The Ultimate Scotland Bucket List: 25+ Must-See Places for Your Scottish Adventure
With its stunning natural landscapes, fascinating history, and warm hospitality, it's easy to understand why Scotland has become such a popular global travel destination. Who hasn’t heard of the majestic Highlands, the quaint Scottish villages and places like; Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Glencoe, or the Isle of Skye. Scotland offers something to everyone and for all those who do visit, it’s a place they never forget.
This article will provide an overview of the top locations as well as the hidden gems across Scotland that you shouldn't miss. We'll explore the magical and popular Isle of Skye, tour impressive castles, uncover some underrated destinations, and give you itineraries to help you plan the perfect Scottish adventure whether you have just a few days or weeks to explore.
You'll discover why tourists flock to Scotland, learn insider tips for when to visit, and gain perspective on what it's like traveling through the majestic Highlands. By the end, you'll have a good grasp of the diverse experiences and breathtaking scenery that make Scotland a top bucket list destination. Let’s kick things off with a look at the islands of Scotland - places you’ll need more than a day to get to and explore.
So, what are the best islands to visit in Scotland? We’ve compiled a list of the top 7 islands to visit!
The top 7 Scottish Islands to Visit
No trip to Scotland would be complete without seeing at least 1 epic Scottish island. But there are over 750 islands in Scotland! So we’ve whittled down the vast choices to give you an overview of our top 7.
Here are some of the top islands to visit:
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland's most famous and popular islands, known for its rugged mountains, hidden lochs, and picturesque fishing villages. Let’s be honest, it’s popular for a reason - The Isle of Skye is absolutely stunning!
If you do find yourself heading to the Isle of Skye, make sure you visit these highlights; Old Man of Storr (pictured), Leat & Mealt Falls, Dunvegan & Duntulm (ruin) castles, Neist Point Lighthouse (our home page picture!), The Quairang, Talisker Distillery and the picturesque town of Portree - most likely a number of these have been your screen saver at one point.
Of all the islands in Scotland, the Isle of Skye gets the most attention & is the island most talked about… but that’s not to say it will be the one you enjoy the most.
Discover the Isle of Skye on our 3-day tour that’ll lead you up through the best of the Highlands and onto this magical island!
Lewis and Harris Islands
The twin islands of Lewis and Harris offer pristine beaches (think Bahamas, without the weather), prehistoric sites, and old Gaelic culture still very much alive in the island communities. They are a part of what’s called the Outer Hebrides and although far away and at least a 2-hour ferry ride, they are more than worth the visit!
When we take visitors to Lewis & Harris we hit up all the highlights you’ll love, such as; Callanish Standing Stones (My all-time favourite Standing Stones in Scotland), Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, Dun Carloway Broch, Luskentyre Beach, MacLeod’s Stone and the Butt of Lewis (One of the windiest spots in the UK).
They offer a fantastic mix of the ancient, the not so ancient and the natural. For those looking for islands of intrigue, away from the chaos of normal life, Lewis & Harris are the islands to visit!
We’ve crafted the perfect escape to the Outer Hebrides, a Lewis & Harris 5-day tour - See more here.
Isle of Mull & Isle of Iona
The Isle of Mull is home to the picturesque capital of Tobermory as well as dramatic landscapes like Ben More and Glen More. The Isle of Iona, just a short ferry ride from Mull, is home to Iona Abbey (pictured), a place named the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland.
For me, Mull is about wildlife. Now there is no guarantee to see anything BUT it is the basking shark capital of Europe and many visitors come for birdwatching and wildlife exploration.
Top attractions include Duart Castle, white-sand Calgary Beach, Eas Fors Waterfall (literally named waterfall in 3 different languages), Toberymory Distillery and boat tours to see whales, dolphins, seals, and puffins (depending on the time of year).
Orkney
Ah, now Orkney is all about the ancient history. Skara Brae (pictured) is over 5,000 years and as are many of the standing stones around the island. Although quite a distance from the major cities, once there everything is a 10-20 minute drive away!
Explore burial cairns, see Viking graffiti, discover the incredible coast line and basically travel back in time while marveling at what somehow still stands after millennia past.
