Though sparsely populated, the Highlands are home to several towns and villages that serve as gateways to the region's attractions.

Inverness:

Known as the "Capital of the Highlands," Inverness is the largest city in the region and a hub for exploring nearby attractions like Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield.

Portree:

The largest town on the Isle of Skye, Portree is a charming village with colourful harbour buildings and serves as a starting point for exploring Skye’s dramatic landscapes.

Fort William:

Situated at the foot of Ben Nevis, Fort William is known as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK." It’s a popular base for hiking, climbing, and exploring the West Highlands.

Oban:

A picturesque coastal town, Oban is the gateway to the Hebridean islands and is famous for its seafood. One of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, Oban Distillery offers guided tours that detail the traditional process of whisky-making and a chance to taste the famous Oban single malt. McCaig's Tower is a prominent landmark overlooking the town, this Romanesque-style structure was commissioned by John Stuart McCaig in the 19th century. It offers panoramic views of Oban and the surrounding islands. Oban is a primary ferry port, with services to the Inner and Outer Hebrides, including islands like Mull, Iona, and Staffa, making it an ideal starting point for island-hopping adventures.

Mountains:

The Highlands are famous for their mountains, particularly the Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet or 914 meters). Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles, stands at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) and is a major attraction for hikers and climbers.

Islands:

The Highlands also include parts of the Inner and Outer Hebrides, with islands like Skye, Mull, and Harris offering dramatic coastlines, unique wildlife, and rich Gaelic culture.

Lochs:

The region is dotted with numerous lochs (lakes), with Loch Ness being the most famous, partly due to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster. Other notable lochs include Loch Lomond, Loch Tay, and Loch Morar.

Glens:

The Highlands are also known for their deep valleys or glens, such as Glen Coe, which is both breathtakingly beautiful and historically significant as the site of the infamous 1692 massacre.

Industries:

Winter sports, timber, aluminium smelting, pulp and paper production, whisky distilling, cottage and croft industries Agriculture: salmon fishing, sheep farming, grouse and deer hunting. Highland is a predominantly rural area comprising of land that is agriculturally marginal, much of which is not amenable to crops or forestry. Subsistence economies in the form of crofting still characterise the least accessible parts of the area. More accessible parts are exploiting their tourist potential and the opportunities afforded by mountain sports, for example, Aviemore and Fort William. Traditional industries, such as whisky distilling and crafts, are sustained by the tourist industry.

There are 356 Sites of Special Scientific Interest, 27 National Nature Reserves, 8 Ramsars (wetland sites), 16 Special Protection Areas, 3 Biosphere Reserves and 16 National Scenic Areas.

Events and Festivals

The Highlands host a variety of cultural events that celebrate the region's traditions and heritage.

Highland Games:

These traditional Scottish events, held in various locations, feature competitions like caber tossing, tug-of-war, and Scottish dancing. The Braemar Gathering, attended by the Royal Family, is one of the most famous.

Whisky Festivals:

Whisky is an essential part of Scottish culture, and the Highlands have several distilleries. Whisky festivals, like the Spirit of Speyside festival, celebrate Scotland's national drink with tastings and tours.

Celtic Connections:

This festival in Inverness celebrates Celtic music and culture, attracting performers from across Scotland and beyond.

Wildlife

The Scottish Highlands are a haven for wildlife, offering some of the best opportunities in the UK to see a variety of species in their natural habitats.

Red Deer:

Often referred to as the "Monarch of the Glen," red deer are iconic in the Highlands and can be seen roaming the hills and glens.

Golden Eagles:

These majestic birds of prey are often spotted soaring above the mountains and moorlands.

Red Squirrels:

These native squirrels are common in the Highlands, particularly in areas with pine forests.

Scottish Wildcats:

One of the UK's rarest mammals, the Scottish wildcat, can be found in remote parts of the Highlands.

Marine Life:

Off the coast, you can spot dolphins, seals, and occasionally whales, particularly around the Moray Firth and the Isle of Mull.

Culture and History

The Highlands are steeped in history, much of it tied to Scotland's clan system, battles, and the struggle for independence.

Clans:

The Highlands were traditionally home to many of Scotland's clans, such as the MacDonalds, Campbells, and MacLeods. The clan system played a significant role in the social structure of the Highlands until it was dismantled after the Jacobite risings.

