern Europe’s best…

Constructed about 5000 years ago, Maeshowe is an extraordinary place, a Stone Age tomb built from enormous sandstone blocks, some of which weighed many…

Highland Wildlife Park

The Cairngorms

This place features a drive-through safari park as well as animal enclosures offering the chance to view rarely seen native wildlife, such as wildcats,…

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

At marvellous Hermaness headland, a 4.5-mile round walk takes you to cliffs where gannets, fulmars and guillemots nest, and numerous puffins frolic. You…

Shetland Museum

This museum houses an impressive collection of 5000 years’ worth of culture, people and their interaction with this ancient landscape. Comprehensive but…

Isle of Noss

Little Noss, 1.5 miles wide, lies just east of Bressay. High seacliffs harbour over 100,000 pairs of breeding seabirds, while inland heath supports…

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…

Three miles from Port Askaig, tumbledown ruins of houses and a chapel on an islet in a shallow loch mark what remains of the stronghold of the Lords of…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Scotland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from The Highlands & Islands

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Sep 10, 2020 • 10 min read

The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s very own Route 66. Buckle up for a road trip around Britain’s outer limits, where you’ll find otherworldly landscapes.

Aug 9, 2017 • 7 min read

Jan 23, 2017 • 6 min read

Sep 23, 2013 • 6 min read

The Highlands & Islands and beyond

Amazing Islands

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Scotland's Airports

Places to Visit

One Week in Scotland

Best Beaches

Scenic Road Trips

Top Castles to Visit

Glasgow Guide

Dundee Guide

Aberdeen Guide

Fort William Guide

Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

Chris Gorman/Getty Images

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.

The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

Top 8 Things to Do in Fort William, Scotland

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

Top 10 Great Scenic Drives in Britain

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

Glencoe: Planning Your Trip

The 16 Most Beautiful Natural Features in the UK

Weather in Scotland: Climate, Seasons and Average Monthly Temperature

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park: The Complete Guide

The Best Hikes in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Fairy Pools in Scotland: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Scotland

15 Most Amazing Scottish Islands to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

Trending Destinations

Trending articles.

10 of the UK’s best stargazing escapes

10 of the best new wildlife trips for 2024

Where is Dune: Part Two filmed?

Destinations.

Sorry but no search results were found, please try again.

The ultimate Wanderlust guide to the Scottish Highlands

Explore the lochs, Munros and monsters of the Scottish Highlands, your ‘Top UK Destination’ in the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2020…

Anyone who has paid even a short visit will hardly be surprised that the Scottish Highlands topped the ‘UK Destination’ category at this year’s Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards .

This is a land of startling, almost otherworldly beauty after all, ranging from sea lochs every bit as dramatic as the Norwegian fjords to sweeps of white sand that are almost Caribbean in appearance.

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to the stunning Scottish region – including the best things to see and do, when to visit, and how to get around…

Why visit the scottish highlands.

A stunning view of Glen Coe, in the Scottish Highlands (Dreamstime)

Alongside the natural drama, this is also an ancient landscape – Lewisian gneiss and Torridonian sandstone are some of the oldest rocks in the world – and with age come intoxicating stories. History in the Highlands is very much of the living, palpably raw variety.

This is not just wilderness, but rather a region shorn of its people in the notorious Highland Clearances of the 18th and 19th centuries. The sense of tragedy, of a land lost, of bonnie princes and hopeless causes imbues the hills with a unique sense of place and identity that goes much deeper than kilts and bagpipes.

Of course, there’s plenty to do in the Scottish Highlands beyond the dramatic views. Nature walks and hikes, jaw-dropping train journeys, and iconic lake monsters are just a few reason to consider giving the Scottish Highlands your precious travel time.

When’s the best time to visit the Scottish Highlands?

Machair wildflowers in bloom in Scotland (Shutterstock)

Any time of year is a good time to visit, as each season brings its own joys, from watching the Highland Games in summer, to steaming the rails as autumn colours the land.

But if you’re ready to go now, springtime is ideal for hunting for machair wildflowers up in the Inner Hebrides (its northern isles fall under the Highland Council), while you could be among the first to tackle the new trails that are breathing fresh life into the glens and lochs.

If you’ve never been or want to return, 2019 is an ideal year.

How to get around the Scottish Highlands

The North Coast 500 has made the Scottish Highlands easier to visit (Shutterstock)

Getting around this vast wildscape has never been easier. The North Coast 500 road trip, created in 2015, has opened up the Highlands to a new breed of visitor, with their motorbikes, campervans and convertible cars.

Investment is piling in along the route and elsewhere, as local businesses realise the benefits of extending the season, while getting there has also improved.

The refurbished Caledonian Sleeper is set to relaunch its Highlander service by the end of May, linking Highland capital Inverness with London in style.

How many days should you spend in the Scottish Highlands?

The Scottish Highlands (Shutterstock)

You could spend weeks and weeks exploring the Scottish Highlands. If you’re willing to pack in your activities quite tightly, you could probably spend 2 or 3 days exploring the area. See the suggested short break itinerary below.

However, if you want to experience more or take the Highlands at a more leisurely pace, you’ll want to plan to stay for at least a week.

Day 1 in the Scottish Highlands: Trains, castles and the Loch Ness monster…

The 21-arch railway at Glenfinnan (Shutterstock)

Drive west from Inverness along the banks of Scotland’s most famous loch. The 58km South Loch Ness Trail from Torbruck to Fort Augustus opened here last year if you want to test your legs. Or just marvel that Loch Ness holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined as you survey it from the ramparts of Urquhart Castle .

Cut north into proper wilderness, where there’s more deer than locals and where a 21-arch railway viaduct vaults across the hills at Glenfinnan. This glen is one of the Highlands’ most scenic, and the site where ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ raised his standard in 1745 en route to almost taking the British throne. The Glenfinnan NTS museum sets the scene.

A visit is richer if you include one of the Highland islands. Take the ferry ‘Over the Sea to Skye ’, as the song goes, from Mallaig and push on across the largest of the Inner Hebrides, under the shadow of the epic Cuillin mountains, in search of the island capital of Portree . Cosy hostelries await, alive with the ghosts of national bard Robert Burns and a healthy stock of whisky.

Day 2 in the Scottish Highlands: Exploring the North Coast 500…

The pretty village of Plockton (Shutterstock)

More world-class driving awaits as you return to the mainland, pausing in arguably the prettiest Highland village, Plockton . Break east along Loch Carron , stopping for photos at the viewpoint before joining the North Coast 500 and Scotland’s most notorious road.

The Bealach na Ba sweeps from sea level up a series of switchbacks to a height of 626m. Be sure to walk away from the viewpoint to feel the solitude and watch the Hebrides unfold in front of you, then ease closer to the Atlantic for a seafood lunch in the remote Applecross Inn .

Next, snake around the coast as far as Loch Torridon , where the 1,000m-high rock sentinels of the Torridon Mountains hang heavy over the sparse imprint of man. There is little here bar the grand Torridon Hotel , its cosy inn and a small hostel, but the sight will linger long within you.

What else is there to do in the Scottish Highlands?

Cruising along Loch Ness (Shutterstock)

Cruise Loch Ness: Track ‘Nessie’ down with Jacobite , who operate a fleet of cruise boats across the expanse of 37km-long Loch Ness (pictured). Scan the waters or enjoy a dram in style as the geological fault line of the Great Glen unfurls all around.

Ride the rails: The Jacobite steam train between Mallaig and Fort William is one of the most spectacular train trips you will ever experience, as you ride the ‘Iron Road to the Isles’. The return trip eats up a lot of time, though, so you may want to bus/taxi one way.

Scale the mountains: Walking in the Scottish mountains is a serious business. The well equipped and fit can enjoy a taster on Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve’s 6.5km Mountain Trail without having to be exposed on a Highland peak. There is a gentler option, too, that sticks to the lower slopes. Print a guide instead of relying on there being one for free in the car park.

What do the locals recommend?

— Catriona Stevenson, Slainte Scotland Tours

Where to go beyond the Scottish Highlands…

1. Dumfries and Galloway

Scotland’s most southerly region is also its balmiest, with wild beaches sprinkled along the Solway Firth. The new South West Coastal 300 is a handy driving route to hang a trip around, taking in ruined abbeys and epic views en route. The new Moat Brae storytelling centre opens this spring in its biggest town, Dumfries.

2. Perthshire

Take in majestic mountains, tumbling glens and – in the Tay – Scotland’s longest river. Perthshire has many of the attractions of the Highlands, but on a more manageable scale. It’s an adventure hub, too, as thrillseekers gear up for whitewater rafting or canoe world-class rapids.

3. The Shetland Isles

Closer in distance to Bergen, Norway, than Aberdeen, this 100-island archipelago has brooding voes (rather than lochs), vast seabird cliffs and incredible beaches. Fans of the TV series Shetland (series five is on BBC iPlayer) will need no introduction, but the reality is even more enchanting.

More on glorious Scotland:

Where to spot the elusive golden eagle, wide-eyed in the wild isles: exploring the inner hebrides, 13 of the best hikes in scotland.

Uzbekistan’s seven most incredible natural wonders   

Exploring the rich history and wild beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina

20 of the world’s most beautiful libraries

Explore more.

Sign up to our newsletter for free with the Wanderlust Club, full of travel inspiration, quizzes, events and more

DESTINATIONS

PLAN A TRIP

TRAVEL STYLES

SPECIAL OFFERS

800-687-1002

Scotlands Highlands Islands

VIEW ALL TRIPS TO THIS REGION

See More Trips

ISLE OF RONA CRUISE WITH SEAFOOD LUNCH

Isle of Skye

Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise to the stunning Rona Harbour. Spot coastal wildlife, from seabirds to marine life. Then, dine on a fresh seafood feast before you go ashore to explore…

TALISKER DISTILLERY

The oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye, Talisker Distillery produces a sweet, fullbodied single malt that’s enjoyed by whisky fans around the world…

JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN

Fort William

Hop aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the 'Hogwarts Express'. One of the greatest railway journeys in the world, take a stunning 84-mile round trip…

DUNVEGAN CASTLE & GARDENS

A stunning stalwart of the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Restored in the mid-1800s, Dunvegan is a treat with…

EILEAN DONAN CASTLE

Recognisable the world over, Eilean Donan Castle is easily one of Scotland’s most iconic monuments. Built at the convergence point of three great lochs, Eilean Donan is surrounded by…

Explore more things to do in this region

Top things to do in scotland’s highlands & islands.

