Discover the Scottish Highlands: Top Attractions and Activities

The Scottish Highlands offer a dramatic landscape of mountains and lochs, including the famous Loch Ness. The region is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and it's dotted with charming towns and villages. A scenic drive along the coastline reveals numerous Scottish castles, with John o'Groats at the northern tip, known for its iconic signpost marking the distance to Lands End in England.

1. Inverness

Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands, is home to the historic Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the beautiful St. Andrew's Cathedral. Don't miss the oldest building in town, Abertarff House, and the tranquil Inverness Botanic Gardens.

2. Loch Ness

Loch Ness is renowned for the legendary Nessie and the impressive Urquhart Castle. The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition offers insights into the myth and the area's history. Boat tours are a popular way to explore the loch.

3. Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, with its rich history and stunning views over Loch Ness. Visit the visitor center, café, and gift shop, but remember to book tickets in advance.

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/urquhart-castle/

4. Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre, Inverness

Visit Culloden, the site of the last major battle on Scottish soil. The visitor center offers immersive experiences, and the battlefield is marked with memorials and gravestones.

5. Cawdor Castle and Gardens, Nairn

Cawdor Castle, linked to Shakespeare's Macbeth, boasts a rich collection of literature and period furniture. The gardens and nature trails are also a delight.

Official site: www.cawdorcastle.com

6. Historic Fort George, Inverness

Fort George is a massive fortress built after the Battle of Culloden. It houses a military museum and offers guided tours.

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/fort-george/

7. Elgin and its Historic Cathedral

Elgin is home to the ruins of the once-grand Elgin Cathedral, known as the "Lantern of the North." Nearby attractions include Spynie Palace and Brodie Castle.

8. Hike Loch Maree

Loch Maree offers hiking trails, wildlife, and Victoria Falls. The nearby village of Gairloch features a heritage museum and a golf course.

9. Dornoch

Dornoch is a seaside town with a rich history, including Dornoch Cathedral and the Royal Dornoch golf course.

10. Inverewe Garden and Estate

Inverewe Garden boasts a variety of exotic plants and offers guided tours. The Sawyer Gallery hosts art exhibits.

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/Property/Inverewe-Garden-and-Estate/

11. Loch Assynt and Ardvreck Castle

Loch Assynt is known for its fishing and the ruins of Ardvreck Castle. Nearby attractions include Inchnadamph Nature Reserve and Britain's highest waterfalls.

12. The Clo Mor Cliffs and Cape Wrath

Cape Wrath offers stunning views and hiking trails, with the Clo Mor Cliffs and Loch Nevis as highlights.

13. Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle features neo-Baronial architecture, beautiful gardens, and falconry shows.

Official site: www.dunrobincastle.co.uk

14. John o' Groats

John o' Groats is famous for its signpost and ferry service to the Orkney Islands. It's a popular spot for cyclists and tourists.

15. The Orkney Isles

The Orkney Isles are rich in prehistoric sites like Maes Howe and Skara Brae, and offer abundant wildlife and historic towns like Kirkwall.

16. The Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, golfing, and bird-watching. Don't miss the Jarlshof Prehistoric Settlement.

Explore more of Scotland's beauty by visiting the Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond, and the town of Oban. For city experiences, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen offer rich history and culture. For a deeper dive into Scottish heritage, consider visiting Ayr, Dumfries, Dundee, and St. Andrews.