Jacobite Risings:

The Highlands were the heartland of the Jacobite risings, which sought to restore the Stuart kings to the British throne. The most famous of these was the 1745 uprising, which ended in the defeat of the Jacobites at the Battle of Culloden near Inverness.

Castles:

The region is dotted with castles, many of which have ties to Scotland's tumultuous past. Eilean Donan Castle, Urquhart Castle, and Inveraray Castle are among the most famous, each offering a glimpse into Scotland's feudal history.

Gaelic Language:

Scottish Gaelic is still spoken in parts of the Highlands, particularly in the Outer Hebrides. The language is an integral part of the region's cultural identity, and efforts to preserve it continue today.

Outdoor Activities

The Highlands are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities.

Hiking and Mountaineering:

With hundreds of miles of trails, the Highlands are perfect for hiking. Popular routes include the West Highland Way, which runs from Glasgow to Fort William, and climbs like Ben Nevis and The Cuillin on Skye.

Wildlife Watching:

Whether it's birdwatching, dolphin spotting, or stalking red deer, the Highlands offer plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.

Water Sports:

The lochs and rivers of the Highlands are ideal for activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Winter Sports:

The Highlands also have ski resorts, such as Cairngorm Mountain and Glencoe, offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

Places to Visit

The main tourist attraction in the Highlands & Islands is the spectacular scenery, most of which, when described as breathtaking, is an understatement. The area around Ben Nevis attracts most tourists but the North Western corner of Scotland is equally as beautiful. Just 36 miles from the Northern Coast is Unapool which sits in the shadow of Glas Bheinn mountain. Britain's highest waterfall, Eas a Chual Aluinn cascades 658 ft / 200m down the mountain.

The West Coast

The West Coast of Scotland is renowned for its rugged landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and stunning islands. Stretching from the southwestern region near Ayrshire up through Argyll, Lochaber, and all the way to the Highlands and Hebrides, this region offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, coupled with rich history, vibrant culture, and abundant wildlife. Whilst the East Coast is rugged & bleak, the West Coast is a huge contrast. A mixture of picturesque coves and inlets, dramatic sea cliffs mountainous terrain, deep sea lochs, forested glens and silver sandy beaches with the Gulf Stream flowing up from the tropics, often surprisingly warm and pleasant. The Hebridean Islands, which include the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides, are a major feature of the west coast, offering remote beauty, white sandy beaches, and clear turquoise waters. Other fabulous islands include: • Isle of Skye: One of the most popular tourist destinations, Skye is known for its jagged mountains, particularly the Cuillin Hills, its historic castles like Dunvegan, and the famous Fairy Pools. • Isle of Mull: Another large island, Mull is home to beautiful beaches, wildlife, and the colorful town of Tobermory. Nearby, Iona is a historic pilgrimage site with its ancient abbey. • Islay: Famous for its world-class whisky distilleries, Islay is a must-visit for whisky lovers. It also has beautiful coastlines and abundant wildlife, including seabirds and seals. • Harris and Lewis (Outer Hebrides): These islands are known for their ancient history, with sites like the Callanish Standing Stones, as well as stunning beaches like Luskentyre.

Eilean Donan Castle:

An absolute 'must visit' if heading towards the Isle of Skye. Eilean Donan Castle is at the meeting point of Loch Alsh and Loch Duich and not only is it in the most perfect of scenic locations, it is a very interesting visitor attraction. Used in the film 'Highlander' Eilean Donan Castle was built by Alexander II in 1230 and was virtually destroyed in 1719. It was restored in 1912 by Colonel MacRae. It is still family owned and is often used by the family for wedding receptions.

Kilmartin Glen:

A treasure trove of prehistoric sites, including standing stones, burial cairns, and rock art, it offers a fascinating insight into Scotland’s ancient past. North of Eilean Donan the Kyle of Lochalsh is a small village located on the north-west coast of Scotland, in the Highland region. It lies on the shores of Loch Alsh, directly across from the Isle of Skye, and is known as a key access point to the island via the Skye Bridge. Historically a ferry port, the village serves as a major hub for travellers heading to Skye and exploring the surrounding Highlands.

