What better location for the perfect Scottish getaway than the Highlands? The Highlands are everything Scotland is about—tradition, unbelievable scenery, nature, the best food to ever pass your lips, and an escape from the hustle and bustle of Scotland’s cities.
We could have kept the list going, but you get the picture. And if you don’t get the picture, you’re about to.
Read on for our guide to planning the perfect Scottish Highlands getaway.
Places to Visit
The Highlands and its surroundings are overflowing with famous and unknown places worth visiting. Are we about to give you a list again? You bet we are, in a more descriptive long form.
Start by exploring Loch Ness, the place where the legendary Nessie resides (yes, she’s real; go to find her). Even if you don’t see her, the water and Urquhart Castle are quite breathtaking and inviting. Top tip: Don’t go in the water other than in summer—it’s absolutely freezing.
Eilean Donan Castle is also a must-see. If you have a penchant for history or stunning architecture and structures, you’ll love it. It’s considered one of Scotland’s most famous castles and you literally can’t miss it; it’s right on the loch.
For nature lovers, Glen Coe—which is also the valley of a volcano and is surrounded by hills and mountains—offers magnificent, beautiful views. If you want to enjoy secluded nature, Skye is a great place, along with Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, and the Fairy Pools that showcase the beauty of Scotland.
Some people say a hike up Ben Nevis is a must, but we wouldn’t exactly say it’s easy. We’d say it’s a long and challenging hike, but at least try and see it from the bottom.
Again, we could have kept listing. We’d recommend our motorhome hire if you want to see them all!
Food and Drink
The Highlands is the heart of Scottish cuisine—don’t let anyone tell you differently, and don’t get sucked into the tourist trap chain restaurants in the cities!
For a truly local dish, try dining at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, serving seafood like oysters, mussels, and salmon, all fresh from the Scottish coast to the kitchen. We’d recommend pairing the seafood with a crisp white wine.
The Rocpool Restaurant in Inverness is one of our favourites. It has a menu full of fresh, seasonal, and local delicacies, giving you that true Highland experience.
If you are looking for a quaint atmosphere with traditional meals, then put The Clachaig Inn on your list. It’s famous for its menu of around 80 different ales.
The Highlands is the place to be if you’re a whisky lover. In our opinion, the Glenmorangie Distillery and Dalwhinnie Distillery are two of the best. And even if you don’t like whisky, have a sip and let it put some hairs on your chest!
Best Time of Year to Go
Every season brings something special—we can’t necessarily say there’s a best time of year to go.
From March to May, spring will give you a very relaxing temperature. You can see the wildflowers blooming and spotting lambs in open fields. And it’s less busy than the summer months.
Peak summer, from June to August, is better if you want to enjoy the outdoors without the risk of bad weather. The only downside is it’s the peak busy season.
Breathing in the fresh, cool air during autumn from September to November feels magical. The mesmerising landscapes covered in a mix of gold hues paired with wildlife, ranging from deer to elk popping up, paint a sight that stands out all the more once the crowds start to die down.
The highlands transform into beautiful terrain covered in snow from December to February, paired with evenings by the fireplace in traditional lodges and Christmas markets. Sometimes it’s freezing; it depends on when you go!
Make of that what you will—all the seasons are great!
Make it a Road Trip
We had a tough time condensing the best places for you to visit- why not turn them into a road trip?!
You could try the famous North Coast 500. It’s a 516-mile stretch that takes you around northern Scotland – it’s, by far, one of the most popular road trips you will find. You’ll travel through some of the best places the highlands offer, from the white sand beaches to the high cliffs and fishing villages.
If you feel this is too extensive (it can take between 5-7 days), there is another route you can take from Fort Williams to Mallaig, which is beautifully scenic, known as the Road to the Isles. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is quite popular because of the Harry Potter films, is also located on this route.
Your ideal escape to the Scottish Highlands is just around the corner. It is one of those destinations where there is so much to offer that you need to come back! Don’t forget to schedule your trip in advance.