Start your very own Celtic Story in Scotland’s Highlands & Islands with a vacation filled with authentic experiences. Here’s the best things to do and places to visit in the Highlands and Islands .  

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and historic sites, its nestled in the foothills of Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest peak. A favorite of Queen Victoria, the castle offers a romantic escape, with nearby attractions including Glen Nevis Falls, Glenfinnan Monument, and the majestic mountains of Glencoe.

Embark on a regal escape with luxury rooms or suites, each adorned with captivating views. Tailor your stay with accommodations like the private, self-contained Gate Lodge at the estate's entrance, suitable for any guest size.

Spend your days walking around the stunning walled garden or explore secret paths that wind their ways through the trees on a woodland walk. Or, if you do not fancy any outdoor activities, ask to have time in the Billiard Room arranged or games for the family if traveling with kids.

Enjoy culinary delights at Inverlochy Castle’s Seasgair restaurant. Sample the delights of fine dining in the Victorian castle that was built to impress. Enjoy afternoon tea or lounge meals which are served normally in the lounge areas on soft seating and low tables.

Explore More Accommodations

CHOOSE YOUR TRAVEL STYLE

Whether you want to travel on a guided tour or fully customize your vacation, each of our five travel styles promises a handcrafted experience that is planned, managed and personally delivered by passionate, fun-loving locals.   

Explore Your Way

PLAN WHAT YOU’LL DO

From heritage, ancestry and history discoveries to foodie travel, outdoor adventures, golf trips, family fun or just pure relaxation, there’s never a shortage of things to do in Ireland and Scotland, and we’ve hand-selected the best activities for your vacation.   

Select Your Activities

SELECT WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Luxuriant castles, elegant manors, inclusive resorts or chic hotels, wherever you want to stay, Catherine’s Collection ensures you get the right accommodation for your trip. Each property is personally selected and vetted by our expert team.   

CHOOSE THE BEST TIME TO GO

Each season brings a distinctive charm to Ireland and Scotland, so the “best time to travel” is entirely up to you. Discover expert recommendations in our seasonal travel guides for the most popular experiences in the winter, spring, summer and autumn.   

Explore the Seasons

GATHER YOUR TRAVEL COMPANIONS

Every traveler is different. Whether you’re traveling with your partner, friends, the whole family or even taking a solo adventure, our handcrafted vacations are tailored for you. This is us, taking you personally.   

Find Out More

Get Inspired.

Search Our Trips.

Plan Your Ireland & Scotland Trip

Every traveler is different. How will you customize your vacation?

Explore Scotland's Highlands & Islands Your Way

GUIDED VACATIONS

LUX SELF-DRIVE

PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR

LOCALLY HOSTED RAIL

Our blog, the gab.

Stories to Inspire Your Trip

SIX DRAM GOOD SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERIES

THE TOP THINGS TO DO IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND IN AUTUMN

BEST PLACES TO SEE FALL LEAVES IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND

REQUEST A FREE BROCHURE

Collection of handcrafted itineraries throughout Ireland and Scotland.    

Request a Brochure

EXPLORE TRIPS

Search our collection of guided vacations and sample trips you can customize.

SEARCH TRIPS

Explore with Brendan

Northern Ireland

Travel Styles

Guided Vacations

Lux Self Drive

Locally Hosted Rail

Private Chauffeur

Special Offers

DMC Services

Sustainable Travel

Traveler Reviews

United States

Copyright © 2024 Brendan Vacations. All Rights Reserved.

Cookie Policy

Privacy Policy

Website Terms of Use

Booking Conditions

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:  13 Best Day Trips from Glasgow by Public Transport

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)

Inspired? Pin me for later!

This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. For full information, please see my disclaimer here .

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!

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hello, I’m Francesca

My mission is to show you why sustainable travel is empowering, fulfilling and affordable.

Little Lost Travel is your complete guide to nature-based and sustainable travel. Here, you can discover the best ecolodges in the world, sustainable destination guides and so much more!

Memberships

Stay connected, get a free guide to sustainable travel.

 Become part of the Little Lost Travel community and get:

- a FREE quick guide to sustainable travel

- Monthly newsletter featuring the latest blog posts

No spam, just awesome travel content. 

Read our Privacy Policy  here. 

Thank you! Check your inbox to confirm your subscription.

GET A FREE SCOTLAND PACKING LIST

Want free and helpful Scotland travel tips? 

SUBSCRIBE  and get: 

+ Free Scotland packing list for ALL SEASONS

+ 5-step guide to planning a trip of a lifetime

+ Monthly newsletter with helpful travel tips

Success! Check your inbox to confirm subscription.

By submitting your email you will be subscribed to my monthly newsletter. No spam, just awesome sustainable travel content! Unsubscribe at any time. For more information, visit my  Privacy Policy.

Pin It on Pinterest

Last Updated on 25/05/2024

Killiehuntly Farmhouse

- kingussie, scotland.

Lundies House

- sutherland, scotland.

Kinloch Lodge

Killiehuntly Cottages

A land unto its own, the untameable beauty of the Highlands is rich in history, mountains, fern and fen. A jewel in Scotland’s ravishing natural crown, the Highlands are utterly distinct from the more populated Lowlands and raise an eyebrow at anyone from south of the wall.

Stand here amidst the dense purple heather, peek into the twinkling mystery of the Caledonian Pinewoods, or gaze in awe at the craggy peaks of the Highland mountains in all their Gaelic glory, there is much to do and see in this ancient, enchanting land. 

A tiny weathered Scottish farmhouse plays host to Scandinavian contemporary design and Scottish crafted pieces from the Highlands - an irresistible combo of old and new, heritage meets the design - affectionately known as the 'Scandi-Scot'.

Design Bothy & Geordie's Cottage close to the Cairngorms National Park, ideal for a small family or as a Highland refuge, this aged restored cottage is decorated with Scandi influences and Scottish crafts - complete with log stove.

Once a remote shooting lodge home to the Duke of Sutherland, Kinloch Lodge now provides a remote and inviting retreat into the vastness of nature.

In a toned-down material palette of stone, timber, metal and glass, the brutal stone exteriors are hushed by Danish functionality: each piece of furniture carefully considered so as to embellish nothing but the raw landscapes, framed in oak.

This reclusive stopover will give you reason to pause and take in the stillness of your environment while revelling in the perfectly blended alchemy of Scottish and Scandinavian style.

North Coast 500 - Highlands’ Open Road

One of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal routes – and indeed the Highlands’ answer to Route 66 – take a drive around the North Coast 500 and sweep your way through 500 miles of varied, rugged natural beauty of the sort that only Scotland could ever really claim as its own.

Wildland: Conservation of the Scottish Highlands

Looking 200 years into the future. Wildland is one of Scotland's largest conservation projects, returning the Highlands back to nature and re-growing the pine forests.

Scandi-Scot Design

Located within the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park this creatively unique designer pad in the Scottish highlands is the new place to bed down for the night. Expect a wondrous, comforting blend of classic Scottish aesthetic and smooth, muted Scandi design.

From a bluebell wood in Perthshire to a smoothly sculpted piece of furniture for a special spot, Angus Ross is a wood crafter and expressive designer of extraordinary proportions.

GRAS architects: Scotland’s contemporary answer to collaborative design

Behind some of Scotland's landmark conservation and restoration projects including the award-winning Kyle House, Hotel Lundies and Killiehuntly Farmhouse in the Highlands.

more from Scotland

Hotel - Sutherland, Scotland

Holiday Home - Kingussie, Scotland

Guesthouse - Kingussie, Scotland

Situated in the Northern Highlands of Scotland, Sutherland is a county that commands incredible, vast areas of remote and startling beauty. A varied but wild landscape of glens, mountains, hills and fjords, Sutherland is one of the most sparsely populated areas in Scotland, but also one of the most beautiful.

Guesthouse - Sutherland, Scotland

A vibrant town nestled by the river Spey, Kingussie is the hidden gem in the glorious crown of Cairngorms National Park.

Holiday Home - Sutherland, Scotland

Wester Ross

Wester Ross is a feathery-outlined part of the Northwest Highlands of Scotland, sandwiched by the Isle of Skye and Invernes-shire. A wonderfully remote area, the forested Kintail mountains, deep sea lochs and steep glens present a scene of beautiful isolation.

Isle of Skye

When you think of Scotland’s ravaging beauty, many find themselves coming back to the Isle of Skye, the biggest of the Inner Hebrides Islands. There’s something lasting and evocative about the light, the mind-expanding views, the clean fresh air and the undulating green scenes which hide and reveal lochs, castles, cliffs, waterfalls and endless heather.

The Makers Crafting our Favourite Skis

Whether made from bamboo, walnut, beech, poplar or redwood, these seven ski chosen makers are using innovation, sustainability and tradition to carve out skis that have high performance.

JOIN the AFICIONADOS

To receive our world of travel and style delivered straight to your inbox.

Itineraries

Discover the marvellous myths and legends of Fort William and Glencoe in this illustrated trail from the COAST project.

Destinations

• Eas Chia-Aig Waterfalls
• Clach Shomairle
• Glencoe Folk Museum
• Kinlochleven

Explore the lands of Badenoch and Strathspey in the Cairngorms National Park with this itinerary kindly curated by VisitCairngorms.