Skye:

Largest island of the Inner Hebrides, Highland region, off the west coast of Scotland; area 1,740 sq km/672 sq mi; population (1991) 8,900. It is separated from the mainland to the south-east by the Sound of Sleat and by the islands of Raasay and Scalpay to the north- east. The chief port and town is Portree. The economy is based on crofting, craft industries, tourism, and livestock. The Skye Bridge, a privately financed toll bridge to Kyleakin on the island from the Kyle of Lochalsh, was completed in 1995. Bonnie Prince Charlie (Charles Edward Stuart) took refuge here after the Battle of Culloden. Much of the island is underlain by Tertiary volcanic rocks, and the scenery of the central part is very mountainous, rising to over 1,000 m/ 3,280 ft. The coastline is deeply indented by numerous sea lochs, and most of the settlements are coastal. Large areas of the northern and central western parts of the island have now been planted as forest. The island is 75 km/47 mi long and 25 km /16 mi wide. Numerous car ferries serve the island : Armadale is connected to Mallaig on the mainland; Uig to Tarbert (Harris); Uig to Lochmaddy (North Uist); and Sconser to Raasay.

Plockton:

Picturesque village on the west coast of Scotland, located in the Highlands region, overlooking Loch Carron. Known for its stunning seaside setting, charming whitewashed cottages, and palm trees (thanks to the warm Gulf Stream), Plockton is often regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in Scotland. It is famous for its serene atmosphere, thriving local arts scene, and as a key location for visitors exploring the west Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Plockton gained widespread fame as the filming location for the popular 1990s TV series Hamish Macbeth, starring Robert Carlyle. The village’s scenic views and tranquil setting served as the perfect backdrop for the fictional village of Lochdubh in the series.

Applecross:

Remote and scenic peninsula on the west coast of Scotland, in the Highlands region. Known for its rugged beauty, dramatic landscapes, and isolation, Applecross is one of the most stunning yet less-traveled destinations in Scotland. It is particularly famous for the Bealach na Bà, a mountain pass that offers breathtaking views and a challenging drive. The peninsula is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of modern life. One of the most notable features of Applecross is the Bealach na Bà, a winding, single- track road that rises to over 2,000 feet (626 meters) above sea level. This road is considered one of the most scenic and challenging drives in the UK, with hairpin bends and steep gradients offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Isle of Skye across the water. Originally a drover’s road used to take cattle across the pass, the Bealach na Bà is now a favorite route for adventurous drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists, though it is not recommended for nervous drivers or large vehicles. At its summit, there are breathtaking views of the Inner Hebrides and the Cuillin Hills on Skye.

Lochinver:

Picturesque fishing village located on the west coast of Scotland, in the region of Sutherland, part of the Scottish Highlands. It lies on the shores of Loch Inver, surrounded by dramatic landscapes of mountains, lochs, and coastal beauty. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural splendour, Lochinver is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Lochinver is set against the backdrop of some of the most spectacular Highland landscapes. The village is framed by the iconic peaks of Suilven and Canisp, two of the most recognizable mountains in the region. The Assynt region, in which Lochinver is located, is known for its rugged terrain, with isolated mountains rising dramatically from low-lying moorland and bogs. The coastal road leading to Lochinver is however spectacularly beautiful.

Clachtoll:

Small, idyllic coastal village in the Scottish Highlands, located in the north-west region of Sutherland. Known for its stunning beach, ancient history, and dramatic geological formations, Clachtoll is a hidden gem along the North Coast 500 route. It offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and beachgoers seeking a peaceful, remote getaway. One of the main attractions of Clachtoll is its beautiful white sandy beach, surrounded by rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. The beach is popular with families, swimmers, and sunbathers, especially in the summer months when the weather can be warm and clear. The crystal-clear waters and gently sloping shoreline make Clachtoll Beach ideal for paddling and swimming. It’s also a good spot for kayaking, snorkeling, and other water activities. The beach’s remote location ensures that it remains unspoiled, with a tranquil and secluded atmosphere.

Ullapool:

Charming harbour town sits on the shores of Loch Broom and is known for its scenic beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and as a gateway to the Outer Hebrides. Founded in 1788 as a fishing village by the British Fisheries Society, Ullapool retains much of its traditional charm while offering modern amenities for visitors. Ullapool serves as the main ferry port to the Outer Hebrides (specifically to the Isle of Lewis). The town is close to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Beinn Dearg, An Teallach, and the Summer Isles, providing excellent opportunities for exploring the Highlands’ rugged beauty. • Ferry services operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) link the mainland to the islands, making it easy to explore the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides. Ferries depart from ports such as Oban, Mallaig, and Kennacraig. • The West Highland Line, considered one of the world’s most scenic train routes, runs from Glasgow to Mallaig, passing through iconic locations like Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glenfinnan. • Road travel along the A82 and A83 takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Highlands and the coast.

