quiet places to visit scotland

The Best Non-Touristy Places in Scotland

Each year, around 14 million visitors come to Scotland to explore the country’s top tourist attractions, with destinations like Edinburgh Castle welcoming over 2 million tourists annually. While these attractions are fantastic places to visit, fighting your way through heaving crowds can be a real chore, and they can be frightening for people with anxiety issues.

Discover how to escape the monstrous crowds in the busiest attractions with this ultimate guide to the best non-touristy places to visit in Scotland.

The Isle of Arran

Yes, I know Arran gets very busy in the summer. But travel there out of season, and you’ll find this lovely island on the west coast is rather quiet.

The Isle of Arran lies to the west of Glasgow in the Firth of Clyde, which makes it one of the easiest west coast islands to visit, and yet it’s large enough that you can head to its extremities and feel like you’re completely isolated from the rest of civilization.

Arran is one of the larger Scottish islands at 167 square miles, and it’s often referred to as ‘Scotland in miniature’ thanks to the mountains, forests, and beaches that comprise the stunning landscape. It’s easy to lose yourself in the wilds of Arran, and enough is going on in the towns and villages dotted about that you won’t get bored even if you decide to spend a week or two there.

If you really want to get your adrenaline pumping, you can try gorge walking, rock climbing, kayaking, or just get your boots on for a spot of hiking up the stunning mountains that can be found in the north of the island. The largest of these peaks is Goatfell , an 874-metre mountain (specifically, a Corbett) that’s managed by the National Trust for Scotland and offers superb walks for any nature lover who fancies a challenge.

The most commonly used route (and the one I recommend) to the top of Goatfell starts near Brodick Castle and runs for 3 miles through forest and moorland to a viewpoint that offers beautiful panoramic views across the island.

Another good walk is the one to the Historic Environment Scotland -managed Machrie Moor. Visit Machrie Moor, and you’ll find six large and very mysterious stone circles that date from prehistoric times. Some of these circles are made from granite boulders, while others are made from sandstone pillars, and while we might never understand the original purpose for the stones, we can at least enjoy walking around them on the one-hour walk across the desolate moorland that surrounds them.

The scenic countryside of Arran is perfect for horseback riding, and luckily there are a couple of riding centres on the island, but if you prefer your saddle on top of two wheels, you can hire a bike instead.

There are excellent cycling trails around the island that allow you to see the sights up close, but I’d say the coast road from Machrie to Lochranza is one of the best, mainly because it’s relatively flat and there’s little traffic on it. In fact, this road is so highly regarded that it has been designated as a tourist attraction in itself, which I cover in The Arran Coastal Way .

Finally, for the ultimate secluded getaway, I highly recommend visiting Holy Island which is situated off the east coast of Arran. Holy Isle is a privately run island that has a long history as a hermit’s refuge, while in modern-day times it’s used as a Buddhist retreat. It’s a genuinely beautiful place, so if you’d like to know more about it, read The Holy Isle .

The Isle of Mull

The Inner Hebridean Isle of Mull is the third-largest island in Scotland and is home to a wide variety of tourist attractions, with pretty harbour towns nestled along the rugged coastline and spectacular mountain landscapes in the island’s centre that attract visitors from across the UK and beyond. With some of the cleanest beaches in Scotland and some of the most diverse wildlife species in Britain, Mull has plenty to offer tourists who are looking for a taste of the great outdoors.

But while other large west-coast islands are completely jam-packed with tourists throughout the year (*cough* Skye *cough*), Mull is quieter and just as pretty. I’ll add one caveat to that statement, though. As with most places in Scotland, Mull is fairly quiet throughout the year, except for the peak tourist season in the summer.

From the start of May to the end of August, expect to find just as many tourists on Mull as any other large west coast island, but thankfully, their numbers decrease substantially from September to April.

One feather in this Hebridean island’s cap is that it’s very easy to get to due to the frequent ferries that sail there from Oban , and because many international visitors prefer travelling to Skye, tourism on Mull remains well-managed. In fact, taking a hike into the mountain peaks on Mull could mean you won’t see another person all day, so if you’re after peace and seclusion, you could certainly do a lot worse than visit this lovely island.

One of the best outdoor attractions on Mull is Ben More , the 3,169-foot mountain that dominates the island’s interior. This mountain (it’s actually a Munro, a Scottish mountain over 3,000 feet) is absolutely vast, and climbing it is, to say the least, a challenge.

Not only is Ben More the highest mountain on the island, but it’s one of the highest in the Inner Hebrides, beaten only by the peaks of the Black Cuillin’s on Skye. But although the mountain can’t take credit for being the tallest, I have to say it wins the award for having the most impressive panorama, with the view from the top encompassing the Sound of Mull, the islands of Staffa and Ulva, and the Isle of Skye.

While the hike to the top is tough (very tough if you approach it from the south) the views on the way up are nothing short of breathtaking, and on a clear day you can see for miles in all directions and even across to Ben Cruachan on the mainland.

Another secluded highlight of Mull is Calgary Bay, which is located on the west side of the island. This incredibly charming and remote bay has a wide expanse of white sand, some of the clearest seawater you’ll ever see, and a delightful woodland sculpture walk.

The bay is a haven for wildlife and you can pretty much guarantee you’ll either see otters swimming about on the hunt for their next meal or seals lazing around on the nearby rocks. No wonder the beach has been voted amongst the top 20 in the country.

The Carsaig Arches are well worth visiting too, but only if you’re relatively fit and don’t mind a challenging scramble over rocks. The arches themselves are sea caves that have been carved through the cliff faces by the power of the crashing waves, and while they’re certainly impressive, the difficulty of the trail turns away many tourists.

The route starts at Carsaig Pier which is very picturesque, and you’ll more than likely see colonies of seals soaking up the sun on the exposed rocks jutting out of Carsaig Bay. After waving goodbye to the seals you’ll walk along rocky beaches and boggy grassland while following a boulder-strewn goat track, in between scurrying across waterfalls and traversing narrow clifftop paths before arriving at the dramatic arches.

Recommended places to visit near Mull are the Isle of Ulva (lovely walks) and the Isle of Iona (home to the famous Iona Abbey), with both islands accessible by ferries. Ulva is a very, very quiet place that offers sublime coastal walks, while Iona is rather more tourist-focused due to people making pilgrimages to the abbey.

To sum up, I have to say I personally love Mull, not only for its landscapes but for the seclusion it offers. It has 90% of the beauty of Skye but 50% fewer tourists, which makes it 100% my favourite island on the entire west coast.

The Isle of Eigg

With a total area of only 12 square miles, the Isle of Eigg is one of the smaller Hebridean islands situated on Scotland’s west coast, but it has one of the most interesting histories. This remote location is one of the least-visited western isles – which is surprising seeing as it’s so close to the ever-popular Isle of Skye – but its small tourism industry only adds to its charm.

People have been living on Eigg (pronounced ‘egg’) since the Bronze Age, and traces of ancient weapons including knives, axes, and arrowheads, have been dated to the Neolithic era, so in many ways, it has a lot of similarities to the islands of Orkney and Shetland. But where those islands are quite desolate, Eigg has plenty of woodlands to complement its wild and remote areas.

Arguably the most beautiful part of the island (and one of the most beautiful places in Scotland in my opinion) is the moorland plateau in its centre, which rises nearly 400 metres at An Sgurr, the enormous sheer-sided pitchstone pinnacle that dominates the island and offers amazing views from the top.

It’s possible to walk to the top of this rocky outcrop, and if you do, you’ll have fantastic views across to the Islands of Mull , Coll , Muck, Rum , and Skye – at least in good weather. Attempt the climb on a misty day, and the views will be a lot less interesting.

There are only around 100 inhabitants on Eigg, which makes it perfect for travellers looking to find some peace and quiet in the Western Isles. That being said, the summer months do see an increase in the number of visitors due to the ferry routes from the mainland fishing port of Mallaig and the village of Arisaig on the mainland.

One of the most interesting facts about Eigg is that it’s owned and managed by a trust that comprises a number of the local residents as well as the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the Highland Council . Between them, they’ve managed to increase the population from around 65 to just over 100 in the last 7 years.

That’s not a huge population by any means, but this is an island that thrives on staying small enough to sustain itself, something that can be seen in the fact that it’s completely powered by renewable energy – something the highly populated areas of Scotland can only dream about.

If you manage to get onto the island to explore it for yourself, you’ll find a few modern amenities that cater to visitors, such as a restaurant and bar near the ferry jetty. But the best reason to go there is to just get out and explore it on foot.

That’s really the only way you’re going to get to see the majority of the bird species that live on Eigg, and if you take your binoculars (link to binocular reviews), you’ll be in for a treat as the island has breeding populations of falcons, kestrels, owls, and even golden eagles swooping over the majority of its landscape.

There are also a couple of stunning white-sand beaches on the western side of the island, notably at the Bay of Laig and the Singing Sands. Reaching either on foot is almost impossible on a day trip but if you hire a bike from the Eigg ferry terminal you’ll have at least a couple of hours on the beaches before making the return cycle ride back to the ferry.

The Isles of St. Kilda

If you’re looking to get away from the tourist hordes, you won’t go far wrong with a trip to the spectacular volcanic archipelago of St. Kilda. Situated off the western edge of the Outer Hebrides, St. Kilda comprises four separate islands: Hirta, Dun, Soay, and Boreray, with the largest island, Hirta, being the destination most favoured by the few tourists who actually manage to get to the islands.

Travelling to this remote part of Scotland involves a lot of effort due to the fact it’s located over 40 miles west of North Uist (which already lies on the edge of the Outer Hebrides). The biggest St. Kilda tour operator departs from the slightly nearer Isle of Skye, which is still a relatively remote destination to travel to.

Walking on St. Kilda is an experience you’re not likely to forget thanks to some of the highest cliffs in Europe which are home to nearly one million seabirds including puffins and gannets, as well as several rare and endangered species of birds and mammals.

There are sheep that are unchanged from the type that was first introduced during the Iron Age, a type of wren that is only found on St. Kilda, and a species of field mouse that has somehow managed to grow to twice the size of its mainland cousins.

While St. Kilda is renowned for its wildlife it also has plenty to offer visitors interested in human history thanks to the remains of human occupation that can be found throughout the islands, some of which date back over 4,000 years. That’s pretty amazing, but what’s even more amazing is the fact that an entire community continued to live on Hirta right up until 1930 when a combination of illness and the aftermath of WWI caused them to evacuate to the mainland.

Today, St. Kilda has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and although it’s uninhabited, you can still experience what life would have been like for those hardy souls in days gone by. If you want to see history and wildlife in one of the most unique places in Scotland, these remote islands on the far-western edge of the country have to be at the top of your sightseeing itinerary.

The Isle of Tiree

The Isle of Tiree on the western edge of the Inner Hebrides seems to have gone unnoticed by international visitors, although it does get busy in summer due to its multitude of golden beaches (read The Beaches on Tiree for more information).

These beaches run almost uninterrupted around its perimeter, and because the island is so flat, many of them have very shallow bays where you can walk far out into the sea with the waves only just lapping up to your knees.

Although it can be incredibly windy because it’s so flat, Tiree has some of the highest levels of sunshine recorded anywhere in the United Kingdom, and on a summer day, you could easily be forgiven for thinking you’re sitting on a beach somewhere in the Mediterranean. And even better, because it’s such an off-the-beaten-track destination you can often find yourself sunbathing on those stunning beaches completely alone, apart from the odd seagull or two.

Be aware there are a couple of times during the year when visitor numbers really pick up, which are the Tiree Music Festival in July and the Tiree Wave Classic windsurfing event in October, although these events only last a week each.

You could quite easily walk around the entire coastline of Tiree if you want to take a walking and camping holiday as it’s only 46 miles from start to finish. Along the way, you’ll find the remains of more than twenty Iron Age fortresses, with the huge stone structure (known as a ‘broch’) at Dun Mor Bhalla being the best preserved on the island.

Not only does Tiree have oodles of history but there’s lots of wildlife to see thanks to the enormous colonies of birds that live on the island, with noisy gannets and fulmars filling the skies alongside rather more subdued lapwings and skylarks. You’ll also see seals and dolphins with young pups and calves taking shelter in the shallow bays around the coastline, notably at Caolas on the isle’s northern tip which overlooks the two equally scenic islands of Gunna and Coll.

This historic town is located just 23 miles south of Edinburgh in the very peaceful Borders countryside, where it offers lots of outdoor activities including fishing, golf, cycling, and horseback riding.

The best reason to visit Peebles is to use it as a gateway into one of Scotland’s prettiest regions, which is also blissfully free of crowds. This is because it’s close to Edinburgh and most international visitors prefer to head into the Highlands after a visit to the capital city, which means there are fewer tourists exploring the Scottish Borders.

Peebles is an old market town (it has been a Royal Burgh since 1152) that lies at the junction of the River Tweed and Eddleston Water, and many of the mediaeval closes and alleyways have remained virtually unchanged since the 12th century. There are lots of quaint shops to stroll past in the old High Street, and there are plenty of places to stop and eat in the town centre before heading down to the peaceful walkways that run alongside the River Tweed.

If you have the time, you won’t go far wrong with the Peebles Town Trail which offers an interesting stroll through the history of the town as well as the area surrounding the river. The river is pretty much the heart of Peebles, and if you like salmon fishing, you’ll definitely want to visit it.

The Borders area is a biking hotspot, and one of my favourite cycle routes is the Tweed Cycleway which runs across 90 miles of unspoilt countryside between the towns of Biggar and Berwick-Upon-Tweed, with Peebles sitting roughly in the middle. You don’t have to stick to roads though, and if you have a mountain bike you can go slightly off-track and head into the forests at Glentress, Cardrona and Elibank , with Glentress offering some truly awesome mountain bike trails.

In fact, Glentress is frequently rated as one of the best mountain biking destinations in Britain thanks to its downhill tracks which offer a challenge for both novice riders and experts.

Peebles also has lots of walking routes that pass through southern Scotland’s hills and forests, including the John Buchan Way which offers an easy walk across 13 miles of countryside. The town is also close to one of Scotland’s best walking routes, the Southern Upland Way , which starts at Portpatrick and ends at Cockburnspath.

There has been a settlement in the area of Perth since prehistoric times, and it’s known that tribes of hunter-gatherers lived there over 8,000 years ago, which is pretty amazing considering that’s 3,000 years before Stonehenge was built.

This is one city in Scotland that drips with history, and yet in all the times I’ve been there, I’ve never seen a big group of tourists walking around it. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not like there are no visitors to this city, but it’s undoubtedly low on the list of Scotland’s tourist hot spots. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth adding to your sightseeing itinerary.

The city is split down the middle by the River Tay, which is very picturesque, while the city centre is great for shopping and has lots of restaurants and bars to keep visitors occupied in the evening. But what I think makes Perth the perfect city to visit for a quiet holiday is that it makes a fantastic base to explore central Scotland.

The first stop I’d recommend you make is Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park which lies to the east of Perth. If you take a walk to the top of Kinnoull Hill (which is the highest peak inside the park), you’ll be rewarded with amazing views from the top, but be aware that there are cliff faces partway around the hill with sheer drops of 150 metres.

The lower level of the park has several cycle trails running through it as well as several footpaths, and not only is the woodland inside lovely to stroll through, but it’s very quiet mid-week.

One nearby attraction that’s worth visiting is Branklyn Garden, a 2-acre National Trust garden that’s home to many plant species collected from across the globe that have been pruned and trimmed to perfection for nearly one hundred years.

A little further away from Perth is the town of Dunkeld, which also lies on the banks of the River Tay. The forests around Dunkeld are known as ‘ big tree country ‘ and there’s more woodland in this part of the country than anywhere else in Scotland. One of the best sites in the big tree country is The Hermitage which is an oasis of Douglas Firs bordering the grounds of Dunkeld House.

The hermitage is famous for having some of the tallest trees in Scotland, as well as salmon that jump up the waterfalls of the River Braan on their way to their spawning grounds. It’s a truly wonderful place to visit for nature lovers.

Heading back into Dunkeld, you can walk along the banks of the river before relaxing in one of the coffee shops in the quaint little town square. If there’s enough time left in your day, you can then visit Dunkeld Cathedral which is a part-ruined 14th-century cathedral that’s still in use today.

The Solway Firth

Situated on the southern edge of Dumfries and Galloway, the Solway Firth forms part of the border between England and Scotland. Many tourists bypass this scenic area as they make their way north to Glasgow or south to Hadrian’s Wall, which is surprising as it’s one of the best places in Scotland for wildlife watching.

The entire Solway Coast is designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty, and there are plenty of places to explore, but my personal recommendation is to head to the National Nature Reserve at Caerlaverock (check out my guide to Caerlaverock Castle before you go).

Caerlaverock Reserve covers over 21 square miles of salt marsh, mudflats, grazing land, and beach, and there are over 130,000 birds on the site at any one time. More than enough to keep your binoculars glued to your face for a few hours.

If you prefer peaceful walks in the countryside, then the Annandale Way starts (or finishes, depending on your direction) in the Solway Firth, with the other endpoint around 56 miles away in the Moffat Hills. You can do the entire route on foot, but it’ll take around 5 days to complete, so if you’re a bit lazy like me, you might want to do a short section at a time instead.

Because the estuary is so flat, you’ll see vast salt and mud flats open up once the tide moves out, which might tempt you to get your wellies on and go for a walk out there. But be warned, there are several patches of quicksand that have been known to catch out unwary hikers.

Although the Solway Firth is a bit lacking when it comes to cycle routes, there are lots of footpaths on both the English and Scottish sides, so I recommend taking a look at the official Solway Coast website to plan your visit (although the site concentrates on the English side). An alternative resource is Walk Highlands which details several walks in Dumfries and Galloway close to the Solway Firth.

East Lothian

East Lothian is a beautiful county in the southeast of Scotland that’s frequently bypassed by visiting tourists who tend to make a beeline for the historic city of Edinburgh, which lies immediately to the west. That’s a shame, as the county has one of the nicest coastlines in Scotland and has a picturesque landscape that’s comprised of a mix of open countryside, woodland, and rolling hills.

If you’re planning a trip to East Lothian, here are some of the top tourist attractions, towns, and beaches that you should visit to avoid crowds.