• Cairngorm Mountain
• Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Centre
• Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail
• Uath Lochans
• Highland Folk Museum
• Dùn Da-Lamh
• Loch Laggan
• Centre of Scotland Stone

Discover the sensational stories of North West Skye.

• Uamh An Oir
• Neist Point

Raise a glass to Islay - the heart of Hebridean whisky.

• Caol Ila Distillery
• Ardnahoe Distillery
• Bunnahabhain Distillery
• Kilchoman Distillery
• Bruichladdich Distillery
• Bowmore Distillery
• Laphroaig Distillery
• Lagavulin Distillery
• Ardbeg Distillery

Discover Islay through the eyes of the people who call the island home.

• Bunnahabhain
• Port Wemyss
• Port Charlotte
• Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle
• The Big Strand

Journey through time and discover the rich history of the Isle of Arran.

• Machrie Moor Standing Stones
• Kilpatrick Dun
• Torr A’Chaisteal Dun
• King's Caves
• Kingscross Viking Fort
• Lochcranza Castle
• Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park
• Lamlash Clearances Monument
• Lagg Whisky Distillery
• Isle of Arran Heritage Museum

Follow in the footsteps of 19th and 20th century Orkney pioneers.

• Login's Well
• Statue of Dr John Rae
• Hoy High Lighthouse
• Orkney Wireless Museum

Circumnavigate Arran while exploring the history of illicit distilling and whisky smuggling in this illustrated trail from the COAST project.

• Brodick Bay
• Arran Botanical Drinks
• Kilbrannan Sound
• Lochcranza Distillery

• Tràigh Ghearadha
• The Butt of Lewis
• Calanais Standing Stones
• Charly Hamlyn Ceramics
• The Weaving Shed
• Luskentyre Beach

Take in the awe-inspiring sights of Nairn and their incredible stories.

• Culbin Sands
• Macbeth's Hillock
• Boath House Hotel
• Cawdor Castle and Gardens
• Nairn Public Hall
• Nairn Harbour
• Nairn Museum

Step back in time and explore dazzling Dornoch through the ages.

• Historylinks Museum
• Dornoch Old Parish Manse
• Dornoch Cathedral
• Mercat Cross, Dornoch
• Dornoch High Street
• Dornoch Railway Station
• St. Michael's Well
• Gallows Hill
• Cholera Stone at Gallows Hill
• The Earl's Cross
• Dornoch Links
• The Witch's Stone
• Dornoch War Memorial

Dive into the fascinating history of the Picts in the South East Highlands.

• Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
• Craig Phadrig
• Knock Farril
• Clach an Tiompain
• The Shandwick Stone
• Hilton of Cadboll Stone
• Tarbat Discovery Centre

Explore icons of Lochaber through the eyes of the people who live, work and visit here.

• Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
• Ben Nevis Distillery
• West Highland Museum
• Darach Social Croft and Croft Produce
• Loch Moidart

Ready, set-jet, go!

• Broomhill Station
• Ardverikie Estate
• Corrour Station
• Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Camusdarach
• Castle Stalker
• Rest and Be Thankful

Explore places in Inverness, Moray and Nairn that have been a pool of inspiration for writers.

• Sueno's Stone
• Brodie Castle and Estate
• Kilravock Castle and Grounds
• Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
• Inverness Castle
• Highland Archive Centre
• Glen Shiel Battle Site

Savour the flavours of the Uists on this self-guided itinerary.

• The Dunes Cabin
• Namara Seafood Café
• The Stepping Stone
• Croft and Cuan
• Café Kisimul

Experience thousands of years of stories etched in stone.

• Grey Cairns of Camster
• Nybster Broch
• Keiss Castle
• Scarfskerry
• Dunnet Head
• Mary Ann's Cottage
• North Coast Visitor Centre

Discover the Sutherland coast through the stories of the people who live, work and visit here.

• Assynt Viewpoint
• Handa Island Wildlife Reserve
• Balnakeil Beach
• Strathnaver Museum

Discover folklore from Applecross to Torridon in this illustrated trail from the COAST project.

• Applecross Heritage Centre
• Allt Nan Corp
• Bruthaich a’ Bhodaich Bhig
• Annat Old Cemetery
• Beinn Ailligin

Discover the spirit of shinty, Scotland's community sport, in Aird and Loch Ness in this itinerary kindly created by the Camanachd Association.

• Drumnadrochit
• Strathpeffer

Unwind and explore the wonders of Millport’s coastline in this short, self-guided itinerary.

• Millport Pier
• Newtown Bay
• Crocodile Rock
• Farland Point
• FSC Millport

Explore the spirit of Shetland knitwear from croft to craft.

• Shetland Museum & Archives
• Shetland Textile Museum
• Tangwick Haa Museum
• Unst Heritage Centre

Re-connect with nature in the enchanting West Aird and Loch Ness.

• Allt na Crìche
• Invermoriston Bridge and Falls
• Dundreggan Rewilding Centre
• Redburn Café & Gifts
• Glen Affric

Wonder at the wildlife of Caithness and Sutherland.

• RSPB Forsinard Flows
• Duncansby Head
• Orkney Folklore & Storytelling Centre

Scottish Highlands and Islands: 13 best things to do

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• scottish-highlands-islands-things-to-do

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Michelle Bhatia

updated 26.04.2024

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 .

Travel ideas for England, created by local experts

20 days  / from 3066 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 1382 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 653 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.

Related articles from the blog

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

The Rough Guides to England and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

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

• Nature & Wildlife
• Coasts & Islands
• National Parks & Reserves
• History Culture Heritage
• Inspiration

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for England

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to England

• Eating and drinking in England
• Sports and Outdoor activities in England
• Travel Tips England for planning and on the go
• Getting around England: Transportation Tips
• How to get to England
• Shopping tips for England
• Best time to visit England

Find even more inspiration for 57 here

Ready to travel and discover england, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

Scottish Highlands

• 2 Understand
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By rail
• 3.4 By road
• 4 Get around

The Scottish Highlands are the rugged northern and northwestern portion of Scotland . This is the Scotland conjured up by visions of tartan, kilts, Bonnie Prince Charlie and all.

The geographical division between Highland and Lowland Scotland is sharply diagonal, so Campbeltown in the far west is further south than Berwick-upon-Tweed in England, while northerly Stonehaven is a continuation of the lowland coastal plain. The Romans marched that far northeast before shrugging at the useless prospect and retrenching south to leave the Picts to their bogs, blizzards and coarse oatmeal. The cultural division is even further north, as lowland farming and industry, the English language and Victorian railways penetrated the valleys and turned the corner above Aberdeen to approach Inverness. The Highlands described on this page largely reflect that cultural boundary.

Alba, the proto-state forerunner to Scotland, arose in the lowlands in the 9th century, conquering the Highland kingdom of Moray (ruled by Macbeth), Gaelic-Ulster Dál Riata, and last of all the Viking / Norse realms of the far west and north in the 13th century. Battles continued with a ferocity out of all proportion to the poor rugged land they were fought over, with the final set-to (taking most of an hour) at Culloden in 1746. This shattered not only the Jacobite cause, but also a samurai feudal way of life and death, with sword-fealty to the chieftain obsolete in England since Norman times. The Highlands were militarised in the wake, with a large army base established at Nairn , and other forts were rebuilt.

The Victorians brought many innovations to the Highlands, and the most important was tourism, as black sucking peat-bogs were rebranded as romantic scenery of "dreary melancholy". This infused Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, the Tay and Dee valleys, then beyond across the Highlands. The Gaelic language died out in this region, to persist in the Hebrides. The burgeoning lowland cities created a mass leisure market, free time and transport links. The 20th century capitalised on this with winter sports and wildlife, and the 21st created eco-angst, the reindeer, beaver and wildcats being the beneficiaries, while ghosts of extinct wolves lope hopefully in the shadows.

55.8645 -4.432 1 Glasgow Airport ( GLA  IATA ) is best landing point for Argyll and Bute. It has good domestic connections and direct flights across Europe. Glasgow has daily flights to Campbeltown, Wick, the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland. The airport is west of the city so you drive onto M8 then cross Erskine Bridge northbound, without getting snarled in the centre.

Further north, it's equally convenient to use Glasgow or Edinburgh Airport ( EDI  IATA ), which likewise has excellent connections and is west (hence clear) of that city.

Inverness Airport ( INV  IATA ) is closest, with international flights from Amsterdam, Dublin and Düsseldorf, and UK flights from London LHR, Manchester, Kirkwall (Orkney), Sumburgh (Shetland) and Stornoway (Lewis).

Scotrail trains run every couple of hours from Glasgow and Edinburgh via Perth and Aviemore to Inverness. Change at Inverness for trains west to Kyle of Lochalsh (for Skye), north to Wick and Thurso (for Orkney) and east towards Aberdeen.

Trains also run from Glasgow up the West Highland Line via Arrochar & Tarbet (for Loch Lomond) and Crianlarich, where the train divides for Oban (for Mull, Coll, Tiree and Colonsay), or for Fort William and Mallaig (for Skye and the Small Isles).

Travelling from England usually means changing in Edinburgh or Glasgow, but one train per day is direct from London Kings Cross via Edinburgh to Inverness.

The Caledonian Sleepers run from London Euston via Preston and Carlisle: sleeping berths and saloon seats are available, and reservations are compulsory. The Lowland Sleeper runs to Edinburgh and Glasgow, the Highland Sleeper divides in the small hours for Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William. It serves intermediate stations such as Perth and Arrochar & Tarbet in the early hours, and the connection for Oban is tedious, so for those you might prefer to change in Glasgow for a daytime train.

From London Victoria, National Express and Megabus run daily to Edinburgh and Glasgow, and you usually have to change to reach the Highlands.

Citylink are the main bus line into the Highlands. Their routes from Glasgow and Edinburgh are:

West Coast Motors , Parks of Hamilton, Stagecoach and Megabus compete or collaborate on these routes.

