Scotland looks very festive right now, but like the rest of 2024, we’ll soon be saying Mar sin leibh (goodbye in Scottish Gaelic) and halò (hello) to 2025.
If you ask us, now is the perfect time to start planning your perfect dreamy Scottish getaway. There are so many incredible locations for you to explore, and we want to talk to you about some of the perhaps lesser-known places that, some will argue, have more of the ‘real’ Scotland to offer.
If you’re thinking about renting a motorhome in Scotland, read on for some of our dream locations that you can easily drive to!
Mull Island
Mull Island is excellent for wildlife lovers and people who want solace and space – the second biggest island in Scotland does just that.
If you put Mull Island on your list, go to Tobermory. It’s a colourful harbour with the friendliest people. And don’t get us started on the food. You’ll try some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever had coming from the sea straight to the restaurants. Try some oysters and you’ll still catch a hint of the Scottish sea, most likely from that morning!
Or if history is your thing, go for a stroll through the grounds surrounding Duart Castle, located on a cliff on Mull Island. You’ll also get stunning panoramic views of the Sound of Mull region.
Without exaggerating, we can confidently say that Mull, particularly its uninhabited northwest part, is a part of the world devoid of any human development.
Travel to Staffa Island to see the rogue-shaped cave in the nearby islands. If you’re lucky, you’ll probably see minke whales and dolphins on your way.
Dumfries and Galloway
Galloway’s famous sites can often pass undetected in favour of Scotland’s renowned and more popular sights. But trust us, you don’t want to miss this one. With the title of the first Dark Sky Park of Scotland, it’s best for the stargazing vistas. No lights of a metropolis spoil the view during those clear evenings with the Milky Way in full view. Spending a night under those skies will be a night like no other.
Enjoy beautiful solitude from modernity without the interference of people at Galloway Forest Park. During the day, the massive park offers plenty of things to do. Hiking paths meander through ancient woods and the open moor, the shining lochs and the hills. Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels, deer, and even the elusive golden eagle.
Galloway Forest Park’s serene, distant environment is a perfect getaway for families and couples. Grab your binoculars and picnic basket, and get lost in nature.
Orkney
The Orkney Islands, located north off the coast of Scotland, will leave you in awe. Orkney’s sheer coastal cliffs and the secluded bay landscapes will surround you with wildlife like seals, puffins, and orcas.
The pristine islands are home to the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO heritage site, including the Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and Maeshowe. These world heritage sites are around 5000 years old and seem almost untouched, providing a glimpse into Scottish history.
Other than that, Kirkwall, Orkney’s capital, is known for its stunning landmarks like the St. Magnus Cathedral.
The islands are great for hiking, swimming, and cycling.
Trossachs
The Trossachs, known as the “Peatlands of Scotland,” are an outstanding area filled with lochs, hills, and forests that you have to see if you’re near Glasgow. This area boasts serene landscapes and adventure that definitely makes for the perfect getaway.
Loch Lomond is what everyone wants to see here – the great Scottish freshwater. There are relatively cheap boat cruises on the lake that we think everyone would love or walking routes to let you see the lake from a hilltop view. Then there is Ben A’an, known as the “mountain views of Scotland,” which is a moderate hike if you want to spend more time outdoors. With some good walking boots, you’ll be fine.
Not only is the area breathtaking, but it has an established heritage. Cities like Callander, well known as the “Gateway to the Highlands” are ideal for local travels, enjoying Scottish delicacies, or even finding out about the local art and folklore of the region.
Your dream trip to Scotland is around the corner. We’ve picked some of our favourites, but with a little bit of research, you can plan your dream trip. One thing we will say is not to go for the main tourist areas. There’s so much of Scotland that doesn’t get the credit it deserves – in our opinion, it’s the true Scotland.