Tantallon Castle : Dating back to the 1300s, the red sandstone stronghold of Tantallon Castle near North Berwick provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline. You’ll get a great view of the seabird colonies flying to and from Bass Rock from the top of the curtain wall, or you can stroll down to Seacliff Beach (which is known for its enormous rock pools) to enjoy a scenic coastal walk.

John Muir Way : The John Muir Way is a 134-mile-long trail that runs from Helensburgh on the west coast of Scotland to Dunbar on the east coast. It passes through some of the most beautiful countryside in southern Scotland and is a great way to explore the region for anyone who enjoys a good walk.

Many memorable parts of the route pass through East Lothian but a personal favourite is the section towards the endpoint near Dunbar which follows the county’s beautiful coastline and passes alongside superb beaches like Gullane and Yellowcraig .

North Berwick : North Berwick is a charming seaside town with a beautiful beach, a historic harbour, and lots of craft shops and artisan restaurants. It’s a popular destination for families and it’s a great place to spend a day, especially midweek when it sees few tourists (weekends are rather busy though). Highlights of North Berwick are the Scottish Seabird Centre and North Berwick Law which is a remnant of a volcano with stunning views across the Firth of Forth from its summit.

Dunbar : Dunbar is a historic town that’s famous for its association with John Muir, the conservationist and naturalist who was born in the town but moved to the United States where he founded several national parks including Yellowstone. Not only is the town home to a gorgeous beach and a picturesque harbour , but it’s also a great place to start quiet walks along the coastline in both directions.

Yellowcraig Beach : Yellowcraig Beach is a stunning sandy beach with views of Bass Rock and Fidra Island – the inspiration for the book Treasure Island. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine midweek, though as it’s one of the most popular beaches in the region it gets a wee bit busy at the weekend.

Yellowcraig has a fascinating coastline thanks to the rocky shorelines at its furthest edges, which allow children to spend hours guddling about in rockpools, after which they can burn off any remaining energy in the play park in the on-site car park. Other facilities include a toilet block and a semi-permanent snack van.

The John Muir Country Park : The John Muir Country Park is a large nature reserve that covers more than 7,000 acres to the west of Dunbar. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife including deer, rare moths, and many types of songbirds, and is a great place to explore for families, couples and solo travellers alike. The dunes that ring the edge of the park are enormous and offer lots of places to sit with a beach towel and relax with a good book in hand, with nothing but the rolling waves and the singing of skylarks for company.

Tips for Avoiding Crowds in Scotland

1: Travel Off-Season

The main tourist months in Scotland run between April and September, although December is also popular with visitors to Edinburgh and Glasgow for the Christmas celebrations. Heading out into the wilds between October and March might mean you’ll be taking a chance on our rainy Scottish weather, but you’re also much more likely to find attractions that are free from crowds.

2: If in Doubt, Ask a Local

We’re a friendly bunch here in Scotland and we’ll be only too happy to help enquiring visitors find the best places to visit, so why not ask us where we think the quietest places are? After all, who knows more about an area than the people who live there?

3: Book Your Accommodation With Care

While you might find some of the cheapest hotel prices at the edges of city centres in the off-peak season (£29 Travelodge room, anyone?), you’ll find that no matter where you go, there’ll still be lots of other visitors barging about. It’s much better to get a room far away from the city, where you’ll be guaranteed peace and quiet. Just make sure it’s near public transport, or get a rental car.

It’s unavoidable to get stuck amongst groups of fellow walkers if you venture to the same places as everyone else, even in winter (I’m looking at you, Isle of Skye), but setting out to areas that are less well-known means you can have the glorious Scottish landscapes all to yourself. For some great walking route ideas, check out the Walk Highlands website .

5: Avoid Tour Companies

This is pretty self-explanatory, but a quick Google search of Scotland’s tour companies will show you all the places where you can expect to find coach after coach of camera-wielding tourist crowds. The fact of the matter is there are so many attractions in Scotland that you can have a great time even if you don’t visit the ‘usual’ destinations, so be creative and do your own thing instead.

6: Plan Your Holiday as a Theme

Following on from the previous tip, why not theme your holiday around a particular interest, like Scotland’s castles or maybe our whisky distilleries? Research the most popular ones (Edinburgh Castle, Glenfiddich Distillery, etc.) and choose to avoid them. You’ll find plenty of nearby smaller attractions that are equally entertaining but much quieter – and often much cheaper too.

7: Get Up Early

I know it’s painful, especially when you’re on holiday, but you can avoid most of the crowds at the more popular attractions by getting there as soon as the attraction opens, while the rest of Scotland’s tourists are still munching on their morning porridge. The great thing about starting your adventures early in the morning is that you then have the rest of the day to head to Scotland’s quieter locations.

8: Get Out on the Open Water

Given that the UK is an island with water on all sides, there are many opportunities to get away from people by leaving the land far behind. Your options here are varied, with many water sports companies offering daily hire of kayaks, canoes, and powered boats. The best thing about getting out on the open water is that you can go to places other tourists simply can’t get to, such as the myriad small islands that are dotted about inside most of Scotland’s larger lochs ( Loch Morar is my top recommendation, followed by Loch Lomond ).

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are good places to avoid crowds of tourists in scotland.

The Isle of Mull, The Solway Firth, Perth, Peebles, The Isle of Tiree, The Isle of Eigg, The Isle of Arran, The Isles of St. Kilda, Caithness, Southerness, The Uists.

How many tourists visit Scotland each year?

Scotland is a nation of around 5.5 million permanent residents. There were 14.1 million visitors in 2019, meaning the population quadruples due to the tourism industry. Over the last 5 years visitor numbers have increased by 18%.

When is the tourist season in Scotland?

The main tourist months in Scotland run between May to August, although December is also popular with visitors to Edinburgh and Glasgow for the Christmas celebrations.

How much money do Scotland’s tourists spend annually?

Total domestic and international visitor spend is £11.2 Billion per year.

Where is the quietest place in Scotland?

It’s difficult to determine the quietest place in Scotland as it can depend on various factors such as the time of day, the weather, and the presence of people or wildlife. However, some areas that are known for their natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere include the Outer Hebrides, the Cairngorms National Park, and the counties of Caithness and Sutherland.

Other quiet and peaceful areas in Scotland include the St. Kilda, Orkney, and Shetland Islands which are located off the western and northern coast of Scotland respectively.

Related Posts

Google Maps of Scotland

The Best Beaches in Scotland

A Guide to the Best Castles to Visit in South Scotland

The Best Places to Photograph in Scotland

The Best Cheap Places to Visit in Scotland

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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20 Secret Places in Scotland Off The Beaten Path

Categories Adventure , Hidden Gems , Outdoors , Scotland , Scotland Guides

If you’re looking for places to visit in Scotland off the beaten path, you’re about to discover some of the best hidden gems that no one knows about.

Table of Contents

I’ve been living in Scotland for two years now and I feel it is my duty to encourage travellers to get off the tourist track that has become Edinburgh to Loch Lomond to the Isle of Skye and back again.

So I’m letting you in on a few of my favourite secret places in Scotland.

Even if you add just one of these non-touristy things to do in Scotland to your itinerary, you’ll experience a part of Scotland that very few others do.

SCOTLAND RESOURCES ✨ On a budget? Grab my Scotland Bucket List Planner ✨ Organising a big trip? Grab my Ultimate Scotland Planner ✨ Want to tick off all the must-sees? Grab my Must-See Scotland Essential Travel Planners ✨ Have a question about travelling around Scotland? Join my Facebook groups Scotland Travel Tips and Scotland Travel Tips for Locals ✨ Love podcasts? Listen to my Scotland podcast Life in Scotland

Not all of these places are easy to reach. Some require a hike or a paddle to reach them. Others require you to hire a car and drive for miles. But the difficulty in reaching them makes visiting them all the more special. Nothing good comes easy!

I’ve marked each of my Scotland off the beaten path destinations on a map to make finding them easier.

Here are 20 of my favourite secret places in Scotland. I hope you feel inspired to visit!

>> Planning a trip to Scotland? Be sure to read my ultimate guide

Scotland Off The Beaten Path: 20 Secret Places in Scotland

1. Loch Glencoul, Assynt

Loch Glencoul and the bothy that sits at its head is one of my favourite secret places in Scotland. You can gaze out to the loch from the parking area at Kylesku bridge, but the best views of the loch are from Glencoul bothy .

A trip to Glencoul bothy is suited to the adventurous. To get to the bothy you need to hike from Inchnadamph or Kylesku through some of Scotland’s roughest unmarked terrain. If you go via Inchnadamph you’ll have the chance to see Britain’s highest waterfall, Eas a’ Chual Aluinn . You can also reach the bothy by sea kayak or boat [ Kylesku Boat Tours have a tour of this area].

The effort is worth it however. There are some fabulous bothies throughout Scotland , but the location of Glencoul bothy makes it all the more special, nestled between craggy mountains with some of the best views of Loch Glencoul at sunset.

The bothy is equipped with one bedroom that sleeps up to 6, and a common area with a fireplace. There are abundant wild camping opportunities outside too.

You can also spot common and grey seals in this area.

If you intend to visit the bothy you may need to contact the estate first. You can read more about that here , and always adhere to the bothy code when visiting bothies.

It’s a truly special feeling being in an area of Scotland so few people see.

2. Cluanie, Scottish Highlands

Many people drive right by Cluanie in favour of reaching Eilean Donan Castle or the Isle of Skye without realising this hidden gem.

Cluanie has some of the best hiking in Scotland that is very much off the beaten track. The section from Cluanie to Morvich on the Cape Wrath Trail is one of Scotland’s most spectacular trails.

Loch Cluanie is located nearby. One of the best viewpoints of the loch is via a 4×4 track that leads up the hillside. I also once discovered a large herd of wild deer from this viewpoint!

The track is mainly used by walkers on the Cape Wrath Trail, so you can park somewhere safe at the bottom of the track and walk up.

The Cluanie Inn is one of the best pubs in Scotland and a great place to stop for a bite to eat to take in the gorgeous scenery. It’s a nice place to grab a bite to eat or a dram [if you’re not driving].

Read more: Overtourism in Scotland and where to go instead

3. Cairnpapple Hill, West Lothian

West Lothian isn’t known as a tourist hotspot, however, it offers plenty of non-touristy things to do in Scotland, including many interesting historical attractions.

Most people tend to whizz past West Lothian on their way to Glasgow or the highlands, but I highly recommend stopping at Cairnpapple Hill , an ancient burial and ceremonial ground that dates back 5,500 years!

While many travellers flock to Inverness to see Clava Cairns, very few realise Cairnpapple Hill is located a short drive from Edinburgh.

From the modest parking lot, it is a short walk to reach the hill, which has lovely views of Edinburgh and on a clear day you may even spot the Isle of Arran .

While there aren’t any standing stones here, the henge is nevertheless enthralling. The best time to visit Cairnpapple Hill is during March- October so you can see inside the cairn .

It is truly one of the best hidden gems Scotland has to offer.

+ Read more: 50+ places on my Scotland bucket list

4. The Four Border Abbeys, Scottish Borders

Visiting the Four Border Abbeys in the Scottish Borders makes for a wonderful day trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow. The abbeys were all established in the 1100s and have spectacular architecture.

Many think the majority of Scotland’s history lies in the highlands, but it is really in the Scottish Borders. It makes perfect sense, as ancient armies would take the route through the Scottish Borders to reach Edinburgh or Stirling, resulting in skirmishes and a lot of activity taking place.

Many important Scottish figures also chose the Scottish Borders as their final resting place.

Melrose Abbey is where Robert the Bruce’s heart is buried . Why only his heart? When he died he demanded his heart be removed from his chest and taken on crusade. It is said his heart was thrown at an enemy in battle, recovered and hidden for many years before it was rediscovered and buried at Melrose Abbey.

A plaque commemorating the mighty Scottish King marks its burial. Alexander II of Scotland is also buried here.

Built in 1150, Dryburgh Abbey  is considered one of the most beautiful abbeys in Scotland and is also the site where Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott is buried. A magnificent ruin survives despite the abbey being set on fire three times!

Jedburgh Abbey is a spectacular abbey that was often fought over due to its ties to royalty and proximity. It served the royal castle in Jedburgh; part of the abbey church where Alexander III of Scotland and Yolande de Dreux were married survives to this day.

It was fought over between the Scottish and the English during the Wars of Independence [1296-1356] and again in the sixteenth century. As a result it suffered a lot of damage. The ruin gives an insight into just how remarkable this abbey would have been.

The fourth abbey, Kelso Abbey was founded by monks invited by King David I. Like Jedburgh Abbey, it suffered from English invasions, and not much of the abbey remains. It is still worth visiting as the church ruin is one of the greatest examples of Romanesque architecture in Scotland.

Read more: Hidden Gems in the Scottish Borders

5. Falls of Glomach, Scottish Highlands

The Falls of Glomach is one of the tallest waterfalls in the United Kingdom, standing at 113 metres. This area is also one of the wildest places in Scotland.

I once wild camped next to the falls; listening to the powerful waterfall through the walls of my tent is one of my fondest memories.

To reach the Falls of Glomach you need to hike for three hours from Morvich . You’ll follow a stalker’s path through Bealach na Sroine , which means ‘the pass of the nose.’

When you reach the falls, there is a warning sign before the path that leads down to the gorge for closer views. Only attempt the path if you’re an experienced hiker, as it is rough and slippery, sometimes requiring a scramble.

Read more: 25 tips for sustainable tourism in Scotland

6. Bealach na Bà, Applecross

Bealach na Bà was a nail-biting experience yet one of the most beautiful passes I’ve driven through.

It is the third-highest road in Scotland at 626 metres, thus not for the faint-hearted!

Read more: 50 Travel Tips For Scotland

If driving from the east, the pass will take you to Applecross , a peninsula which is home to just a few hundred people.

There is a car park at the top of the pass so you can get out and enjoy the views.

7. Handa Island, Inner Hebrides

Located on the north-west coast, Handa Island is a good off-beat excursion if you’re driving the North Coast 500 .

Handa Island is a bird sanctuary and one of the best birdwatching sites in Scotland . Some of the birds you’ll see on Handa island include puffins, guillemots, razorbills , fulmars, kittiwakes and great skuas.

One of my favourite memories of this island is lying down and watching the thousands of birds that nesting in the cliffs. It’s an experience that makes you stop and just be in the moment.

It only takes 3 hours to walk the circumference of this tiny island, making it a perfect half-day activity if you’re in the area, or a full day trip from Inverness.

To reach Handa Island you must go by ferry, or rather, a small speed-boat which the Scots like to call a ferry. The ferry takes just 10 minutes, and after taking part in a short educational talk, you’re free to explore the island by yourself.

8. Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, Scottish Highlands

The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is Britain’s first National Nature Reserve, and a nature lover’s playground.

There is diverse wildlife in the nature reserve, including golden eagles, pine marten, and crossbills.

I recommend hiking The Mountain Trail , Britain’s only waymarked mountain walk, which takes you through Scots pines and a scramble up quartzite rocks to reach panoramic views of the nature reserve.

This walk offers amazing views of my favourite mountain, Slioch . You’ll also see Loch Maree and the ridges of Beinn Eighe .

9. Glen Feshie, Cairngorms National Park

Glen Feshie is a wildly beautiful glen that has inspired some of the United Kingdom’s greatest artists. From its enchanting Scots pinewoods to the River Feshie that flows through the glen, it’s easy to understand why.

The glen that Sir Edwin Landseer was referring to in his famous painting ‘The Monarch of the Glen’ is actually Glen Feshie!

Landseer spent some time visiting his friend that owned a house in the glen. All that is left of the house now is the chimney, which can be spotted in the open area near Ruigh Aiteachain bothy.

Glen Feshie has also been used as a filming location for various television and film including Mary Queen of Scots,   The Queen,  and Netflix series  The Crown.

Today Glen Feshie attracts hiking enthusiasts.

To reach the glen you must walk and ford a few rivers. The effort is well worth it.

10. Loch Ossian, Rannoch Moor

Loch Ossian in Rannoch Moor is one of the wildest places in Scotland you can reach by public transport.

I spent a weekend at Loch Ossia n with a girlfriend where we went hiking and had some much needed time to disconnect from our phones and be in nature. Loch Ossian itself is surrounded by munros and hiking trails suitable for all levels, making it the perfect base for lovers of the outdoors.

To get here there is a direct train that leaves Glasgow and takes three hours to reach Corrour station, the most remote train station in Scotland. It is then just a 20 minute walk via a shingle track to reach the loch.

All that exists in the area is the Corrour Station House , the UK’s remotest restaurant which also offers accommodation, directly next to the train station; an award-winning eco-hostel located at the bottom of the loch, and the Corrour Shooting Lodge which offers luxury accommodation.

A scene from the cult-classic Trainspotting  was also filmed at Corrour station .

11. Invergarry Castle, Scottish Highlands

Invergarry Castle is one of my favourite Scotland off the beaten path castle ruins. I may be biased because it is the castle of my Scottish clan, Clan MacDonnell of Glengarry, but I can safely argue it’s the location and history of this castle that makes it special.

The ruin of Invergarry Castle is now located within the grounds of the Glengarry Castle Hotel and on the bonnie banks of Loch Oich .

Bonnie Prince Charlie visited the castle twice, and supposedly rested here after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden . The castle was partially blown up shortly afterwards by the Duke of Cumberland and his English troops in 1746. The castle didn’t completely yield however, as you’ll see from the impressive ruin it is today.

Invergarry Castle is particularly beautiful in spring when the rhododendrons are in bloom.

12. Ruthven Barracks, Kingussie

Ruthven Barracks is quite a sight- and I’m surprised it’s not very well known. Maybe it’s because many people pass it unknowingly, as the A9 (which connects Inverness to Edinburgh ) bypasses this striking ruin.

The Ruthven Barracks was once used by the English to control the Scottish Highlands. It was situated on General Wade’s Military Road, a road that ran through the highlands in the mid-18th century to bring order to the Highlands during the time of the Jacobite Rebellion.

Bonnie Prince Charlie’s army successfully took control of Ruthven Barracks during the 1746 Jacobite Rebellion, however, when they lost the Battle of Culloden, they eventually deserted the place.