Change at Inverness for Citylink buses to Fort William, Skye, Ullapool and Thurso.

The principal roads, followed by the buses, are:

There are no motorways this far north, and roads are mostly undivided highways busy with trucks at all hours, and where overtaking can be hazardous.

Bicycles are permitted on all these roads, but except for a few loops of bypassed historic highway you have to use the main carriageway, with fast traffic blurring past sometimes in limited visibility.

Trains and buses on the inter-city routes link the main towns but are of limited help for the villages. For instance at Glencoe, the Glasgow-Fort William bus only traverses the glen four times a day. A local bus plies six times a day from Fort William to Ballachulish, Glencoe village and Kinlochleven but doesn't go up the glen to the ski resort or trailhead for the West Highland Way.

Most visitors bring their own vehicle. Car hire is best arranged from the airports.

Highways are undivided, traffic builds up behind the slow fellow towing a caravan (with left-hand drive and limited visibility if he's from the continent), and overtaking is hazardous. It may be easier in the more remote areas with single track lanes, since the passing places are also used for overtaking. But then the motorcade that's built up behind the slow caravan meets a similar motorcade coming the other way, the passing place only fits three vehicles, and the resultant shunt-back will occupy many a happy hour.

Highland motorists are often willing to pick up hitchhikers who don't look too weird or muddy.

• Castles for the most part are sternly defensive but tumbledown. Great examples are Eilean Donan at Dornie and Urquhart Castle at Drumnadrochit by Loch Ness. Luxury castles (Victorian gin-palaces with twiddly bits to make them look medieval) are Dunrobin Castle at Golspie and Castle of Mey near John o'Groats , plus the Georgian Inveraray . McCaig's Tower above Oban is a Victorian folly.
• Gardens: every west coast promenade is studded with palm trees shivering in the rain to make a point about the balmy Gulf Stream. What grows better is Himalayan species, and you know you're within five miles of a stately mansion when you encounter their escaped rhododendrons, a riot of colour in May. The standout gardens are Inverewe near Gairloch , Arduaine near Oban and Crarae near Inveraray .
• Deserted landscapes: the rural Highland population was once greater, but they left or were driven out. Haunting Glencoe was a 17th-century example, and Auchendrain near Inveraray depicts farmhouse life before the big exodus of the 18th and 19th centuries. On several hillsides you see abandoned villages, and at Helmsdale the reverse: the makeshift village erected by those evicted from their crofts, before they despaired and headed to the lowland cities.
• Prehistoric structures have mostly been obliterated by agriculture, the best are in the Hebrides and Orkneys, but there's a fine collection around Wick. Most common were "Duns" - fortified outcrops, often on the coast. They're scrappy and you mostly come for the sea view.
• Islands involving a ferry ride are described elsewhere as part of the Hebrides, Orkneys or Shetland, but The Summer Isles are an example of an inshore archipelago, reached by boat trip from Achiltibuie . Unique within the UK are the "mainland islands", settlements and drivable lanes that have no road connection to the mainland network. The most populated is Knoydart , reached by ferry from Mallaig or by a very long hike across the moors. Several others such as Applecross were only connected in the late 20th century.

• Long-distance walks include the West Highland Way , 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, and the Great Glen Way , 73 miles from Fort William to Inverness. The Lairig Ghru is 19 gruelling miles from Speyside to Deeside.
• Mountains, oddly enough, are why this region is called the Highlands. A mountain above 3000 feet / 914.4 m is called a Munro, for the Victorian beard who first catalogued them. There are 282 of these and 226 secondary "tops", and "Munro-bagging" is a popular weekend pastime. A mountain between 2500 and 3000 feet is called a Corbett and there are 222 of these. The principal groups are:
• Take a steam train excursion along the West Highland Line from Fort William to Glenfinnan, Arisaig and Mallaig, or along the Strathspey Railway from Aviemore to Boat of Garten.
• Ski at Glencoe above Braemar , or Cairngorm above Aviemore, or Nevis Range above Fort William.
• Spot dolphins and whales in the Moray Firth: boat trips sail from Inverness.
• In Cairngorms National Park you might spot beaver, reindeer or even a wildcat.
• North Coast 500 is a motoring itinerary of 500-or-so miles from Inverness to the northwest coast, north coast, John o'Groats and return to Inverness.
• Highland Games are held in each town in turn over summer, sometimes combined with agricultural shows.

Even small places have a takeaway chippy or pizzeria, but sit-down eating opportunities are limited away from the towns. Pub grub or the town hotel may be the best bet; their kitchen may take last orders at 8pm or earlier so don't linger.

Vegetarian / vegan and GF choices are much easier to find nowadays.

The towns have traditional pubs, but village stand-alone pubs have withered - try the hotel bar / restaurant.

There are a few breweries and multiple whisky distilleries in the Highlands. Classic whisky country is the Spey Valley.

Small artisan gin distilleries have popped up all over, probably more than the market can sustain, so sample them now while you can.

Accommodation is scanty in relation to the number of visitors: it alternates between being full for summer holidays, and closed for winter. Schools and universities make block bookings at Easter and mid-term break. You might be able to rock up and find a place in shoulder season, but it's always best to book well ahead.

The Scottish islands are the obvious next regions to explore. Each large island is a destination in its own right, and transport routes radiate from the mainland, so don't plan on seeing multiple islands in a single trip.

• The Hebrides lie off the northwest coast, and for a first-time visit pick one of the larger islands of the Inner Hebrides , such as Skye (linked by toll-free road bridge), Mull , Islay or Tiree .
• The Orkney Islands are a low-lying, scenic archipelago ten miles north of the mainland, where the heritage is Norse not Gaelic.
• The Shetland Islands are further north, with treeless haunting scenery, and even stronger Norse heritage.

North East Scotland starts just across the Firth from Edinburgh. Some is industrial but it's dotted with fishing harbours and castles, from the grand to the tumbledown, with charming St Andrews , rejuvenated Dundee , and chief city Aberdeen .

The Central Belt is the lowland urban area to the south: both Edinburgh and Glasgow rank as must-see.

• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default size
• Has Geo parameter
• Usable regions
• Usable articles
• Region articles
• All destination articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

[email protected]

1-888-810-0045

+44 (0)141 432 1770

Inspiring Travel’s Guide to the Scottish Islands

18 Jul, 2021

After writing a blog explaining why you need to visit the Scottish highlands at least once , the natural follow-up is for us to argue the case for some of Scotland’s incredible islands. Take just a quick glance at a map of Scotland. We’ll bet you notice right away that its ragged west coast is packed with a mixture of small and large islands.

Scotland’s islands all have their own character, each offering different experiences to those who visit them. You could write whole books about each island — and people have. But our goal with this blog is to give a brief overview of Scotland’s four most famous islands, summarising what you can expect to find there.

Our hope is that this guide inspires you to include at least one Scottish island on your next big Scottish adventure. If this blog does inspire you, check out our customised Scotland tours page and tell us everything you’d like us to include on your perfect, tailormade Scotland trip!

Why You Need to Visit at Least a Few Scottish Islands

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a visit to its stunning west coast and islands. The landscapes and vistas here are truly breath-taking! Whether you’re seeking castles or whisky, waterfalls or wildlife, the Scottish islands offer it all.

While these are some of the largest and most popular islands, we also have plenty of favourite spots we won’t mention here. We’d be delighted to take you during your custom Scotland trip , however! Just let us know what you’d love to do and we’ll use all our local expertise and insight to make it happen.

Arran – Scotland in Miniature

Arran feels like the best start to this guide as it is often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature”. This is because it falls under the same Highland Boundary Fault that crosses mainland Scotland, turning it into the Lowlands and the Highlands.

This means that Arran is also split into its own much smaller Lowlands and Highlands. Arran is considered a geologist’s paradise, but its rock formations and general landscapes can be admired and appreciated by the layperson, too. 

Arran is one of Scotland’s larger islands. It can be found just off the west coast of Ayrshire within easy reach of Glasgow. And there is plenty to see and do over a 3- or 4-day stay!

Things to Do on the Isle of Arran

You can visit Brodick, the main village on the island. Enjoy an ice cream, pub grub, fish and chips, and the other trappings of an idyllic Scottish seaside town.

Travel north a little and you’ll find Brodick Castle, widely regarded as one of the finest castles in Scotland . However, the grounds and gardens around the castle are just as impressive.

If you’re looking for a little physical exercise, you can climb Goatfell — the highest mountain on the island, at 874 metres. Seeking outdoor activities during your Scotland trip? You may also want to check out our inspirational guide to outdoor adventure in Scotland .

Heading to the west of Arran, you’ll find Machrie Moor Stone Circle. Despite the name, there are actually several stone circles, all dating back to approximately 4,000 years ago. You will also find a burial cairn on the coastal path that dates back to the Bronze Age.

Arran is a truly unique island with lots to offer first-timers and plenty to reward returning visitors.

Islay – A Whisky Paradise

Islay can be found approximately 50 miles to the west of Arran, across from the Kintyre Peninsula.

Islay is a beautiful island with pristine sandy beaches and idyllic seaside villages. The houses are painted white, sitting out against the island’s lush, green fields.

However, while the island’s beauty is undeniable, it plays second fiddle to Islay’s more famous tourist draw: whisky distilleries. There are an impressive nine distilleries on Islay!

Islay is arguably the centre for Scotland’s whisky tourism and it even holds a whisky and music festival in May each year, called Fèis Ìle. The peat that can be found on the island finds its way into the whisky distillation process, giving many — but not all — of the Islay whiskies a deep, peaty flavour. 

Explore Whisky on the Isle of Islay

For Scottish whisky enthusiasts, Islay is a dream come true. You could spend nine days in Islay, taking a tour of a different distillery each day, or you could just visit one or two of your favourite distilleries.

