Untamed land marked with rugged mountain ranges, ancient castles, a gorgeous coastline and fantastical islands, the Scottish Highlands are truly spellbinding! Whether you want to visit the mountainous Cairngorms National Park, Glencoe, Ducansby Head or visit the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis or stroll around Loch Ness in hopes of spotting Nessie, the highlands are a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts. You can even add a bit of magic to your trip by visiting the Isle of Skye, which is home to the legendary “fairy pools” amidst jaw-dropping scenery, and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle will transport you to another time.
The Highlands, and the rest of Scotland are very well connected to the rest of the UK’s coach network via national providers, like National Express and megabus. Within Scotland, you can get off the beaten path and fully explore some of the country’s hidden gems and smaller towns with Scottish Citylink.
While the region offers no shortage of sights to see, check out our top reccomendations when visiting!
1. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
An image of tranquillity, Loch Lomond is among the first Scottish lochs before entering the highlands proper. It’s the perfect place to go for a relaxing stroll and enjoy the sights all around. You can even take a boat trip across the waters. Feeling a bit more active? Then there’s plenty of water sports to choose from, such as jet-skiing, water skiing and kayaking. Around the loch, there are also plenty of forest trails and even a number of islands to explore if you’re feeling particularly adventurous. If you’re looking for a good time with your family, check out the Loch Lomond Shores, which hosts all kinds of things for the family to enjoy. See sealife up close, go on a Segway safari or get some shopping in.
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2. Eilean Donan Castle
Scotland’s most photographed castle, Eilean Donan may look familiar as a regular subject of shortbread tins, touristic calendars and puzzles as well as a number of films. Built on a small island where three lochs converge, the castle truly takes advantage of a sublimely dramatic setting. You can get to the castle by a very photogenic stone bridge across Loch Duich, which happens to be close to the Skye Bridge. Rain or shine, you’ll be captivated by just how gorgeous this place is.
Getting There: The nearest town is Kyle of Lochalsh which is 15 minutes away. You can get there from the town via one of the many tours provided or a regonal line.
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3. Inverness
Known as the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, the city of Inverness offers so many things to do and see offering a cosmopolitan setting amidst the Highland’s vast wilderness. The city’s old town boasts striking architecture, which can be seen in St. Andrew’s Cathedral and Old High St Stephen’s Church, the city’s oldest church. Walk along the city’s ramparts at Fort George and pay a visit to the Highlanders Museum to learn about the city’s rich history. Looking for some culture? The Inverness Museum and art gallery has got you covered free of charge. While in the city, be sure to stop by the Culloden Moors, where one of the biggest battles in Scotland’s history transpired.
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4. Isle of Skye
The largest, and arguably the most famous, of the Scottish Isles, the Isle of Skye boasts a fantastical landscape for a touch of whimsy that contrasts against some of its darker history. It really has it all from moores, rocky gorges, mountains, jagged cliffs and sandy beaches. You can either cross the Skye Bridge which connects the island and the village of Kyle of Lochalsh or take a ferry from Mallaig. Once there, you have to visit the glistening “fairy pools!”
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5. Loch Ness
Perhaps the most famous location in Scotland, no trip to the highlands would be complete without visiting Loch Ness. Known around the world for the elusive monster that allegedly lurks deep within its waters. Even though Nessie may be shy, the area still rewards visitors with gorgeous scenery and the old Urquhart Castle is truly the icing on the cake to make it really magical. Looking for a challenge? Try kayaking along the Great Glen Canoe Trail, a 22-mile excursion that connects the four major lochs, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Ness and Loch Dochfour by the Caledonian canal system. You’ll be rewarded with unbelievable sights, but make sure your arms are ready to paddle! From For a more relaxed visit, go to Fort Augustus for a view over the entire loch and go on a nice hike along the Glen Urquhart path.
Getting There: The nearest city from Loch Ness is Inverness which is 16 miles away. From there, you can take a regional train. Or you can take one of the many cruises there.
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6. Glencoe
The steep valleys and towering peaks of Glen Coe provide the quintessential image of the Scottish Highlands. Carved out ages ago by icy glaciers and moulded by volcanic explosions, driving through the region is really an other-worldly experience. It’s a hiker’s nirvana with almost too many trails to choose from. The Lochan trails begin just outside the village and close to the car park. If you’re feeling especially ambitious, the Pap of Glencoe hike is a four hour walk which takes you up the mountain. Be sure to wear good boots and dress for the occasion! The Lost valley hike will take you through unmarked terrain between the Three Sisters mountains for an amazing overview of the region. For a shorter excursion, the Signal Rock walk will take you to the top of Signal Rock hill for some nice views and a pleasant time. Nearby Castle Stalker is also a must-see, as this castle was built in 1320 on an island in Loch Linhe, and is only accessible by boat.
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