Reasons to visit Scotland in 2027

This summer, the world's biggest cycling event, the Tour de France makes history with its Scottish debut. Starting at Edinburgh Castle on 2 July, cycling legends will race through the city's cobbled streets before heading into the rolling countryside of Midlothian and the lush landscapes of the Scottish Borders as they chase the coveted finish line. If the action inspires you to plan your own cycling adventure, Scotland is home to routes for every ability, from gentle family rides and coastal trails to epic countryside tours that showcase the country's diverse landscapes. 

 Learn more about the Tour De France

Cycle the capital

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the streets of Edinburgh with Voi, the city's official e-bike hire provider. Whether you're a visitor or local, make the most of your trip by combining cycling with sightseeing. You can easily travel between the capital's top attractions, from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile to Arthur's Seat, The Meadows, and the vibrant waterfront at Leith. Simply rent a bike via the Voi app and choose from a wide selection of key locations including the city centre, Haymarket, Holyrood, Meadowbank, Bonnington, Leith and Newhaven. 

Hire an e-bike with Voi

Feel the rush at Glentress

Found in the heart of the Tweed Valley near Peebles, Glentress Forest is one of Scotland's leading outdoor destinations. While it is best known for its extensive mountain bike trails, the forest welcomes walkers, families and nature enthusiasts with its picturesque forest walks, wildlife experiences, visitor centre, café and adventure activities galore. Just over an hour away from Edinburgh by car, Glentress offers an easy escape from the city and is the perfect location for day-trippers and holidaymakers exploring the Scottish Borders. 

Hit the trails and discover Glentress for yourself

Start your John Muir Way adventure 

Stretching 134 miles from Helensburgh on the Firth of Clyde to Dunbar on the North Sea, this iconic coast-to-coast trail can be explored in full or enjoyed in shorter sections on foot or by bike. From the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond and historic canal-side paths to the city wonders of Edinburgh and sweeping coastline of East Lothian, every mile reveals something new. En route, you'll encounter some of Scotland's most iconic landmarks, including the Falkirk Wheel, Antonine Wall, Blackness Castle, Linlithgow Palace and the world-famous Forth Bridges.

Follow John Muir's footsteps

Feel the excitement of golf's greatest championship as The 155th Open returns to St Andrews, the Home of Golf, from 11 to 18 July 2027. While Fife is a great region for golf, there’s plenty to discover beyond the legendary fairways and iconic links courses. Explore charming fishing villages, savour award-winning local produce and enjoy the thrill of coastal adventures by the sea. Whether you’re a passionate golfer or simply looking to experience the best of the region’s landscapes and experiences, Fife promises far more than a championship-worthy round. 

Get ready for the countdown to The Open

Discover the seaside charm of Fife

The Fife Coastal Path offers the chance to experience the region's coastline up close, weaving through the fishing villages of Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monan's and Crail, as well as sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and peaceful nature reserves. Ideal for walkers of all abilities, the route can be enjoyed as part of a gentle stroll between the East Neuk villages or for more challenging day hikes. Along the way, you'll be invited to explore historic harbours, watch fishing boats come and go to land their daily catch, spot seabirds gliding overhead and take in uninterrupted views across the North Sea. 

Walk the Fife Coastal Path

Embark on a culinary journey

From the aroma of fresh fish and chips drifting along Anstruther harbour to the smell of freshly baked treats in St Andrews, Fife is a destination that appeals to all the senses. Tuck into a traditional chippy tea at Anstruther Fish Bar, browse the seasonal home-grown vegetables, local meats and artisan produce at Balgove Larder near St Andrews or make a reservation at the Michelin-starred the Peat Inn. Whether you're craving comfort food by the coast or contemporary dining experiences with a Scottish twist, there is something to satisfy every appetite. 

Discover the region's food and drink scene

Experience Fife on and off the water 

Play golf in the place where it all began. The Old Course at St Andrews allows you to follow in the footsteps of golfing legends, past and present. Set against the backdrop of West Sands Beach, it's here that you can cross the Swilcan Bridge as you take on one of the most celebrated links courses in the world. Beyond St Andrews, you can tick off your golfing bucket-list with rounds at renowned coastal courses including Kingsbarns, Dumbarnie Links, Elie and Crail. Offering dramatic sea views, rolling sand dunes and challenging links terrain, these courses deliver memorable experiences for golfers of all abilities and provide the perfect setting for some friendly competitiveness with friends and family. 

From a different perspective, set sail from Anstruther harbour on a boat trip to the Isle of May - home to one of Scotland's largest seabird colonies. With tours running from April to September, you'll encounter thousands of puffins, guillemots and razorbills nesting along its dramatic cliffs, while seals can often be seen on the rocks and in the surrounding waters. Why not make a splash with Elie Watersports? Choose from an array of watersports including paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing and windsurfing. Thanks to its sheltered waters, Elie Bay is a great choice for beginners to hone their skills. 

A brand-new motorsport event is heading to Aberdeenshire. While official dates are yet to be confirmed, Rally Scotland will bring the excitement of world-class rallying to the forests and countryside of north-east Scotland, as some of the sport's biggest names tackle challenging gravel stages at high speed. Take your place among the crowds, soak up the atmosphere and watch elite drivers push themselves and their cars to the limit. While you're here, visit Aberdeenshire's whisky and gin distilleries, enjoy outdoor activities throughout the seasons, and learn more about the region through its museums, galleries and historic attractions.