Today Ruthven Barracks is a beautiful ruin located near the town of Kingussie. The ruin is free to visit, and an excellent place to stop if you are driving from Edinburgh to Inverness or vice versa.

13. Singing Sands, Islay

The Singing Sands beach on Islay is pure magic. The beach gets its name because if you rub the sole of your shoe against the sand, it makes a singing noise.

This is due to the silica content in the sand and the weather conditions.

This beach is also a lovely place to have a picnic or sunbathe on a nice day. It’s not recommended you swim here as it can be unsafe, but the temperature of the water is probably more than enough to put you off!

Rather than swimming, just relax and enjoy the view of the crystal clear water. This beach is a slice of heaven and remains firmly on my list of the best beaches in Scotland.

How to get there: Drive toward the Oa Peninsula from Port Ellen. There is a car parking space for a couple of cars located around 50 yards before you reach Carraig Fhada Lighthouse . You will walk around the coast from here- be sure to explore the lighthouse too- it’s the only square-shaped lighthouse in Scotland!

14. Finlarig Castle, Killin

Not only is Killin one of my favourite villages in Scotland, but it’s also home to one of my favourite castle ruins: Finlarig Castle.

Finlarig Castle is tucked away in the forest at the heel of Loch Tay; it was built by ‘Black’ Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy in the first half of the 17th century. He was known as an evil man, who would hang commoners from an oak tree outside the castle.

There’s also a rumour that the pit located outside the old kitchen was a beheading pit, however, this is folklore, as it was most likely used as a run-off for excess water.

Fun fact: Rob Roy once visited Finlarig Castle. Covered in overgrown ivy and moss, this castle is a spectacularly beautiful ruin.

15. Eilean Munde, Glencoe

While Glencoe is a tourist hotspot, not many people know about the wee island Eilean Munde- the ‘’graveyard island.’’

Eilean Munde is located north of the village of Glencoe in the middle of Loch Leven. It’s the site where the highlanders of Clan Cameron of Callart, the Stewarts of Ballachulish, and the MacDonalds of Glencoe are buried. It’s also thought that a witch named Corrag who was favoured by the MacDonald’s, is buried here too. 

A small chapel was built on the island in the 7th century, however, it was burned and rebuilt in the 16th century. 

The only way to reach the island is by boat- either your own or a chartered boat. This obstacle prevents many from setting foot on the island, however, you are allowed to visit it.

If viewed from the mainland, the best spot is from the grassy banks near the Isles of Glencoe hotel.

Psst. You visit Eilean Munde in my 2-day Glencoe itinerary .

16. Constantine’s Cave, Crail 

Constantine’s Cave is one of my favourite hidden gems in Scotland I discovered. The natural sea cave is named after Constantine II, an early Scottish king who ruled during the 10th century. He was allegedly killed inside the cave in 952 after a battle with the Danes. 

Constantine’s Cave is located in Crail, Fife; it’s 4 metres tall, 3 metres wide and 8 metres deep. After excavation, it was discovered the cave had been occupied on and off from the prehistoric period. Roman glass and pottery were discovered, as well as amphorae, iron and bone tools. Several incised crosses and Celtic animal engravings were also found on the walls.

Constantine’s Cave is accessible from the coastal walking path, next to the Balcomie Golf Course. 

18. The Cheese Well, Traquair

The Cheese Well is a natural spring found on Minch Moor, near the village of Traquair. It is called The Cheese Well due to the custom of travellers leaving small pieces of cheese as an offering to the ‘faeries’ who guarded the spring.

It is said that the faeries would grant you a safe passage if you left them a little present!

Today the site of the well is marked by an engraved stone along the Southern Upland Way. Travellers continue the tradition of leaving gifts to placate the faeries, although coins rather than cheese are usually left in the spring.

19. Cape Wrath

Cape Wrath is one of the best hidden gems on the west coast of Scotland. It’s also the most north-western point of Scotland and is marked by the Cape Wrath Lighthouse.

It is truly Scotland off the beaten path as the lighthouse is hard to access.

There are just two ways to reach Cape Wrath Lighthouse- by foot, either by hiking north on the Cape Wrath Trail; or by ferry/ Cape Wrath Minibus that departs the west side of the Kyle of Durness.

Only the determined will reach the Cape Wrath Lighthouse, which has a cafe on-site where you can enjoy your hard efforts!

20. Isle of May

The Isle of May is a magical island located off the coast off the east coast of Scotland.

The Isle of May is Scotland’s oldest bird sanctuary; during the summer it’s home to over 200,000 nesting seabirds. It’s also one of the best places to see puffins in Scotland! Up to 90,000 puffins make their nests in burrows and inside cliff faces.

Anstruther Pleasure Cruises operate a ferry that transports you to the island, where you can roam the island for 3 hours before returning to the mainland.

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Related posts

Emmanuelle Dochy

Tuesday 22nd of August 2023

If I may, I would add Glen Affric and Durness beaches when speaking about Cap Wrath. But thank you so much for all the tips you provided and which helped us to make an unforgettable trip across NC500

Thursday 10th of November 2022

Hey, usually these blogs are a bit repetitive and the 'hidden' or 'secret' places they reveal are pretty obvious but this is a really great resource! You have obviously done the groundwork so thanks for the info!

Cami | The Wandering Fox

Saturday 13th of February 2021

All of these places look so cool! I am planning to spend next fall in Scotland so I'll definitely have to check some of these out, especially the hiking spots : )

Yvette Webster

Tuesday 16th of February 2021

You will love the hiking trails in Scotland. I highly recommend hiking in both the Scottish Borders and in the north-western Highlands to see just how diverse the terrain in Scotland is!

Thursday 6th of February 2020

I can't wait to add these places to my list and yet to see them

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21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland » 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

We’ve put together this guide of the best places to visit in Scotland so you can plan the perfect itinerary. From the medieval castles to cosmopolitan cities, this list covers all interests to make your Scottish holiday a trip to remember.

With rolling hills, quaint villages, hidden waterfalls, and rugged coastline, there are so many incredible places to visit in Scotland that will make you fall in love. 

And the really wonderful thing about Scotland is that most places are very close together, meaning you can see a lot of the country in one visit and you won’t have to drive very far.

We’ve rounded up some of the very best places in Scotland to put on your itinerary and bring you one step closer to planning the perfect trip.

For each place, we’re going to share the best things to do and where to stay, so grab a mug of coffee (or a glass of Scotch) and get your pen and paper ready to create a plan!

Scotland Travel Guide

We’ve also included some helpful resources for planning your trip to Scotland…

Scotland itinerary

• What to pack for Scotland

Top places to visit in Scotland

If you’re looking for the very best places to visit in Scotland, here are our top recommendations. 

• Isle of Skye

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these cities and more ideas for cool places to visit in Scotland. 

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

1. Edinburgh

History, iconic sights and stunning architecture

Scotland’s capital city may be the second largest by population, but there’s no denying that the cultural experience in Edinburgh is second to none. Hundreds of thousands of people flock from all over the world to visit this city for plenty of reasons.

After all, this city inspired J.K. Rowling’s enchanting world in the Harry Potter books! Which isn’t at all surprising when you take in the cobblestone streets, charming small town feel and Gothic and Medieval architecture abound.

Head into the medieval old town to learn about the interesting history and see some of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh. 

The new town is filled with more modern Georgian architecture, tons of restaurants and Princes Street, the main shopping street that is overlooked by the castle.

Fun fact: The city even boasts the highest number of restaurants per capita in the UK! 

The best part about Edinburgh is that most of the historical tourist attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. You could spend days here and still not run out of things to do. It’s easy to see why Edinburgh is one of the top places to visit in Scotland.

• Things to do in Edinburgh

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Edinburgh , but here are some highlights:

• You can’t visit Edinburgh and not take a wander around Edinburgh Castle.
• Wander up Calton Hill just at the top of Princes Street and take in beautiful views over the city and beyond.
• Visit Mary Kings Close, a hidden street underneath the city that allows you to experience what life was like back in the 16th and 17th century in Edinburgh.
• Hike to Arthur’s Seat atop an extinct volcano.
• Visit the Elephant House and see where J.K. Rowling penned the Harry Potter books. (Oh and visit the nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard and see how many character names you can find amongst the headstones.)
• Pop around to local pubs and try some typical Scottish foods like haggis, black pudding, and sticky toffee pudding!
• Indulge in afternoon tea , a time honored tradition in the UK. 
• Explore Dean Village , Edinburgh’s cutest neighborhood.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Linton Collection – Blackfriars Lofts : Constructed in a former church dating back to 1871, this unique accommodation comes well-equipped with everything you need including a kitchenette, dining area and high speed wifi. 

This is where we stayed and we HIGHLY recommend it. Perfect location. Super cute and comfortable.

The Dunstane Houses : Nestled in the vibrant West End, this hotel is actually made up of two 1852 Victorian townhouses. It’s in a highly walkable area and offers upscale amenities, plus free parking (not common in the city!). The onsite bar has a fantastic selection of whiskey and gin, and offers tastings of both.

Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel : Situated in the heart of the old town on Cockburn Street, you couldn’t get any closer to the city center if you tried. With plenty of things to see, do and places to eat nearby it’s a great affordable option for exploring this magical city.

Psst! If hotel stays aren’t your thing, we have a curated list of the  best Edinburgh Airbnbs  for you to browse!

Music, culture, shopping and university vibes

Just 50 miles west of Edinburgh, Glasgow feels a world different.

A little grittier than Edinburgh at first glance, Glasgow isn’t as storybook-pretty as its neighbor to the east; but it makes up for it in other ways. 

Glasgow has the largest population of any city in Scotland, and most Scottish people we’ve spoken to claim it’s their favorite.

Perhaps it’s the fact that it doesn’t feel as saturated with tourists as Edinburgh. Or maybe it’s the enchanting combination of art, music and food. Perhaps it’s the vibe of a cool university city that’s hard to put into words…

Whatever the allure for you, we think Glasgow is definitely worth a gander. For us, it took a bit longer to really get it (whereas with Edinburgh, we fell in love immediately). But now we’re already itching to get back and explore more.

• Things to do in Glasgow

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Glasgow , but here are some highlights:

• Take a Scottish food tour – we loved ours!
• Walk through the cloisters on the University of Glasgow campus.
• Indulge in a doughnut (or three!) at Tantrum Doughnuts .
• Walk through Kelvingrove Park.
• Bonus: it’s free to explore!
• Share several dishes in a family-style meal at Ubiquitous Chip , located on the charming Ashton Lane in the trendy West End neighborhood.
• If you’re visiting on a weekend, head to The Barras and browse the hundreds of stalls where merchants and artisans sell their wares.
• FYI: The trail is 96 miles and takes roughly 7 days, but if you don’t have the time (or stamina!), just hike as long as you’d like before turning around.
• Hike Finnich Glen to the Devil’s Pulpit rock , through a lush green gorge with otherworldly crimson red, swift-moving water, just north of Glasgow.

Where to stay in Glasgow

CitizenM : If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Glasgow that’s completely different to anywhere else in the city, then definitely check out this digitally advanced, space-saving hotel. (The beds literally go from wall to wall.) It’s located right in the city center and just minutes walk from the bus station and main shopping.

voco Grand Central : In the heart of the city’s shopping district at Glasgow Central Station, the main transportation hub, this grand hotel is a local icon. The historic 1880s building is a sight to behold in its own right, and the convenient location makes it an easy choice. 

Euro Hotel Glasgow : A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Glasgow, including surprising perks such as free wi-fi, a view overlooking the River Clyde, a game room with pool tables, and an onsite restaurant and bike rental shop. There’s a variety of room types to choose from, including private rooms and dormitories.

3. Isle of Skye

Rugged natural landscapes, picturesque hikes, and medieval castles

Renowned for its breathtaking and dramatic scenery, Isle of Skye is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

As the northernmost major island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, Skye embodies everything Scotland is so famous for. You’ll encounter rugged coastline dotted with quaint fishing villages, sprawling medieval castles, and lush green hills and cliffs in every direction. 

Needless to say, Isle of Skye is a bucket list-worthy destination, especially for nature lovers. The hiking here is straight out of a fairytale. You’ll find endless places to explore and there are also plenty of unique places to eat and stay.

We put together the ultimate guide to the Isle of Skye , which includes everything you need to know about planning your visit from essential tips to all the top attractions and fun things to do. Be sure to check out our guide and bookmark it to save for your travel planning!

To give you a little taste, here are some of the highlights…

Things to do in the Isle of Skye

• Start your day with a caffeine kick at Lean To Coffee .
• Hike the Old Man of Storr trail .
• Make the walk to the iconic Skye Fairy Pools .
• Wander Fairy Glen at sunset.
• See the Quiraing viewpoint and take the hike, if your heart desires.
• Peep Dunvegan Castle from afar, or take a tour inside.
• Walk up to the Duirinish Stone and pretend you’re in Outlander.
• See Scottish Highland cows at this viewpoint .

Where to stay in Isle of Skye

Viewfield House : Located in Portree, this lovely B&B makes a great homebase. In addition to a full Scottish breakfast, guests can enjoy the onsite bar, large fireplace in the common area, and fast wi-fi. The property sits on 20 acres, so it feels secluded, yet it’s within easy walking distance of Portree proper. 

Sligachan Hotel : Tucked into rural farmland on a scenic loch in Sconser, this hotel is in one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you’re hoping to spot Highland cows. The property is right next to the iconic Sligachan Old Bridge and less than 30 minutes from the Fairy Pools, plus it has its own micro-brewery and whiskey bar onsite. 

Kinloch Campsite : If you are planning to go camping in Scotland , it doesn’t get much better than this small campground overlooking Loch Dunvegan (yep — Dunvegan Castle is just minutes away!). Campsites can accommodate tents, campervans, or motorhomes, and they’re thoughtfully tiered so everyone has a great view. Amenities include free hot showers and free wi-fi.

Looking for a way to fit all of this in one trip?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

4. Inverness

Cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands

As the northernmost city in Scotland, Inverness offers a unique experience that combines the natural beauty of The Highlands with a modern city. In fact, more than one-third of The Highlands’ entire population lives in the Inverness metro area. The city is small, but rapidly changing as it’s one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. 

Inverness has all the modern amenities one could possibly need, while still providing easy access to Scotland’s beautiful mountains, lochs, and scenery of The Highlands. There is no shortage of castles, churches and cathedrals, distilleries, and historical sites to explore.

This beautiful city is also one of the best places to visit in Scotland because it’s the place where the North Coast 500 begins. (More on that in #12!)

Things to do in Inverness

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Inverness , but here are some highlights:

• Enjoy a 3-course lunch at The Mustard Seed .
• Get lost in Leakey’s Bookshop .
• Walk the path around Ness Islands.
• Grab a coffee and breakfast at Velocity Cafe & Bicycle Workshop .
• See live music at Hootenanny .
• Indulge in a doughnut and cappuccino by day or an espresso martini by night at Perk Cafe .
• Glimpse Inverness Castle from the outside (it’s currently undergoing renovations, and closed to the public).
• If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Culloden Battlefield will likely be something you won’t want to miss.
• Outlander fans will recognize the stones at Clara Cairns

Where to stay in Inverness

Inverness Student Hotel : Tucked into the city center, this riverside hostel is both cozy and affordable. Dormitory-style rooms have 5-10 beds and the common area features a huge fireplace, river views, a shared kitchen, and complimentary coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. 

Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel : Sitting right on the banks of the River Ness and just steps from the heart of the city, this chic hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for several places to visit in Scotland. The fast wi-fi and free parking are nice, but the real attraction is the extensive whisky bar, with nearly 300 varieties.

Camping Pod Heaven : For truly unique accommodation in Inverness, Camping Pod Heaven combines all the best aspects of camping and more luxurious “glamping.” The pods each sleep four and include mattresses, heat, electrical sockets, and wi-fi. Just bring bedding and cooking supplies!

Psst! Read up on our guide to glamping in Scotland if you want more information on this unique style accommodation that’s become super popular.

5. Loch Ness

Home of the folklore, the Loch Ness Monster (or “Nessie” for short)

It’s impossible to list the best places to visit in Scotland without mentioning Loch Ness. The storied home of the Loch Ness Monster, the world’s most famous mythical creature, this gorgeous loch near Inverness is full of intrigue. 

Although local folklore about Nessie dates back to the year 565 AD, it’s so elusive that the first real sighting (and photograph) wasn’t until 1933. Since then, there have been countless reports of something lurking in the water, but only a handful accompanied by photo or video proof. 

Needless to say, the “monster” is a theme woven into many attractions and even aspects of day-to-day life in Loch Ness, but even if you’re not necessarily a believer, there are plenty of other reasons to visit. 

The town is home to spectacular Urquhart Castle and several other historical sites, Loch Ness itself is jaw-dropping (it’s enormous — the deepest in Scotland and larger than all the lakes in England and Wales combined!), and it’s an easy side trip if you’re visiting Inverness. 

Things to do at Loch Ness

• Enjoy the sunset on Dores Beach.
• Grab a pint and pub food at The Dores Inn .
• Take a boat cruise on Loch Ness and stop to explore Urquhart Castle.
• Rent a bicycle to explore the Loch Ness 360 bike path.
• The water averages just 41℉ year-round, but “wild swimming” is incredibly popular here!

Epic hiking and adventures

Nestled in Scotland’s Western Highlands, Glencoe sits in a valley formed by glaciers and volcanoes. Today, the dramatic, rugged landscape dotted with lochs and mountains provides a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures, including some of the best hikes in Scotland. 

It’s no wonder that Glencoe has served as the filming location for several iconic movies, including Braveheart , James Bond , and Harry Potter .

Glencoe itself is actually an officially-designated National Nature Reserve, but it’s also a quaint historic village with quick access to scenic drives, epic hiking trails, and one of only five ski resorts in all of Scotland. It also plays host to some serious gems in the form of traditional Scottish pubs.

