Scotland's Charming and Lesser-Known Villages and Towns
Step off the well-trodden tourist trails and discover the charm of Scotland's hidden villages and quaint towns. Beyond the bustling cities and famous landmarks lie the wee towns that make some Scotland’s islands and Highland areas a truly unique place to visit.
In this blog we’ll show you our top 5 towns in Scotland although truly there are hundreds of cute towns that you’ll love to see. Travel Scotland enough and you’ll start stumbling across them all the time… I know I do!
At Scotland’s Wild, our friendly, story-telling guides have led thousands of trips through Scotland. We share history, legends and tales to entice people to visit this incredible country.
If you’d like to check-out our selection of tours, from day trips to islands hopping multi-day adventures - click here.
Otherwise, let’s get into our list of the top 5 Towns in Scotland
Portree - A Harbor Alive with Color
Located on the picturesque Isle of Skye, Portree is probably one of the most stunning towns in Scotland. The Isle of Skye being the most beautiful island, it fits that Portree would be the most beautiful town - but I’ll leave the for you to decide.
Fresh seafood, gorgeous colours all year round and a main hub from which you can then go and explore Skye.
Visit Skye on a 3, 5 or 7 day tour up through the best of the Highlands and onto Scotland’s most beautiful island!
Tobermory - A Painter's Palette Come to Life
Found on the Isle of Mull, Tobermory is the beautifully colourful town used in the children’s T.V show Balamory (original naming).
Walk through the town's winding streets, explore local shops, savour the local seafood, and keep an eye out for the playful gulls that will try their best to steal your chips.
Tobermory is a great hub from which to explore the rest of Mull and Iona.
Pittenweem - Fisherman’s Heritage
Discover the hidden treasure of Pittenweem, a charming village found along the East Neuk of Fife. Its quaint streets offer glimpses into a rich fishing heritage, with boats bobbing in the harbour and fish mongers selling the freshest fish you’ll ever eat.
The village also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with galleries showcasing the works of talented artists. Don't miss the annual Pittenweem Arts Festival, where people come from all over to see what’s new in the Fife area.
Dunkeld - Serenity Along the River
Dunkeld is one of our tour guides favourite places in Scotland - and I can certainly speak for myself on this too. The village is lovely, the abbey ruins are incredible to see and walk around but Dunkeld is also home to soooo many great woodland walks!
Visit the Burnam Oak - about 3,000 years old and held up by stilts, head to the Hermitage where you’ll walk across an old stone bridge to see Linn Falls from up high - a truly peaceful place to get away from it all!
Culross - Outlander’s Cranesmuir
Transport yourself back in time (& to a popular Outlander filming location) as you wander through the cobbled streets of Culross. This remarkably preserved 17th-century village stands as a testament to Scotland's rich history.
Walk through the iconic yellow Culross Palace, explore picturesque gardens, and visit the ancient abbey, where tales of monks and mysteries intertwine. Every corner of Culross offers a glimpse into a bygone era, leaving visitors with a sense of timelessness.
You can head here on our 1-day Outlander tour from Edinburgh! Check it out here.
Step off the beaten path and let the charm of Portree, Tobermory, Pittenweem, Dunkeld, and Culross impress themselves upon you. These destinations promise unforgettable experiences, a genuine sense of community, and an opportunity to connect with the authentic essence of Scotland.
Want some expert guides to take you to these inviting wee towns and discover even more of Scotland on your own personalised tour? Click here to get in touch and begin dreaming about your perfect trip.