For me, Orkney is my favourite. It’s something completely out of the ordinary and feels like a real adventure.
Make sure to visit Maeshowe, the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and the many burial cairns on the island - not to mention Skara Brae, of course.
Discover the ancient history of Orkney and best of the Highlands (castles, whisky distilleries, coastal views and more) on our 5-day Orkney adventure! Check it out here.
Isle of Islay
Islay is a haven for lovers of whisky, nature, and history. With nine working distilleries, it's known as Scotland's "whisky island." It also has important bird sanctuaries, beautiful beaches, the impressive Finlaggan medieval site, and the mysterious Kildalton Cross.
But really, it is all about that smokey Islay whisky. Walk the Scottish whisky distillery path and see Laphroaig, Lagavulin & Ardbeg. Travel up to see the famous Bowmore - learn all the while how the whisky is made and sit yourself down for a tasty wee dram, or two, or three - hey, it is a holiday, right?
The island is beautiful as well and will only be made more so by all the fine Scottish whisky you’ll be tasting. My personal favourite is bunnahabhain, for the incredible views from their Scottish whisky shop and for the tasty drams themselves!
Discover Mainland Scotland with these Must-See Locations
The Scottish mainland offers some of the country's most iconic scenery and famous attractions. From lochs to mountains to driving routes, the mainland has an abundance of highlights and endless new places to explore. Believe me, for all the years of travel and the wealth of experience from all our guides, there are STILL new places to be discovered and enjoyed.
But as a visitor of this country for just a short while you’ll want to see the very best of Scotland, and so here is our list of must-see Scottish mainland locations. Hidden gems, castles and itinerary ideas are still to come!
Loch Ness
Loch Ness is a large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands that holds a special place in mythology and folklore. The loch itself is breathtaking, with glassy waters reflecting the surrounding hills. But it's the legendary Loch Ness Monster that draws visitors from around the world hoping to catch a glimpse of "Nessie."
While the existence of a monster remains unproven, legends date back 1,500 years when Irish monks who settled near Loch Ness reported sightings of a strange creature. Today, many maintain that an undiscovered creature inhabits the loch's deep, murky waters, what do you think? Want to come hunt for Nessie?
The place is also home to Urquhart Castle, sitting in ruins on the loch's banks after being repeatedly contested over the centuries. It’s absolutely gorgeous, as is the loch, and well worth taking a ferry out on its waters!
Explore Loch Ness (and much more) in a day tour from Edinburgh. Click here to learn more.
Glencoe
Glencoe is truly unforgettable and quite emotional for a lot of people (myself included). This historic glen is home to the famous Three Sisters peaks, which tower over rolling hills and tranquil lochs. For outdoor enthusiasts, Glencoe is a paradise with numerous hiking trails to explore but simply driving through the valley will leave an impression.
The Lost Valley hike leads you through the valley where cattle rustles used to hide the cattle from neighbouring clans. Or you could take on the more challenging ascent up Buachaille Etive Mòr for panoramic views for miles around.
It’s also a place steeped in dark history. It was the site of the infamous 1692 Glencoe Massacre, where members of the MacDonald clan were murdered by government soldiers when hosting them in their homes. A much more detailed history awaits when you come to visit!
Edinburgh City
Edinburgh is Scotland's capital and one of the most popular destinations for visitors. The city offers a wealth of history, culture, architecture, festivals, and charm.
The iconic Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline, built on the remnants of an extinct volcano. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle has served as a royal residence and military fortress over the centuries.
The city comes alive in August for a month of world-famous arts festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival. Comedy, dance, music, and street performers pack the city with creative energy. For architecture lovers, the Georgian-style New Town offers some of the UK's finest examples of neoclassical planning. The New Town's grid system of wide streets and elegant squares provides a regal setting for the National Gallery of Scotland and other cultural institutions.
With an enthralling mix of medieval streets and neoclassical avenues, Edinburgh delights visitors with its deep history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks. Make sure you at least take a day to explore Edinburgh while travelling to Scotland… but also, make sure NOT to stay in the cities. The islands, highlands and lowlands of Scotland are where the true beauty lies.
See all tours that head out from Edinburgh into the Highlands and Islands of Scotland!
Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, spanning over 1,700 square miles of rugged mountain scenery and wildlife.
It encompasses the Cairngorms mountain range, Britain's largest area of arctic mountain landscape. With its mix of high plateaus, cliffs, and sweeping valleys carved by ice age glaciers, the Cairngorms offer some of Scotland's most spectacular hiking.
There are trails for all hiking abilities across the park. Experienced hikers can challenge themselves on the steep path up Ben Macdui, the UK's second highest peak. Or take an easier stroll around picturesque Loch an Eilein, framed by ancient Caledonian pine forests.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like red deer, golden eagles, ospreys, and pine martens. Herds of wild reindeer also roam across the open mountain tops although there not native and not quite left to their own devices either!
Stirling
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most important castles and a must-see for any history lover visiting the country. It holds a strategic position in Scotland's central belt and has been the site of many historic battles and royal dramas over the centuries, from being the home for Mary Queen of Scots, the site for the first great victory of William Wallace (The Stirling Bridge, that is) and not too far from the famous Battle of Bannockburn.
But the castle isn’t the only thing to come see in Stirling. There’s also the Wallace Monument, in honour of the aforementioned, Guardian of Scotland.
You can see the monument from the battlements of the castle (and vice versa). I’d also recommend checking out the graveyard next door to the castle, one of the most impressive in Scotland.
You can explore Stirling Castle + Loch Lomond and a local whisky distillery on our popular day tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow!
Glenfinnan
The iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct is a must-see when visiting Scotland. This famous railway bridge stretches across the valley of Glen Finnan, providing jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.
You may recognize the Glenfinnan Viaduct from the Harry Potter films, as it's featured in several scenes. The Jacobite steam train even crosses over the viaduct, just like in the movies! It's a magical experience for any Harry Potter fan.
The Glenfinnan Monument stands proudly near the viaduct, commemorating the beginning of the Jacobite rising of 1745.
It makes for an iconic photo opportunity with the viaduct in the background.
With its fairytale bridge, scenic railway line, and historic monument, Glenfinnan Viaduct is a must-visit destination for any Scotland trip.
We’ve just created a 2-day tour that will take you on the Jacobite Steam train, across the viaduct and then up to Loch Ness on day 2 for a complete immersion in the beauty of the Highlands! Check it out here.
Rannoch Moor
Rannoch Moor is located in the Highlands of Scotland, just before you arrive in Glencoe. Rannoch Moor features a dramatic landscape of lochs, bogs, heather moorland, and mountains.
The area provides a true sense of wilderness, with few roads and little infrastructure. Wildlife thrives in this inhospitable yet beautiful habitat. Keep an eye out for both fauna and flora when exploring Rannoch Moor.
The feeling of isolation is part of what makes Rannoch Moor so special. Be prepared for dramatic weather changes when visiting this windswept, watery expanse (as with a lot of Scotland, to be honest).
Sturdy footwear is recommended for hiking the moorland trails. With sweeping views and chances to spot diverse Highland wildlife, Rannoch Moor is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience one of Scotland's most rugged natural areas.
Galloway Forest
Galloway Forest Park is the largest forest park in the UK, spanning 300 square miles of diverse landscapes and scenery in southwest Scotland. But for most, it’s for the stars that you’ll want to come and visit! Galloway is a Dark Sky Park and if you come on a clear night, you’ll be amazed by the brightness of the sky.
The park contains over 770 square kilometers of forests, rivers, hills, and moorlands. Walkers can traverse over 300 kilometers of trails, taking in the breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and glens.
Cyclists of all abilities can ride along specially designed mountain bike trails that wind through pine forests and open moorlands.
With so much natural beauty and exhilarating activities, Galloway Forest Park is a must-visit destination in Scotland for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike - I would recommend spending the night!
North Coast 500 (NC500)
The North Coast 500 is Scotland's answer to Route 66. This scenic driving route loops around the northern Highlands, covering over 500 miles of stunning coastal scenery.
Designated as one of the world's most beautiful road trips, the route passes white sand beaches, fairy-tale castles (Dunrobin), fishing villages, and some of Scotland's highest mountains. You'll drive single-track roads winding through the remote northwestern Highlands, cross epic viewpoints, and discover the ruins of ancient brochs and keeps.
