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The Best of The Scottish Highlands | Recommended Places to Stay & Visit

The Scottish Highlands is a region of stunning beauty and dramatic history, covering the lochs, glens and mountains that epitomise Scotland.

The Best Scottish Highlands Hotels

the best of Scottish Highlands hotels and other accommodation, handpicked by our own travel experts

The Best Scottish Highlands Bed & Breakfasts

recommended B&Bs and guest houses throughout the Scottish Highlands

Scottish Highlands inns and pub accommodation

The Best Scottish Highlands Pub Accommodation

recommended inns and pub accommodation throughout the Scottish Highlands

Aviemore

Aviemore, located in the Cairngorms National Park, is a renowned outdoor adventure hub. Famous for its ski resort, it also offers a range of other activities including hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on the nearby Loch Morlich. Aviemore also serves as a gateway to the diverse wildlife and scenic beauty of the surrounding national park.

Fort William

Fort William is known as the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK'. It sits at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, making it a magnet for hikers and climbers. The town is also a key stop on the West Highland Way and the starting point of the scenic Jacobite Steam Train journey.

Inverness

Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, is known for its rich history and stunning scenery. Situated at the mouth of the River Ness and near the famous Loch Ness, it offers a blend of city comforts and natural wonders. The city features landmarks like Inverness Castle and the Old High Church, alongside contemporary shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is famed for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, and medieval castles. Known for its dramatic scenery, including the Old Man of Storr and the Cuillin mountain range, Skye is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Rich in Gaelic history and culture, the island also offers a unique culinary experience with its fresh seafood.

Loch Ness

Loch Ness, a large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, is world-famous for its legendary inhabitant, the Loch Ness Monster, or "Nessie." Surrounded by picturesque scenery, including Urquhart Castle's ruins on its western shore, the loch attracts visitors for monster hunting, boating, and enjoying the tranquil Highland landscapes. It's part of the Great Glen, a significant geological fault line.

Nairn

Nairn, a seaside town in the Scottish Highlands, is renowned for its sandy beaches, sunny climate, and marine promenade, making it a popular holiday destination. Historically a fishing port and market town, Nairn now boasts two championship golf courses. The town also features a vibrant arts scene, exemplified by its annual book and arts festival, and offers stunning views over the Moray Firth.

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500, Scotland's answer to Route 66, is a spectacular 516-mile scenic drive around the northern coast of Scotland. Starting and ending at Inverness Castle, the route winds through a diverse landscape of rugged coastline, serene beaches, and picturesque villages. It offers an immersive experience of the Scottish Highlands, showcasing its castles, distilleries, and abundant wildlife.

The Cairngorms

The Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, is the UK's largest national park and a part of the UNESCO-recognized Great Britain and Ireland Biosphere Reserves. It's celebrated for its stunning landscapes, encompassing vast moorlands, ancient forests, and the Cairngorms mountain range. The park is a hub for wildlife watching, outdoor activities, and hosts five of Scotland's six highest mountains.

Thurso

Thurso, the northernmost town on the British mainland, is known for its rich Norse history and as a gateway to the Orkney Islands. This coastal town, with its rugged cliffs and sweeping beaches, is a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts. Thurso's heritage is showcased in its architecture, museums, and the nearby ancient ruins of Caithness.

Ullapool

Ullapool is a picturesque fishing village on the shores of Loch Broom. Renowned for its natural beauty and traditional music scene, it serves as a gateway to the Western Isles, with ferries to Stornoway. Ullapool's waterfront is lined with charming shops and seafood restaurants, and the surrounding area offers superb hiking, wildlife watching, and a rich cultural heritage.

Wick

Wick, a historic town in the far north of the Scottish Highlands, is known for its maritime heritage and as the former herring fishing capital of Europe. Situated by the River Wick, it boasts a picturesque harbour and the Wick Heritage Museum, which captures local history. The town is also a gateway to the rugged beauty of Caithness and the famous North Coast 500 route.

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