5 Tourist Attractions To Visit In The Scottish Highlands

Named by Lonely Planet as one of the best regions in the world to visit in 2019, the Scottish Highlands is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. From Harry Potter to James Bond and the Loch Ness Monster, some of the best places to visit in the Scottish Highlands are spots you’ve likely already heard of. So settle down with this guide (and a copy of the film Braveheart), and get excited for your trip to some of the best places to visit in Scotland.

There is a lot to see and do here. From animals and lakes to mountains and villages, you’ll easily fill your time in the Highlands.

# Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

Just over 20 miles southwest of Inverness, no Scottish Highlands holiday would be complete without a visit to the home of the ever-popular Nessie. While a sighting of the friendly monster is far from guaranteed at Loch Ness, the area will do little else to disappoint. Plus, there are plenty of other, more easily confirmed, wildlife living in the area.

Sitting alongside the impressively picturesque lake you’ll also find Urquhart Castle. Even though the 1,000-year-old castle is in ruins, it still holds the key to any perfect piece of real estate – location, location, location. Tickets to enter the castle cost £12 per adult and you’ll get to climb the Grant Tower, which is the perfect look out across one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

# Isle of Skye

A terrific stop for everything from wildlife viewing to fossil discovery, the Isle of Skye sits northwest of the Scottish Highlands and is connected to the mainland of Scotland by bridge. While there are quite a few islands off the coast which make up the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye is the largest. There are a number of villages scattered throughout the peninsulas of the island, all of which radiate out from the Cullin range. The range is an excellent opportunity for some climbing because it has 12 peaks, all of which reach more than 3,000 feet high. If you’re looking for less action, check out the Fairy Pools. They can be reached by foot as the roundtrip walk is less than an hour. You can swim in the beautiful blue water which pools under the cascading falls, but know that it’s a dip that will be far from warm!

# Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the tallest mountain in all of the British Isles, and it’s quite the site to see. Known fondly to locals as ‘The Ben’, it sits closest to the town of Fort William, which is less than a 20-minute drive from the base. During summer months summiting the peak is quite doable in less than four hours for moderately experienced and fit climbers. Know that the path is steep and climbers will very often encounter snow near the top, even during warmer months. Pack and dress appropriately and follow all signs and advisories if heading up for the climb.

# Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland. The castle sits on an island where three great lochs converge and create a perfectly magical scene. There are no residents of the island and it is open to tourists. Visiting hours vary throughout the year and the site is closed during the month of January.

# Glencoe

Made famous partially due to being the backdrop of the 1995 movie Braveheart, Glencoe is one of the most famous valleys in the region, mostly thanks to its immense beauty. Surrounded by epic peaks, there is plenty to do in the area, though most of it centers around the outdoors. If you’re not looking to leave your vehicle, a drive through the valley will still provide some of the best views in Scotland. But embarking on one of the many hikes is a different experience entirely. The West Highland Way is a popular long-distance trail, part of which can be walked through the glen. Alternatively, you can pop into a kayak on Loch Leven, or if you’re visiting in season, skiing and snowboarding are available at Glencoe Mountain Resort.