You’ll be driving up these incredible coastal roads if heading up to Orkney and you won’t be disappointed by this long drive, I guarantee it! There are so many places to stop and there’s something new around every bend.
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is the largest and one of the most well-known lochs in Scotland. Dotted with over 30 islands, included inchonnocan (Wallaby Island), this scenic freshwater loch offers breathtaking vistas of the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland. In fact, from a few vantage points you can see the separation of the Highlands and Lowlands.
The loch is surrounded by mountains, including Ben Lomond, which towers over 3,000 feet high. From rowing and kayaking to hiking and cycling, Loch Lomond is a paradise for outdoor recreation. Cruise the loch and admire the small islands up close, some of which have ruins dating back centuries.
Stop at spots like Luss or Balloch to enjoy the tranquil shores of the loch.
We’ve got a day tour exploring Loch Lomond’s incredible views as well as the historical town of Luss along the loch side, take a look at more of what’s planned in a single day here.
St Andrews
St Andrews is a small town on the east coast of Fife that is known as the "home of golf". Golf has been played here since the 15th century, and the town has several historic golf courses associated with the origins of the sport.
The Old Course at St Andrews is considered the oldest golf course in the world. Established in 1552, this iconic links course winds along the coast and has hosted The Open Championship 29 times. With its double greens, pot bunkers, and Swilcan Bridge, it's a bucket list experience for any golfer.
Beyond golf, St Andrews has the ruins of a majestic medieval cathedral and castle on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea.
The University of St Andrews was founded in 1413, making it Scotland's oldest university. With its ivy-covered stone buildings and cobblestone streets, St Andrews exudes old-world charm and remains a lively university town.
The Top 9 Castles to See while travelling to Scotland
Scotland is a land of myths, legends, and centuries of rich history. One of the best ways to experience Scottish culture and heritage is by visiting its iconic castles. From remote ruins to lavish royal residences, Scotland's castles tell tales of clans, kings, and dramatic events. Now, there are over 3,000 odd castles in Scotland so we have whittled down a list of the Must-See’s.
We’ve got 9 of the top castles you must see when traveling through Scotland. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply love wandering atmospheric ruins, these castles will transport you back in time and ignite your imagination!
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan is one of the most iconic castles in Scotland, located on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet in the western Highlands. With its picturesque setting and distinctive stone keep, arched bridge, and water gate, Eilean Donan has made frequent appearances in films, photographs, and television shows over the years.
The original Eilean Donan castle was established in the 13th century as a stronghold for the Mackenzies of Kintail. Positioned at the intersection of three loch pathways, it served to guard against Viking raiders. Over the next few centuries, the Mackenzies expanded the castle into a complex of buildings surrounded by curtain walls.
Eilean Donan withstood many skirmishes and battles between rival clans until 1692, when Jacobite forces took shelter there. Government ships bombarded and largely destroyed the castle before capturing it. For nearly 200 years, Eilean Donan lay in ruins.
In the early 20th century, the castle was restored by Lt. Col. John MacRae-Gilstrap. He reconstructed the ruins extensively between 1912-1932, re-establishing the iconic appearance of the castle today. Eilean Donan was opened to the public in 1955. Now owned by the Conchra Charitable Trust, the castle remains one of the most popular attractions in Scotland with around 300,000 visitors per year. And, for good reason… It is spectacular, and so much more in person!
It’s a stop just before we arrive onto the Isle of Skye on our 3-day tour.
Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle is one of the most dramatic castles in Scotland, perched upon a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea. While the castle is now ruined, with only a few buildings still intact, its clifftop setting makes it hugely atmospheric. The ruins of the castle seem to grow organically out of the cliffs, with steep drops down to the crashing waves below on three sides.
Dunnottar has provided the setting for numerous films and TV shows, taking advantage of its evocative, romantic ruins. It appeared in Franco Zeffirelli's Hamlet starring Mel Gibson, and was used for filming of an episode of the Outlander TV series.
The castle is perhaps most famed, though, for its role in protecting the Scottish crown jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland.