Get ready for adrenaline-fuelled action at Rally Scotland

Challenge yourself with a new adventure 

For those who enjoy an active day out, Aberdeen and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Located on Aberdeen's coastline, Adventure Aberdeen is a hub for surfing, kayaking, coasteering and climbing, with activities that take you from the water's edge to rugged cliff faces. Just outside the city, Deeside Activity Park is known for its kart racing, archery ranges and off-road driving experiences, making it a great choice for thrill-seekers. 

Discover the adventurous side of Aberdeenshire

Soak up local culture 

From renowned art collections to fascinating stories from the city's past, Aberdeen has plenty to keep culture lovers entertained. View outstanding collections at Aberdeen Art Gallery or uncover tales of Aberdeen's connection to the North Sea through interactive exhibits and historic artefacts. History lovers can discover Scotland's military heritage at the Gordon Highlanders Museum or learn about the influential figures and events that shaped the Granite City at Provost Skene's House.

Discover more historic buildings and museums

Raise a glass 

Whether you prefer whisky or gin, Aberdeenshire is home to a range of distilleries rich in character and heritage. In Oldmeldrum, Glen Garioch Distillery has been producing single malt whisky for more than 200 years, with guided tours and tastings offering a closer look at the traditional whisky-making process. Near Balmoral, Royal Lochnagar Distillery combines award-winning Highland whiskies, with the stunning scenery of Royal Deeside. In the heart of the city, City of Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School gives you the chance to create your own bespoke gin, while Porter's Gin Micro Distillery offers an introduction to Aberdeen's thriving crafts spirits scene, with small batch gins inspired by local flavours and ingredients. 

Uncover the spirit of the north east

Exploring the North Highlands can be a fascinating prospect, but with so much to see, where do you start? To help plan your trip, we've enlisted the help of driver guides who have explored the region first-hand to help narrow down your options. Expect dramatic sea cliffs, pristine beaches, ancient castles and rugged mountain peaks. 

Check out destinations, recommended by locals

Tick off these North Highlands gems

John O'Groats

No visit is complete to John O'Groats without stopping for a photo beside the famous signpost. From here, you can embrace the northerly winds with a walk to the striking Duncansby Stacks, set sail for the Orkney Islands or admire the beautiful coastal scenery as you watch the powerful waves crash against the rugged cliffs below.

Chase coastal views at John O'Groats

North West Highlands Geopark

Recognised by UNESCO for its globally significant geology, the North West Highlands Geopark is one of Scotland's most awe-inspiring landscapes. You'll find this destination packed with towering mountains, peaceful lochs, dramatic coastlines and mesmerising views. Spend your days hiking iconic peaks like Suilven, exploring the ruins of Ardvreck Castle or follow scenic walking routes through Assynt and Coigach. Whether you're an avid hiker, keen photographer or history enthusiast, this is an experience you'll remember long after your visit. 

Make the North West Highlands Geopark your next destination

Smoo Cave

Located near Durness, this vast sea cave is one of the North Highland's most remarkable natural attractions. Step inside its vast sea-carved entrance, marvel at the thundering waterfall hidden within, or take a guided boat trip into the cave's mysterious inner passages. Above ground, you'll find scenic coastal trails to soak in the views across the Atlantic, making Smoo Cave a favourite for walkers, photographers and adventure seekers alike. 

Explore the depths of Smoo Cave

Scotland's islands are well worth the journey, with CalMac Ferries and NorthLink Ferries making it easy to reach some of thecountry's most spectacular destinations, from the Outer Hebrides and Orkney to Shetland and Mull. For an unforgettable rail journey to the west coast, the West Highland Line travels through some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery, linking Glasgow with Oban, Fort William and Mallaig, where ferry connections open up even more island experiences. Handpicked by travel experts, these island highlights will help you discover some of the most memorable coastal destinations, each offering its own unique landscapes, history and character. 

Find things to do on Scotland's islands 

Enjoy a Skye landmark

Set on the shores of Loch Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle has been the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod for more than 800 years. Step inside the historic castle to view its grand rooms, historic artefacts and treasured clan collections, before wandering through the landscaped gardens overlooking the loch. You can also take a boat trip from the castle grounds to spot the local seal colony.

Visit Dunvegan Castle

Uncover the Isle of Rum

Located on the Isle of Rum in the Inner Hebrides, the Rum National Nature Reserve is a place to slow down and enjoy  Scotland's most striking landscapes and wildlife. Dramatic mountains, rugged coastlines and peaceful glens provide the perfect backdrop for walking, wildlife watching and photography. The reserve is home to golden eagles and red deer, while the iconic Rum Cuillin offers a rewarding challenge for experienced walkers. 

Immerse yourself at Rum National Nature Reserve

Climb An Sgùrr 

Rising above the Isle of Eigg in the Inner Hebrides, An Sgùrr is one of the country's most recognisable island landmarks. Covering around 8km (5 miles) and taking approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete, the walk starts near Galmisdale Pier and leads walkers through Eigg's rugged landscapes to the dramatic volcanic ridge that dominates the island's skyline. From the summit, far-reaching views stretch across the Small Isles, Skye and Scotland's west coast mainland, making it a must-do on the Isle of Eigg. 

Reach new heights on Eigg