Road excursions are usually a terrific way to see as many places as you can and have long been a cornerstone of travel. There are so many amazing sites to see in Scotland’s Highlands that you won’t know where to start.
The Highlands, which lie in Scotland’s western and northern regions, offer breathtaking beauty, including imposing mountain ranges, expansive green spaces, and glittering lochs. It’s the kind of location that seems otherworldly, especially when you venture off the beaten track and enter the Highlands’ more isolated regions. These are just a few of the adventures that await you when visiting the Scottish Highlands, like conquering hiking paths that will take you through some of the most breathtaking vistas et cetera.
Things To Do in the Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is a magical land filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique culture. Nestled in the northern part of Scotland, this region is famous for its rugged mountains, deep-blue lochs, and ancient castles. Here is all you can do in the Scottish Highlands.
1. Cairngorms National Park:
One of the most well-known Highland locations is Cairngorms National Park. It offers breathtaking views you won’t soon forget. The expansive region, which is the biggest national park in the UK, is open to both days visitors and those who want to spend a few days seeing its lakes, mountains, and natural formations. Cairngorms is a particularly well-liked camping destination, and the park offers a large number of tent and campervan campsites. Also, it’s not just for trekking and camping. You should include all of the park’s museums, historical attractions, and even castles in your schedule.
2. Inverness and Loch Ness:
Inverness is a vibrant city with great restaurants and retail districts. It is a city in Scotland’s far north. It has a big airport. In addition, the city serves as the entry point to Loch Ness, a stunning location with much more to offer than simply its fabled monster. In the picturesque areas surrounding Inverness, hiking, fishing, cycling, and skiing are all well-liked pastimes. Nevertheless, there is also a wealth of history, from Inverness Cathedral to Fort George.
3. Eilean Donan Castle:
One of Scotland’s most exquisite castles is Eilean Donan Castle. The castle is located on an island where three enormous lochs come together to form an exquisitely magnificent landscape. The island is open to tourists but has no inhabitants. The site’s hours of operation change throughout the year, and January is a closed month.
4. Isle of Skye:
The Isle of Skye, which is situated northwest of the Scottish Highlands and is connected to the Scottish peninsula by a bridge, is a fantastic stop for anything from animal viewing to fossil discoveries. The Isle of Skye is the largest of the many offshore islands that make up the Inner Hebrides. The Cullin range is the center of many communities that are dispersed across the peninsulas of the island. The range features 12 peaks, all of which are higher than 3,000 feet, making it a fantastic place to go climbing. The Fairy Pools are a good option if you want a little less action. As it takes less than an hour to get there and back on foot, you can get there.
5. Glencoe:
Glencoe, one of the most well-known valleys in the area, gained notoriety in part because it served as the setting for the 1995 film Braveheart, but primarily because of its breathtaking beauty. There is a lot to do in the area, albeit much of it is outside because it is surrounded by magnificent peaks. Even if you don’t want to get out of your car, driving through the valley will still provide you with some of Scotland’s best views. Yet starting one of the numerous hikes is a very different experience. A portion of the well-known long-distance trail known as the West Highland Way can be hiked through the glen.
6. Luskentyre Beach:
You might not realize you are still in Scotland until you get to Luskentyre Beach. This region stands in dramatic contrast to the surrounding flora of the Highlands, with waters as blue as the Caribbean and white sands as brilliant as the Australian coastlines. On the island of Harris, which is accessible from the mainland by ferry and onto which you may drive a car, is where Luskentyre is located. It’s a great way to spend the day because the island offers lots of options for hillwalking, cycling, and general exploring.
7. Eilean Donan Castle:
The famous Eilean Donan Castle is perched atop the small island of Eilean Donan in the western highlands, where Lake Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh converge. You may recognize it from several films, such as “The World Is Not Enough” and “Highlander.” Visitors are always welcome to the ancient castle, which dates back to the thirteenth century (although opening hours vary by season). Also available for reservation are the castle’s vacation cottages. The village of Dornie, another lovely destination on your route, lies close to the castle.
8. Trossachs National Park:
The enormous Trossachs National Park, known for its breathtaking scenery and water activities, is home to the renowned Loch Lomond. The Trossachs is a popular place for camping, and if you want to get away from it all, wild camping is permitted. Moreover, there are numerous hiking and biking paths throughout the park, as well as six long-distance trails (each is about 25 miles long and takes several days to complete).
9. Duncansby Head:
The British mainland’s farthest northeastern point is Duncansby Head. Its headland, perched high above the lake, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding water, numerous rock formations, and little islands. You may access the far side of the lighthouse for the best views by taking a short stroll there. The Scottish Highlands can be described using many different adjectives, such as enchantment, wonder, and beauty, but none of them completely captures the essence of this place. To believe it, you just must see it.
10. Glenfinnan Viaduct:
Test out the Glenfinnan Viaduct commute to school as you wait for your Hogwarts acceptance letter. The viaduct spans 1,000 feet and is 100 feet above the ground. You may experience the magic on your vacation to the Scottish Highlands, where one of the most memorable shots of the Hogwarts Express is taken. The Jacobite, the actual train that travels this route, operates from mid-April to mid-October. The journey is 84 miles round way. Planning ahead is highly advised because tickets sell out rapidly.
Read more, Most Beautiful and Best Small Towns In Scotland
The Scottish Highlands, with its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, ancient castles, and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the Highlands have something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to be mesmerized by the magic of the Scottish Highlands.
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