Things to do in Glencoe

• Grab a mushroom roll (trust us!) and some sweet treats at Stiff Peaks Patisserie .
• Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Laroch Restaurant & Bar .
• Indulge in the seafood platter at Lochleven Seafood Cafe .
• Take in the epic views at Three Sisters Car Park.
• Do the Hidden Valley hike! (Just do it!)
• Snap a shot on the road from James Bond’s Skyfall . 
• Head to these coordinates for an epic shot of a small waterfall and the peak of Buachaille Etive Mòr in the distance.
• Hike to Steall Waterfall.
• If you’re feeling very ambitious, summit Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Scotland.

Where to stay in Glencoe

Clachaig Inn : Nestled in the valley and ideally located for exploring Steall Waterfall or visiting the Ben Nevis distillery, this inn is a great option. Rooms are private, there’s an onsite pub and restaurant, and the inn even has a children’s playground. 

Kingshouse Hotel : Part hostel and part traditional hotel, the Kingshouse offers classic guest rooms as well as a hostel-style bunkhouse, geared toward hikers. Linens are provided, breakfast is offered at an affordable rate, and laundry and gear storage services are available.

Bridge of Orchy Hotel : Offering traditional rooms in the main building and suites in the annexes, Bridge of Orchy is situated right along the A82, the major thoroughfare into the Highlands. The train station is also within walking distance. Every room has spectacular views, and a full Scottish breakfast and parking are complimentary.

Wondering how to fit this all in one trip? Use our guide to planning the ultimate Scotland road trip , which covers everything from vehicle rentals to budget tips and itineraries. 

The bustling hub of the Isle of Skye

The colorful and lively hub of activity on Skye, Portee offers an abundance of services and amenities for travelers. It serves as an excellent homebase for exploring the Isle of Skye , with quick access to boat tours and countless day trips. With plenty of charm, it’s also well worth a visit in its own right. 

You could easily spend several days just strolling around Portree, chasing waterfalls and snapping photos from different viewpoints. The town has several world-class dining options as well. 

One thing to keep in mind is that because Portree is Skye’s main hub, everything books up well in advance for peak season (summer). You’ll want to book your accommodation, tours, and even restaurant reservations as far in advance as possible.  

Things to do in Portree

• Get a view above the colorful town at this viewpoint .
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at Sea Breezes . We recommend ordering the hand-dived scallops!
• Make a dinner reservation ( at least a week early!) at The View , in the Cuillin Hills Hotel.  
• Take a pony ride with Isle of Skye Trekking & Therapy Centre for some of the best views on the island. 
• Take a whale- or dolphin-watching boat tour (the best time is between May and October).

Where to stay in Portree

Marmalade Hotel : Housed in an early 1800s Georgian-style home, this beautiful hotel overlooks Portree Bay and well-manicured gardens. Dine in the onsite restaurant or garden, enjoy a cocktail in the heated courtyard, and take advantage of the boat and distillery tours that depart just minutes away.

Tianavaig View Apartments : If a vacation rental is more your style, these apartments offer a perfect middle-ground. The self-contained, modern apartments are centrally located and well-equipped, but come with hotel-like amenities and services such as housekeeping. 

Portree Independent Hostel : This hostel is ideally located right on Portree Bay. The shared kitchen, dining, and living rooms have fantastic views and great wi-fi connection, and dormitory-style rooms are spacious and comfy. 

8. Applecross

Remote peninsula in the Western Highlands known for its seafood and rugged scenery

Known by locals as “The Street,” tiny, remote Applecross is where you go to have an authentic Scottish experience. 

There’s little, if any, nightlife, and few restaurants and accommodations to choose from, but the outdoor adventure and scenery more than makes up for it. Plus, the village’s restaurants and pubs are shockingly good (like, Michelin-star good!).

The small fishing village overlooks the Sound of Raasay and offers views of several nearby islands. There are also small beaches and proper sand dunes in Applecross. It goes without saying that hiking, driving, and even just strolling through town are all accompanied by incredible views!

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland for slowing down and truly taking in your surroundings. 

Things to do in Applecross

• Try local fish n’ chips and freshly-ground coffee from Applecross Inn-Side Out , a converted 1950s Airstream trailer. 
• Stroll from Sand Bay to Applecross Bay, taking in coastal views of the isles of Skye and Raasay.  
• Go sea kayaking with Mountain and Sea Guides .
• Drive the winding Bealach na Ba (the Pass of the Cattle), the highest road in all of Great Britain at 2,053 feet above sea level. 
• Treat yourself to dinner at Michelin-starred Applecross Inn . 

9. Cairngorms National Park

Largest national park in the UK, nestled in the Highlands

If you have limited time and have to decide on just one or two places to visit in Scotland, Cairngorms National Park should absolutely be one of them. National Geographic Traveller Magazine even named it one of the top 20 places to visit in the entire world!

Situated in the famed Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms has epic hiking and bicycling routes, castles, amazing wildlife, family-friendly attractions, museums, and even distilleries. 

The national park is also home to five of the six tallest mountains in the UK, plus a whopping 55 “Munros,” mountains taller than 3,000 feet (914.4m). And at 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles), it’s the largest national park in the UK.

You could easily spend your entire visit here and still have a great time! 

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park

• Trek to a reindeer herd in the mountains.
• Do the epic Meall a’ Bhuachaille hike.
• Wander the small town of Aviemore.
• Catch live music at The Old Bridge Inn .
• Take a tour of Balmoral Castle , a summer residence of the Royal family.
• See the pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert , a strange sight to behold in the middle of a Scottish forest.

Where to stay in Cairngorms National Park

Blair Castle Caravan Park (glamping): Situated at the park entrance in Blair Atholl, this spectacular glamping site offers a range of accommodations. Stay in a unique riverside camping pod, self-catering tiny homes, or wood cabins, or pitch your own tent in the campsite.

Cairngorm Hotel : Ideally located on the main drag in Aviemore, the Cairngorm Hotel is the perfect basecamp for exploring the park and surrounding Highlands. Views, service, and dining options are all top-notch, and you’ll be within walking distance of shopping, hikes, and pubs. 

10. Outer Hebrides

Unique culture and remote, pristine beaches that rival those of the Caribbean 

Off Scotland’s rugged northwest coast, the Outer Hebrides is an archipelago comprised of 70 islands, only 15 of which are inhabited.

Each is a fascinating combination of quaint fishing villages, mountains, sand dunes, proper beaches, epic scenery, and diverse food scenes. 

There are many hidden gems in the Outer Hebrides , meaning you’ll get off the typical tourist path and have a very special experience.

Good to know: Scotland has both the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides archipelagos. The Inner Hebrides are located closer to mainland Scotland and are comprised of 79 islands, including the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Mull, Jura and Islay, to name just a few of the more well-known isles.

The Outer Hebrides have been consistently occupied by various cultures since the Mesolithic period, so it comes as no surprise that the islands have a distinct culture all their own. Thanks to the different influences, you’ll experience bits of Gaelic, Norse, and Celtic culture, as well as warm, welcoming hospitality. 

Getting to the Outer Hebrides

If you have a bit more time in Scotland (or this is not your first trip to the country), we’d recommend adding this unique region to your list of places to visit in Scotland.

The reason we don’t necessarily recommend the Outer Hebrides as part of a shorter Scotland trip is that getting there does require a bit of time, making it difficult to squeeze into a limited itinerary (especially when you want to see many other places).

That said, there are multiple flights and ferries to the Outer Hebrides every day from mainland Scotland. In most cases, you can be in the isles in under two hours. 

Things to do in the Outer Hebrides

• See the Black Houses in Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Visit the Standing Stones from 2,000 years ago
• Rent a bike and cycle from Lewis to Harris on the Hebridean Way
• Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the beaches
• Be sure to try the local delicacy: Charles MacLeod Black Pudding
• Book an overnight stay at Amhuinnsuidhe Castle (which includes meals)

Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides

Hotel Hebrides : Conveniently located in Tarbert near some of the best beaches in the Outer Hebrides, this boutique hotel is a great choice. The rooms are comfortable, the restaurant and bar are exceptional, and it’s right at the ferry port. 

Ravenspoint Hostel : In the Gaelic-speaking farming (“crofting” in Scotland) community of South Loch on the Isle of Lewis, this hostel offers ultra-affordable, comfy accommodation with a view. There are various room types, plus shared kitchen and laundry facilities.

11. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Scotland’s first national park and one of the country’s most popular destinations

Considered one of the most scenic parts of the country, The Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond are some of the most popular places to visit in Scotland. (Many Scots take “staycations” here, which is really saying something!)

Loch Lomond is the park’s crown jewel, sitting right on a fault line that serves as the natural boundary between the Highlands and the lowlands. Its geographical diversity is truly a sight to behold, with different formations and terrain even from one end to the other. 

Best of all, The Trossachs is just 30 miles from Glasgow, making it easily accessible even if you only have time for a quick day trip. 

Things to do near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

• Hike to Conic Hill at sunset.
• Get a taste of Scottish folklore by exploring the mysteries of Rob Roy’s Cave. 
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the 22+ islands of Loch Lomond (look out for wild wallabies!)
• Tour the Glengoyne or Loch Lomond distilleries.
• Explore the cozy pubs and funky boutiques in the quaint village of Luss.  

12. North Coast 500 Highway

One of the most iconic and scenic driving routes in Europe

The North Coast 500 or NC500 as it’s often called, is Scotland’s version of the iconic American Route 66. Driving this road takes you through 516 miles of the most incredible Scottish landscapes with stops along the way in many little villages and sights with plenty of things to see and do.

The NC500 loop starts and ends at Inverness Castle, although many people choose to drive shorter sections of it, mostly for the sake of time. Whether you have a day or two weeks, you’ll be wowed by the scenery, impressive castles, hikes, Highland cow sightings, national parks, and random roadside pubs. 

No matter how much time you have and whether you’re driving the entire loop or just a section, here’s one important piece of advice: don’t over schedule yourself and build in (lots of!) time for detours. 

Things to do along the North Coast 500

This is by no means a complete list. We have an entire guide to driving the North Coast 500 with much more detailed information if you’re interested in planning a road trip.

• Stroll the beaches of Black Isle.
• Tour the Glenmorangie Distillery (feel free to request your “wee dram” tasting to go if you’re hopping right back in the car!). 
• Stop at Falls of Shin , where you can watch salmon leaping out of the water. Grab some locally-made souvenirs and a slice of cake from the cafe before leaving.
• Take a picture with the iconic sign in John O’Groats , considered the northernmost point on mainland Scotland. 
• Explore Ugly Hollow, an impressive box canyon, on a kayaking or canyoneering tour. 

Where to stay along the North Coast 500

Old Drynie House, Black Isle : A true B&B with stunning water views, spacious private rooms, and a traditional, formal Scottish breakfast served in a group setting. 

Natural Retreats, John O’Groats : Luxury, self-catering eco-cottages with spectacular views of the ocean and Orkney Islands. Locally-sourced, sustainable materials are used throughout each cottage, alongside modern amenities including large flat-screen TVs with PS3 video game consoles. Onsite bicycle rentals are available. 

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite : A former historic shooting lodge turned hostel, this is a fantastic affordable accommodation option with both private and shared rooms, plus a campsite. 

The “Gateway to the Isles” and the seafood capital of Scotland

A quaint seaside town on Scotland’s west coast, Oban is considered the “Gateway to the Isles” but well worth a visit in its own right. It’s a quick (and very scenic!) detour if you’re traveling from Glasgow to the central Highlands, and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for island-hopping.

Offering a little something for everyone, Oban is renowned for its fresh-from-the-source seafood, variety of outdoor adventures, and unique cultural attractions. The fishing community is also home to one of the country’s oldest (and smallest!) distilleries — that in itself makes Oban one of the best places to visit in Scotland!

Things to do in Oban

• Pick up fresh seafood from the famous Green Shack , aka the Oban Seafood Hut. Bring it back to your vacation rental or request the local fishermen prepare it fresh onsite.
• Climb up to McCaig’s Tower, also known as McCaig’s Folly, a huge unfinished replica of the Colosseum perched on a hill overlooking the town and Oban Bay. 
• Tour the Oban Distillery , where you’ll get two tastings. 
• Go island-hopping through the Inner Hebrides — the isles of Barra, Coll, Iona, Kerrera, Lismore, and Mull are all easily accessible with a short ferry ride from Oban’s ferry port (and you can visit multiple islands in one day!).
• Book a puffin or other wildlife-watching tour with Basking Shark Scotland . 

Where to stay in Oban

The Perle Oban : This stylish waterfront hotel adds a touch of luxury to your Oban visit, but at a very reasonable pricepoint. The 1800s building is a local icon and guests can indulge at the spa or onsite Michelin-starred restaurant. The Oban Distillery is right next door!

The Kilchrenan Inn : A cozy inn in a picturesque, somewhat secluded location with well-equipped rooms, strong wi-fi, free parking, and an elaborate daily Scottish breakfast. 

Oban Youth Hostel : For travelers on a budget, this hostel is fantastic. It’s waterfront along Oban’s popular esplanade and within easy walking distance of the town center, rail station, and ferry port. Private and shared rooms are available, and perks include free parking and bicycle storage. 

14. Isle of Mull

The Inner Hebrides’ second-largest island

Largely considered something of a hidden gem because of the wild popularity of the slightly larger Isle of Skye, Mull definitely deserves a spot on your Scotland itinerary. Skye is the only isle larger than Mull in the Inner Hebrides, and it’s the fourth-largest Scottish island overall. 

You’ll find a great variety of shops and services in Tobermory, the capital town, but people primarily visit the Isle of Mull to enjoy slow living and take in the unique scenery, culture, and wildlife of the Inner Hebrides. 

Best of all, visiting Mull is as easy as taking a ferry ride from the mainland. Multiple daily trips are offered from Oban, Kilchoan, and Lochaline, and all three trips are under one hour. 

Insider tip: You can bring a vehicle over to the island on the ferry, but if you’re driving a rental car , be sure to check company policy to ensure doing that is permitted. 

Things to do in Isle of Mull

• Rent an e-bike from one of the local shops to explore the island on two wheels. 
• Tour and enjoy samples of Scotch at Tobermory Distillery , the only one on the island. 
• Take the ferry to the nearby Isle of Lunga, where puffins reside from April through August.
• Visit the Duart Castle, which has been continuously occupied by the prominent Clan MacLean for over 700 years. 
• Make the short hike to Aros Waterfall, starting from Tobermory.

Where to stay in Isle of Mull

Glengorm Castle : If you’ve always wanted to stay in a real castle (who doesn’t?!), here’s your chance. Set up as individual self-catering apartments within the castle, there’s a variety of rooms available ranging from studios to family-style flats with kitchens. Best feature: the library always has complimentary whiskey available!

Western Isles Hotel : Overlooking Tobermory Bay, this is one of the best locations for exploring Mull. Views are fantastic and guests rave about the food — full Scottish breakfast is included!

Salen Bay Campsite : To truly immerse yourself in the Isle of Mull, consider camping for a night or two. This secluded campground feels as if it’s on an island of its own, but is just walking distance from the town center. Elevated sites have 360-degree views, and you can rent kayaks or SUPs onsite. 

15. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK

With a nickname like the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” it goes without saying that there’s no shortage of epic adventure in Fort William. The area’s abundance of rivers and lochs position the town as a fantastic spot for water sports, and the surrounding mountains lend themselves to plenty of other outdoor recreation. 

That’s only the tip of the iceberg, though. Fort William has all the quintessentially Scottish elements as well, including historic castles, distilleries, and dramatic scenery. In fact, many scenes from Braveheart were filmed here!

Fort William is right next to the smaller village of Glencoe and both towns are easily accessible via train or car from Glasgow — just one more thing making it one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

Things to do in Fort William

• Climb Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK (pack layers — there’s typically snow at the summit all year!). 
• Visit the West Highland Museum, with elements of quintessential Highlands culture on display, including weapons and bagpipes. 
• Check out the impressive architecture of St. Andrews church
• Watch boats navigate Neptune’s Staircase, a series of unique staircase locks. 
• Order a pint and pizza at Black Isle Bar .
• See the statue that marks the official end to the West Highland Way .
• Take a day trip from Fort William to the near by Glenfinnan Viaduct (see #16 on this list for more info!).

Where to stay in Fort William

The Garrison : One of the most unique (and dog-friendly!) accommodations in Fort William, this stylish hotel is a former police station. There are traditional hotel rooms, but guests can also book compact rooms that are converted jail cells!

Myrtle Bank Guest House : This 1890s Victorian villa offers B&B-style guest rooms in a gorgeous waterfront setting on Loch Linnhe. Views are fantastic, it’s just a five-minute walk from the center of town, and parking and wi-fi are included. 

Ben Nevis Inn (bunkhouse) : Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this hostel caters primarily to hikers. Ultra-affordable accommodation includes dormitory-style shared rooms or private rooms, and there’s a lively pub and restaurant upstairs. 

16. Glenfinnan

A popular stop on the Road to the Isles and the home of the famous “Harry Potter bridge”

Glenfinnan is an easy stop along the picturesque Road to the Isles , A830, which connects Fort William to the port of Mallaig. The town itself is small but mighty, offering an impressive punch combining history and scenery, but the 43-mile scenic drive is worth the trip in itself. 

Of course, there’s another major reason people make the trip to Glenfinnan, Potterheads will recognize this one! The Glenfinnan Viaduct, a raised railway 100 feet off the ground, served as the Hogwarts Express train in the second and third movies. 

Unsurprisingly, today the viaduct is widely known as the “Harry Potter bridge.”

Things to do in Glenfinnan

• Photograph the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct train bridge (aka the “Harry Potter bridge”).
• Grab a sandwich and soup inside an old railroad car . 
• Visit the 60-foot Glenfinnan Monument, or the “Leaning Tower of Glenfinnan,” as the locals know it.
• Take a day trip to Old Forge Pub , named the world’s most remote bar by the Guinness Book of World Records (fair warning: there’s literally no actual road to the pub, so this is more of an adventure than it initially seems!). 

17. Stirling

Gateway to the Highlands

It may be a rather small city, but Stirling packs a serious punch. The city is located about one hour from Edinburgh and 30 minutes from Glasgow, situated right where the Scottish Lowlands meet the Highlands. 

Without a doubt, the main reason to visit Stirling is that it’s a passage on the journey to The Highlands. 