Best of the Rest

Strath Dionard:

Remote, scenic glen located in the far north-west of Scotland, in the Sutherland region. Nestled within the dramatic landscape of the Scottish Highlands, it lies between towering mountains and rugged wilderness, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Strath Dionard is part of the wider Durness area and is known for its breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and access to challenging hiking routes. The River Dionard flows through the heart of Strath Dionard, winding its way through the valley and contributing to the area’s picturesque landscape. The river is fed by surrounding lochs and is known for its clean, clear waters. The river is popular with anglers, particularly those interested in salmon fishing. The Dionard River is one of the key salmon rivers in the region, attracting anglers from all over to its waters during the fishing season.

Smoo Cave:

Stunning natural sea cave located near Durness, in the far north-west. It is one of the largest coastal caves in Britain and is unique for its combination of both sea and freshwater elements. Carved over millennia by the forces of the ocean and inland rivers, Smoo Cave is a must-see destination for visitors to the Sutherland region, especially for those interested in geology, history, and the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Smoo Cave is known for its massive entrance, which is around 50 feet (15 meters) high and 130 feet (40 meters) wide. This makes it one of the largest natural entrances to any cave in the British Isles.

Loch Ness:

Forming part of the Caledonian Canal, it is 36 km / 22.5 mi long, 2 km / 1 mi wide (on average), 229 m / 754 ft deep, and is the greatest expanse of fresh water in Europe. There have been unconfirmed reports of a Loch Ness monster since the 15th century although St Columba is claimed to have first sighted the monster back in the 6th Century. There are many references to 'Nessie' in the local area and lots of tourist souvenirs can be purchased, the Loch Ness exhibition at Drumnadrochit is however, very interesting. Loch Ness, Loch Lochy and Loch Oich are connected by the Caledonian Canal, and together provide the only navigable channel between the east and west coasts of Scotland. The Caledonian Canal links the Atlantic and the North Sea. Situated between the Moray Firth and Loch Linnhe, the canal was constructed as a transport route to save the long sail around Scotland. It is one of Scotland's largest marina facilities. Of its total length, only a 37 km / 22 mi stretch is artificial, the rest being composed of lochs Lochy, Oich, and Ness. Thomas Telford began construction of the canal in 1803 and it was completed by 1822.

Rothesay:

Rothesay is the main town on the Isle of Bute, located in the Firth of Clyde in western Scotland. This charming town is known for its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and seaside atmosphere, making it a popular destination for visitors to the Scottish Isles. One of Rothesay’s most prominent landmarks is Rothesay Castle, a circular fortress that dates back to the 13th century. It has been an important strategic site in Scottish history, with its moat and formidable stone walls offering protection from invaders. During the Victorian era, Rothesay became a fashionable seaside resort. Wealthy Glaswegians would travel by paddle steamer to enjoy the town’s promenade, beaches, and mild climate. Many of the town's buildings and structures reflect its popularity during this period, including the grand Rothesay Pavilion, which has been recently restored as a cultural and arts venue.

Glencoe:

Valley extending 16 km / 10 mi east from Rannoch Moor to Loch Leven. The mountains rise steeply on either side to over 1,000 m/3,300 ft, and the River Coe flows through the valley. Members of the Macdonald clan were massacred in Glencoe on 13 February 1692. The area is popular for winter sports and rock-climbing. The Glencoe chair-lift and ski area lies just beyond the glen on the western side of Rannoch Moor. Thirty-eight members of the Macdonald clan were slaughtered by government troops led by Robert Campbell of Glenlyon; 300 escaped.

Fort George:

Imposing 18th-century fortress located near Inverness, overlooking the Moray Firth. It was built after the Jacobite Rising of 1745 to serve as a military garrison and is considered one of the finest examples of military architecture in Europe. The fort is still in use by the British Army today, although it is also a popular tourist attraction due to its historical significance and well-preserved condition. Fort George was constructed between 1748 and 1769 as a response to the failed Jacobite Rebellion led by Bonnie Prince Charlie. After the Battle of Culloden, which marked the end of the Jacobite cause, the British government sought to solidify its control over the Highlands. Named after King George II, the fort was designed to suppress further uprisings and provide a permanent military presence in the region.

