Reasons to visit Scotland in 2027

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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