Outside of being a major thoroughfare for the Highlands, Stirling itself is actually a college town—and the entertainment and restaurant scenes reflect that. The younger, livelier population lends itself to buzzy bars and great nightlife, lots of great shopping, and events happening seemingly non-stop, year-round. 

Of course, if you’re looking for a quieter respite away from the rowdy party scene, there are also plenty of traditional Scottish pubs and restaurants. 

Things to do in Stirling

• Explore the cobblestone streets of Stirling’s Old Town 
• Head up to Stirling Castle for some panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands
• Visit the National Wallace Monument in honor of Scottish warrior William Wallace, i.e.; Braveheart.
• Briarlands Farm is especially family-friendly, offering a petting zoo, seasonal berry picking, go-karting and other activities.

Where to stay in Stirling

Stirling Highland Hotel : Occupying a historic 1854 building, this former high school turned hotel is in one of the best parts of the city. The rail station and famed Stirling Castle are both within walking distance, and there’s a cheekily-named, school-themed restaurant and pub onsite (Scholars Restaurant and Headmaster’s Study Bar, respectively).

Friars Wynd Hotel : In the city center, this boutique hotel is well-equipped and extremely affordable. There’s a bar and lovely garden onsite, and guests rave about the hotel breakfast. 

Stirling Youth Hostel : Set on the grounds of a beautiful church perched above town and within walking distance of the Castle, this is an excellent affordable option for exploring Stirling. Choose from private en suite or shared rooms, and use the self-catering kitchen or order an inexpensive continental breakfast. 

18. Ullapool

Gateway to the Northern Highlands and a popular stop on the North Coast 500

A sleepy fishing village in far northern Scotland on the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool is widely considered one of the most unspoiled places in the UK. If you’re looking to enjoy the country’s iconic rolling green landscape dotted with bodies of water at a slow pace, Ullapool belongs near the top of your list of places to visit in Scotland. 

Don’t let the quiet pace fool you, though — Ullapool is frequently named to lists of the best outdoor destinations in the UK and has a strong sense of adventure. The small town boasts a combination of rocky coastline, mountains, excellent hiking, and unique wildlife and photography opportunities. 

Inverness is just an hour away by car and there are ferries to the Outer Hebrides close by, plus, of course, it’s right along the North Coast 500, making Ullapool the perfect basecamp for exploring northern Scotland.

Things to do in Ullapool

• Rent a kayak or canoe from the Ullapool Pier and paddle Loch Broom. 
• Catch sunset over the loch from Rhue Lighthouse.
• Go tidepooling, crabbing, or skip rocks at Ardmair Beach. 
• Enjoy langoustines and other seafood fare at the iconic Seafood Shack .
• Grab a strong coffee and pastry at Cult Cafe .

Where to stay in Ullapool

The Arch Inn : Family-friendly beachfront accommodation with an onsite bar, restaurant, and open-air terrace offering stunning views. Breakfast is included in the rate, and the inn has direct access to popular hiking and cycling trails. 

Riverside Guest House : Laid-back, inn-style accommodations within walking distance of the ferry port and harbor. Guests receive complimentary access to the Lochbroom Leisure Centre, with a swimming pool and gym facilities. 

Ullapool Youth Hostel : A lovely waterfront option providing a fantastic value in the heart of Ullapool overlooking the harbor. Choose from private or shared rooms and enjoy communal kitchen and lounge facilities, plus wi-fi and bike storage. 

19. St. Andrews

An ancient seaside community known as the birthplace of golf

History buffs, architecture lovers, and fans of golf will all eagerly shout from the rooftops that St. Andrews is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. It was here that the game of golf was invented, way back in the 15th century. 

St. Andrews is also home to Scotland’s oldest and most prominent university — and the third-oldest in the modern world! The University of St. Andrews was established in the early 1400s, and many visitors call it a real-life Hogwarts. 

It should come as no surprise that there are a number of well-preserved medieval ruins in St. Andrews. What is a bit surprising, however, are the buzzy restaurants, pubs, and independent shopping boutiques in a town this tiny.

Things to do in St. Andrews

• Play a round of golf at the Old Course , the oldest golf course in the entire world (you must enter a ballot-style lottery to try and get a tee time). Guided walks are also available April through October. 
• If you can’t get a tee time at the Old Course, play at one of the city’s 10 other courses.
• Visit the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, built in 1158 and at one time the country’s largest cathedral. 
• Indulge in a scoop at Jannetta’s Gelateria , a fourth-generation shop dishing out over 100 flavors. 
• Take a self-guided walking tour of the University of St. Andrews. 
• Tip a few back at Eden Mill , part gin distillery, part brewery, entirely unique.  

Where to stay in St. Andrews

Drumoig Golf Hotel : If golf is on your St. Andrews agenda, book a stay at the Drumoig, home to its very own 18-hole golf course. The onsite restaurant overlooks the 18th green, so you can get your golf fix even when you aren’t playing. 

The Spindle Guest Rooms : Best described as an upscale, adults-only hostel, The Spindle offers private rooms with shared common areas, like the lounge and terrace. The university is literally feet away and the entire area is very walkable. 

Rufflets : If you have a bit of wiggle room in your budget, Rufflets is a bit pricier than the other options but well worth the splurge. Set on a private 10 acres in a 1924 turreted mansion, everything about Rufflets is plush. If the weather is favorable, don’t miss an opportunity to dine in the award-winning gardens. 

A major hub of architecture and visual arts

Dundee is a perfect example of history seamlessly combined with contemporary living. Situated on Scotland’s east coast, the city itself is pretty compact and very walkable. Plus, it’s an absolute dream for lovers of architecture. 

The city boasts tons of architectural landmarks, museums, and galleries. And in 2015, Dundee was named a UNESCO City of Design, the very first in the UK. Another fun tidbit: Grand Theft Auto, the video game with a longtime, cult-like following, was created here in Dundee.

Like Edinburgh, Dundee also hosts numerous festivals every year. They play host to a fantastic Jazz festival each November, as well as one of the biggest food festivals in Scotland. Speaking of which—Dundee’s food and bar scenes are also quite trendy with plenty of options to keep you satisfied. 

Things to do in Dundee

• Visit the Dundee V&A Museum, dedicated entirely to design, also the first of its kind in Scotland. 
• Peruse the McManus Galleries.
• Check out the architecture at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Hike or drive to the top of Dundee Law, a long-dormant volcano, for an elevated 360-degree view of the city and river.
• Go whitewater rafting in nearby Angus

Where to stay in Dundee

Hotel Indigo : Overlooking the River Tay and close to the center of town, this chic hotel is in a building that was once a textile mill. It’s in a very walkable location and every room has a dedicated workstation. 

The Shaftesbury Hotel : To really immerse yourself in the architecture Dundee is so famous for, choose this hotel. In the vibrant West End, the 19th century hotel has several original features including arched windows, stone fireplaces, and high ceilings. 

Dundee Backpackers Hostel : Housed in a group of five well-preserved 16th century buildings with many period furnishings intact, this hostel has an elevated feel and is situated on bustling High Street. There are both private and shared rooms, plus communal dining room, kitchen, lounge, and game room. 

21. Aberdeen

One of the sunniest places in the UK and considered Scotland’s “castle capital”

Located near the coast in the northeastern part of the country, Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. Fun fact: It’s considered the sunniest city in all of the UK, getting up to 195 hours of sunshine in May alone! 

The city’s favorable weather is the cherry on top as Aberdeen is one of the only places in the UK that has a proper sandy beach. Steady winds make Aberdeen a great spot for surfing, kitesurfing, or sailing. 

There’s also an amusement park at the beach and, in true Scottish fashion, an ice skating rink. 

Nightlife is surprisingly lively for a laid-back beach town, and the restaurant scene is robust as well. There are golf courses everywhere you look (did you know golf was invented in Scotland?!), cool museums (many of which are totally free!), nice public parks, and lots of history to enjoy in Aberdeen. 

Things to do in Aberdeen

• Visit at least a couple of Scotland’s castles ! Start with Dunnottar Castle, one of the oldest and most formidable in the country, and the distinct pink Craigievar Castle.  
• Grab a beer from the wildly popular BrewDog’s main brewery DogTap in Ellon. 
• Visit Newburgh Beach to run up and down the sand dunes and check out the colony of hundreds of seals. 
• Stroll through Old Aberdeen for eye-popping old architecture (it was founded in the 1400s!).  
• Make a day trip to Cairngorms National Park (#9 on this list!). 

Where to stay in Aberdeen

Jurys Inn Aberdeen (Union Square) : In a fantastic, highly walkable location adjacent to the train station, tons of shopping, and a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes. The hotel also has signature Jurys Inn DREAM beds and deep soaking tubs. 

Malmaison Aberdeen : Set in a stately granite building that looks like a Victorian mansion, this posh hotel feels like an absolute steal. The rooms are plush and well-outfitted, and recent upgrades include a gym, wine tasting cellar, and Whiskey Snug bar. 

Deeside Holiday Park : If camping or glamping is more your style as you tour the Castle Capital or visit Cairngorms National Park, Deeside is perfect. Choose from tent or campervan sites, or book a glamping pod or traditional cabin-style holiday home. 

Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!

If your hand is up, keep reading…

If you  like  the research, all the power to you! Feel free to use our itinerary outlines as a starting point as well as our city guides for ideas of things to do (we’ve got a bunch of them!):

• Things to Do in Isle of Skye
• Things to Do in Inverness

But if you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined.  Trust us.

And we’re happy to share everything we learned  — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually being  in  Scotland and taking our very own dream road trip!

We’ve curated what we think is the  perfect Scotland road trip , and we want you to be able to copy our route! 

In this 2-week itinerary, you’ll find:

• Can’t miss sights and experiences 
• suggestions for what to order
• the best campsites to stay on the route
• unique guesthouses along the way
• Insider Tips
• Suggestions for extending this trip

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a  paid itinerary  since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable – just $17 for an entire 2-week itinerary . We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

With variable weather conditions, excellent hiking opportunities, and plenty of city life, there are a few things you definitely don’t want to forget when you’re packing for a trip to Scotland.

Check out the  exact items we recommend  for traveling in Scotland. 

• rain jacket (make sure it’s waterproof, not just water resistant)
• travel umbrella
• dry bag : to keep your valuables from getting wet on a hike
• Hiking backpack
• Hiking boots
• Lots of layers
• A couple nicer outfits for eating out
• Bug repellent: midges are common in Scotland, especially during the summer months
• Camera and  lightweight tripod  (optional)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Scotland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Scotland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Round up of the top places to visit in Scotland

Here’s a roundup of all the best places to visit in Scotland so you can see everything in one place.

• Cairngorms National Park
• Outer Hebrides
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
• North Coast 500
• Isle of Mull
• Fort William
• St. Andrews

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Dreamy Scotland Glamping Stays
• Best Campervan Hire in Scotland
• How to Get from London to Edinburgh
• How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Road Trip

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these places to visit in Scotland are going straight to the top of your list? Are you planning a trip to Scotland and have more questions? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (10) on “ 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland ”

Thank you. Very helpful

You are very welcome!

Hmm, finally something worth reading about Scotland ! Thanks for all the tips. I really should visit Scotland more-it looks just beautiful.

It’s so magical! Let us know if you are planning a trip!

Beautifully crafted with spectacular views of Scotland. The pictures are beautiful too. Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

We’re so happy to hear we inspired you to visit!

Pics are beautiful! Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

Thank you so much!

Where is the best place to go for food?

Oh, wow! There are so many good places. We are actually creating an article about Scottish foods and where to get order them. Check back soon!

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12 of the Quietest Beaches in Scotland

Last updated: August 19, 2022 at 8:38 am

Scotland is full of beautiful beaches, some with dramatic cliffscapes, others with beautiful grassland and rolling dunes. But many of the beaches are tourist hotspots, which sometimes just isn’t what you want.

If you’re after a relaxing day on a Scottish beach, you’ll want to visit one of the quietest beaches in Scotland. All the typical Scottish beauty, but without the screaming children and beach BBQs.

IN THIS ARTICLE

• 1 1. Sandwood Bay
• 2 2. Seacliff Beach
• 3 3. Farr Bay Beach
• 4 4. Balnahard Beach
• 5 5. Luskentyre Sands
• 6 6. Lunan Bay
• 7 7. Big Sands Beach
• 8 8. Strathy Bay
• 9 9. Sinclairs Bay
• 10 10. Gruinard Beach
• 11 11. Seilebost Beach
• 12 12. Red Point North Beach

1. Sandwood Bay

This beach faces onto the North Atlantic and is one of Scotland’s wildest and quietest beaches. You cannot reach the beach by car alone, as the nearest road stops 4 miles away from the coast itself. Once you reach the end of the road, you will need to walk the rest of the way to the bay.

Once there, you can enjoy the fierceness of the North Atlantic and the beautiful sunrises and sunsets across it. The bay is also home to Am Buachaille, a beautiful and dramatic sea stack, as well as the bay’s characteristic pink sand.

2. Seacliff Beach

For those staying or living near Edinburgh, this is the perfect quiet and remote beach for you. It is a 50-minute drive from the city and is a privately owned beach. The owners allow visitors entry for £3, which is a price worth paying!

The beach offers fantastic views across the Forth, and visitors can even spot Bass Rock from the shore. It is a very well-kept beach and has plenty of rock pools, soft sand, and glorious sunsets, and sunrises. For those interested in history, the beach also offers a unique view of Tantallon Castle .

3. Farr Bay Beach

Farr Bay Beach is one of the stunning beaches that feature on the famous North Coast 500 walk, and for good reason. It is incredibly pretty and has grassy dunes and dramatic hills all around it.

As well as being a beauty, the site is also an incredible spot for those looking to watch the great Scottish wildlife and is even a great place for those interested in surfing. Enjoy a dip in the water as you watch golden eagles fly overhead and seals relax on the sand.

4. Balnahard Beach

Located in Colonsay, Balnahard beach is one of many beautiful sandy stretches in the area. The beach is not one of the isle’s most popular, but it is definitely a quiet and scenic place for anyone to visit. With views of Mull, Scarba, and Jura, the beach is a great place to sit and relax on a clear day.

The water is also incredibly clean and the beach itself is well kept, owing to it being such a quiet and unknown destination. You cannot drive to Balnahard and must instead walk for 3.5 miles from the main roads, which often puts people off visiting, making it all the more remote and secret!

5. Luskentyre Sands

Over in the Outer Hebrides, the Western Isles of Scotland, sit the islands Harris and Lewis. Visitors to the Isle of Harris should be sure to take a trip to Luskentyre Sands. By far one of the quietest beaches in Scotland, it has miles of white sand that sinks into crystal blue waters. There are incredible views of Taransay, and beautiful rolling hills and wildflowers around.

The beach is quiet, but it has also gained much more appreciation in recent years, labelling it as one of the top 20 beaches in the world.

Also read: 19 Best Quiet Beaches in the UK

6. Lunan Bay

Anyone searching for a quiet beach with dramatic cliffscapes and dunes should visit Lunan Bay. The beach is overlooked by incredible cliffs and backed by rolling sandy dunes. The beach faces fierce and cool waters as they travel toward the North Sea, challenging any swimmers or surfers to have a dip.

If that wasn’t enough to entice you, there is also a cave on the beach and smashing views of the 12-century Red Castle . Pair that with the incredible wildlife which has been known to include rare birds, and the occasional horseback rider, Lunan Bay is simply something out of a novel.

7. Big Sands Beach

Big Sands, despite its name, is a sand and shingle beach. It is protected and covered from the harsh Scottish winds by Longa Island and the expanse of large dunes that must be navigated in order to access it.

The beach offers some truly impressive views of the island, the cliffs, and brilliant sunsets and sunrises. It also has some basic facilities nearby, including toilets, a shop, and a shower, making it a more accessible and quiet option.

8. Strathy Bay

Strathy Bay is a remote and wide beautiful beach on the northern coast of Scotland. It is home to stunning rolling hills, cliffs, and the River Strathy as well as numerous caves and sea stacks. A popular surfing and watersports destination, the beach is protected from much of the harsh Scottish weather, allowing it to be enjoyed even as winter rolls in.

There is plenty to see at Strathy Bay, but there are also a few things nearby such as a pub and hotel to warm up in after a dip in the cool water.

9. Sinclairs Bay

Just 15 miles south of John O’Groats, this beach is one of the most northerly beaches in Scotland. It is near Wick, where you can enjoy boat trips, museums, and good food, and the beach itself is completely stunning. Quiet and peaceful, the stretches of white sands contrast the dark shades of the North Sea and create a truly Instagram-worthy beach experience.

In the winter, visitors to the beach run the chance of seeing the Northern Lights, and in the summer, the sun does not set on the beach until almost midnight due to its position on the globe.

10. Gruinard Beach

Near Little Gruinard, Gruinard Beach is a relatively small sandy beach that is secluded from the rest of its surroundings. It offers incredible views of the rugged countryside and on a clear day, you can see Gruinard Island across the water and even Coigach Hills.

The beauty doesn’t stop there, though, the beach itself is also home to astonishing clear waters and rock pools, making it popular with local walkers and dog walkers, as well as geologists.

You can access the beach from the parking along the A832 but be aware that there is a steep set of stairs to access the beach and there are no facilities.

11. Seilebost Beach

Seilebost Beach is across the bay from Lyskentyre Beach and has previously been voted one of the best beaches in the world. It is incredibly beautiful, with pure sands and stunning aquamarine waters. There are rocky patches that slope down into the sea, giving the beach a more wild appearance than many popular coastal destinations.

Across the water, you can enjoy the sights of Taransay and Ben Luskentyre, and watch the waves across the bay. Visitors should be aware, however, that quicksand does occasionally form in the wet sand at low tide.

12. Red Point North Beach

Just 10 miles away from Gairloch, this beach is the perfect isolated and secluded quiet beach. It requires a journey down from the car park, through the dunes to the beach, but once there it is entirely worth it. With stretches of red and pink sand, grassy slopes and dunes, and incredible rock pools to explore, the beach has so much to see and enjoy.

Across the water, you can enjoy the sights of the Western Isles and you may even be able to see some sea otters and gannets, as well as potentially some porpoises in the clear sea.

