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It may be one of the most recognisable corners of Scotland, but there is still a lot you don’t know about the Highlands.
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Image: Loch Assynt
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The Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is really the Scotland of your imagination. With welcoming people, a unique culture, dramatic landscapes, romantic castles and a fascinating history, this is 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.
Find experiences
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Travel to and around the Highlands
Getting to the Highlands
Bus and coach
You can easily get to and around the Highlands using the extensive network of public transport and roads. The region may appear remote, but this beautiful part of Scotland is very accessible and is certainly worth the journey.
For local bus services and timetables check out Stagecoach Bus
Train
To work out your travel plans, decide which area of the Highlands you want to visit, and you can then find information on travelling by train or other forms of transport.
Inverness is a travel hub for the Highlands, with local services to and from places such as Nairn and Elgin, or connections further afield to cities like Edinburgh and Aberdeen.
For train times and ticket information check out Scotrail
Driving
Depending on which part of the Highlands you are travelling to, local websites have up-to-date information on how to get there by car and other forms of transport. Choose a location and take a look at the one of the links below:
Travel to Inverness, Nairn & Loch Ness
Travel to Fort William & Lochaber
Flying
Inverness Airport is located to the east of Inverness city centre, with a short journey time to the centre by car. The airport has flights to and from destinations across Europe, including several airports in London.
It is also possible to fly to other airports in Scotland, including Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport before travelling north to your destination.
Getting around the Highlands
Cycling
The Highlands is a beautiful palce to explore on a bike. There are a number of cycle routes to explore in the area, which provide a blend of wide open spaces, forests and woodland - along with relatively quiet roads in many locations.
Bus and coach
Using public transport on your trip to the Scottish Highlands is easy and accessible.
A local bus network connects towns and villages in the region including popular places such as Inverness, Fort William and Aviemore.
For local bus services and timetables check out Stagecoach Bus
Train
Railway stations in the Highlands include Fort William, Wick, Thurso, Carrbridge and Kingussie.
You can get to most places that have rail services from Inverness train station.
For more information, visit the Scotrail website.
Driving
The Highlands has an extensive road network including several waymarked driving routes such as the NC500 and SnowRoads Route.
Bringing your electric car? Browse charging points in the Scottish Highlands.
The A9 links Inverness to southern Scotland. Both Glasgow and Edinburgh are around 3 hours away, while the west coast of Scotland is accessible via the A86 and A82 to Fort William. The A96 links Inverness to Aberdeen on the east coast.
Places to Stay
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
Accommodation Ideas
Check out these handpicked locations for your next holiday in the Highlands.
A tip from your local expert

VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Help and advice
You can also get advice from our accredited iKnow partners, with excellent local expertise, travel advice and insider tips about must-see attractions and great accommodation in the local area.
Find our iKnow Partners in this areaPlaces to Eat in the Highlands
Find ideas on where to try Scottish food & drink in the Highlands.
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

A cyclist at Loch Assynt, Highlands
© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens
Explore the Highlands
Start planning your perfect adventure in the Highlands.
Map of the Highlands
Explore The Highlands
Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.
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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.

Highland Dancers
Explore the Highlands
Check out these special experiences and hidden gems on your trip to the Highlands.

Walkers on the West Highland Way
© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Routes, Trails & Tours
The Scottish Highlands offers miles of stunning landscapes and glorious wilderness to explore on foot and by bike. There are hundreds of wonderful walks and trails.
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.
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.
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