Picture Scotland and it’s the Highlands that first comes to mind—the land of the towering snow-capped mountains, ancient castles, deep lochs, and mist-shrouded glens that have adorned countless postcards. But the Highlands are more than just eye candy. This is where Scotland’s multi-layered history and complexities are brought to vivid life, whether on the blood-soaked battlefields or in the haunting valleys emptied by the Highland Clearances. The region also offers some of the best outdoor adventures in Europe. From mountain climbing to castle bagging, there are plenty of things to do in the Scottish Highlands.
The Scottish Highlands are a four-season playground for those who love to get outdoors. You could plan a winter visit to tackle the slopes of Glenshee, then return in summer to go windsurfing on Loch Morlich. May through September offers the benefits of long daylight hours and warmer temperatures but try to avoid the peak months of July and August.
The best way to get around the Scottish Highlands is by private car or tour. Public buses and trains can get you between the bigger towns but services around more remote areas can be scarce. If you are planning to drive, note that many roads in the Highlands are narrow or single-track, so allow extra time for your journeys.
Scotland’s single-track roads require following a certain etiquette—travelers should remember that local people use these roads for daily business. If you are on a single-track road and see a vehicle approaching you or the driver behind wants to overtake, pull into a passing place on your left. And never park in signposted passing places.
Attractions 62 | Tours 346 | Reviews 11,684 |
Within a week, you could explore much of the Highlands, including an island or two (such as the easily accessible Isle of Skye). If you only have three or four days to spare, you can still see a lot, but it would be better to stick to just one area of the Highlands, such as the Cairngorms or Lochaber.
...MoreThe Scottish Highlands are famous for their wild and majestic landscapes: the mountains, glens (valleys), lochs (lakes), and ancient forests. The region is home to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom, and the Cairngorms, the largest national park in the United Kingdom. The Highlands are also known for their many whisky distilleries.
...MoreYes, it is worth going to the Scottish Highlands. This is the most beautiful region in Scotland and arguably in the entire United Kingdom. Visitors to the Scottish Highlands will get a greater sense of the country’s history, culture, and identity than they could by just visiting the Lowlands.
...MoreA list of the most beautiful places in the Scottish Highlands would include the fairytale-like landscapes of the Isle of Skye: the dramatic peaks of the Torridon Hills; the remote peninsula of Applecross; and the island-studded, forest-fringed Loch Lomond. You’ll find beautiful landscapes anywhere you go in the Highlands.
...MoreLayers. No matter what time of year it is, you should be prepared for unpredictable weather—and multiple climatic variations in a single day. Be sure to bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy, waterproof walking shoes (preferably hiking boots) if you are planning outdoor adventures. And don’t forget your swimming gear if you fancy a spot of wild swimming.
...MoreNo, technically, you do not need a car and can get around by bus and train, but having your own vehicle (or booking a tour) will make life much easier. Many of the region's top attractions and destinations are spread far apart and can take a long time to reach by public transportation.
...More