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About the Author: AJ

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Best Hidden Gems in Scotland

Discover secret places in Scotland

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Discover the Hidden Gems of Secret Scotland . From the Dunmore Pinneaple to the Ferry pools, 12 Secret Places in Scotland Off the Beaten Path are waiting for you. 

This is your Ultimate Scottish Hidden Places Guide of the Epic Places in Scotland .

Strange and Secret Spots you Must Visit in Scotland as well as the Best Underrated Secret Places In Scotland . 

Book your flights , your accommodation in Scotland as well as your Secret Tours & Activities in Scotland and discover the Best Scotland Hidden Gems . 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Most Dramatic Castles in Scotland , the Best Places to Visit in Scotland , The Most Famous Sandy Beaches in Scotland , the Best Things to Do in Scotland and Much More .

1. Dunmore Pineapple

Dunmore - Falkirk

This building located in one of the Strangest and Most Secret Spots in Scotland , is a folly, an architectural term to refer to a building that is built primarily for decoration, but can also suggest  through its appearance some other purpose.   

Dunmore Pineapple was created by Lord Dunmore who wanted his house to look different; he wanted to cultivate pineapples, so this exotic fruit became the symbol for his folly that is now seen as one of the Best Hidden Gems in Scotland.

Lord Dunmore was not that eccentric and extravagant: he had even been a governor in Virginia for many years and had returned to Scotland to retire. He was following in the footsteps of Scottish sailors who used to place a pineapple on a lamp post facing their house to show that they had just come back from exotic lands.

The Dunmore Pineapple is managed by the Landmark Trust and, incredible as it may seem, it is possible to rent it as a holiday home at a very attractive price (60 pounds per night for 4 people - dogs are allowed). 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Edinburgh or Glasgow and join Dunmore (40 minutes by car - 2 hours by public transport) and visit one of  the Best Underrated Spots in Scotland . 

  Where to stay:   5km from the "Dunmore Pineapple", " Inglewood House and Spa " features treatments rooms, a thermal suite and an outdoor hot tub.

2. The Kelpies

Forth and Clyde Canal - Falkirk

One of the Hidden Gems of Secret Scotland , are two monumental statues located 20 minutes from Edinburgh (30 minutes from Glasgow ) in Helix Park.

Horses are the most important living beings in the history of Scotland, whether to work the land, defend oneself from numerous attacks or as a means of travelling.

The Kelpies, a Scottish term, are strong mythical water horses ten times more powerful than common horses just like the Scottish watercourses, 

These two monumental sculptures are there to defend the Forth and Clyde Canal but also the whole country. 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Edinburgh (20 min by car - 1h by train + bus) and discover Magical Places in Scotland .

  Where to stay:  " Tigerlily " is an award-winning boutique hotel a 10-minute walk from the most popular shopping area.

Aberdeenshire

Crovie is one of the Most Beautiful Underrated Places in Scotland , in the Aberbeenshire region.

In this Beautiful Secret Place in Scotland there is only one road and 50 houses facing the sea. The road is so narrow that the inhabitants have to park their car outside the village.

Why are they all gathered on this narrow strip of land facing the sea? The reason is hard to imagine: the wealthy landowner of Crovie had once decided to drive all the inhabitants out of his property because he loved to see his sheep graze on his meadows!

The inhabitants of one of Scotland's Best Hidden Gems , had had to take refuge on this small strip of land facing the sea. Some inhabitants still live there although a certain number of houses are now holiday homes.

Book your flights to Aberdeen as well as your accommodation at the best price and discover Crovie, one of the most amazing villages in Scotland .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Aberdeen (1h by car, 3h by train).

  Where to stay:   " 49 Crovie Village ". Stay in the heart of the village. 

4. Fingal's Cave

Fionnphort - Isle of Mull

No other cave in the world is similar to Fingal's Cave one of the Strangest and Most Secret Places of Scotland .

The dramatic basalt cave, rising from the sea is incredible and will captivate those travellers who dare to venture inside.

Wildlife abounds and you may be lucky to encounter the cute puffins in season. Boat tours are organized several times a day from Fionnphort to discover one of the Secret Places in Scotland Off the Beaten Path . 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Glasgow and drive to Oban (2:15), then take the ferry to Craignure (50 min).

  Where to stay:   " St Columba Hotel " set 200m from Iona Abbey has a garden and a bar.

Isle of Skye - Highlands

Portree is the largest city on the Isle of Skye and one of the Best Hidden Gems in Scotland .

It is a perfect starting point for excursions in the Inner Hebrides.  No need to use a ferry to get to Portree, just cross the bridge in Loch Aillse to reach one of the Secret Spots in Scotland .

If you are a fan of highland games the first two weeks of August are perfect, but if you want to avoid crowds, book before or after the event when prices are more attractive.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Inverness (3h by car - 5h by train).

  Where to stay:   " Harbor House " is one of our top picks in Portree.

6. St Kilda Archipelago

Outer Hebrides

The first question that comes to mind is "How to get to this remote Scottish Island? ".

Located in the Outer Hebrides, this world heritage site, one of the Most Beautiful Secret Places in Scotland , has one of the highest sea cliffs in Scotland.

Listed in this Ultimate Scottish Hidden Places Guide , discover the incredible story of St. Kilda and the island's inhabitants who had to leave in 1930.

St Kilda is a unique destination in Scotland. It was one of the most isolated inhabited islands.

Today since all its inhabitants have gone and it is the ideal destination for birdwatching .

On the Isle of Harris various companies offer boat tours to visit St Kilda. It is even possible to make a multi-day cruise with "The National Trust for Scotland". 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Glasgow and take a domestic flight to Stornoway on the Isle of Harris . (55 min).  

  Where to stay:  " Finsbay Lodges " situated in the Isle of Harris, Finsbay Lodges features a sauna. 

Argyll and Butte - West Scotland

This small town of 8000 inhabitants is one of the  Must-See Hidden Gems in Scotland .

Oban whose name means "small bay" is a perfect destination for nature and sea lovers.

It is also known for its many restaurants on the pier, a nice way to end the day after visiting the Hebrides, the Isle of Mull, Staffa, Kerrera...

Book your flights to Glasgow as well as your accommodation at the best price in Oban and discover one of the Most Beautiful Secret Places in Scotland .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Glasgow (2h) or Edinburgh (2h30). 

  Where to stay:  " Katie's flat " is rated for the best value in Oban.

8. Isle of Iona

Inner Hebrides

Facing Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull, the Isle of Iona is one of the Best Hidden Gems in Scotland .

This small Secret Scottish Island in the Inner Hebrides is a 4-hour drive from the nearest airport.

Known as the cradle of Christianity in Scotland, the island of Iona marked the history of this nation.

Discover this small island and its 120 inhabitants and enjoy a stay punctuated by the waves and the fresh air of the pure Hebrides in one of the Most Magical Places in Scotland .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Glasgow and drive to Oban (2:15). There you can take the ferry to Craignure (50 min). You will then drive from Craignure to Fionnphort (1 hour drive). Last step: board the boat from Fionnphort to the Isle of Iona.

  Where to stay:   " Iona Pods " is only at 10-minute walk to the beaches.

9. Ferry Pools

Glenbrittle - Isle of Skye

Located on the Isle of Skye, a 2.5-hour drive from Inverness , the Fairy Pools is one of Scotland's hidden gems .

The fairy pools located near Glenbrittle are waterfalls which form real natural pools .

The crystal clear water invites the bold swimmer to dive into its very cool  fresh waters!

Book your flights to Inverness, your accommodation on the Isle of Skye as well as your tours and activities such as an Isle of Skye tour with Fairy Pools from Inverness and visit one of the Best Secret Places in Scotland . 

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Inverness (2.5 hours by car). The walk starts from the road to Glenbrittle. You can park in the Forestry Commission car park.

  Where to stay:   " The Boat House ". Every room has sea views.

10. Dean Village

The Dean Village that grew around the Dean River is one of the Best Underrated Secret Places to Visit in Scotland .

The river was essential for water mills that produced flour for more than 8 centuries for the whole city of Edinburgh .

With the decline of water mills, the village was gradually abandoned, only the poorest lived there.

A few years later, the Dean Village became a popular place for artists and people who wanted to live in a quiet place, close to nature and the city centre.

Book your flights to Edinburgh, accommodation and  tours such as a Whisky tasting tour  and visit one of the Strangest and Most Secret Places in Scotland .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Edinburgh. Dean village is a 15 minutes’ walk from the Edinburg castle. 

  Where to stay:  " Historic Dean Village " is one of our top picks in Edinburgh. 

11. Smoo Cave

Durness - Highlands

Located in the far North of Scotland, 5 minutes from Durness and a 2.5 hours’ drive from Inverness , Smoo Cave is one of the hidden gems of Scotland .

We suggest you take the guided tour to the foot of the falls.

The cave is open every day from 10h to 17h. but the visit might be interrupted by heavy rain.

We advise you to watch the weather forecast before driving to the cave.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Inverness (2h30 by car, 7h by train).

  Where to stay:  " The Tongue Hotel " offers luxurious rooms and a cosy restaurant. 

12. Plockton

Isle of Skye - Highlands 

Plockton is considered the jewel of the Highlands and one of the Secret Places in Scotland Off the Beaten Path .

It is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Open the windows in your guesthouse, Loch Carron is just in front of you. everything is peaceful and blissfully quiet...

If you want to discover the surroundings, take a boat trip to Loch Carron. You can also go sailing, sea kayaking, cycling or simply stroll and enjoy the stunning scenery and beauty of this wild coast.

Book your flights , accommodation , tours and activities in Scotland , such as a Best of Isle of Skye full-day tour  and visit one of the Best Underrated Spots in Scotland .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Inverness and drive to Plockton (2h by car - 3h by train).

  Where to stay:  " Kinloch Lodge Hotel and Restaurant " is a family-run hotel. 

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The 13 Best Places to Watch Sunset in Scotland

When you think of countries with beautiful sunsets, Scotland may not be one that immediately comes to mind. It has a reputation for being rainy, foggy, and chilly most of the year, which doesn’t usually pair well with good sunset conditions. But Scotland is one of those countries that just feels magical. The rolling green countryside looks like something out of a fairytale and the beautiful old historic buildings make you feel like you are in a movie. When the sun goes down, you can’t help but marvel at the gorgeous light no matter where you are. Don’t discount Scotland as a great place to see some fantastic sunsets. Whether you are taking a road trip through the Highlands or spending some time in one of the cities, there are so many great options. Here are 13 of the best spots to see the sunset in Scotland!

Table of Contents

1. Laig Beach, Isle of Eigg

The Isle of Eigg is located in the Scottish Inner Hebrides, a group of islands south of the more well-known Isle of Skye. This underrated isle is the perfect place to visit for those looking to get off the beaten path. When the sun starts setting, head to Laig Beach, a white sand beach on the western side of the island. This beach is the perfect choice for a gorgeous view of the neighbouring Isle of Rum surrounded by all the evening colours.

2. Calton Hill, Edinburgh

This well-known landmark in the heart of Edinburgh is a popular place to get a panoramic view of the city, but it’s also a fantastic location to view the sunset. Wander around the various monuments and find the perfect spot to watch the sun set on the sprawling city. The Dugald Stewart Monument and Nelson Monument are popular viewing areas.

3. Oban Bay, Oban

With views over the Isle of Kerrera and beyond, Oban Bay is a great place to spend some time at the end of the day. Watch the ferries travel back and forth, walk along the north pier, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many seafood restaurants. Just before sunset, head up to McCaig’s Tower and Battery Hill for panoramic views of the bay.

4. Neist Point, Isle of Skye

Neist Point Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable and popular lighthouses in Scotland and is located at the westernmost point of the Isle of Skye. A path will take you all the way to the lighthouse, but the best views are found at the viewpoint at the beginning of the trail. This spot is a must on any Scotland road trip but is extra special at the end of the day. A great option for exploring this area is to arrive early, spend some time walking down to the lighthouse, and then make your way back to the viewpoint for sunset.

5. Lyle Hill, Greenock

Located less than an hour from Glasgow, Lyle Hill offers beautiful views of the River Clyde and the town of Greenock. You can also visit the Memorial Cross, a memorial honouring WWII French forces. If you decide to head to Greenock early, spend some time wandering the McLean Museum & Art Gallery or the Beacon Arts Centre. If you’d rather be outside, you can meander the Greenock cemetery or drive a few minutes south to the Greenock Cut Waterfall or RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve.

6. The Forth Bridges, South Queensferry

The Forth Road Bridge, Forth Railway Bridge, and Queensferry Crossing make up the famous ‘three bridges spanning three centuries’ located just outside Edinburgh. These bridges cross the Firth of Forth (say that 3 times fast!) and make a majestic foreground for the sunset. The only bridge you can walk or bike across is the Forth Road Bridge, so this is the best spot to watch the sunset if you’d like to be right over the water. If you’d prefer to see the bridges during sunset, there are a couple of beaches along the River Forth where you can sit and relax as the sun goes down.

7. Lochinver, Sutherland

This tiny village in the highlands of Scotland is the perfect place to visit if you want some peace and quiet. Situated on the west coast of Scotland, this fishing village has beautiful mountain views and white sandy beaches. Come to relax and stay for the sunset! Wander down by the harbour and along the rocks while imagining what it would be like to live in such a place. Don’t forget to check out the local seafood too!

8. Dornie, Wester Ross

Most people might not recognize the name of the town, but many would probably know the famous Eilean Donan Castle just down the road. Dornie sits right at the meeting place of Loch Duich, Loch Alsh, and Loch Long and is only a few miles from the bridge that takes travelers to the Isle of Skye. A visit to the castle is a must, but I’d also highly recommend heading up to the Eilean Donan lookout for sunset. The view is spectacular any time of day but especially beautiful as the sun sinks below the hills of the highlands.

9. Holyrood Park, Edinburgh

This beautiful parkland in Edinburgh has a multitude of places to view the sun setting over the city. The most popular place is Arthur’s Seat, the highest point in the park and the remnants of an extinct volcano. If you have more time, I’d highly recommend spending several hours walking around the park, stopping to see St. Margaret’s Well, Saint Anthony’s Chapel Ruins, and Duddingston Loch.

10. Necropolis, Glasgow

This Victorian-era cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful part of the city that makes the perfect location to end your day. Wander the gravel pathways and read the names of Glaswegians from days past while also appreciating the panoramic view of Glasgow. Don’t miss exploring Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning medieval church with breathtaking stained glass. You can also swing by the William Wallace Memorial across the street from the cathedral, honouring the famous Scotsman leader of the First War of Scottish Independence.

11. Riverside, Dundee

After exploring the city of Dundee and all the nautical museums and history, find your way to Riverside Nature Park, located along the Firth of Tay. This peaceful spot overlooks the water and is a great place for birdwatching. Another great option is to wander down the Riverside Walk, which is a 3-mile walkway and bike path between Riverside Nature Park and Discovery Point. If you get the chance, visit the RSS Discovery, an Antarctic research ship from the early 1900s.

12. Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire

Perched on a rock and almost completely surrounded by water, Dunnottar Castle is arguably one of the most picturesque castle ruins in Scotland. The setting sun only makes the castle more magical and romantic. Take the time to wander the castle grounds, but also make sure you spend some time hiking around the paths and trails along the coast. The best views of the castle can be found when you venture beyond the grounds and hike along the cliffs.

13. Torridon Hills, Highlands

This off-the-beaten-path spot is ideal for hikers and outdoor lovers. Surrounded by lochs and mountains, Torridon offers a remote option that can’t be beaten. Take your pick of hiking trails and discover your favourite one to watch the sunset. Or, for those who would rather do something less strenuous, find your way down to Upper Loch Torridon and enjoy the view from the Am Ploc Open Air Church or the Deer Museum.

Where do I find the sunset times for Scotland?

Due to its location, Scotland can have pretty late sunsets in the summer and early ones in the winter. The times can vary from as early as 3:40 pm in the winter to 10:00 pm in the summer. I like to use timeanddate.com to find out when the sunset will be on the day and location so I can plan accordingly. Most weather apps will also show the time of the sunset at your current location.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

I personally think there is never a bad time to visit Scotland, but depending on what kind of experience you want to have will determine when you should go. Summer is always a fantastic time to visit. The days are very long which means you can fit in more outdoor activities and the weather is warmer. Most attractions will be open too. However, summer brings the crowds so it will be busy with tourists. Spring and autumn are great options if you don’t mind a higher chance of rain and understand that some attractions won’t be open. This is my personal favourite time to go because the crowds are less and I don’t mind exploring in the rain. You can also road trip on a budget during this time of year and save money. Winter brings the chance of snow which could be a pro or con depending on what you like. The Christmas markets will be set up in the cities which are wonderful to experience. However, a lot of attractions will be closed and you won’t have as much daylight to explore outdoors. No matter when you decide to visit Scotland you are sure to have a fantastic time! While this list of locations is in no way exhaustive, I hope it gives you a few ideas of places you can go while in Scotland to watch the sunset. Regardless of where you find yourself in the country, I hope you take the time to enjoy the sunset and the beauty all around you!

13 Best Sunset Spots in Scotland | Final Thoughts

This post is a guest post written by the lovely Stef from Open Road Odysseys . Stef is a huge fan of road trips and aims to show anyone with a desire for adventure that an unforgettable road trip is possible on a budget. Her blog has tonnes of content, not just about Scotland, but the United States as well, so be sure to go and check out her content if you want to know more about planning the perfect road trip! Until next time, XOXO

If you liked this article and would like to support my work, please click the button above to donate a couple of bucks and buy me a coffee. The ad revenue that I receive on this website is minimal, so support from my readers enables me to keep creating content that you (hopefully!) love to read.

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20 Prettiest Seaside Towns in Scotland You Must Visit

July 6, 2023

Scotland is… as you know… part of an island.

And as an unsurprising result of that, it has loads of sands and shorelines.

It’s also pretty sparsely-populated, with some surprisingly-small towns and villages dotted around its sprawl.

Put those two seemingly-unrelated things together, and what do you get? That’s right—a nation with loads of lovely seaside settlements.

If you don’t know me already, I’m Paul, and not only is Scotland one of my absolute favorite places on this planet, but I’ve also dedicated countless hours to wandering its captivating landscapes, immersing myself in its vibrant cities, scaling its majestic mountains, and unraveling the secrets of its enchanting coasts. With this perfect blend of passion and exploration, you can bet this article will cast a spell on you my friend!