Laphroaig is, arguably, Islay’s most famous whisky. Part of what makes Laphroaig famous is its strong peaty flavour, which completely divides whisky lovers. You’ll find the Laphroaig distillery to the east of Port Ellen, on the south of Islay.

Just to the east of the Laphroaig distillery, you’ll find both Lagavulin and Ardbeg distilleries. Lagavulin has been in competition with Laphroaig since its inception in 1816, one year after Laphroaig opened up shop.

While some Lagavulin whiskies have a deep, peaty flavour, the 16-year-old Lagavulin smooths out and is one of the island’s most famous and best-loved exports. 

Moving to the Rhinns of Islay, the island’s northwestern peninsula, you’ll find two of Islay’s other big whisky heavyweights: Bruichladdich and Kilchoman.

While Bruichladdich was founded in 1881, it has closed down several times and swapped hands over the last 140 years. Despite this, Bruichladdich is currently right at the forefront of modern Scottish whisky production, borrowing the idea of terroir from French wine production.

Terroir is the idea that the land, the weather, and other environmental factors affect the crop and impact the flavour of the whisky.

If you’re interested in whisky, then you may like to read our brief guide to Scottish whisky before you visit.  We also offer an Exclusive Scottish Whisky and Culture Tour that you may want to check out. After all, someone else should do the driving while you sample so many whiskies!

Skye — The Winged Isle

Where Skye, also referred to as “The Isle of Skye”, got its name is somewhat of a mystery. It is believed to have derived from a variety of sources. One theory is that it takes its name from the Celtic word Skitis, which means ‘winged’. Other theories connect the name to the Gaelic and Norse settlers that followed after the Celts.

Skye’s popularity in recent years has absolutely soared, which has led to over-tourism in some instances. However, the popularity is undeniably linked to the Isle of Skye’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides group of islands, found to the northwest of Scotland. With an area of 639 square miles, there is a lot of ground to cover when you visit this Scottish island!

While all of Scotland’s islands can boast beautiful scenery, Skye is, arguably, the most impressive.

Most guests come specifically to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots. It’s perhaps no surprise that the age of social media – of Pinterest and Instagram — has produced thousands of images of Skye.

In fact, it’s very likely that the profluence of gorgeous online images has directly contributed to Skye’s rise in popularity.

Things to Do on the Isle of Skye

If you do visit, walk the Quiraing. This circuit of hills allows you to sample the island’s incredible landscapes. The walk will take about 3–4 hours and it starts off close to Uig, on the northeast of the island.

The Quiraing might be the most impressive walk you ever go on! You will pass other famous Skye features, such as the Needle and the Prison, and it offers high relief views of Skye and the smaller Islands of Raasay and Rona.

If you’re a photographer and you’re visiting Skye, walking the Quiraing is an absolute must. 

The Old Man of Storr is another unmissable natural feature on Skye. Located not far from the Quiraing, hikers and hillwalkers love the Old Man of Storr. 

This fascinating rock formation atop a hill is one of the most striking natural landscapes you’ll ever see — and the views from the top of the hill make the climb more than worth it.

Moving to the south of the island, at Glenbrittle, you’ll find the Fairy Pools. These picturesque rock pools are becoming increasingly popular. It’s due to the sense of peace and tranquillity of the pools, the springs, and the waterfalls that feed into them.

There are so many things to see and do in Skye that we’ve only scratched the surface, but there’s one more Scottish island we’d like to discuss in this guide…

The Isle of Mull

Last, but certainly not least, is the Isle of Mull, often just called Mull. Mull is further north than Skye, and it’s the second biggest of the Hebrides islands — second only to Skye.

There is plenty to see and do over a 3-4 day stay, and we hope to inspire a few readers to add it to their itineraries. Mull has castles, picturesque seaside towns, and enchanting wildlife. Plus, it’s only a short journey away from Staffa, which we’ll discuss later on.

Things to Do in Mull

Mull is one of the best places in Scotland for nature lovers. There are plenty of opportunities to go out in search of its majestic sea life.  You can go out on a boat in search of seals, otters, and whales. Or you can visit the nest areas for the island’s famous kittiwakes and fulmar birds, as well as black guillemots and great black-backed gulls.

You can also take a short boat ride to the smaller islands around Mull. There, you’ll find nesting razorbills, guillemots, and puffins in even larger numbers. 

While in Mull, make sure you visit the town of Tobermory, the capital of Mull. Dating back to 1788, Tobermory was designed around its natural harbour, with parts of the town stretching up into the hills beyond.

The multi-coloured buildings on the harbour make Tobermory one of the most visually striking ports in Scotland.

In Tobermory, you can visit the Mull Museum, the Marine Visitor Centre, take in a show at the Mull Theatre, and you can take a guided tour of Tobermory Distillery. 

Don’t Forget the Isle of Staffa!

To the west of central Mull — just a short boat ride away — you’ll find the Isle of Staffa.

This small island is only really easily accessible from Mull. But it is well worth the additional effort required to get there! Staffa is unlike anywhere else in Scotland, due to the densely packed pillars of basalt that make up most of the island.

Staffa comes from the same rock formation as The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland and Stuðlagil Canyon in Iceland. However, for many who visit it, Staffa is often regarded as the best, most impressive example of this incredible, otherworldly phenomenon. 

Go Visit the Scottish Islands

That’s all we have time for in this guide. We’ve only covered 4 of Scotland’s 130 inhabited islands, but we’ve tried to discuss the most important ones.

Want to learn more? Check out our inspirational guide for you to tour the Scottish islands !

Whether you visit all of these islands or just one or two, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time. Scotland’s wild and varied landscape has so much to offer visitors, and no two of its islands are the same. We hope this guide has inspired one or two readers to visit the Scottish islands.

If you have any questions about the Scottish islands and would like help to organise your next big Scottish adventure, please don’t hesitate to get in touch . 

This post was originally published in September 2019 and was updated in July 2021.

Tailor Made Customised Tours

CONTACT US TO CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE TOUR OF SCOTLAND

• Essential Scotland – Highlands History, Scenery & Culture
• Scottish Outlander Tour
• Scottish North Coast 500 and Culloden Tour
• Scottish Whisky and Culture – The Exclusive Tour
• Two Cities & Outlander Tour
• Whisky Trail by Luxury Train
• The Outlaw King Tour
• Luxury Staycation – Scottish Highlands Tour
• Tailormade – Customized Tours
• Be Inspired
• Why book with us?
• How to Book
• Testimonials

Tell us a little about what you would like to do on your ideal tour:

Number of Adults 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Number of Seniors (over 60) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Number of Children 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Date you would like tour to begin

Tour Duration

Phone number (Including area codes)

Scottish Highlands   Travel Guide

Courtesy of miroslav_1 | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Scottish Highlands

Updated Feb. 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.

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.

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.

Explore More of Scottish Highlands

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

We've refreshed our website design so things may look a little different if you've been here before. We'll be making more improvements soon so watch this space.

Ring of Brodgar

9 Day Highlands & Islands Tour

Experience the the best of our rugged highlands and peaceful islands, on a 9 day escorted tour. Accommodation, breakfast, evening meals and attraction are all included.

This popular Highlands & Islands tour underlines the many contrasts of Scotland; beautiful island and coastal landscapes - the highlights include: the majestic Highlands, magical castles, remote historic places and does so in a relaxing 9 days. Take in the contrasting scenery that Scotland has to offer, from the lochs and forests of the mainland, to the mountainous landscapes of Skye and the Cairngorms as well as the history and culture of the Outer Hebrides. This tour includes carefully selected, quality accommodation.

Day 1 is a fabulous introduction to the Scottish landscape; exploring the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and Scotland’s first National Park, the fairy-tale castle of Inveraray and fabulous Glencoe, steeped in history with dramatic scenery. Overnight nr Glencoe.

Day 2 takes us west on the spectacular “Road to the Isles” providing wonderful views across the Sound of Arisaig to the Small Isles of Eigg and Rhum. Our journey takes us past Neptune’s Staircase on our way to take the ferry “Over the Sea to Skye”. Overnight Skye.

Day 3  is a tour of the Island of Skye, passing through Broadford and on to the Island capital, Portree. Heading north we take in the fabulous scenery and seascapes with Dunvegan Castle and other options a possibility. Overnight Skye.

Day 4 we travel by ferry from Skye to the Outer Hebrides and we will spend the afternoon exploring the dramatic beauty of the Isle of Harris with highlights including the Golden Road and stunning Luskentyre beach. Overnight North Harris.

Day 5 we explore the rich history of Lewis which has been inhabited by man for around 5000 years or more. Visiting the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, Dun Carloway Broch, and a traditional blackhouse village we will discover the ancient way of life. Overnight Lewis.

Day 6 allows more time to explore Lewis before we head back to the mainland past the Summer Isles and venture through Wester Ross. This is a very old landscape and the area is well known for its spectacular mountain scenery, especially the Torridon Hills. Overnight nr Inverness.

Day 7 we head south into the "Capital of the Highlands"; Inverness and on to Culloden Battlefield to learn about the last Jacobite rebels who fell here. Iconic Loch Ness is next up with fabulous scenery and picturesque villages along the way. Overnight nr Inverness.

Day 8 explores the Cairngorms National Park with towering mountain ranges and large tracts of the original Caledonian Pine Forest. Heading south, we take in Carrbridge, Aviemore and Pitlochry with the opportunity to visit the whisky Distillery. Overnight Pitlochry.

Day 9 explores Highland Perthshire and the beautiful village of Dunkeld before we head south to Edinburgh via the Forth Bridges. A leisurely visit to Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by Dan Brown's book The Da Vinci Code, will be enlightening before we enjoy a walk down the Royal Mile, with its charming medieval architecture and the opportunity to do some last minute speciality shopping.

