There’s not one area of Scotland we wouldn’t recommend—let us start by saying that.
But we also can’t deny that the influx of tourists (almost 4 million in 2023, up 19% from 2022) has turned some areas of Scotland (Edinburgh, we’re looking at you) into tourist-focused areas. Is that a bad thing? No, especially if you want a Starbucks or McDonald’s every 3 kilometres.
Still, despite being more ‘touristy’ per se, we wouldn’t tell you not to go to the big cities. Instead, what we’re here to tell you about is the ‘local’s experience.’
Our personal definition of that is seeing the rural, out-in-the-sticks, real Scotland. – Ariescape, 2024. Where old Isla is still making her own milk from the cows, and Rory is drinking Scotch by the fire.
To get that experience, you need to go to the places where millions aren’t flocking. Read on to find out more.
Anywhere in the Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are massive. We think the best way to see it properly is with motorhome hire if you want to see the best of it.
And despite being a real tourist hotspot, it’s still not crowded and everything about it feels like traditional Scotland. You won’t find a Starbucks every 3 kilometres here, that’s for sure!
The Highlands are more than its majestic glens and mountain landscapes—it is home to so many of the cutest little towns and a way of life centred around farming. For the adventurers willing to go off the beaten path, a hidden gem is the Glenelg village on the western coast. You can take a non congested drive (dig at Edinburgh traffic there) off the Mam Ratagan Pass and experience breathtaking views of Loch Duich and The Five Sisters of Kintail.
Glenelg is where the Glenelg Brochs, fascinating stone towers of one of the best-preserved types found in Scotland, are located. The entrance is free, and the probability is that you will have a place for yourself, making it a far cry from the congested tourist areas.
For an authentic Highland meal, go to the Glenelg Inn, a lovely place to visit with local people enjoying some food and music by the fireplace.
Another highlight is the Applecross, which can be accessed by the Bealach na Bà for a true country life experience.
Isle of Jura
Situated in the heart of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides region, the Isle of Jura can be considered one of the remote paradises.
Jura has a tiny population of just about 200 people – it doesn’t get more locals than that. And don’t worry, they won’t chase you away with pitchforks. They’re one of the most welcoming, wholesome communities in Scotland.
You’ll find a single main road and The Jura Hotel—the only pub around—and a singular distillery. Still one pub is better than none! The Jura Distillery has been producing its acclaimed single-malt Scotch whisky since 1810.
Surrounded by Jura’s staggering history and charm, whisky lovers can avail themselves of a guided tour inclusive of a taste of their favourite drink at the distillery throughout the calendar year for only £10.
For lovers of the great outdoors, living on Jura would be an absolute dream. The landscape of Jura is breathtaking, but the highlight of the island is definitely the Pap of Jura—three towering conical mountains.
Fun fact: in Jura, there’s a 30:1 ratio of red deer to humans and even seals!
The Black Isle
The Black Isle sounds almost satanic, perfect for a Dracula movie, but isn’t. And we’re both cheating, it’s not an island, it’s a peninsula in the Ross and Cromarty within the Scottish Highlands. So, we could have included this in the Highlands sections but we felt it deserved its own.
The most outstanding feature of the Black Isle would have to be the chance to spot dolphins at Chanonry Point, which is massively renowned for giving tourists a close view of bottlenose dolphins. Make sure to visit the place on the weekdays and high tide!
To enjoy how the locals live, visit Cromarty, a beautiful area with tight, narrow roads combined with typical Scottish cottages and individual family-run stores.
We also think you’ll love the Black Isle agriculture. The area mainly consists of farms operated by family farm owners farming foods they sell in their family-run farm shops. We’d go as far as to say you’ll never experience fresher, traditional Scottish produce than here!
The Black Isle Brewery is also worth a visit.
Shetland
If you recognise Shetland from Shetland ponies, it’s because their days began in the Shetland Islands!
If you want the most isolated experience, then Shetland, Scotland’s northernmost group of islands, should be on your radar. Reaching it by the ferry from the mainland is the best route.
Here, you’ll discover raw coastlines, craggy cliffs and a sense of belonging that is all but lost in some parts of Scotland.
Start your Shetland journey with a visit to the Shetland Museum and Archives in Lerwick, which chronicles events from the Viking Age to the emergence of the fishing industry.
The Eshaness Cliffs are also the perfect location. This coastline is said to be formed by ancient volcanic outpourings. You can even try out snorkelling at Sumburgh Head, which is teeming with puffins, gannets, and several species of seabirds.
Don’t forget to try local specialities like reestit mutton, a salt-dried sheep meat dish, and other seafood of the freshest fish caught from the coast.
Discover a different part of Scotland where the air feels softer, people are more welcoming, and the moment feels one of a kind. We promise you’ll love it!
