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Image: Loch Assynt
The Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is really the Scotland of your imagination and the perfect backdrop for your next adventure. It's no wonder that it was named as one of National Geographic's "Best of the World" destinations for 2023. Explore the mysterious Loch Ness, pass through the Cairngorms National Park, marvel at iconic castles on the Isle of Skye, witness dolphins frolicking off the Moray Speyside coast, walk up Britain's highest peak, Ben Nevis, in Lochaber, or explore the rugged coastline of Caithness.
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Things to do in the Highlands
Slow down and take the time to explore the many hidden gems of the Scottish Highlands. Between city, countryside and coast, the Highlands offers an abundance of things to see and do
12 Top Things to Do in Moray Speyside
Find great things to do in Moray Speyside. Including towns to explore, towers to climb, castles to discover, and more!
9 Hidden Gems You Mustn't Miss around Loch Ness
Discover the hidden gems of Loch Ness, and explore some of the best things to see & do in the area. From ancient mysteries, to enchanting forests.
7 Amazing Things To Do Around John O'Groats
Find great things to see and do in John O’Groats and the surrounding area. Discover amazing castles, experience the Northern Lights and more!
9 Iconic Scottish Spots with Hidden Gems Nearby
Nothing beats finally being able to visit a place you’ve read and heard lots about.
Inspiration for Highland breaks
Wherever you choose to stay in the Highlands, you'll find stunning hotels, trendy hostels, comfy B&Bs and a whole range of unique self-catering accommodation.
Glen Nevis Youth Hostel
© Hostelling Scotland
Places to Stay
Check out these handpicked locations for your next holiday in the Highlands.
Walkers on the West Highland Way
© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Tours, Routes & Trails
The Scottish Highlands offer miles of stunning landscapes and glorious wilderness to explore on foot and by bike. There are hundreds of wonderful walks and trails.
Unique Experiences
Whether you're hunting for the Loch Ness Monster, attending a Highland Games or listening to traditional music, let the Highlands spark your imagination.
3Days
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Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail
Follow this 3-day itinerary around some of Speyside's top whisky attractions in the north east of Scotland.
Highland Games in Scotland
From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.
The Highlands by Area
Geodiversity, outdoor adventures, history, arts & crafts, music, food & drink - whatever it is you love you'll find it in the Highlands.
Moray Speyside
Discover a land of natural contrasts, from the mighty Cairngorm Mountains to the rugged world-famous Moray coast.
Inverness & Loch Ness
Discover the history, experiences, people and places that surround Inverness and Loch Ness.
West Highland Peninsulas
Rugged mountains, stunning coastlines, beautiful lochs, historic castles, amazing night skies, ancient woodlands and heather moorland.
Easter Ross
A place you can reset the clock, drinking in the scenery whilst sipping a locally distilled single malt.
Fort William & Lochaber
Welcome to the outdoor capital of Scotland.
Aviemore & The Cairngorms
The UK’s largest National Park, in the Scottish Highlands, offers masses of things to do including watersports, snowsports and wildlife watching.
Nairn
Nairn is a relaxing and friendly seaside town on the Moray firth.
Skye & Lochalsh
Your perfect Isle of Skye adventure awaits!
Wester Ross
Explore and stay in this beautiful area, famous for walking and hiking.
Caithness & Sutherland
Adventurers will find this region rich in unique leisure opportunities.
What's on in the Highlands
UCI Mountain Bike World Cup
© Phunkt
Events
Find out about the great events happening in the Scottish Highlands, from the Etape Loch Ness and Skye Festival to the UCI Downhill Mountain Biking Championships and the many Highland Games across the region.
Places to eat in the Highlands
MacGregors Bar, Inverness
Food and drink
A tip from your local expert
VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Just north of the beautiful fishing village of Ullapool, Knockan Crag Visitor Centre is open year-round and promises an earth-moving experience for all. Follow the Rock Route into the North West Highlands Geopark and step back in time!
