Scottish Highlands for first-time visitors
The Scottish Highlands is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the world, with its rugged landscapes, ancient history and warm hospitality. If this is your first time in Scotland, exploring the Highlands is a must! From dramatic mountains to historic castles, here are a few of our favourite locations that showcase the best of Scotland…
Loch Ness
We’ll start with our very own Loch Ness. No trip to the Highlands is complete without visiting us here in Fort Augustus. Based at one of our beautiful apartments or cottages within a famous and historic abbey, this iconic loch is right on the doorstep. Of course, Loch Ness is known worldwide for its mythical monster, Nessie. Take a boat tour with Cruise Loch Ness to enjoy the stunning scenery, looking out for the monster along the way. Walk, cycle or sail along the engineering marvel that is the Caledonian Canal. Explore the ruins Urquhart Castle. Enjoy panoramic views from Suidhe Viewpoint. There’s something for everyone to enjoy around the mysterious waters of Loch Ness.
Glen Coe
Glen Coe is an iconic Scottish location. It’s a dramatic valley with towering mountains and cascading waterfalls. This stunning area is a haven for walkers and outdoors enthusiasts. It is also one of the most photographed places in Scotland, with picture-perfect scenery in every direction. From the spectacular Buachaille Etive Mòr to The Three Sisters. You can also drive the Skyfall Road, a James Bond filming location on the way to Glen Etive.
Isle of Skye
For dramatic coastal scenery, head to the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s most beautiful islands. The island is connected to the mainland via a bridge, making it easily accessible. See the Old Man of Storr, a jagged rock formation with breathtaking views, or take a walk through the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear waterfalls and pools. The Quiraing is a wonderful hike to do, featuring unusual and otherworldly rock formations.
Eilean Donan
Eilean Donan is a small island in the western Highlands, located where three lochs meet. Its castle, Eilean Donan Castle, is one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks. This picturesque fortress looks straight out of a movie, and has been featured in several. You can view it from the mainland, or cross the bridge for a closer look. The castle is open for tours, where you can learn all about its fascinating history.
The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms is a vast national park with ancient forests, sparkling rivers and some of Scotland’s tallest mountains. In winter, you can ski at the Cairngorm Mountain resort, and in summer you can take part in water activities at Loch Morlich Watersports. There is plenty of wildlife to spot in the park, including deer, wildcats, red squirrels, ospreys, pine martens and golden eagles.
Ben Nevis & Fort William
If you’re up for a challenge, you could hike Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, is a charming town with plenty of pubs, restaurants and outdoor activities. For a more relaxing adventure, take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter, which runs from Fort William to Mallaig. Although, this must be booked well in advance as it is extremely popular.
The North Coast
For those who love road trips, the North Coast 500 is one of the world’s most scenic drives! Starting from Inverness, the route takes you along the north coast of Scotland for over 500 miles, passing remote beaches, rugged cliffs and charming fishing villages. John O’ Groats in Caithness is the northernmost village on the mainland, which is a great spot to take in stunning sea views and perhaps even spot some puffins or dolphins. Or, you could venture further to Dunnet Head, the most northern tip of Scotland.
First time in Scotland tips and resources
These useful resources can help make your first time in Scotland run smoothly. The official VisitScotland website has guides on attractions and travel tips. Traveline Scotland helps with planning train, bus and ferry routes across the country. If you’re travelling the North Coast 500, the NC500 website is essential for planning your stops and accommodation. Additionally, downloading the WalkHighlands app is great for finding walking trails. We’d love to welcome you to Abbey Holidays Loch Ness for part of your journey. Please take a look at our self-catering accommodation and contact us here if you need any help at all.
