20 Most Beautiful Places & Beauty Spots in Scotland

One of the most easily recognisable castles in Scotland, Dunnottar is truly one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. Perched on the cliff edge of the North Sea, the castle boasts a dramatic and evocative atmosphere with centuries of history to explore. Marvel at the intricate details and amazing condition of the castle, alongside the incredible panoramic views out to sea.

Already a beautiful place to go on holiday for keen explorers, kayakers, and walkers, Bow Fiddle Rock in Portknockie is a stunning sight to admire as the sun shoots its last rays over the coastline. Hike the trails around the area, find your own secret slice of paradise and keep an eye out for the nesting seabirds, such as herring gulls, great black-backed and lesser black-backed gulls.

Scotland's islands are renowned for being home to some the most beautiful scenery in Scotland and the world. The Isle of Iona is a small, picturesque island just off the south west coast of Mull. Known for its strong, historic connections to Christianity, explore Iona Abbey to take a trip back in time, or head to the northern coast which has particular beautiful bays and beaches, boasting the best views out to sea.

The Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands on North Uist is also an impressive stretch of pristine white sands, perfect for a scenic stroll or a picnic on the beach, as well as the crystal-clear waters and shallow bay making the perfect opportunity for snorkelling and swimming. Head for a wander at dusk to enjoy an immaculate sunset in one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland!

Check out the Walk Highlands website for a Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands

The Bealach na Ba is one of the most famous driving routes in Scotland. Known as the Road to Applecross, the route offers epic views out across the whole of Wester Ross, the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. With its tight bends and single track, this road isn't for the faint hearted but the views from the top are astonishing.

Located in the south east corner of the Galloway Forest Park, Loch Ken is a magical gem full of walking, cycling, watersports and fishing opportunities to enjoy. Take an atmospheric stroll around the banks of loch at sunset and you'll be mesmerised by the sights you see around you in one of Scotland's beauty spots.

The iconic Glenfinnan Monument, with a lone kilted Highlander on top, is a striking tribute to those who fought in the Jacobite Risings. Set amid superb Highland scenery at the head of Loch Shiel, it sits opposite the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. A must-see for any amateur photographer or Instagram enthusiast.

Located on the Isle of Barra, the most southerly of the Outer Hebridean islands, Eoligarry Beach is an unspoiled white sand beach, stretching for miles when the tide is out. Land on the island by plane along the famous Traigh Mhor beach and begin your adventure north to Eoligarry, featuring incredible views out to the islands of Orosay, Fuday and Fiaraidh around you.

As the legend has it, the mysterious Green Loch in Glenmore Forest Park is green because the local fairies used to wash their clothes in the waters, although some think it might just be due to the trees lying along the loch floor. Either way, we think there is something pretty magical about this loch situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Add the loch into your itinerary for one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland.

Skye is without a doubt one of Scotland's top majestic, magical and captivating spots to explore, so it's no wonder the island is considered one of the most beautiful places to go on holiday. Mealt Falls on the north of the island is an incredible sight. Partnered with the popular Kilt Rock, together they create a fantastic viewpoint. Take a wander around Mealt Loch, or along the coast and take in the jaw-dropping views for miles around you.

Often referred to as one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe, the grassy moorland area of Rannoch Moor is a great place from which to admire the fiery Scottish sunsets. The most striking thing about the moor? Probably its remoteness - think of an uninhabited land of peat bogs, lochs and heather hillocks. Still, so stunning!

Snow-covered hills provide an impressive backdrop to the famous National Wallace Monument in Stirling where you'll feel like you have stumbled into a fairytale. Follow the story of Scottish patriot and martyr, Sir William Wallace at this national landmark where you can touch and feel centuries of history.

Head to the north west coast of Scotland where you'll come across the quaint fishing village of Ullapool. Featuring one of the most unspoilt environments in the UK, the town boasts a variety of things to see and do, as well as being a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset or two over the pretty harbour.

Only an hour south west of Edinburgh, St Abb's is a remote fishing village sitting on the Berwickshire coast just north of Eyemouth, surrounded by jagged cliffs and old fishermen's cottages. In 2018, Marvel began filming for their highly-anticipated blockbuster, Avengers: Endgame, which features scenes filmed in Scotland's very own St Abb's. The town has even been "twinned" with New Asgard, the fictional village in the movie.

Prepare to be blown away by the sheer natural beauty of the Devil's Pulpit near Stirling. Admire the blood-red water that courses through Finnich Glen and figure out for yourself why this magnificent landmark has such a unique name. Is it because of the mushroom-shaped rock that pokes out from the stream, the ancient Druid meetings that were held here, or simply because the water is tinged red?

This awe-inspiring natural formation will take your breath away. Fingal's Cave off the west coast is one of the most unique sights you can see in Scotland. Marvel at the towering basalt columns and intricate rock details as you take a boat tour out to the island and explore the enticing atmosphere of the cave itself.

Located on the Gulf of Corryvreckan, between the isles of Jura and Scarba, lies the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, one of the largest permanent whirlpools in the world and one of the most dangerous stretches of water around the British Isles. If you dare, take a boat ride out around the islands with a bumpy ride through the whirlpool itself, all in the hands of a very capable and experienced captain.

Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland. It's not unusual to experience peace and quiet, whilst spotting wildlife and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Relax amongst the natural beauty of the lochs and breathe in the air of the hills. A couple of hours of climbing will reward walkers with an unparalleled sense of achievement and awe-inspiring views from each of these summits.

As soon as you arrive, you can't fail to admire the beauty and respect the ocean around the Yesnaby Castle sea stacks. Sitting off the west coast of Orkney, this impressive rock formation is a great place to see various sea birds including the oyster catcher. The chances are it will just be you - perfect for budding Robinson Crusoes.

One of the most easily recognisable towns in Scotland, it's hard to miss Tobermory's brightly coloured houses along the harbour-front. Head to the Isle of Mull where you can experience the magic of this quaint fishing port, which was used as inspiration for the popular children's TV show, Balamory.