So in this guide, I’ve brought you my favorites, with a big fat list of the 20 best seaside towns in Scotland . Grab your backpack, slip in some sandwiches, and come join the fun!

1. Plockton

6. st andrews, 7. eyemouth, 8. north berwick, 9. ullapool, 10. durness, 11. tobermory, 12. lossiemouth, 13. stranraer, 14. brodick, 15. glencoe, 16. gairloch, 17. portpatrick, 18. peterhead, 19. lochcarron, 20. lerwick, before you go.

Loads of people reckon this is the most charming seaside town in Scotland.

And depending on my mood when you ask me, I might be one of them.

With a tiny population of around 400 people, Plockton is alluringly cute and cozy. It’s home to a few boats and houses, views of little bays and distant mountains, and pretty much nothing else.

The village has been used as a filming site loads of times—so if TV and film crews think it looks nice, it must be alright.

I love it, you’ll love it, everybody loves it. And I massively recommend it.

If you don’t have a car, you can (surprisingly) take a direct train here from Inverness. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

Highlights of visiting Plockton:

Honestly (and this might surprise you but), Portree isn’t as impressive as some of the other places we’ve covered on this list.

But it’s the main town on the Isle of Skye . And if you’re not gonna visit the Isle of Skye while you’re roaming around Scotland, you’re a big dum-dum.

Bigger than most people realize, it has a wander-worthy bay, a pretty harbor area, boat trips, those famous colorful houses, and loads of places to munch on meals. For tasty but no-fuss, I recommend the welcoming Isles Inn.

For most people, Portree is obviously the best base on the island—and if you want to see Skye’s major highlights without wasting time, trips like this (massively recommended, by the way) all leave from the town.

Highlights of visiting Portree:

Also close to Skye (you can actually take a ferry from here to the island), Mallaig flies under the radar a bit.

A still-working fishing port, it’s not as pretty as some other Scottish towns. But it’s a great base for west-coast adventures—serving up boat rides, rail trips, bike rides, long and short hikes, and loads more.

To get here, you can take a direct train from Glasgow… and that’s without doubt the best way to reach Mallaig. This rail ride is famous as one of the prettiest train journeys in Europe (and it runs along the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you probably know from the Harry Potter movies ).

Highlights of visiting Mallaig:

Another west-coast beauty-fest, Oban is like someone took all the Scottish seaside-town clichés, and bundled them into one lovely place. It’s so scenic that it’s almost funny.

It offers long and short boat trips (to distant islands, seal colonies, and bird colonies), top-quality hiking, and the best seafood scene in Scotland.

Because there’s so much to do from Oban, loads of people overlook actually exploring the town itself. But to see all the best bits (and learn all the best stuff), a walking tour is a good idea —you can hit all the historical heritage spots with a bit of context.

Like Mallaig, you can also reach Oban from Glasgow, by direct train. It’s obvs not as incredible as the Mallaig ride, but it’s still pretty nice.

Highlights of visiting Oban:

The prettiest coastal town in Fife, this cobbles-and-harbor cute-spot sits 90 minutes north of Edinburgh.

Honestly, there’s not a massive amount to do here (although you can walk and cycle along lovely shoreline routes in both directions). But when a place is this pretty, no-one really cares.

Get an ice cream, or fish and chips ( Crail Fish Bar & Cafe is full of tasty treats), watch the fishing boats, get lost in the little lanes, and just soak up the charm. Oh, and if you head here in summer, time your trip to coincide with Crail Food Festival .

To get here without a car, take the direct number 95 bus from St Andrews.

Highlights of visiting Crail:

The most famous of all the seaside towns in Scotland, Fife’s St Andrews is pretty close to Crail. But it’s much bigger than its nearby neighbor.*

*with a still-small population of around 15,000 people, it’s actually the biggest town on our list.

Anyway, you probably know St Andrews for a few different things: famous golf courses, its historic university, a massive cathedral, and its kooky collection of mish-mash architecture. To learn about those places (and some heritage), check out this history tour , and this ghost tour (spooky!).

But the town is also way more than that:

It’s a good option if you’re hunting for a multi-day base you can tackle loads of adventures from. In and around St Andrews, you get beaches, short walks, many-day hikes, kid-friendly stuff, close proximity to Edinburgh. sort-of-nearby Lomond Hills Regional Park , and plenty more.

No matter who you are and what you want to do, St Andrews should be one of your top options.

Highlights of visiting St Andrews:

If you’ve got kids, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

The area’s beaches are big and sandy, there are endless casual places to munch, and the harbor is a nice place for a fun little wander.

There’s also a great caravan park , loads of boat trips (taking in caves, cliffs, shores, sands, seals, seabirds, and maybe even dolphins), and a local man who’ll help you feed the seals .

And last of all, it’s a great base for day trips. From Eyemouth, it’s easy to reach Edinburgh, Berwick, underrated Dunbar, and lots of littler places.

In short, if you’re looking for a family-friendly place, Eyemouth is my #1 recommendation.

Highlights of visiting Eyemouth:

Pretty close to Eyemouth, North Berwick isn’t quite as well-known as its neighbor.

But it’s just as fun-packed, and it’s easy to reach from Edinburgh. So if you’re seeking a simple but lovely seaside-town day trip from Scotland’s capital, you’ve found it.

Highlights here include boat trips to bird-covered Bass Rock, loads of great beaches (Yellowcraig is my favorite), the family-friendly Scottish Seabird Center , some great golfing, the massive hulking ruins of Tantallon Castle , and lots of informal places to eat and drink (dog-friendly hipster hub Steampunk Coffee is great).

Highlights of visiting North Berwick:

The most well-known town on the North Coast 500 *, I love Ullapool.

*In case you have no idea what I’m banging on about here, I’m talking about one of the world’s best road trips—you totally need to tackle it.

For me, Ullapool is what Scottish coastal towns are all about. Brimming with an unpretentious charm, you get hyper-fresh seafood, great campsites, gentle port walks, loads of nearby hill hikes, and a bunch of friendly faces.

If you can only visit one seaside town in Scotland (and time and transport aren’t an issue), this is the one I recommend. I guarantee you’ll love the place, and you’ll start making plans to move here immediately.

Highlights of visiting Ullapool:

Further north up the North Coast 500 route, you’ve got Durness. Sitting on the western side of Scotland’s northern coast, this is one of the most remote entries on our list.

But even though it’s remote, it’s a relatively busy place… and it serves up loads of varied adventure options. Popular choices include Smoo Cave (a sea-and-freshwater cavern, great if you’re traveling with kids), Golden Eagle Zip Line (the most northerly zip line in Europe), the walk to Faraid Head, and the chocolate-filled Cocoa Mountain of Balnakeil.

… and make sure you also explore the sands and shores of Balnakeil Beach, one of the best beaches in Scotland.

If you’re into camping , pitch up at Sango Sands. One of the best campsites in Scotland, I love the place.

Highlights of visiting Durness:

You know that famous kids’ TV show Balamory? The one with all the colorful houses?

Well, that was filmed in Tobermory—and the cheerful fictional town based on it isn’t particularly different from the real-life place.

The colorful capital of the Isle of Mull, it’s packed with friendly faces and loads of stuff to do—and it’s probably one of the nicest coastal settlements you’ve ever seen. Of course, it’s the island’s best base for exploring all of Mull (with its walks, beaches, and big lovely lochs)…

… but there’s also plenty to enjoy in and around Tobermory itself.

To get here, hop on a ferry from the mainland departure point of Kilchoan.

Highlights of visiting Tobermory:

When I first came to Lossiemouth, the place was a nice little surprise.

I only visited cos my friend lived here… so I wasn’t really expecting much. But it exceeded all my expectations, and I totally fell in love with the place.

(Anyway, enough of the mundane insights of my life).

Lossiemouth is great for all types of people, but it’s particularly good for anyone with kids. Here, you get plenty of places to eat and drink, a great caravan site, lots of safe beaches, close proximity to loads of fun and day trips, and endless servings of ice cream.

The nearest city is Inverness. To get to Lossiemouth, hop on a train from Inverness to Elgin, then a bus from Elgin to Lossiemouth. The entire journey will usually take around 90 minutes.

Highlights of visiting Lossiemouth:

Here’s a controversial one for you.

Most people (who haven’t been to Stranraer) have some weird idea that the town is a horrible dirty ming-fest.

Those people are wrong.

Stranraer is actually a lovely place with lovely people. And it’s a good option if you’re with kids—it’s bigger than most places on our list, with all the comforts and conveniences you and your kids could need. You’ll always find somewhere to stay, somewhere to eat, and stuff to keep you entertained.

Other perks include beaches, a pretty harbor, great-but-easy nearby walks, and exploring all of the surprisingly-big peninsula that juts out of the town.

You can get here from Glasgow by switching trains in Ayr.

Fun fact: In Stranraer, if you pay attention, you can find some tropical palm trees! I know, it’s very odd isn’t it? I wrote an entire article about the subject, check it out here: Are There Palm Trees in Scotland?

Highlights of visiting Stranraer:

Another island entry.

Brodick is the main town on the Isle of Arran (I use the word ‘town’ loosely, cos only around 900 people live here)…

… and in some ways, Brodick is similar to Portree, on the Isle of Skye. It’s charming and pretty, but it’s nothing massively special. But it’s an excellent base for adventures around the island—and for the vast majority of people, it’s the logical place to stay.

From here, you can access all of Arran’s fun, including coastal walks (the Arran Coastal Way runs around the entirety of the island), the wander up Goatfell , and plenty of trips and treks to nearby beaches and villages.

To get here, you need to reach the mainland west-coast town of Ardrossan, then hop on a ferry.

Highlights of visiting Brodick:

I know, I know. Glencoe isn’t strictly a coastal town. Sorry for being a big liar.

But it lies on the shores of a loch, and that loch leads directly into the sea. So it’s sort of coastal, isn’t it? Isn’t it?

Better than nearby Fort William, Glencoe is one of Scotland’s best bases for hiking.

The village itself is nothing special (and is hardly even a village—it’s absolutely tiny). But if you want to get some of the best hikes in Scotland without heading to a more remote village, this is where you want to be.

Visiting Glencoe on a tour is easy and convenient. Options include this Glencoe (and Oban and more!) tour from Glasgow, and this sort-of-similar day trip from Edinburgh.

Highlights of visiting Glencoe:

Another Scottish west-coast option, another North Coast 500 option.

I love this place. Absolutely tiny, there’s not much to do here except eat a bit of food, splash around on the beaches, and gawp at all the lovely lovely views.

But when a place looks this good, that’s all you really need. Pitch up in Sands Caravan and Camping (one of my favorite Scottish campsites), and just spend a few days exploring all the outdoors here.

It’s (surprisingly) possible to reach Gairloch via the direct 700 bus from Inverness.

When you’re in Gairloch, make sure you wander to Hillbillies Coffee , a quirky cafe offering books, cakes, and plenty of charm and smiles. They make their coffee with beans from a company owned by one of Bob Marley’s sons.

Highlights of visiting Gairloch:

If you want to go remote without heading too far north, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

Sitting close to Stranraer, Portpatrick is plonked on a weird little peninsula jutting out of the southwestern part of Scotland.

Adventures here include fishing, clifftop wandering, and munching on seafood in and around the harbor. From this harbor (and all of Portpatrick’s seafront), you can even nab some views of not-too-distant Northern Ireland.

If you’re hunting for a hefty adventure, Portpatrick is at the westerly edge of the Southern Upland Way , a massive 214-mile (344 km) coast-to-coast wander along some of the most underrated parts of remote Scotland.

To reach Portpatrick, you can catch the direct 367 bus from Stranraer.

Highlights of visiting Portpatrick:

Close to Aberdeen, Peterhead is home to a surprising amount of fun.

Highlights include the busy harbor, the almost-as-busy marina, the clear-watered shores of Scotstown Beach, and the great fish and chips of The Dolphin Cafe . Make sure you also check out the daily fish market, just north of the harbor (Peterhead is one of the busiest fish ports in Scotland).

… and south of the town, you’ll find Slains Castle , apparently one of the inspirations for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

To get here from Aberdeen, take a direct 1-hour bus. The X60 and the X63 are your best options.

If you like unique (or grisly) fun, get yourself on a Peterhead Prison Museum tour . Known as “Scotland’s Alcatraz,” this place has a pretty horrendous history.

Highlights of visiting Peterhead:

Another tiny place, another of my favorites.

Soz for being a big stinking liar, but this isn’t exactly a Scottish seaside town. Like Glencoe, it sits on a loch rather than on the sea.

But, again, this loch stretches into the sea… so if you use your imagination a bit, Lochcarron is definitely a Scottish seaside town. There’s not much to do in the settlement itself (except sit in some outrageously-charming cafes on the shores of the loch)…

… but it’s an incredible base for cycling, hiking, visiting other small towns, and doing some open-mouthed gaping at all the lovely scenery.

If you want to see this area of Scotland, but don’t have much time, get yourself on this convenient but fun-crammed adventure tour from Inverness . You’ll see loads of lochs, a bunch of wildlife, and the iconic Bealach na Ba pass.

Highlights of visiting Lochcarron:

To get as remote and rural as you possibly can, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

The main settlement on the Shetland Islands, it sits a long ol’ way from the rest of Scotland—the peninsula (made up of around 100 islands, only 16 of them inhabited) sits around 100 miles (160km) north of the mainland.

It’s the best base for exploring the southern parts of the Shetland Islands—you get endless beaches, wanders, villages and more.

In-Lerwick highlights include the Shetland Museum and Archives , some little coastal walks, Shetland Seabird Tours , and a load of cute and cozy cafes.

To get here, you’ll have to tackle an overnight ferry. These ferries depart from both Kirkwall (on the Orkney Islands) and Aberdeen. The 12-hour direct-from-Aberdeen option is most popular.

Highlights of visiting Lerwick:

There they are—the 20 best seaside towns in Scotland.

You probably don’t have time to visit them all—so if you can only choose three, I recommend St Andrews (the best all-rounder), Ullapool (one of my personal favorites, but it’s pretty far north), and Eyemouth (if you’re hunting for family-friendly fun in the south of the nation).

For more highlights of the nation, check out our guides to the best cliffs in Scotland , the best castles in Scotland , the prettiest villages in Scotland , and the best road trips in Scotland .

Thanks for reading, and thanks for choosing Travelness. See ya!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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My 6 Favorite Unique Places To Visit In Scotland

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• United Kingdom

I’ve lived in the UK all my life, so you might think finding somewhere unique after all these years would be pretty difficult. But the UK has so many quirky and unusual places to visit, I’m constantly discovering more. My grandmother’s family was from Scotland, so as soon as I had the opportunity, I started traveling up to explore this other vast country. Uniqueness can come in many different forms and I love that you can turn a corner in Scotland and find something so unexpected it truly amazes. Here are my favorite unique places to visit in Scotland.

1. Haymarket, Edinburgh

Haymarket might not be the first area of the city most people would think of visiting, it’s a little way out of the center and away from the main attractions, but it has a certain charm to it that makes it one of my favorite places to be. Haymarket feels like a separate community from the rest of the city. It has a long row of shops, its own train station, restaurants and pubs, and even its own cathedral. You could miss St. Mary’s Cathedral if you didn’t know it was there. As you walk down the high street of busy shops and cafés, the cathedral rises up behind the roofs, on a side street. It’s worth seeking out if only to see the incredible Eduardo Paolozzi stained glass window.

Where To Stay

Dunstane House is an incredible Victorian villa, built in 1851 as a private residence, and now a luxury boutique hotel. This intimate hotel still has the feel of a family home, but has all the luxury of a five-star hotel. The owners also bought Hampton House across the road, only discovering afterward that the former owner of that house was the sister of the Dunstane House’s owner. The street feels a million miles away from the city, but it’s just around the corner from Haymarket train station.

2. Eilean Shona

The private island that inspired J.M. Barrie’s “Neverland,” Eilean Shona allows guests to escape to the wilderness while enjoying both cozy croft comfort and a touch of luxury at its nine luxury boutique holiday cottages. Only a short boat ride from the mainland, over the still waters of Loch Moidart, the 3-mile-long island boasts 2,000 acres of pristine moor, hills, and woodland crisscrossed by tempting trails. Here, guests can walk for hours without seeing another soul and instead disconnect from the outside world and turn back the clock to a slower, gentle pace of life. Smartphones, tablets, and TVs are substituted by the stunning natural environment and the former village hall is stocked with ping-pong, board games, and books. If you want something a bit more active, Shona’s coastline is ideal for wild swimming, sea kayaking, paddle boarding, and generally messing about on boats. All the properties are within walking distance of Shoe Bay, Eilean Shona’s own secluded silver sand beach which is lapped by an aquamarine sea. It was here, during summer holidays taken in the 1920s, that the author and playwright J.M. Barrie took inspiration from the magical surroundings, the enchanted moss-covered woods, wild open hills, and white sand beaches, to create Neverland in Peter Pan .

Eilean Shona is also a wildlife spotter’s dream, and there is typically more animal than human life on the island. It boasts its own “Big Five,” with seals, sea eagles, sea otters, red squirrel, and pine martens commonly seen. In the summer, as the island’s waters warm up, there’s the chance, too, to spot dolphins, minke whales, and even basking sharks. The island was once owned by a seafaring captain who brought back rare trees and plants from his travels and, still today, Eilean Shona boasts one of the most diverse pinetum plantations in Europe .

3. Dornoch 

On the drive up to Dornoch, you cross water a fair few times and it’s soon clear that water forms a big part of the landscape up here. Dornoch is a town right by the sea, and the beach here is windswept and unspoiled, but what makes this place really unique is the collection of landscapes that are gathered together all in one place. Two steps over the sand dunes from the beach, the golf course rumbles out. You can walk across designated paths, as long as you listen out for the call of “fore,” which means a golf ball could be hurtling your way! If you like to play golf, you won’t find a more beautiful place for it. A 2-minute walk away is the town, where you can shop for handmade chocolates and whiskey, and see the old castle, which is now a hotel. And then there are the woodland walks that meander around the town and take you back towards the beach.

