The Highlands

Yes, we know - it's a cliché, but the Highlands really is the Scotland of your imagination. It's an amazing concoction of culture, history, architecture and unparalleled scenery. Think big skies, mind-blowing landscapes, superb food and hospitable people - it really doesn't get any better if you want to escape and unwind. Unpredictable. Untameable. Unbelievable. Top that!

Let the dramatic Highlands weave its magic…

You can get lost - not literally - in the majestic mountains and mysterious lochs as you journey through this beautiful land. The views are simply jaw-dropping. Pass through Britain's largest National Park, witness dolphins frolicking off the Moray Coast, marvel at the sensational seascape of the North Highlands, walk in the shadow of Britain's highest peak, Ben Nevis, or explore the stunning islands and stretches of coastline. And if you haven't heard of Loch Ness, Scotland's most famous loch… oh boy, you're in for a treat!

Hold on tight and take a deep breath…

The Highlands' natural playground begs to be explored, and the region is a magnet for adrenaline-seekers. It's no wonder - Fort William has been dubbed the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK'! Host of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, here you can enjoy world-class mountains or pick from sports across the Highlands such as fishing, golf, sea kayaking, white-water rafting, gorge walking, Munro bagging, snowsports and much more - the choice is yours.

Touching the past

There's a haunting air of mystery that cloaks the Highlands, and the region's turbulent history has left behind some of the most beautiful and romantic castles in the world. From Dunvegan Castle on Skye and Brodie Castle in Moray to the Castle of Mey in the North Highlands - they really are as magnificent as people say! But it's not only about the castles, although they are pretty amazing. Learn about the infamous massacre at the Glencoe Visitor Centre, see Glenfinnan Monument, a tribute to the history of the Jacobite uprisings, or stop at the Highland Archive Centre to research your roots.

Travel in the Highlands

Getting here

You can easily get to and around the Highlands using the extensive network of public transport and roads. The region may appear remote, but this beautiful part of Scotland is very accessible and is certainly worth the journey.

Getting around

• Whether you drive to Fort William & Lochaber, walk the West Highland Way or travel by train along the West Highland Line, you'll undoubtedly see some of the finest scenery Scotland's got to offer.
• Enjoy unlimited travel around Moray Speyside for a day, with the Stagecoach Dayrider ticket, or explore the Malt Whisky Trail by car following the distinctive brown and white trail signposts.
• Cross the Skye Bridge into Kyleakin to follow the A87 towards Broadford, or hop on the CalMac ferry which operates year-round between Mallaig and Armadale - both routes are equally picturesque.
• There are regular daily trains and buses to Inverness, Nairn and Loch Ness from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Stirling, Perth, or you can join an organised coach tour - plan your journey with Traveline Scotland.
• If travelling to or from Fort William, you can even tackle some of the distance walking the Great Glen Way.
• Cycling on and off road is a great way to get to and around the Cairngorms National Park. The National Cycle Network route 7 and sections of the Deeside Way, Speyside Way and Dava Way, are all suitable for cycling.
• Inverness acts as a gateway to the North Highlands with regular flights from across the UK, or you can fly directly to Wick John O' Groats Airport from Edinburgh. Once in the area, explore the northern tip of Scotland with a brand new tourist route, the North Coast 500, Scotland's answer to America's Route 66.