What We Include

• Your own tour co-ordinator who will work with you to provide the best itinerary to suit you.
• Accommodation Handpicked by Best Scottish Tours
• Quality B&B lodgings
• Full Scottish breakfast each morning
• A luxury touring vehicle with ample space for all luggage and passenger
• Maximum of 8 people per vehicle
• Your own driver/tour guide

What We Don’t Include

• Lunch/snacks and dinners
• Drinks / Beverages
• Attractions

Our tours operate on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis where possible with lunch and beverages excluded. Where dinner is not included in your accommodation, an allocation per head is organised at that evening’s restaurant. 

From £3989 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0131) 2082208
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Driver guide
• Small Group (1-16)
• Food and drink
• Photography

Tour prices

From £3989 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour gallery

Tour company information

Best scottish tours.

Scotland's small group touring specialists

Social Channels

Visit Best Scottish Tours

Opening times

Mon 09.00 - 17.00 Tues 09.00 - 17.00 Wed 09.00 - 17.00 Thur 09.00 - 17.00 Fri 09.00 - 17.00 Sat 09.00 - 17.00 Sun 09.00 - 17.00

Other tours from this company

7 Day Best of Scotland & Outlander Tour

Departs: Edinburgh - City Centre, Glasgow City Centre

Experience the beautiful highland landscape, stunning island scenery and ancient...

Price from:

£3177pp

5 Day Winter Highlands & Skye Tour

Departs: Edinburgh, Glasgow

Get a taste of Scotland's stunning highland landscape, island scenery and ancien...

£2215pp

10 Day Grand Tour inc. Jacobite Steam Train

£4506pp

8 Day West Coast Islands and Wild Highlands Tour

Departs: Glasgow

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Scottish Highlands Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 13, 2022

O ur  Scottish Highlands Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, best day trips, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful part of Scotland. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to the Highlands of Scotland.

Plan your visit to the Scottish Highlands

Are you interested in seeing some of the most beautiful landscapes and experiencing a culture that has been preserved for centuries? Look no further than the Highlands of Scotland. With lush green rolling hills, rugged mountains, and picturesque lochs the Scottish Highlands are the perfect destination for anyone who loves to explore new places.

What you will find in this travel guide to the Scottish Highlands

Map showing the location in Scotland of the Highlands

• When is the best time of year to visit?

How many days do you need to explore the Scottish Highlands?

• What is the best way to get around the Scottish Highlands?

🚆 By train from London – Inverness / By train from Edinburgh

🚙 by car from edinburgh, ⭐️ places to visit in the highlands of scotland, inverlochy castle hotel, highland lassie, redwood house, 🎟 tickets, tours & attractions in the scottish highlands (including day trips from inverness), best day trips and tours from edinburgh & glasgow to the scottish highlands, books, tv shows and movies set in the scottish highlands, 💛 enjoy your visit the beautiful scottish highlands.

📖 The Scottish Highlands travel guide – FAQ’s

When is the best time of year to visit .

The best time of year to visit the Scottish Highlands is generally between May and September. However, the timing of your trip may vary depending on what you plan to see and do.

For those interested in outdoor activities, spring is a particularly good time as the weather tends to be milder and there are more daylight hours for hiking, cycling or climbing. In some parts of the Highlands, however, winter is the only time it is possible to see snow-capped mountains.

Places such as Glencoe and Loch Ness offer the best views of the Highlands just be aware that in winter weather conditions may make it a little more tricky to get around (plus hours of daylight are short) and many attractions like Urquhart Castle close for the season.

One benefit of visiting the Highlands in winter is that it can be a quieter time of year and you may find yourself on some roads without another car in sight. Plus if you are very lucky you may see the northern lights!

The traditional fire festival of Up Helly Aa is celebrated in Shetland from January to March.

Be aware that midges (tiny biting flies) are particularly prevalent in the Scottish Highlands during the summer months when the weather is warm and humid.

We recommend allowing at least one week to experience the Highlands of Scotland. This will give you enough time to get a flavour of what is on offer, see some highlights and take your pick from the many activities available.

What is the best way to get around t he Scottish Highlands?

There are a few options you can choose from to get around the Highlands including by car, train, bus, ferry or by taking a tour.

Due to the distances involved and the limited public transport services, it can be easier (and cheaper) to travel around the Highlands by car. Road trips such as the North Coast 500 are particularly popular.

Please be aware, however, that many roads in the Highlands are narrow and single-track and driving conditions can sometimes be hazardous. If you decide to drive yourself around the Highlands, make sure you plan your journey carefully and allow plenty of time. Beware of cows, sheep and even deer on the roads.

If you prefer not to drive you can explore the Highlands by train too. ScotRail offers a number of services including routes from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh or up to Wick and Thurso. If you plan to travel around Scotland by train it may be cost-effective to purchase a BritRail Pass .

Inter-city buses also travel to many parts of the Highlands including Inverness, Ullapool, Skye, and Fort William. Bear in mind that bus timetables can be limited so it’s best to plan your journey carefully. Bus companies operating in Scotland include First Bus, Lothian Buses, and Stagecoach.

The following companies operate inter-city and longer distance coach services around Scotland:

• Scottish citylink
• National Express

No matter how you choose to get around the Scottish Highlands, make sure you plan your journey carefully and allow plenty of time.

What is the best way to travel to the Scottish Highlands

The most direct way to travel from London to Inverness is by train. Take the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Inverness which leaves from Euston station in the evening arriving in Inverness the following morning. This is a spectacular train journey and is highly recommended!

From Edinburgh to Inverness there are 3 possible routes – one via Aberdeen, one via Perth, and the third via Stirling and Perth. Read more in our guide to the 10 best train journeys to take in the UK.

Inverness is the gateway to the Highlands and it is the starting point of the popular North Coast 500 road trip. It is possible to drive from Edinburgh to Inverness in around three hours 35 mins via Fort William. We would however recommend that you take your time and perhaps plan to do this over a few days rather than a few hours.

There is a multitude of car rental companies to choose from in the UK. We recommend comparing prices and deals on DiscoverCars and AutoEurope  to get the best rates before making your booking.

Discover Cars compares companies including Hertz, Europcar and Avis and has a price match guarantee. AutoEurope offers longer-term rental deals for 30 days + and also rent camper vans and motor homes. They also have excellent deals for one-way rentals (often free of charge as long as the maximum rental period is adhered to)

Read – UK transportation guide

INVERNESS TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM INVERNESS

WHERE TO STAY IN INVERNESS

ISLE OF SKYE TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST ISLE OF SKYE TOURS

WHERE TO STAY ON SKYE

SCOTTISH ISLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE

FORT WILLIAM TRAVEL GUIDE

THINGS TO DO IN FORT WILLIAM

WHERE TO STAY IN FORT WILLIAM

NORTH COAST 500 ROAD TRIP

🏩 Scottish Highlands Accommodation

Accommodation quick picks for that special stay!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️

Set among the beautiful Scottish West Highlands scenery, 19th-century Inverlochy is an award-winning luxury hotel and restaurant.

Located on the Caledonian Canal – perfect for couples. Free WiFi and a terrace.

A small family-run guest house on the Isle of Skye. 

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for Scotland.

⭐️ CLICK FOR MORE INFO ABOUT OUR TRAVEL ITINERARY PLANNERS

We use Get Your Guide when choosing tours – they have a huge selection plus one of the best cancellation policies in the business (so no stressing if your plans change at the last minute)

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a ride on the Jacobite steam train (as seen in Harry Potter )

• Best books set in Scotland
• Best movies set in Scotland

More practical tips and resources to plan your trip to Scotland can be found in these articles:

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Fairytale castles to stay in when you visit Scotland
• 10 Scottish castles to explore
• Glasgow Travel Guide

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Scotland Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

• 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

You May Also Like

The essential guide to visiting Ireland

10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

Introducing nat geo kids book bundle.

10 best things to do in Maine

Visiting Ireland? Here’s what the locals love

The essential guide to visiting Alaska

Visiting Maine: Here’s what the locals love

The essential guide to visiting Texas

• Environment
• Paid Content
• Photography

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Destination Guide
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

A Road Trip Guide to Discovering the Scottish Highlands

One week exploring the Scottish Highlands was an adventure. From historic castles, discovering local cuisine, to otherworldly landscapes, I couldn’t have imagined a more idyllic road trip.

The vibrant culture of Scotland is contagious and to uncover it, there’s no better way than the keys to a car and the open road.

It was my first time in Scotland. My passions when traveling have always been to both taste and see a destination. To try local foods that I’ve never tasted before like haggis or black pudding. To see sights that are new to me like a 13th century ruined castle towering over a loch with one intriguing story. It’s these kinds of moments that make me excited, that draws me to explore.

Scotland was exactly that — a wild landscape that unveiled its flavors, culture, and adventure. The Scottish Highlands were one postcard scene after the next, making it nearly impossible to not stop every few miles to snap a photo for memory.

If you’re coming to Scotland and looking to immerse yourself in outdoor adventure and tradition, then a road trip is the way to go. Here’s a look at what I uncovered while discovering the Scottish Highlands.

* This post is in partnership with Visit Britain . Support was provided from ASVA to enter certain attractions and was a gifted experience from Visit Scotland. As always, all opinions are own.

Short on Time? Here’s Where I’d Stay When Visting the Scottish Highlands:

Stop 1: inverness (eastern highlands).

• Heathmount Hotel Inverness , for the best modern, centrally-located hotel
• Glen Moriston Townhouse Hotel , for the best apartment-style hotel

Stop 2: Fort William (Western Highlands)

• The Lime Tree Hotel , for the best historic design and restaurant

Scottish Highlands Map

Getting to the Scottish Highlands

Getting to this region of Scotland is a breeze — you can fly into Edinburgh or Glasgow and make your way from either city. When I visited, I did a full loop starting from Edinburgh airport. When visiting the Highlands, you’ll need to hire a car for your time as it makes for flexibility and ease. You can rent the car at the airport or head to the train station via Edinburgh and train to Inverness and rent a car there on arrival.