Aviemore:

All-year sports and tourist centre, in the Highland unitary authority, Scotland, 45 km/28 mi south-east of Inverness and adjacent to the Cairngorm Mountains. The centre specializes in winter sporting activities. Aviemore was extensively developed in the 1960s as Britain's first complete holiday and sports centre.

Hebrides:

Group of more than 500 islands (fewer than 100 inhabited) off the west coast of mainland Scotland; total area 2,900 sq km/1,120 sq mi. The Hebrides were settled by Scandinavians during the 6th-9th centuries and passed under Norwegian rule from about 890 to 1266. The Inner Hebrides are divided between Highland and Argyll and Bute authorities, and include Raasay, Rum, Muck, Eigg, Scalpay, Skye (Highland) and Mull, Jura, Islay, Iona, Coll, Tiree, Colonsay, and uninhabited Staffa (Argyll and Bute). The Outer Hebrides form the islands area of the Western Isles authority, separated from the Inner Hebrides by the Little Minch. They include Harris/Lewis, North Uist, South Uist, Benbecula, Barra, and St Kilda. The island of Eigg, which has been in private ownership since 1308, was bought by its residents in April 1997 after an eight-month ownership battle.

Cawdor Castle:

Originally built around a 15th-century tower house, it has become well-known for its connections to Shakespeare's Macbeth. Although there’s no historical evidence linking the real Macbeth to Cawdor, the legend has brought intrigue to its history. The castle itself has been expanded over the centuries, evolving from a medieval fortress into a grand residence with beautiful gardens, including a walled garden dating back to the 17th century and later-developed flower and wild gardens. Its interiors are rich in historical artefacts, tapestries, antique furniture, and artwork that reflect its heritage. A famous feature of Cawdor Castle is the ancient holly tree around which, according to legend, the castle was built.

Castle Leod:

The ancestral seat of the Clan Mackenzie and one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses in Scotland, believed to date back to the 15th century, with significant extensions added in the 17th century. The castle features distinctive crow-stepped gables and a large square tower that showcases the architectural style of the time. Surrounded by ancient woodlands and scenic grounds, Castle Leod has a rich history tied to the Mackenzies, who have been connected to the castle for over 500 years. The castle has remained in continuous use and has an extraordinary collection of artefacts, including historical portraits and period furniture. Notably, it is still the home of the current Earl of Cromartie, making it one of the few Scottish castles still inhabited by the family who originally built it.

Dunrobin Castle:

Stunning historic castle located near Golspie in the Scottish Highlands. It is one of the most significant and picturesque castles in Scotland and serves as the ancestral home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. With its fairy-tale appearance, extensive gardens, and rich history, Dunrobin Castle attracts many visitors each year. The site has been occupied since the 13th century, with the earliest records indicating that it served as a fortification for the local clan. The castle has a rich and turbulent history, having been the seat of the Sutherland family for centuries. The original castle was a simple stone tower, but over time it evolved into a grand residence. The Sutherland family played a significant role in Scottish history, and the castle reflects their status and wealth.

John o' Groats:

Duncansby Stacks are towering sea stacks located just southeast of John o' Groats on the northeastern tip of mainland Scotland, near Duncansby Head. These striking formations rise dramatically from the North Sea, sculpted over millennia by wind and waves into sharp, pointed structures resembling natural pyramids or Gothic spires. The two primary stacks, along with a series of cliff formations and sea caves, make Duncansby Head a stunning geological landmark. Walking paths along the cliffs offer panoramic views of the stacks and the surrounding sea, where visitors often spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills nesting along the cliffs in the spring and summer months.

Travel and Accessibility

By Car:

Driving is one of the best ways to explore the Highlands, allowing you to take in the scenic routes, such as the North Coast 500, which offers stunning views of the coast and countryside.

By Train:

The Highland railways, including the famous West Highland Line, provide scenic journeys through the mountains and along the coast.

By Air:

Inverness Airport connects the Highlands to the rest of the UK and Europe, making it easier to reach this remote region.