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Image: Walkers in Glen Affric
The Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is really the Scotland of your imagination and the perfect backdrop for your next adventure. It's no wonder that it was named as one of National Geographic's "Best of the World" destinations in 2023. Explore the mysterious Loch Ness, pass through the striking Cairngorms National Park, walk up Britain's highest peak, Ben Nevis, or discover the rugged coastline of Caithness.
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Things to do in the Highlands
Slow down and take the time to engage with the Scottish Highlands. Between city, countryside and coast, the Highlands offers plenty of things to see and do.
9 Hidden gems you mustn't miss around Loch Ness
Discover the hidden gems of Loch Ness, and explore some of the best things to see & do in the area. From ancient mysteries, to enchanting forests.
6 Amazing things to do around John O'Groats
Find great things to see and do in John O’Groats and the surrounding area. Discover amazing castles, experience the Northern Lights and more!
12 Top things to do in Moray Speyside
Find great things to do in Moray Speyside. Including towns to explore, towers to climb, castles to discover, and more!
11 Amazing activities & things to do in Inverness
Find out about attractions, activities, tours and more in Inverness.
Epic cycling routes & holidays in the Highlands
Explore the Highlands on two wheels.
Unmissable things to do in Fort William
Get set for action in the outdoor capital of the UK.
Scotland's UNESCO Trail
The Flow Country World Heritage Site
Step into 4000 sq. km of rugged beauty in the North Highlands, where ancient landscapes meet rich history and a vibrant culture.
Wester Ross Biosphere
Discover astounding natural beauty and eco-diversity in Wester Ross.
North West Highlands Geopark
Stretching over 2,000 square kilometres in the far corner of mainland Scotland, the geopark is a spectacular example of different rock geologies.
Inspiration for Highland breaks
Wherever you choose to stay in the Highlands, you'll find stunning hotels, trendy hostels, comfy B&Bs and a whole range of unique self-catering accommodation.
The Torridon, a luxury estate retreat in Wester Ross
Places to Stay
Check out these handpicked locations for your next holiday in the Highlands.
Walkers on the West Highland Way
© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Tours, routes & trails
The Scottish Highlands offer miles of stunning landscapes and glorious wilderness to explore on foot and by bike. There are hundreds of wonderful walks and trails.
Unique experiences
Whether you're attending a Highland Games, sampling local whiskies or adventuring up the UK's highest mountain, let the Highlands spark your imagination.
3Days
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Speyside's malt whisky trail
Follow this 3-day itinerary around some of Speyside's top whisky attractions in the north east of Scotland.
Highland Games in Scotland
From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.
Ben Nevis
Discover Ben Nevis, Scotland’s iconic peak, “the mountain with its head in the clouds”.
The Highlands by area
Geodiversity, outdoor adventures, history, arts & crafts, music, food & drink - whatever it is you love, you'll find it in the Highlands.
Moray Speyside
Discover a land of natural contrasts, from the mighty Cairngorm Mountains to the rugged world-famous Moray coast.
Inverness & Loch Ness
Discover the history, experiences, people and places that surround Inverness and Loch Ness.
West Highland Peninsulas
Discover rugged mountains, stunning coastlines, beautiful lochs, historic castles and much more.
Easter Ross
A place you can reset the clock, drinking in the scenery whilst sipping a locally distilled single malt.
Fort William & Lochaber
Welcome to the outdoor capital of Scotland.
Aviemore & The Cairngorms
The UK’s largest National Park, in the Scottish Highlands, offers masses of things to do including watersports, snowsports and wildlife watching.
Nairn
Nairn is a relaxing and friendly seaside town on the Moray firth.
Skye & Lochalsh
Your perfect Isle of Skye adventure awaits!
Wester Ross
Explore and stay in this beautiful area, famous for walking and hiking.
Caithness & Sutherland
Adventurers will find this region rich in unique leisure opportunities.
What's on in the Highlands
Nairn Highland Games
© Iain Fairweather
Events
Find out about the great events happening in the Scottish Highlands, spanning from cultural exhibitions to physical challenges in stunning landscapes!
Places to eat in the Highlands
MacGregors Bar, Inverness