Driving in Scotland is easy and signs are posted in English and miles per hour. If it’s your first time driving on the opposite side of the road, don’t worry, you’ll get used to it quickly. Be sure to follow speed signs, watch out for unexpected crossings like the local sheep and deer, and hug the line!

Where to Visit in the Scottish Highlands

The eastern highlands.

It’s one of the best places to start your journey into the Highlands. As it’s a major city, Inverness makes for a good base to explore the eastern part of the Highlands. In Inverness itself, a few highlights include the Inverness Castle and the Inverness Cathedral to tour.

For a great dinner, book a seat at Prime for a steak & seafood meal alongside the river. One thing not to miss in this city is the historic Leakey’s Bookshop where there are used books dating back decades ago. On the same street, be sure to grab a coffee and a donut at Perk Coffee and an ice cream at Miele’s Gelateria.

Urquhart Castle + Loch Ness

Two stops you can do at once is visiting the ruins of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness. This ruined castle from 1509 sits perched over the lake, making for a scenic experience while learning about the history of this area.

I’d recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds. If you’re interested to learn more about Loch Ness, the visitor’s center is around the corner on the lake.

The Western Highlands

Fort william.

One of the other larger towns in the Highlands is Fort William. You’ll want to base yourself here for visiting the western side of the Scottish Highlands as there are a plethora of hotels and restaurants. There is a pedestrian zone for exploring the historic downtown, with local shops and pubs like Grog & Gruel.

My favorite meal in Fort William was at Lime Tree An Ealdhain & Restaurant (stayed here as well) where local ingredients were used beautifully to showcase Scottish cuisine. Fort William sits on Loch Linnhe and is truly in the center of everything to do in the area.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye could take a few days to see in full as there is so much to do on the island. If you don’t have a few days, you can definitely see the highlights in a full day tour. (See below for the Rabbie’s tour I did). My favorite parts of visiting was a stop in Portree to see the charming seaside town and eat at Caroy House — this spot is a must for a meal.

Afterward, we drove up the Trotternish Peninsula and saw the stunning Quiraing and kilt rock before returning back to Inverness. Isle of Skye has a wild landscape and the weather changes quickly here so be sure to bring a few layers!

Glen Nevis & Ben Nevis Mountain

Just outside of Fort William is the famous Glen Nevis outdoor area. It’s home to Ben Nevis Mountain which is the tallest mountain in the British Isles. It’s a hikers paradise and also incredibly scenic. I’d come here for at least a half day and start at the Visitors Center and work your way through the valley.

If you want to do the hike to the top of Ben Nevis, be sure to give yourself ample time to do so. Coming for the afternoon, we parked on the side of the road and walked through the valley and got to come up close to the famous Highland cows here.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

If you’re a Harry Potter fan or love historic viaducts, then a stop here is a must. This is where they shot a few scenes from the Harry Potter series and the famous steam train to Hogwarts.

The Jacobite Steam train runs seasonally so be sure to check their dates if you want to ride or see the train. Otherwise, it’s still a beautiful sight to go see and explore.

Glencoe Valley

Easily the most beautiful drives during the time in the Highlands was through the Glencoe Valley. The towering mountains are home to this deep valley that is spotted with lush lands and wildlife. I would start at Glencoe and work your way towards Altanafeadh. This area is also an ultimate hiking destination with plenty of trails to explore if you want to get outside while here.

Luss Village

One of the picturesque villages in the Highlands and on the scenic Loch Lomond is Luss Village. Streets lined with rows of charming cottages spotted with flowers and ivy, create an enchanting setting.

It’s a great stopping point to go visit and walk around for an hour or two. You can also grab a tea and pastry at Coach House Coffee Shop.

Hotels in the Scottish Highlands

Accommodations in the Scottish Highlands range from private bed and breakfasts, budget hotels, to luxury lodges. You can really have a wide range of experiences here. The two main areas that are great for basing yourself in is Fort William and Inverness. From these two, you can take day trips to the locations across the Highlands. Always be sure to read traveler reviews and check for things like free parking, wifi, and if breakfast is included.

In Inverness, I stayed at:

• Heathmount Hotel Inverness : Good location from the center of town, this hotel has a restaurant just downstairs. The rooms are updated and modern, and a good fit for a couple traveling.
• Glen Moriston Townhouse Hotel : I had the two bedroom apartment here which was really lovely for a spacious stay. It was nice to have a kitchen and a living room and the included breakfast at the restaurant was a great bonus. It sits right along the river as well and walking distance to the center of Inverness.

In Fort William, I stayed at:

• The Lime Tree Hotel : This historic building hosts a lovely hotel. The downstairs has fireplaces which are great for the colder months and the rooms are cozy. The hotel also has one of the best restaurants in town, so be sure to book a table here!

Other top hotels in the Highlands:

• Ardanaiseig Hotel
• The Torridon
• The Glencoe House

Scottish Highlands Day Tour

One of the best ways to see the Highlands is through a guided tour. The preferred tour company for seeing the Highlands with ease is Rabbie’s. For a tour out of Inverness, I did the Isle of Skye + Eileen Donan Castle Day tour . It was a full day that started out of Inverness and took us out to the Isle of Skye past the West Highlands.

Our guide was knowledgeable and led us through different stops, all while giving us insight into the destinations. We passed by Loch Ness (Lake Ness) and our first stop was Eileen Donan Castle. This region is plenty in castles and Eileen Donan is one of the top ones to see. Afterward, we made the journey out to the Isle of Skye, one of my bucket list destinations in the Highlands. We had time to explore the town of Portree and then finished with a tour of the northern part of the island.

Their small group tours always come highly reviewed (I was surprised by how many of you had been on one!) and make for a great day trip. Rabbie’s also has many tours starting in Edinburgh and Glasgow should you want to begin there as well.

Save this post for later on Pinterest

PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

Where to Take a Family Beach Vacation in Florida in 2024

The Ultimate Kyoto 3 to 4 Days Itinerary

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Placerville, California

Write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• French Polynesia
• Travel Tips
• Family Travel
• Accommodations
• Packing Lists
• Photography Tips
• Northern California Guide
• San Francisco
• Lightroom Presets
• Rent Our Home For Photoshoots
• California Map

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

[email protected]

+447341132231.

THE FIVE STAR PRIVATE TOUR COMPANY

"This was a trip of a life time I will never forget and Uncover Scotland delivered the spectacular experience" - The  Williams Family , Baltimore, United States.

The Inspiring Highland Single Day Tour

Highland and Isle of Skye 3 Day Tour 

The Best of Scotland 4 Day Tour

Design Your Own Bespoke Tours & Activities

The Home of Golf & Whisky 3 Day Tour 

Malt Whisky Indulgence Single Day Tour

Glencoe & Isle of Skye 2 Day Tour

The Ultimate Sea Plane Experience & Scottish Highland Tour

Step out your hotel and step into the heart of Scotland! 

Uncover Scotland Tours provides a luxury tour experience that will show you our beautiful Highlands and Islands like no other. 

Send us your enquiry and we'll be in touch within 50 minutes.   

Ready to see the best of scotland.

Thank you for your enquiry, you are now a step closer to a trip you'll never forget!

WHY TRAVEL WITH US? 

"TAKE CARE OF YOUR CUSTOMERS AND BUSINESS WILL TAKE CARE OF ITSELF"

We live and breathe by this famous quote which is why Uncover Scotland Tours is a tour company you can completely rely on to deliver the ultimate tour experience. We can absolutely guarantee your satisfaction! This is why we are rated 5 stars across Google, Trip Advisor & Trust Pilot.

Once you have secured your tour with us directly, we can guarantee your tour will take place. Under no circumstances will we cancel your tour. If you decided to cancel your tour the full balance will be refunded to you with the exception of the deposit. 

The Views & Wildlife 

Yes you will have a tour-guide with years of experience in delivering informative, charming information as well as laughter throughout your tour but, to us that is standard. If you are touring with us, your wants and needs will be at the heart of every decision we make, before and during your tour. We are committed in ensuring you experience breath-taking views,  extraordinary wildlife and a truly special experience that you'll never forget. We urge you to read our Google reviews if you have any doubts if our company is the right one for you. 

LUXURY PRIVATE TRAVEL

It is important to us that all our customers travel in class and comfort. Our high-end fleet includes multiple XL Mercedes V-Class's (Up to 7 people per vehicle). Will you pay slightly more for experiencing Scotland privately and in luxury travel? Of course, however, there is a reason every year almost 1000 people choose Uncover Scotland Tours. Our long standing relationships & industry reputation allows us access to some of the most exclusive experiences in the country that you can't experience with large bus tour companies. 

Check Out What Our Customers Say About Us

Meet the Team

"Below is our specially selected team. I have carefully selected this team to ensure that your experience with us is an exceptional one! Every one of our Tour Leaders have the life experience and personality to deliver a Scottish Highland Tour that you will never forget". 

Jordan Reid  -  Uncover Scotland Tours Director.

Director 

Director & Owner of the company, Jordan fell in love with the Scottish Highlands while booking a spontaneous trip to Glencoe for the first time in 2021. From that day on, it was fair to say Jordan fell in love with the Highlands and spent months learning every fine detail there was to know as well as visiting almost every destination the Scottish Highlands has to offer. An additional factor to starting Uncover Scotland Tours was Jordan's fascination in meeting people from all over the world which he experienced from his mountain biking business - www.PentlandCycleHire.com 

Jordan is passionate about delivering an exceptional customer experience and takes pride in organising once in a lifetime trips for our guests from all over the world! So passionate in fact that he is the reason that you when you send your enquiry to us it is likely you will receive a response almost immediately!

