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With breathtaking scenery, the Highlands of Scotland make the perfect location for your next adventure. A stunning and rugged region, characterized by its rolling hills, majestic mountains, and glistening lochs, making it a popular destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Home to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, including Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, and Loch Ness, the legendary home of the elusive monster. These breathtaking sites are sure to leave an impression on visitors and provide an unforgettable experience.
For those who prefer a slower pace, the Highlands is also home to a number of charming villages and towns, each with its own unique history and character. Take a stroll through the streets of Fort William, the largest town in the Highlands, and enjoy the local shops, pubs, and restaurants. Or, visit the charming village of Inveraray, with its castle, jail, and boat museum, and enjoy a picnic on the shores of the loch.
For those who love history, the Highlands is a treasure trove of stories and legends. From the ancient Picts to the legendary battles between the Scots and the English, the region is steeped in rich history. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient castles, learn about the lives of the Highlanders at the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre, or visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks.
For foodies, the Highlands is a gastronomic delight, offering a range of local specialities. Visitors can sample these dishes at one of the many local restaurants and cafes, or join a food tour to learn more about the region’s unique cuisine.
Book ahead. If you would like to go out for a nice dinner, play a round of golf, enjoy a trip on a steam train, or go ice wall climbing in Kinlochleven, book ahead. Especially in the summer months when things can get busy. When the weather is good, the Highlands can be fantastic. Prepare a fair weather and bad weather plan.
Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s famous lochs, stretches for almost 23 miles, reaches depths of over 650ft, and forms part of the Caledonian Canal, connecting Inverness on the east coast to Corpach near Fort William on the west. On the shores of Loch Ness, don’t miss Urquhart Castle. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, with a turbulent history stretching over 500 years. The last government troops stationed here blew up the castle when they left. The popular site is just a few miles from Drumnadrochit village.
Heading west, Fort William, lies at the northeastern end of Loch Linnhe and at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. The original fort was built in 1654 to keep the peace in the Highlands. It was later ruined and in 1690 rebuilt and named for the British monarch William III.
Fort William regularly hosts the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup. It is a popular destination for mountain bikers. If you’re interested in climbing, one of the best indoor ice climbing walls is only 21 miles from Fort William, at Kinlochleven. For a more leisurely approach, experience a spectacular journey on the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig. It takes in some amazing scenery including the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made even more famous by the magical spell of Harry Potter.
Regularly reviewed as one of the World’s top road trips, the NC500 makes the most of the Highland’s dramatic scenery, with stunning coastal roads and spectacular views. For a really big challenge, why not tackle the NC500 by bike? Endurance cyclist Mark Beaumont recently smashed the record for the fastest ride around the route, crossing the finish line in a blistering 28 hours 35 minutes. Taking a more leisurely approach, many visitors take over 3 or 4 days by car.
Bealach na Bà is a twisting 9km mountain pass on the Applecross Peninsula in Wester Ross and is undeniably the most famous section of the NC500. Rising over 2,000 feet at its highest point and reaching 20% at its steepest gradient. One of the great climbing challenges is going by bike. It is best approached from east to west, with stunning views across to Skye.
Golf in the Highlands of Scotland is a popular activity for both locals and tourists and is served by some of the top links courses. The region is known for its scenic beauty, and many of the golf courses are set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes, including lochs, mountains, and forests. Some of the notable golf courses in the Highlands of Scotland include:
Golfers are well served in the North. Golfing in the Highlands is a unique experience, with stunning views, exceptional local hospitality and world-class golf courses.
Do you want to go mountain biking in one of Scotland’s most spectacular areas? Are you looking for a big mountain experience complete with a chairlift to ferry you to the top? Then head along to Glencoe Mountain Resort and explore one of their many technical downhill trails. Are you looking for a full-on adventure deep into wild Scotland? Join a mountain biking trip to the Cairngorms and explore spectacular Scottish mountain biking with the support of an experienced guide.