Links House at Royal Dornoch has accommodation to suit varying needs, from hotel rooms to a stunning suite with its own balcony. Golfers love it here as it’s right next to the golf course, but it’s also the perfect place to have a wedding or celebrate a birthday, or for a quiet weekend away for two. The food is amazing — definitely try the taster menu with the wine flight.

4. Brucefield Estate

Brucefield Estate in Forestmill, Clackmannanshire, dates back 700 years to when it was part of the Barony of Schenbothy. The estate was first owned by the Stewarts of Rosyth. Brucefield Estate is now owned by Victoria Bruce-Winkler, a biologist who returned home to manage the Estate in 2012. The family has ancestry dating back to Robert the Bruce. The estate covers 420 hectares of semi-ancient birch, oak, and Scots pine woodland, pasture, and arable farmland, dotted with dry stone dyke walls. The 10-year wildlife plan monitors and manages the diverse habitats on the estate which include a wealth of wildlife including bats, barn and tawny owls, pine martens, red squirrels, rare wildflowers, butterflies, and plant species. The estate is located off the A907, a 40-minute drive from Glasgow and 50 minutes from Edinburgh. The Estate is a 30-minute cycle from Alloa train station along the almost traffic-free Inner Forth Route.

This incredibly unique estate is something of a work in progress. Future plans include the launch of eco bothies on the estate and workshops for both residents and non-residents such as ancestry, wood turning, garden design, and badger watching.

The city of Dundee has many attractions and, in some ways, it’s an underrated, lesser-visited Scottish city, but there’s one thing in particular that makes it unique: I can’t think of any other Scottish city with the kind of street art Dundee has. You have to be a certain age to remember the comic characters Desperate Dan and Minnie the Minx, but stroll through the city center of Dundee and you can see them as large as life in their sculptured form. Caught mid-stride through the streets, Desperate Dan and Minnie the Minx play out a section from the comic strip they once inhabited. There’s also now a sculpture of a polar bear chasing a man through the street, taken from a real life event that happened in Dundee in 1878, when a polar bear did indeed escape from a traveling show and made his bid for freedom.

6. Argaty Red Kites

Argaty Red Kites is situated on the Argaty Estate, a working farm owned by the Bowser family since 1916. The farm lies on the Braes of Doune in Stirlingshire, an area traditionally known as The Gateway to the Highlands . This is where the civilized Scottish Lowlands end and the wild Highlands begin. This area of Central Scotland is where the RSPB and Scottish Natural Heritage have reintroduced the red kite, and the Argaty estate is home to a large number of these exciting birds and an abundance of rare red squirrels. In partnership with both the RSPB and Scottish Natural Heritage, Argaty Red Kites has provided Central Scotland’s only red kite feeding station for the last 20 years, making it totally unique. This allows guests to enjoy these exciting birds and their spectacular flying in comfort but without the risk of disturbing what is still a fragile population.

The owners Tom and Sarah Bowser have just renovated the new Argaty Cottage to offer guests the chance to stay on the estate, explore further, and enjoy a relaxing break surrounded by stunning scenery. Tom and Sarah are the fifth generation of family members to live on the estate and run the conservation project. The cottage comfortably sleeps six guests, but is cozy enough as a getaway for two. From free Wi-Fi to a log-burning stove and gorgeous garden, Argaty Cottage offers all the amenities needed for a perfect country break. During their stay, guests can enjoy discounted rates for visits to see the kites, red squirrels, and ATV buggy tours of Argaty. In the spring and summer, guests can also enjoy dragonfly walks, pond dipping sessions, and bespoke wildlife tours.

Check out some more of our Scotland coverage:

• 7 Fantastic Walking Tours In Scotland
• 7 Unique Small Towns To Visit In Scotland
• 9 Best Beaches To Visit In Scotland

Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

• United Kingdom
• 10 Epic Places In Scotland...

Epic Places In Scotland Even Scots Don't Know About

Sometimes all it takes is looking that bit closer or trekking a tad further for the magic to reveal itself. The beauty with Scotland is that it’s always full of surprises! Just when you think you’ve seen it all, explore our guide to some epic places even us Scots don’t always know about.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Polphail Ghost Village

Up until recent events resulting in its demolition, a lone ghost village stood sadly in Argyll and Bute on the west coast of the Cowal Peninsula. Derelict and abandoned, Polphail Village resembled a post-apocalyptic town from a zombie movie. It was designed as a residential area during an oil boom in the 1970s, but, due to a lack of prosperity in the local industry, Polphail never saw any people. Years went on and the weeds thickened amongst the abandoned discordance of discarded buildings. In 2009, a group of artists embellished this surreal sight with striking graffiti art, only adding to the despondent yet evocative tone.

A torrent of powerful tidal burst, the Corryvreckan Whirlpool is the third largest whirlpool in the world. This ritualistic dance between waves of different clans occurs in a thin strait between the isles of Scarba and Jura. Caused by an altercation between forceful Atlantic currents and atypical water topography, this intricate tidal system amalgamates to a flurry of swirling whirlpools, rambunctious waves and tenacious ripples, amidst other flustered surface effects. Some say divers have referred to this contentious area as ‘potentially the most dangerous dive in the UK’.

Kelburn Castle

Scotland’s cornucopia of castles creates a never-ending point of intrigue to architects, historians and tourists alike. And yet, undoubtedly the most alluring and certainly colourful of them all is Kelburn Castle near Fairlie in North Ayrshire. Standing out from the crowd, this quirky castle received a lick of paintwork like no other back around 2007 — a head to toe graffiti extravaganza! The hypnotic graffiti art embellishing Kelburn is the masterpiece of four Brazilian graffiti artists at the request of Lord Glasgow, who arguably had the most genius solution ever after hearing the concrete facing needed replaced! Trippy and wonderfully terrific.

Kagyu Samye Ling

As the first Tibetan Buddhist Centre to form in the West, Kagyu Samye Ling in Eskdalemuir is a place of constant calm and refreshing rejuvenation. This monastery and international centre of Buddhist training is a sanctuary of great intrigue, with the architecture as engaging as its philosophy. Gilded temples, stupas, gardens and Buddhist statues adorn the peaceful premises, which is home to some 60 people. Along with ensuring the preservation of Tibetan arts and crafts, this training centre teaches Buddhist meditation and philosophy in tune with the Karma Kagyu aspects of Tibetan Buddhism. As a symbol of the centre’s integral role in Scottish culture, a special tartan was designed in 2010 for the Sangha.

St Peter’s Seminary

St Peter’s Seminary, Cardross resembles a dystopian spaceship or a fragmented memory from a distant dream. An architectural work of great substance, this derelict Roman Catholic seminary is praised as a resplendent example of modernist architecture in Scotland, with its strong modernist and brutalist essence in line with the wonders of Le Corbusier. Although abandoned and left standing alone since the late 1980s, this extraordinary structure is deemed a ‘building of world significance’ by DOCOMOMO, the international architecture conservation organization. Space and Light , a documentary by filmmaker Murray Grigor and works by Glasgow artist Toby Paterson are just two examples of the many minds in awe of this otherworldly edifice.

Dunmore Pineapple

If SpongeBob were Scottish, he would no doubt reside in the Dunmore Pineapple ! This eye-catching building in Falkirk’s Dunmore Park was crafted in 1761 and served as an epic birthday gift for the Earl of Dunmore’s wife. Carved to perfection, the masonry work is as impressive as the pineapple itself. It should come as no surprise that this fruity structure was crowned as ‘Scotland’s most bizarre building’.

Dinosaur Footprints

Home to stunning scenery and untamed terrain, the cherry on top of beautiful Skye is its association with dinosaurs. Basking on the beach at An Corran, Staffin, incredible dinosaur footprints forge a physical bridge to a bygone past, offering a glimpse into a very different Skye. The prints are thought to be around 165 million years old, while the creatures in question were identified as a group of herbivores known as Ornithopods.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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8 Places You Must-Visit in 2024

If you’ve ever wondered what the best places are to visit in Scotland each season, you’re in the right place. These Scottish gems have huge amounts to offer and several of them have exciting things to shout about across the year in 2024.

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, Caithness

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Tobermory on the Isle of Mull

Weather: June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15-17°C (or 59-63 °F).

Tiree Wave Classic Windsurfing Competition, The Isle Of Tiree

Argyll & The Isles

Location: West coast of central Scotland with islands lying off the coast.

As summer and the warmer weather arrives it’s the perfect time to explore Scotland’s magical islands. Head to the west coast where Argyll & The Isles awaits with an enticing range of things to see and do, family-friendly activities, attractions, watersports and more.

Explore from the Isle of Tiree  renowned for its surfing and the Isle of Jura known for its mountains and wild deer, to a wealth of whisky and distilleries on Islay  and the Isle of Mull with the famous town of Tobermory lined with colourful houses and shops.

Start your journey on the mainland where you’ll be greeted by friendly locals, Scottish culture, the sunny outdoors and delectable seafood to sink your teeth into. Perch yourself on a bench or grassy spot overlooking the sea to enjoy your seafood of choice whilst you soak in the sun.

Oban is an ideal harbour to base yourself if you’re looking to explore the local islands. The summer months see a range of wildlife and boat tours leaving from the port, so you’ve got plenty on your doorstep. Hop on a ferry to the surrounding islands of Lismore, Kerrera and Mull for an exciting day trip, or to extend your trip further with a stay on some of the islands.

Explore Argyll & The Isles

Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Banchory

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Got time for two destinations?

Aberdeenshire

Location: North coast of eastern Scotland.

If you’re a fan of castles a sunny day is the perfect time to see them in all their glory, and if it rains it creates a dramatic atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere. Home to more than 260 castles, stately homes and ruins Aberdeenshire really is a playground for exploring the history of the region, and of Scotland as a whole. Scotland’s Castle Trail takes you around 19 of the most famous castles in Aberdeenshire, from the coastal Dunnottar Castle and the fairytale Crathes Castle , to the grand Castle Fraser and the picturesque Tolquhon Castle .

Elsewhere, head off on an adventure to see what else the region has in store. From walking trails and driving routes with magnificent scenic views, to heritage trails, Munro bagging and wildlife spotting, you’ve got plenty of choice to keep the whole family entertained.

Visit Aberdeenshire

The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry

Weather: In the autumn, Scotland is likely to experience temperatures ranging from around 8-15°C (46-59°F) from September to November.

River Garry

Location: Southern areas of the Highlands.

Autumn is arguably one of the most beautiful times of the year in Scotland thanks to our abundance of lush forests, woodlands and mountains. There are plenty of places to see the stunning colours of the leaves change throughout the season, but Perthshire is often picked as a special spot.

Also known as ‘Big Tree Country’, it is home to countless forests where you can soak up the autumnal atmosphere on a woodland wander. A great way to experience Perthshire is at night. Book tickets for the Enchanted Forest which takes places throughout October in Pitlochry with illuminated trails, light displays and installations.

If that’s not enough, autumn is the perfect time to pick your own pumpkins. Whether you’re a budding chef and love to cook up a storm with seasonal produce, a young artist that loves pumpkin carving, or if you’re looking for an extra addition your autumnal décor, head to a local farm to pick your own pumpkins. Broadslap Fruit Farm and South Ardbennie Farm & Pumpkin Patch offer a great family day out.

Why not take that farm experience a step further with a farm stay? Get back to nature and make friends with all the local farm animals with cosy self-catering cottages, rustic accommodation and more. Guardswell Farm offers an eco-friendly getaway with a chance to properly switch off, Blairmore Farm is a working farm with a range of cottages to choose from, and Springfield Farm Bothies gives you that rural escape with a touch of luxury. Explore more farm stays in Perthshire .

Visit Perthshire

Professional mountain biker Ruaridh Cunningham at 7stanes, Innerleithen

Scottish Borders

Location: South east of central Scotland.

The Scottish Borders also boasts family-friendly farm experiences. Head to Jacksons at Jedburgh where you can meet the hairy Highland cows, help to feed the newborn lambs, enjoy self-guided walks, and the wee ones can let off energy in the play areas too. Elsewhere, Hillhouse Farm Escapes in Lauder is a quaint and peaceful location offering welcoming self-catering cottages to cosy into surrounded by rolling hills, walking trails and cycle paths.

Why not get outdoors on two wheels this autumn? This corner of Scotland is a haven for cyclists, with miles of cycle trails and paths that loop their way around the vast countryside. Explore the hidden spots of the area, as well as soaking up the stunning views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

If you prefer something at a faster pace, there are plenty of mountain biking opportunities here too. Head to one of three 7Stanes Mountain Biking Centres in the Scottish Borders - Newcastleton, Innerleithen and Glentress - where you can test your skills on the range of routes, or if you’re a newbie there’s plenty of beginner trails too.

Explore the Scottish Borders

Skiing on Cairngorm Mountain

© VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Weather: December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usually around 5°C (41°F).

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

The Highlands

Location: Mountainous area in the north west.

Nothing says Scotland more than a snowy winter escape in the Highlands. An area that’s on almost every Scottish explorer’s must-visit list is the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Highlands. Whether it’s the iconic Isle of Skye, the magnificent Cairngorms National Park , or admiring the whales and dolphins playing in the waters off the Moray Speyside coast, you’ve got plenty to choose from for a winter getaway in the Highlands.

The Highlands offer up the perfect playground for every outdoor enthusiast. With all types of terrain and weather conditions there’s a wealth of activities you can get involved in. There’s skiing and snowboarding paradise here with 5 resorts close by and plenty of snowfall if the temperature is right. Munro baggers will be in their element with hundreds of peaks to choose from. Just make sure you’ve got all the right equipment with you. If scaling a peak isn’t for you then there are plenty of low level woodland walks and trails you can follow that look magical in the snow.

After a day in the outdoors, treat yourself to a slow and relaxing festive period with a luxury or spa stay in the Highlands. With spectacular views everywhere you look and the chance of snow dancing outside your window, you’re in for a tranquil time before the new year starts.

Make sure you add a few hidden gems to your itinerary too. Badenoch is a trip into the history and heritage of the region with fascinating stories of the land and people to uncover. Near Inverness you’ll find Nairn . Did you know this seaside town is one of the sunniest and driest places in Scotland? Don’t forget the West Highland Peninsula - full of rugged, untouched landscapes and the perfect conditions for stargazing in the night sky, it’s a must-do!

Explore more in the Scottish Highlands

Stargazing in the Mull of Galloway

Dumfries & Galloway

Location: South west of central Scotland.

Speaking of stargazing , Dumfries & Galloway is one of the best places in Scotland to see the twinkling night sky in action. With rural locations away from the light pollution of cities, people often spot shooting stars, constellations and other planets here. If you’re looking for a winter getaway, you’re spoilt for choice on places to stay, from family-run B&Bs, quaint cottages, glamping treehouses and more.

The area is a great place for walking too, with the Southern Upland Way and dozens of locals walks on your doorstep, you can choose from lots of short and sweet strolls, or challenge yourself with the longer walking routes. If you want to see the sights but don’t fancy the walk, explore the South West Coastal 300 driving route which takes you on a loop around the regions starting and finishing in Dumfries, or head along the Galloway Tourist Route from Gretna to Ayr. You’ll pass ancient abbeys, coastal lighthouses, grand castles and more along the way.

Visit Dumfries & Galloway

Of course that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Scotland’s must-visit destinations. These were just a few of the best places to visit across the seasons but the adventures don’t stop here. Where will you go next?

Weather: you can expect average maximum temperatures to range from approximately 7-13°C (or 45°-55°F) during the months of March, April and May.

Leven Links Golf Course in the Kingdom of Fife.

© Fife Council / Airborne Lens

Location: East of Scotland, across the Firth of Forth north of Edinburgh.

As spring comes into full bloom it’s the perfect time to admire Scotland’s blossoming outdoors and dig your teeth into the natural larder which is now becoming ready for harvest.

In Fife you can visit a variety of farms that offer a family-friendly ‘pick your own’ experience, with a range of produce to choose from as well as farm shops with homemade goods, freshly grown fruits and vegetables and more to buy and take home. It’s a great way to get back to nature with the wee ones.  Pittormie Fruit Farm , Cairnie Fruit Farm , and Pillars of Hercules are just a few of the farms you can head out to visit. Make sure to check ahead for what produce is available at each farm before you head off.

Fife also boasts the perfect landscape for seaside and beach activities . With miles of coastline, sandy beaches, hidden bays and more, you can put the spring weather to the test with a cool dip in the sea, or relax on the shores with an afternoon of making sandcastles. Leven East Beach , Elie Harbour , and Aberdour Silversands are just a few beaches that are worth a visit.

Alongside stunning coastal locations, you can find a range of pretty fishing towns and villages that are full of character and are home to many cafés, restaurants and eateries to enjoy too. Why not explore Crail , Anstruther or Burntisland ?

Fife is also the place to be if you’re a golfing enthusiast. Home to more golf courses than anywhere else in Scotland, it’s the perfect destination for the beginners and pros alike. From the iconic Old Course in St Andrews and Kingsbarns Golf Links to Aberdour Golf Club and Leven Links Golf Course , you’ve got plenty of choice, all of which boast incredible views to admire whilst you tee off.

Plan your trip to the Kingdom of Fife

Duncansby Stacks, Wick

© markmcgeephotos

Caithness & Sutherland

Location: Furthest north area of mainland Scotland.

If you’re looking for more outdoor adventures and rustic towns and villages, why not explore Caithness & Sutherland? The far north of the Highlands calls to the avid explorers and hikers as the spring weather and warm sun brings the landscape to life after the winter.

This vast area of beautiful Scottish scenery offers a trip back in time with a history lesson or two about the land and people. Visit the most northern point, John O’Groats, as well as a number of ancient sites and attractions, such as Dunrobin Castle , Smoo Cave , The Castle & Gardens of Mey , and Wick Heritage Museum .

This region recently won an award in Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Destinations of 2024 and once you’re here, you’ll easily see why! If you head north by train, the scenic route winds its way through the Flow Country – the most extensive blanket bog system in the world.

This incredible area stretches across Caithness and Sutherland, comprising an array of ecosystems, flora, fauna, and plays a vital part in the fight against climate change.

Learn more about travelling to Caithness & Sutherland

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