These were smuggled out of Edinburgh castle to keep them from falling into the hands of Oliver Cromwell's invading army in the 17th century. They remained hidden in Dunnottar for eight months before being smuggled out and buried under the floor of a local church.
Dunvegan Castle
Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea on the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle features stunning architecture and extensive gardens.
The castle was built in the 13th century and underwent significant expansion in the 15th and 17th centuries. Evidence of the castle's long history can be seen in the various architectural styles incorporated over the centuries. Inside, Dunvegan contains many precious heirlooms of the MacLeod clan, including the Fairy Flag, which legend says has magical powers to protect the clan, and the Dunvegan Cup, a ceremonial drinking vessel from the Middle Ages.
In addition to the historic castle, Dunvegan offers beautiful formal gardens first laid out in the 17th century. The gardens contain water features and an abundance of colorful flowers. Visitors especially delight in the peaceful walled garden. Beyond the gardens, Dunvegan provides scenic walks along the sea cliffs and through the grounds, showcasing the rugged natural beauty of Skye. With its centuries of history and connection to Scottish culture, Dunvegan Castle is a must-see for travelers interested in the heritage of Scotland.
A natural stop on our 3-day Isle of Skye tour, seriously an adventure you’ll never forget!
Stirling Castle
Strategically located in the heart of Central Scotland, Stirling has a storied history as the site of many battles and sieges over the centuries. As a focal point between the Highlands and Lowlands, it was fiercely contested during the Wars of Scottish Independence against England.
Stirling Castle, which sits atop an imposing volcanic crag, served as a royal residence for Scottish kings and queens. The castle underwent major renovations during the Scottish Renaissance in the 16th century under the reigns of James IV, James V and Mary, Queen of Scots. This resulted in the splendid Scottish Renaissance architecture seen today, with structures like the Great Hall and Royal Palace.
Stirling is also home to the iconic Wallace Monument, honoring national hero William Wallace, as well as the Bannockburn Visitor Centre, which commemorates Robert the Bruce's famous victory over the English in 1314. For history lovers, Stirling provides an immersive experience into Scotland's storied past.
You can explore Stirling Castle + Loch Lomond and a local whisky distillery on our popular day tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow!
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic castles in Scotland, with its imposing hilltop location overlooking Scotland's capital city. As the official residence of British monarchs when in Scotland, it has a rich history and great importance to the country.
The castle dates back to the 12th century, though artifacts found on the rock it sits upon suggest it was a site of human settlement and power for many centuries before that. It has been besieged, captured, and rebuilt numerous times throughout history, most notably during the Wars of Scottish Independence against England.
Today, Edinburgh Castle remains an enduring symbol of Scottish independence and pride. It is filled with history and artifacts from centuries past, making it Scotland's most popular paid tourist attraction.
Visitors can explore the castle's various buildings, see the Scottish Crown Jewels, and take in panoramic views from its ramparts. No trip to Edinburgh is complete without visiting this magnificent castle that has watched over Scotland's capital for nearly a millennium.
Urquhart Castle
Perched upon a rocky promontory overlooking the legendary Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle commands stunning views across the deep waters and wooded shores. Though now an evocative ruin, it was once one of the largest castles in Scotland and an important stronghold in medieval times. Its dramatic and strategic location likely inspired early fortifications here as far back as the 6th century. The present castle layout mainly dates to the 13th to 16th centuries.
The ruins retain an air of mystery and romance, not just due to the ruined walls and towers but also the associations with Loch Ness and its mythical monster. The still loch waters, glimpsed between crumbling stonework and arched windows, conjure up images of an elusive creature surfacing amid the mist.
Urquhart witnessed great moments in Scottish history too, from times when it was a royal residence to the Wars of Independence when it was seized by Edward I of England. The iconic ruins now draw visitors from around the world, lured by the scenic location, evocative remains and tantalizing ties to Scottish lore.
Inveraray Castle
Inveraray Castle is one of the most stunning castles in Scotland due to its location above Loch Fyne. As the ancestral home of the Dukes of Argyll, it holds a prominent place in Scottish history. The architecture was inspired by French chateaus, giving it an elegant and refined appearance.