The 1746 Jacobite Rebellion came to a brutal end at the Culloden Battlefield, which is 5 miles from Inverness. You can experience, the battle up close, at the visitor centre’s 360-degree immersion theatre. You can find out more about the history of the Highlands in a number of award-winning museums including Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, Historylinks in Dornoch, Timespan in Helmsdale, and the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore.
If you’re on the lookout for some stunning castles, one of the most photographed is Eilean Donan Castle at the Kyle of Lochalsh, while on the east coast, Dunrobin Castle is one of the most lavish. Just outside Forres, 24 miles east of Inverness is Brodie Castle, which is now looked after by the National Trust of Scotland.
The Highlands of Scotland offer a wide range of free, supervised and unsupervised activities for families with children. Who doesn’t like a day out on the beach? With over 300 miles of unspoilt beaches, the Highlands is nature’s gift to children. With amazing views, they’re not bad for adults too!
Here are some fun things to do for kids in the Highlands:
These are just a few of the many activities that are available for families with children in the Highlands of Scotland, with a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities to suit different age groups. Enjoy!
There are around 47 distilleries in the Highlands, making it one of the biggest whisky-producing regions in Scotland. Its numerous distilleries produce some of the finest whiskies in the world, each with its own unique history, character, and production process.
One of the most famous distilleries in the Highlands is Glenmorangie, located in Tain. It is known for producing smooth and delicate single-malt whiskies that are aged in ex-bourbon casks. Another notable distillery is Oban, which has been producing single-malt whiskies for over 200 years. Oban’s whiskies are known for their rich, full-bodied flavour and hints of salt and smoke.
Dalwhinnie is another popular distillery in the Highlands, located in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park. Its single malt whiskies are known for their smooth and honeyed character, and they are aged in ex-bourbon casks for a minimum of 15 years.
The Talisker distillery, located on the Isle of Skye, is known for producing robust and smoky single malt whiskies. Its whiskies are aged in ex-bourbon casks for a minimum of 10 years and are known for their bold and peaty flavour.
In addition to the well-established distilleries, the Highlands is also home to several newer and smaller distilleries. These distilleries offer unique and innovative whiskies that showcase the region’s diverse terroir and production techniques.
The Highlands is a diverse region that spans from the north coast of Scotland to the northern boundary of the Cairngorms National Park. This diversity is reflected in the character and flavour profiles of the whiskies produced in the region. From smooth and delicate to bold and peaty, the Highlands offers a range of whiskies that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or a newcomer to the spirit, a visit to one of the Highlands’ distilleries is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
In conclusion, the Highlands of Scotland is a magical and mysterious region that offers something for everyone. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an adventure or a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you’re looking for a heart-pumping adventure or a peaceful escape, the Highlands of Scotland is the perfect place to visit.
