Scottish Highlands
Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands, usually referred to as simply ‘the Highlands’, is a stunning region that covers an area that sprawls across the northernmost part of Scotland, defined by the Highland Boundary Fault which arcs its way from Helensburgh in the southwest to Stonehaven on the east coast.
The geography of the Highlands comprises a rugged and dramatic landscape which is home to some of the highest mountains in the British Isles, including Ben Nevis, the highest peak of all, which stands an incredible 4,411 feet above sea level.
The Highlands are also characterized by deep valleys known as glens and expansive lochs that were carved by the last ice age, including the world-famous Loch Ness. The region’s coastline is equally breathtaking thanks to a combination of sheer cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint coastal villages.
In terms of flora and fauna, the Highlands have a diverse ecosystem. Vast areas of heather-covered moorland are interspersed with ancient Caledonian pine forests that are home to a variety of wildlife from red deer to golden eagles, while the coastal waters are home to otters, dolphins, and whales.
For those who love outdoor activities, the region provides ample opportunities for hiking, climbing, and cycling, from the Great Glen Way (a 79-mile long-distance route that stretches from Fort William to Inverness) to the North Coast 500, a 516-mile scenic route around the northern coast of the Highlands.
The iconic Eilean Donan Castle, dramatically positioned on a small tidal island overlooking lochs Alsh, Duich, and Long, is one of the most photographed spots in Scotland, while the Culloden Battlefield – where the last battle of the Jacobite uprising took place in 1746 – offers a poignant reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past.
Nature enthusiasts, meanwhile, will love exploring the Cairngorms National Park which is famed for its snow-capped mountains, sparkling lochs, and vast forests, while sightseers will fall in love with Glenfinnan which features a viaduct that carries the famous ‘Harry Potter’ Jacobite steam train on its journey from Fort William to Mallaig in North Morar.
The Highlands also offer a taste of traditional Scottish culture. Visitors can explore quaint villages like Ullapool, sample traditional Scottish food like haggis and shortbread, and perhaps even take part in a traditional ceilidh, a social event with Scottish folk music and dancing.
Subcategory
Silver Sands of Morar
The Silver Sands of Morar are a series of celebrated beaches located on the Morar Peninsula, south of Mallaig. These stunning white-sand beaches are a favourite spot for tourists due to the crystal-clear turquoise waters along this stretch of coastline, as well as the stunning views of the Small Isles.
Smoo Cave
Smoo Cave near Durness has one of the largest sea cave entrances in Britain. The main cavern is 50 feet high and spreads out in an impressive cathedral-like space that features an opening that takes visitors across a subterranean pool and a waterfall. Discover Smoo Cave with this complete visitor guide.
Talmine Bay
Talmine is a crofting and fishing village overlooking Talmine Bay north of the A838 bridge near Tongue Bay in Sutherland. The bay is best known for its scenery and the wildlife that live in the area which offers frequent sightings of seals and dolphins. Discover Talmine Bay with this complete visitor guide.
The Best Castles to Visit in the Scottish Highlands
In total, there are over 1,500 castles in Scotland, ranging from tiny lookout towers in the far northern Highlands to immense royal palaces in the south-east of the country. Some of the best Scottish castles are; Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, and Eilean Donan Castle. Discover more about them and many others in this ultimate visitor…
The Best Free Places to Visit in the Scottish Highlands
Visiting Scotland’s tourist attractions can be an expensive business, especially for those visitors travelling with a family. In this article you will discover a list of completely free-to-visit attractions in the Scottish Highlands that are suitable for all ages, including historic buildings, walking routes, museums, and public parks.
The Best Free Things to Do in Caithness & Sutherland
The North Highlands offers some of the wildest, most remote, and most scenic landscapes of anywhere in Europe. From John O’ Groats to Ullapool, you’re guaranteed to become smitten with the beauty of this extraordinary region of Scotland. In this article you will discover a list of completely free-to-visit attractions in Caithness & Sutherland that…
The Glenfinnan Monument
The 18-metre Glenfinnan Monument commemorates the Jacobite uprising of 1745. It was built on the northern end of Loch Shiel in 1815 and is now managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Discover this fascinating historic monument and the stunning landscape it’s situated in with this complete guide.
The Highland Wildlife Park
Sitting in around 260 acres of beautifully managed parkland in the Cairngorms, the Highland Wildlife Park showcases some of the wildlife that can be found in the mountains and wilderness areas of Scotland, as well as several species that are currently endangered in mountainous regions all over the world.
The Jacobite Steam Train
The Jacobite steam train has been described as one of the greatest train journeys in the world. Covering 84 miles, the Jacobite travels from Fort William to Mallaig on the northwest coast of Scotland. Visitors can sit back in the historic carriages and experience the best of the Scottish Highlands, from lochs and mountains to…
The Loch Ness Centre
The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition attempts to explain the geology of the local area as well as the monster myth, and it’s an ideal stop-off after a busy day exploring the world-famous loch. Discover the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition in this guide which includes an overview and handy visiting tips.
Tips & Advice for Visitors to the Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is a wild and mountainous region situated in the northwest of Scotland. Visitors to the Highlands can immerse themselves in a landscape of serene lochs and towering mountains along with some of Scotland’s largest forests and a rugged coastline that’s rich with wildlife. Discover how to plan a trip to the Scottish…
Ullapool
The picturesque village of Ullapool is located in the North Highlands on the shore of Loch Broom. While many people only visit Ullapool to take a ferry to the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, there are lots of worthwhile attractions in the area that make Ullapool a great visitor destination in its own…
Ullapool Hill & The Braes
This Ullapool Hill and The Braes walking trail will take you on a stunning walk from the harbour in the delightful Scottish town of Ullapool, all the way up to the outcrop of Meall Mor and around a circular route through the hills and back to the town centre. Discover one of the best walking…
Urquhart Castle
Nestled on the banks of the peat-stained waters of Loch Ness, the 17th-century Urquhart Castle is one of the finest sightseeing destinations in Scotland, and you might even catch sight of a monster swimming by when you visit. Discover this legendary castle in this complete guide which includes an overview and useful visiting tips.
Where to Visit on a Tour of the Scottish Highlands
The Highlands are famous for their breathtaking scenery where lochs, mountains, and forests offer activities for visitors of all ages and interests whether it’s hill walking, mountain biking, wild camping, or sightseeing on a driving holiday. Discover the best places to visit on a Scottish Highlands tour with this complete visitor guide that includes information…
Wick Heritage Museum
Wick Heritage Museum in the North Highlands aims to promote the town’s history and culture through a collection of exhibits and artefacts. The museum is located inside a large townhouse near Wick harbour where it showcases displays of Caithness glass, exhibits from the town’s fishing industry and much more.
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