Inveraray Castle enjoys an enviable position above the shores of Loch Fyne, with spectacular views across the loch and surrounding glens. This picturesque setting complements the stately architecture, which dates back to the mid-18th century. As the seat of the Dukes of Argyll for over 400 years, Inveraray Castle is steeped in history.
The chateau-style design of Inveraray Castle was influenced by French architecture. The 3rd Duke of Argyll commissioned architect Roger Morris to build it in this style.
The result is a symmetrical classical facade featuring conical spires, arched windows and decorative stonework. Inside, the rooms are lavishly decorated to reflect the family's status. Gilded mirrors, tapestries and intricate plasterwork adorn the Great Hall and State Dining Room.
Inveraray's fairytale exterior and opulent interior make it one of the most visually impressive castles in Scotland. Perched above the shimmering waters of Loch Fyne, it encapsulates the romanticism and nobility associated with Scottish castles. For visitors, touring Inveraray's rooms and strolling its scenic grounds is an unforgettable experience.
Kilchurn Castle
Kilchurn Castle is one of Scotland's most picturesque ruined castles. Perched on a rocky peninsula at the northeastern end of Loch Awe, this photogenic castle is set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains and water.
Strategically built in the mid-15th century, Kilchurn Castle served as an important stronghold for the Campbell clan for over 250 years. Its isolated location and impenetrable walls made it easy to defend. Visitors today can admire the imposing five-story tower house, with its stepped gables, and the remnants of an enclosed barmkin wall.
With its stunning highland scenery, Kilchurn Castle has become a popular location for photos. The most iconic shots capture the castle's crumbling walls reflected in the calm waters of Loch Awe.
As one of Scotland's most scenic castles, Kilchurn is a must-see for any traveler exploring Scottish history and landscapes.
Both Inveraray and Kilchurn castle can be seen on our Standing Stones tour from Glasgow - see more here.
Sinclair Castle Ruins
Sinclair is the northernmost castle on the mainland of Scotland. It was originally built in the late 14th century by Henry Sinclair, Earl of Orkney and Caithness. The castle has a long association with the Sinclair clan, also known as the Earl of Caithness.
The original castle was mostly destroyed in 1650 after a siege, with only the tower house remaining. In the late 19th century, the castle was restored by architect George Mackie Watson for the Sinclair family. Today, Sinclair Castle is open to the public and houses exhibitions about the history of the castle and the Sinclair clan. Visitors can climb to the top of the restored tower house for panoramic views over the Pentland Firth and the Scottish Highlands.
It was when walking along the nearby coastline in the fog, being sprayed by the ocean mist, that I first sighted this castle coming out of the fog. I instantly fell in love and have to say, there isn’t better weather than moody and misty for visiting this castle ruin!
A must-see castle ruin and a stop along our 5-day Orkney tour.
3 Underrated Places For Your Scottish Adventure
Though Edinburgh is stunning and the Isle of Skye rightfully attracts many visitors, a lot of Scotland’s hidden gems get overlooked. For travelers looking to experience the real heart of Scotland, three lesser-known destinations deserve special attention.
The village of Killin offers a peaceful respite in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, including the stunning Falls of Dochart flowing right through town. Heading west takes you to Kilmartin Glen, home to an astounding concentration of prehistoric monuments and artifacts that provide a window into Scotland's mysterious past. And in the far north lie the Waligoe Steps, an ingenious feat of engineering that forms a long staircase descending a steep cliffside to the sea below.
This article will provide an in-depth look at each of these hidden gems of Scotland. From natural beauty to ancient history and marvels of architecture, these destinations showcase some of the country's most captivating sights. Any visit to Scotland that skips past the crowds and tour buses will be richly rewarded by discovering these three locations.
Killin and the Falls of Dochart
The charming village of Killin sits at the west end of Loch Tay in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. One of its top attractions is the stunning Falls of Dochart, a series of cascading waterfalls set amongst verdant greenery. The falls tumble over large rocks as the River Dochart flows through the heart of Killin before emptying into Loch Tay.
A short and easy walk from the village center leads to a footbridge with panoramic views of the falls. The best time to visit is after heavy rainfall when the water rages over the rocks.
On sunny days, rainbows often form in the mist above the falls. Photographers flock here to capture iconic images of the waterfalls with the old stone bridge in the foreground.