The Highlands Discover the romantic Highland castle, the 14th century home of the Thanes of Cawdor. Built by the Cawdor family for over 600 years including three unique Scottish gardens and a Cawdoor bigwood experience! Located about 5 miles south west of Nairn, Cawdor …
The Highlands Built high on a clifftop overlooking the Moray Firth, Dunbeath Castle, has one of the most dramatic approaches to any house in Scotland. Dunbeath was first mentioned in historical records as far back as 1428. The castle was a stronghold of the …
The Highlands A series of whisky weekends have been announced for 2022 at boutique hotel Glenmorangie House, located in the royal burgh of Tain, deep in the scenic highlands of Scotland and just a short distance from the Glenmorangie Distillery. The weekend comprises a …
The Highlands If you want to see castles in Scotland, then Eilean Donan Castle is surely at the top of the list – built in the thirteenth century, it was a stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie and their allies, the Clan MacRae. Eilean Donan’s …
The Highlands Have you got the skills of the world’s best? Test your footie skills out in a way like no other in a game bubble football! bubble soccer Scotland offers a fun day out of bubble football for both adults and kids, a …
The Highlands Do you want to go mountain biking in one of Scotland’s most spectacular areas? Are you looking for a big mountain experience complete with a chairlift to ferry you to the top? Then head along to Glencoe Mountain Resort and explore one …
The Highlands Looking to game in Inverness? Experience the ultimate gaming experience down at the Inverness virtual reality centre! If you’re in Inverness and have always wanted to try VR, then the Inverness virtual reality centre is the perfect activity to add to your …
The Highlands Calling all holiday makers, tourists and locals alike! Want to explore Torridon off the beaten track? Left your bike at home? Looking to discover wild Torridon at your own pace without the constraints of a tour or guide? Then hire a bike …
The Highlands The Torridon is a place like no other! Are you a keen mountain biker or outdoor enthusiast? Do you also like the finer things in life? Then book at a guided mountain biking trip and a stay in the Torridon, a stunning …
The Highlands Are you looking to hit some of the biggest trails in western Europe? Are you looking for a full on adventure deep into wild Scotland? Join an MTB Beds mountain biking trip to the Cairngorms and explore spectacular Scottish mountain biking with …
The Highlands Calling all walkers and nature lovers! If you want to escape from the chaos of the city, then there’s no better place to do it than the Mar Lodge Estate National Reserve, where you’ll be able to immerse yourself in more than …
The Highlands Are you looking for the road cycling adventure of a lifetime? Would you like to experience the unique cultural, historical and wildlife landscape of the Scottish Outer Hebrides? Then sign up for a Wilderness Scotland guided road cycling trip that will take …
The Highlands Calling all cycling enthusiasts! Are you a beginner or intermediate mountain biker looking to experience wild Scotland under the watchful eye of an experienced mountain biking guide? Then you should sign up for an expedition with Wilderness Scotland and bike from the …
The Highlands Have you dreamed, like many, to tour the infamous North Coast 500? Often lauded as Scotland’s equivalent to route 66 the North Coast 500 is an epic adventure, especially on two wheels! Interested? Then stop scrolling and start reading as Wilderness Scotland …
The Highlands Calling all cyclists! Join Wilderness Scotland and tackle a classic road cycling tour that winds from the very centre of the Highlands to Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh. You’ll experience the absolute best of Scotland’s natural and cultural history and the incredible …
The Highlands Looking for the ultimate adventure holiday? Mountain bike through the wildest part of the UK, island hopping between the spectacular Outer Hebrides and experience Scottish culture at its absolute best with Wilderness Scotland. Cycle 280km across seven islands and experience Gaelic culture …
The Highlands Are you looking to explore Scotland like never before? Do you want a physical challenge that will push you out of your comfort zone with the support of a guide? Then Wilderness Scotland’s incredible seven day guided mountain bike tour is the …
The Highlands Beastie Boats is based in Foyers, a small village located on the east side of Loch Ness, about 15 miles south-west of Inverness. Foyers is a beautiful and tranquil location that offers stunning views of the lake and its surrounding hills. The …
The Highlands The Castle of Mey has a long and interesting history as the most northerly inhabited castle in Scotland The Castle of Mey was built by George, the 4th Earl of Caithness, for his second son William Sinclair. When visiting the family seat …
The Highlands Yes, you read that right – a statue of the legendary AC/DC member Bon Scott in the small town of Kirriemuir in Scotland! A not particularly well known fact about Bon Scott is that before moving to Australia at age 6, he …
