The Scottish Highlands

Mighty mountains, tranquil lochs and a wild, untamed coastline: welcome to some of the Highland’s most incredible scenery.

Welcome to the highest mountain in Scotland. Sheer catnip for hikers, the summit has spectacular views of the Grampian range.

With their one-of-a-kind sports, these traditional Scottish tournaments are the ‘Olympics of the Highlands’.

A little taste of the tropics in Scotland, this thriving spot features coffee plants, pineapple plants and rare orchids – and is free to visit.

Crossing open moors, lofty peaks, and forest-lined lochs, the West Highland Way serves up 96 miles (154km) of invigorating hiking.

A sustainable hideaway in the romantic wilds of the Scottish Highlands.

Whether you’re a total beginner or a budding pro, Scotland’s west coast is a surfer’s dream.

On the Kintyre peninsula, this family-run horse-riding centre offers equestrian adventures for all abilities.

The largest ski resort in the UK, Glenshee has slopes for everyone from beginners to experienced skiers and snowboarders.

The stunning Cairngorm Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland every year, with 19 miles (30 km) of ski runs, 10 lifts and a funicular railway.

First stop for any visitors to the Highlands is the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, in the historic heart of the city.

Take home a true Scottish souvenir, with some hand-crafted Tain pottery from its workshop in Tain.

Take a tour of Speyside whisky distilleries in this famous whisky-making region of the Highlands.

When in Inverness, visit one of its culinary institutions – Rocpool restaurant, which prides itself on serving local ingredients with world-class flavour.

Enjoy real Highland food and hospitality with the Cleikum Social Eating Club – a home-cooked dinner and storytelling experience.

Follow in the footsteps of William Wallace – and Mel Gibson – on the Braveheart Tour, taking in key spots in the historic Scottish hero’s life.

If you’ve dreamed of travelling back in time on Outlander, then make it a reality with a bespoke Outlander Tour by insiders from the show.

Discover what Highland life was like in the past with this popular living history museum in the Cairngorms.

Learn all about Bonnie Prince Charlie with the Jacobite treasures on display at the West Highland Museum in Fort William.

Prepare to be surprised by the Gairloch Museum, with its inspiring displays housed in a former nuclear bunker.

Mark the start of summer with the famous Beltane Fire Festival. The parade and bonfire is one of Edinburgh’s must-see events.

Party on at the popular Belladrum Tartan Heart music festival on the Belladrum Estate near Inverness.

Shetland comes alive over four days with its historic Shetland Folk Festival, celebrating local, national and international music.

Hit the road with one of Britain’s most spectacular driving routes – the North Coast 500, from Inverness.

Head to Cairngorm Mountain in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

You can’t get a more spectacular location than the Isle of Eriska Hotel, overlooking Loch Linnhe and the Morvern Mountains. This tranquil spot is at the mouth of Loch Creran, in West Argyll.

Get away from it all with a stay at The Ballachulish Hotel, on the banks of Loch Linnhe, on the west coast of Scotland.

Give yourself a treat whilst in the Highlands and book a day spa treatment at Aspen Spa in Tain and Dornoch.

Beloved by Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, you can visit Balmoral Castle and estate in Aberdeenshire.

If you fancy a Highland adventure without the hassle, Wilderness Scotland can curate a tour for you, from adventure sports to retreats.

Join the slow food movement and take a sustainable culinary tour through the Highlands and Islands with the Highland Food and Drink Club.