In addition to marveling at the falls, Killin offers abundant outdoor activities. From the village, scenic hiking and biking trails wind through the surrounding glens and forests. The River Lochay provides excellent salmon and trout fishing. For the adventurous, kayaking and canoeing on Loch Tay allows you to take in breathtaking highland scenery from the water.
With its postcard-perfect falls and wealth of outdoor pursuits, Killin makes an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The friendly village exudes charm and provides all the amenities needed after a day spent amidst the region's wild and captivating landscape.
Waligoe Steps
The Waligoe Steps are a winding stone staircase carved into the cliffs on the east coast of Scotland. This unique landmark consists of over 300 steps that zigzag down the steep hillside to the shoreline below.
Some key facts about the Waligoe Steps:
They are located near the village of Waligoe in Caithness, northern Scotland. The steps date back to the 18th or 19th century.
The steps were carved to provide access to a fisherman's bothy and pier nestled in the rocks below the cliffs. They allowed fishermen to safely traverse to and from the bothy.
Today the steps are somewhat precarious, uneven and slippery in parts. There are no railings, so caution is required when descending or climbing them.
The steps zigzag at sharp right angles down the near-vertical cliffs. This allowed horses to be led down carrying creels of fish from the pier.
While challenging, the Waligoe Steps provide breathtaking views over the Pentland Firth and are considered a hidden gem for adventurous walkers in Scotland.
The steps have a mystical, fairytale-like quality and are sometimes compared to something from the Lord of the Rings!
So in summary, the Waligoe Steps are an intriguing set of historical stone stairs winding down a scenic clifftop, offering an adventurous walk with stunning views for those brave enough to try them! They provide a unique way to experience the rugged Scottish coastline.
Kilmartin Glen
Kilmartin Glen is a magical place located in Argyll, Scotland that allows you to step back in time thousands of years. This wide valley contains a vast concentration of prehistoric monuments, including standing stones, stone circles, cairns, and carved rock art. Evidence of human activity in the glen dates back over 5,000 years.
Today, Kilmartin Glen is home to over 800 ancient monuments within a 6 mile radius. It provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore Scotland's ancient past and get a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the area. The glen features remnants of Neolithic burial grounds, Bronze Age stone circles, and Iron Age hill forts. Several sites also contain intricate Celtic rock carvings.
Some of the most notable ancient sites in Kilmartin Glen include Temple Wood stone circles, Nether Largie standing stones, Ri Cruin cairn, and Dunadd hill fort.
The Kilmartin House Museum provides artifacts, information, and context on the various monuments and time periods.
Whether you're interested in archaeology, history, or just want to experience the mystical atmosphere, Kilmartin Glen is a must-see destination in Scotland. Wandering through this quiet glen transports you back through the ages.
When is the best time of year to visit Scotland?
Before wrapping up with this must-see guide, I thought I’d take a moment to address a question I get ALL THE TIME while working for Scotland’s Wild.
The best time of year is, as you can imagine, actually quite dependent on the person. I will say a few things about it though that may help you decide when you should plan your next trip.
Scotland has the uncanny ability to produce the 4 seasons in one single day. Nowhere else in the world have I settled down to sunbath only to be hailed on, ran back inside to see rainbows appearing as it began raining to once again become a nice sunny day again.
Considering that the weather can be variable on any given day, we do have some semblance of normal seasons. In summer, it’s MORE LIKELY, to be sunny. In winter, it will be colder and possibly snowy (depending on where you are).
For me, my favourites are Spring and Autumn for the new flowers, the smell, the bursts of sun we get and the change of leaves in Autumn. You will also benefit from having less tourists and less midges around to contend with.
Winter can be incredibly beautiful too. Scotland, especially in the Highlands, becomes a winter wonderland of frozen beauty. But it’s cold. But again, there are less people. Up to you!
Summer is the hottest time of year but you will contend with the most insects and the most people.
So there you have it. That’s my two pennies!
I hope you feel more prepared and inspired for your next trip to Scotland.
For some ideas of itineraries, download our free Epic Scotland itineraries booklet by clicking the picture below or clicking here.