The Highlands Looking to level up your bike skills? Get yourself onto a mountain biking course at Glenmore lodge and work with expert coaches to improve your riding. Glenmore Lodge also offers excellent cycling leadership and bike maintenance courses all year round, so if …
The Highlands The Highlands is home to Britain’s wildest and most arguably most beautiful terrain, so there’s no better place to get outdoors and have fun than at Loch Insh Outdoor Centre in Cairngorms National Park! Choose from a fantastic range of outdoor activities, …
The Highlands Are you in need of a break away from the busy city? Or do you just love nature? There’s no better place to escape than a place hailed as “one of the wild glories of Scotland” by Sir David Attenborough himself! Rothiemurchus …
The Highlands Want to take up an exciting new hobby? Fancy sailing yourself into the open waters whenever you like? Why not join the Arisaig Sailing Club and learn from scratch or further develop your sailing skills with a tight-knit community of fellow sailors! …
The Highlands Calling all mountain bikers! Ride like a pro and hit some of the best mountain biking in the Nevis Range at the Witch’s Trails. Jump on the Nevis Range Gondola and get ready to experience the best of Scotland’s big mountain biking. …
The Highlands If you’re looking for a getaway day-trip in Scotland then we have a great activity for your stack! Head down to Loch Garten Nature Centre in Abernethy for the chance to see some of Scotland’s most amazing wildlife and beautiful landscape. Loch …
The Highlands Looking for some of the UK’s best ‘big mountain’ trails? Then get on your bike and head to Laggan Wolftrax and sample more then twenty miles of purpose built trails throughout the Scottish Highlands. Heading out from the trail centre in Laggan …
The Highlands Get up-close and make friends with the UK’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer! Whether you’re looking for to ignite your Christmas spirits or just admire these magnificent creatures grazing freely on the mountains, a trip to Cairngorm Reindeer centre is a must-do …
The Highlands Are you a fan of collecting gemstones and other geological finds? The Treasures of the Earth Museum is perfect for you! Visitors can come along and learn about a plethora of different archaeological and geological finds! From fossils to gold nuggets, there …
The Highlands Are you a scot and curious about how your ancestors may have lived? Or are you visiting the Highlands and want to find out more about it’s history? The Highland Folk Museum then is a perfect activity for you stack! Explore this …
The Highlands Are you looking for a new location to enjoy the wonderful game of Golf? The Woodlands Golf Course is the perfect course for you! This course is an award-winning 9 hole course located near Glencoe in The Highlands. Welcoming all and offering …
The Highlands Adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers of all ages are promised a day full of fun and excitement at Landmark Forest Adventure Park! With loads of sights to see and plenty of adrenaline-pumping rides, the park offers a day out to remember to all …
The Highlands Calling all aspiring Golfers! Fort William Golf Club warmly welcomes all of its visitors to try and navigate their course! Situated between Ben Nevis and the windy seas off the coast of The Highlands, this course has challenging conditions for golfers to …
The Highlands Get your sea legs ready for a wonderful trip along the Scottish coast with Rockhopper Sea Kayaking! This experience will leave guests with memories for life and an itch to get back and cruise across the open sea! With plenty of wildlife …
The Highlands Ever wanted to pick up a new hobby that reaches new heights? At Three Wise Monkeys Climbing Centre, newcomers to indoor climbing can flourish and have a great first experience of the activity! The dedicated instructors will ensure that your climbing experience …
The Highlands Are you struggling to find that next location to take the family on a day out? Worry no more, as the Ardnamurchan Natural History Visitor Centre has got you covered! Bring along your loved ones and experience the magic of nature at …
The Highlands Are you looking for your next exciting museum trip in Scotland? Why not head along to the Gairloch Heritage Museum and uncover everything the history of the area has to offer! Located inside a convereted nuclear bunker, the museum consists of exhibitions …
The Highlands Grab your family and friends and leave it all out on the track! At Aviemore Kart Raceway, visitors can battle it out to determine who is the best driver among the ranks and fly through the checkered flags to victory! With a …
The Highlands Are you a thrill-seeker looking for the next exciting activity to catch your eye? Rest assured as Mountain & Sea Guides Applecross has got you covered! Offering a wide number of mountain climbing and sea kayaking activities around the coast of Northwest …
The Highlands Have you always dreamt of surviving in the wild? At Wildwood Bushcraft you can learn to live off the land on the coast of the the Highlands for a whole weekend! Learn to hunt for food, prep and cook your catch and …