Tour Leader

As well as working along side the military, Ricky is a highly experienced Scottish Highland Tour Guide. He is also an excellent Photographer so if you are looking to capture some social media worthy photographs, Ricky is your man! Hilarious, knowledgeable and a fabulous story teller, Ricky is certain to deliver an exceptional tour experience. Ricky is also an advance driver so you can absolutely relax while he is behind the wheel of our Mercedes V Class. If Ricky is your Tour Guide, be prepared for some fascinating stories, tales and interesting facts about Scotland. He often goes above and beyond to ensure that our guests have an experience of a lifetime! To put this into perspective Ricky's first ever tour, many years ago, was during a Scottish Storm. A hard gig for any Tour Guide, yet despite the awful weather, our guests still rated our tour as a 5 star experience and commented that their 2 day tour was "an incredible and unforgettable". experience!" 

Meet Dale, an ex Royal Marine Commando and 32 years service in the Police, specialising in Firearms as a Police Sniper, you are sure to be in safe hands. As well as a fabulous Tour Guide, Dale is also an international mountain leader and has many stories and tales to keep you entertained during your tour. When Dale isn't entertaining our guests on Scottish Highland tours you will find him up a mountain somewhere. Dale is an advanced driver and has a wealth of knowledge of the Scottish Highlands. 

Meet Donnie, an ex police Inspector, advance driver, born on the Isle of Lewis! Donnie is a true Highlander. He has experienced so much of the Scottish Highlands that if there is something we don't know, Donnie will know! As well as an Excellent story teller, Donnie will keep you engaged and entertained during your private Highland Tour. Also an advance driver, you are in safe hands while he guides you round the Scottish Highlands. Donnie get's great satisfaction from meeting guests from all over the world while showing off the stunning Scottish Highlands. 

Meet Alex, after surviving 38 years within the Civil Service as a Prison Officer, Alex has many tales to tell. Alex has toured the Scottish Highlands hundreds of times! Weather that be on a quad bike, campervan or driving our executive Mercedes V Class, if Alex is your Tour Leader, prepare to be educated! Alex is a proud Scotsman who takes great pride in showing off our breath-taking country! When Alex isn't providing an unforgettable tour with us, you will find Alex somewhere in the Highland's on a fact finding mission. From battlefields to beaches, Alex's family, friends and guests of ours have been eager to travel the Highlands & Islands on a legendary 'Bairdy's Tour'. 

About Uncover Scotland Tours

Explore Scotland's Best Kept Secrets

Uncover Scotland Tours is a Scottish private tour company specialising in uncovering the hidden gems of Scotland's highlands and islands. Our expert local guides will take you on a journey to discover the breath-taking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Scotland. Our tours are designed to offer you a unique and unforgettable experience that you won't find on any other tour. We offer a range of tours, including bespoke tours that can be customized to suit your interests and needs.  

We want to make our tours the highest standard yet the most competitively priced. This is why we  offer flexible payment options so you don't have to pay your tour in a single instalment? Instead, secure your tour today with a deposit contribution. Please note we must receive the full balance 6 weeks prior to the tour commencement date.

Eco Lodges Anywhere

15 Trails in the Scottish Highlands Every Hiker Should Experience

Posted: June 7, 2024 | Last updated: June 7, 2024

The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes for hikers to explore. From rugged mountains to serene lochs and ancient forests, the region is a hiker’s paradise. Here are 15 trails in the Scottish Highlands that every hiker should experience, each offering unique challenges and unforgettable scenery.

The Great Trossachs Path

The Great Trossachs Path is a 28-mile (45 km) route that runs between Callander and Inversnaid, taking you through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The hike takes between 2-3 days and is suitable for beginners. Steep sections are fairly limited and the route is pretty easy to follow.

The Moray Coast Trail

The Moray Coast Trail is another great option for beginners, as the route is well-waymarked and generally level. This 45-mile hike (72 km) runs between Forres and Cullen and takes between 3-5 days to complete. Along the way, you’ll admire epic coastal landscapes as well as wildlife, including the Moray Firth dolphins!

The Cateran Trail

The Cateran Trail is a circular route, which typically starts and ends in Blairgowrie. The trail covers a distance of 64 miles (103 km) and takes between 4-5 days. This trail is suitable for a range of abilities. However, you’ll require map and compass skills in some sections.

If you’re after a day hike, why not tackle the UK’s highest mountain? Ben Nevis stands at 4,413 feet (1,345 meters) tall and there are two main routes; the Mountain Track and Carn Mor Dearg Arête. The Mountain Track is best for less-experienced hikers but it’s still challenging and you’ll need plenty of endurance.

The West Highland Way

Another of Scotland’s Great Walks, the West Highland Way offers a fantastic adventure. Stretching for around 95 miles (154 km) this route starts in Milngavie (just north of Glasgow) and ends in Fort William. It takes between 5-8 days. The West Highland Way is well-waymarked and isn’t technically demanding. This makes it great for beginners, especially as you can easily split the route into sections.

The Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way is a gorgeous hike that will take you past three major lochs; Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and Loch Ness. It runs from Fort William to Inverness, covering a distance of 77 miles (125 km), and takes 5-7 days. Although a good chunk of the route is flat, there are some challenging sections, especially if you opt for the High Route.

The Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is a popular day hike located on the Isle of Skye. It’s a huge rock formation that offers striking views of the Trotternish area and is famous with photographers. The hike is around 2.3 miles (3.8 km) long and generally takes less than 1.5 hours to complete. It’s popular with families.

Fife Coastal Path

The Fife Coastal Path offers breathtaking scenery and passes through the popular city of St. Andrews. The hike runs between Kincardine-on-Forth and Newburgh, covering a distance of 116 miles (187 km). It takes between 8-10 days to complete and is a great option for long-distance beginners, as the route can be easily split into sections.

The Loch Ness 360° Trail

The Loch Ness 360° Trail connects the South Loch Ness Trail and Great Glen Way, making a new long-distance route. The trail can be split into six sections, but the full route is a circular hike that starts and ends in Inverness. It takes around 6 days to complete this 80-mile (128 km) trail, and there are some challenging sections to tackle.

Ben Lomond is a popular Munroe, standing at 3,196 feet (974 meters) tall. From the top, you’ll get breathtaking views of Loch Lomond. This day hike takes approximately 4.5-5.5 hours and will see you cover a distance of 6.8 miles (11 km). Although strenuous in parts, the hike is certainly achievable for beginners.

The John o’Groats Trail

The John o’Groats Trail is a fantastic coastal walking route. It runs from Inverness to John o’Groats, covering a distance of 147 miles (236 km), and can easily be split into sections. Alternatively, you can hike the full route in 9-14 days. Now, The John o’Groats Trail isn’t as established as others in this guide, so it comes with challenges, such as boulder scrambling and barbed wire fence crossings.

The Glencoe Lochan Trail

Glencoe Lochan is a family-friendly destination located in Glencoe Valley. There are three hiking routes here; the Lochan Trail, Woodland Trail, and Mountain Trail. Each one is 1 mile (1.6 km) long and takes 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, you can combine all three trails for a longer hike.

Loch Sligachan

Loch Sligachan is located on the Isle of Skye, and the route here starts from the Sligachan Hotel. You’ll cover a distance of around 6.8 miles (11 km) and get fantastic views of the Cuillins mountain range. The trail typically takes between 4-6 hours depending on your fitness levels, and is considered a moderate hike.

The Speyside Way

The Speyside Way runs between Buckie and Newtonmore and is one of Scotland’s Great Walks. It’s a source-to-sea route that will take you through the Cairngorms National Park, so offers fantastic wildlife-watching opportunities. It covers a distance of 85 miles (137 km) and takes between 6-9 days. The Speyside Way is generally suitable for beginners too.

The Ring of Steall

The Ring of Steall is a classic route that combines four different Munros; An Gearanach, Stob Choire a Chàirn, Am Bodach, and Sgùrr a’Mhaim. The route covers 10 miles (16 km) and takes between 9-12 hours. It’s a very challenging route so isn’t recommended for beginners.

10 Scottish Highland Hideaways to Embrace Its Rugged Nature

10 Scottish Highland Hideaways

17 Medieval Castles To Step Into The Boots of Legendary Knights

17 Medieval Castles

More for You

Dolly Parton says it was ‘bold’ of Beyonce to change ‘Jolene’ lyrics without telling her

‘Inflation has really taken its toll’: Woman, 75, tells Dr. Phil her savings, Social Security and job income are not enough to ‘make ends meet’ — says ‘it’s scary’ seeing her money disappear

Stephen Hawking once gave a simple answer as to whether there was a God

Forget wheel clamps – illegally parked cars are now getting hit by this dystopian 'windscreen barnacle'

Donald Trump Wants Five Lawmakers Indicted

Customers Reveal The Chain Restaurant Fish Sandwiches You Should And Shouldn't Eat

Your senses will shut down in a specific order when you’re about to die

'I own 15,000 houses': Robert Kiyosaki says there's 'nothing wrong' with buying a house — except he uses debt to buy it and 'pay no taxes'

Spotlight Invisibles: 25 Actors Overlooked in Famous Roles

Who Benefits From Your GoodWill? 10 Reasons Why You Should Stop Giving Your Used Items to Goodwill

Trump Felony Would Mean Loss Of Secret Service, Perks Under Democratic Bills

Carnival Cruise and Royal Caribbean make popular smoking changes

How To Fix Spalling Concrete in Your Driveway

‘You’ll end up with $1.5 million in the bank’: Kevin O’Leary says you should do this 1 thing with your 401(k) in order to 'succeed into retirement’

20 facts you might not know about 'Saving Private Ryan'

Blaze Pizza joins other businesses leaving California for 'growth' elsewhere

8th Grade Teacher Shares the Wildest Things Students Have Ever Said to Her

I tried the biggest burgers at 5 fast-food chains and my favorite tasted fresh off the grill

This Home Came with Garbage 'Up to the Ceiling' and Sagging Floors. Now It's the Neighborhood Gem.

“No one was going to buy me as a just cowboy”: Sylvester Stallone Knew He Would’ve Royally Sucked in Yellowstone