I’ve shared my Edinburgh must-do list so now it’s time to talk about the Highlands.
We’ve all heard about the beauty of the Scottish Highlands but planning a tour around this part of the country can be tricky – it’s bigger than you think!
As I mentioned in my Scotland highlights post, we opted to go the pre-planned bus tour rout as opposed to renting a car and attempting to do it all ourselves. Although we are skilled trip planners, we decided it would be far more relaxing to let the professionals take care of it all.
However, I do have two disclaimers on choosing a bus tour: (1) go with a small group and (2) make sure the tour’s itinerary aligns with what you really want to see.
We went with Rabbie’s Tours and couldn’t have been happier with the experience. Their three-day Isle of Skye tour took us from Edinburgh to the famed Isle of Skye with perfect pitstops along the way. Their tours take a maximum of 16 people so the size is just right and our guide, Keith, was probably the best guide I’ve had in all my travels so far.
Unless you have a full week or more solely dedicated to exploring the Highlands, you’ll have to be selective about what you can fit into your schedule. I definitely didn’t get to cross everything off my “Highlands Must-See” list but that just means I have the perfect excuse to go back.
So although these five places don’t fully encompass the splendor of the Highlands, they are certainly spots you won’t want to miss.
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5 Places You Must Visit in the Scottish Highlands
1. Neist Point Lighthouse
The dramatic cliffs and picturesque lighthouse make this an unforgettable stop. And not only does Neist Point offer a spectacular view, it’s also the farthest west you can go in the UK without taking a boat, which is pretty cool.
My one word of caution: be prepared for the wind! This is the place where our guide actually warned us not to get too close to the edge of the cliffs because we might get blown off…Luckily none of us were blown over, just blown away by the view.
And if the weather conditions are good, you can actually walk down a designated path to explore around the lighthouse itself.
2. Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle has become one of the most iconic images of Scotland, and for good reason. Built on an island where three sea lochs meet, this 13th century castle couldn’t be set in a more enchanting place.
Like all great tourist attractions, there’s a visitor’s center, a gift shop, and a coffee shop (with great hot chocolate) to wander through before or after you cross the bridge to explore the little island Eilean Donan sits on.
Note that you do have to pay an admission price (currently £10) to cross the bridge, get closer to the castle, and see the exhibits within.
3. Glencoe
For my more nature-y friends out there, Glencoe should be at the top of your list. It’s one of Scotland’s most famous and historic glens (also recently voted as the country’s most romantic glen) and is perfect for fantastic scenery and all sorts of mountaineering, hillwalking, etc.
And even if you aren’t really into those sorts of outdoorsy activities, you have to go for the views…
4. Quiraing Mountain Pass
If you only go to one place, go here.
The Quiraing was possible my most favorite place we stopped throughout the Highlands.
Situated within the Trotternish ridge in the north of Skye, it was one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen. Despite a wee bit o’ wind, I felt like I could have stayed there for an eternity and been completely happy.
There is a walking loop for anyone wishing to explore a little more but just the view by the carpark is enough to take your breath away.
5. Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Last but not least: this dreamy stop…
Resembling a pleated kilt with it’s weathered basalt columns and tartan-esque pattern, Kilt Rock offers an unparalleled cliff-top view over the Sound of Raasay. At the lookout point, you’ll also see the Mealt Waterfall, a magnificent waterfall that plummets over 300 feet into the shoreline below.
It was so windy when we stopped there that the water from the waterfall was actually being blown back up!
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If you’ve been to the Highlands or are planning a trip, what’s at the top of your list? Let me know in the comments!
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