The Scottish Highlands

Stretching across northern Scotland, the Scottish Highlands is home to rugged mountain ranges, deep glens, dramatic coastlines, and beautiful islands. Feel the community and warm Highland welcome as you learn more about the history, music and rich Gaelic culture of the area. This vast region offers a range of experiences, from scenic road trips to rare wildlife, castles and local traditions and events.

"My heart's in the Highlands 

my heart is not here,  

My heart's in the Highlands  

a-chasing the deer." 

Robert Burns

The Highlands are a place of adventure, history, wildlife and spectacular scenery all year round. Home to iconic spots such as Loch Ness, Ben Nevis and Skye, this vast region also rewards those who journey to more quieter corners. Its experiences can easily fill weeks of exploration. These highlights offer just a glimpse of what the region has to offer.

Experience the vast outdoors

From mountain adventures to coastal wildlife encounters, the Highlands offer endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. Walk through the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe, take a boat trip on Loch Ness or head to lesser-known spots like Caithness or the Ardnamurchan Peninsula for remote trails, sandy beaches and breathtaking views. Follow long-distance trails such as the West Highland Way, Great Glen Way or the challenging Cape Wrath Trail. Explore the region by bike, take to the water with a range of activities or see the landscape from a different perspective at one of the region's ski resorts. Whether you are looking for a short trip or a longer holiday, the Highlands have got you covered. 

Discover the best walks in the Highlands 

Uncover the history of the Highlands

History and tradition are woven into the landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Walk amongst iconic castles such as Eilean Donan, Urquhart and Dunrobin, explore the Glenelg brochs dating back to the Iron Age, and experience the unique Highland Games across the region. From Gaelic culture to old crofting traditions, there is nowhere better to connect with Scotland’s past.  

Experience the Highland Games in Scotland 

Wildlife spotting 

The Highlands are one of the best places in Scotland to encounter Scottish wildlife. Watch thousands of puffins and other seabirds nest with boat trips from Wick in Caithness, spot the free-ranging reindeer herd in the Cairngorm Mountains, and look out for deer grazing the heather-covered hills across the region. Along the coast, spot dolphins playing in the water or take a boat trip from places like Plockton, Ullapool and Gairloch in search of seals and whales. If you're looking for adventure for the whole family, grab your binoculars and head to the Highland Wildlife Park for your chance to see wildcats, monkeys and Scotland's only polar bears!

Learn more about Scottish wildlife

Taste the very best local food and drink

Visit world-famous whisky distilleries and artisan coffee roasters to farm shops with fresh and local produce: the Highlands are a foodie paradise. Sample seafood along the coast, stop in local bakeries for fresh pastries or enjoy fine dining that celebrates the incredible flavours of the Highlands.  

Find your taste of the Highlands

From sandy beaches and rugged coastlines to towering mountain peaks, the Highlands offer an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences. Explore the regions below to learn what makes them unique.

Caithness & Sutherland 

Soar high above the golden sands of Ceannabeinne Beach on a thrilling zipline, hit the waves with North Coast Watersports near Durness or find a moment of tranquillity among the peatlands of the Flow Country, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From beautiful beaches to impressive sea stacks and the northeastern tip of mainland UK, this area has some of the wildest scenery in the Highlands.  

Discover the stunning landscapes of the north

Easter Ross 

This peninsula north-east of Inverness is packed with hidden gems. Walk through Black Rock Gorge, which featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, or climb to the Fyrish Monument (seen on The Traitors) for spectacular views across the surrounding landscape. Meet the Mermaid of the North along the Seaboard Sculpture Trail and blow the cobwebs away on a refreshing stroll along the beach. Finish your day with a dram of Glenmorangie paired with some cheese from Highland Fine Cheeses.   

Escape to somewhere wonderful in Easter Ross

West Highland Peninsulas 

The most westerly point of the British mainland might be a remote corner of the Scottish Highlands, but it’s well worth a trip. Cycle through Ariundle Oakwoods in Strontian or hear the Singing Sands at Kentra Bay. Children will love searching for fossilised “Devil’s toenails” in Morvern, while clear nights offer the chance of some of the darkest skies in Scotland. It's the ideal place to switch off, reconnect and experience a quieter side of Scotland.  

Slow down in the West Highland Peninsulas

Wester Ross 

Touch three billion years of history with your fingertips in Wester Ross and see where two continents collided. Hike into the rugged mountains of Torridon or explore trails in Inverewe Gardens with its colourful display of flowers and plants. Pick up delicious homemade pies from Lochinver Larder for lunch before finishing the day with fresh seafood in one of the fishing villages along the coast.  

Step back in time in Wester Ross