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Scotland is a land of amazing beauty. It has rugged mountains, mysterious lakes, and old castles. It also has a strong culture with Celtic music and kilts. If you are planning a trip, here are 10 places you should not miss.
Explore These Top Spots in Scotland
These places are close enough to each other that you can see them on a 10 to 14 day road trip.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a beautiful city in southeast Scotland. It is the place to experience Scottish culture.
- Visit Edinburgh Castle to learn about its history.
- Hike Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat for great views.
- Enjoy live music at a pub on the Royal Mile.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is west of Edinburgh. It is a popular place because it is close to cities. There are many things to do here.
- Take a boat tour on Loch Lomond.
- Hike or bike on the many trails.
The West Highland Trail is a long hike that goes through the park. Shorter hikes include Ben A’an and Conic Hill. You might even see Highland cows on Conic Hill! Conic Hill marks the spot between the Lowlands and the Highlands of Scotland.
Glencoe Valley
Glencoe Valley is in the Scottish Highlands. It has amazing mountain views and waterfalls. You can hike steep peaks like the Pap of Glencoe.
The road through Glencoe Valley goes through an old volcano. It is a spectacular drive. This area has been in several Harry Potter movies.
Glen Nevis
Glen Nevis is near Fort William. It is a beautiful glen in the Highlands. It is home to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. You can hike Ben Nevis or enjoy the views from the road.
Hike to Steall Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Scotland. This short hike is also a Harry Potter filming location.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is near Glen Nevis and Fort William. It is famous from the Harry Potter movies. This bridge has 21 arches and sits in beautiful scenery. It looks over Loch Shiel and the Jacobite Monument.
You can explore the area by hiking. You can also take the Jacobite steam train, also known as the Hogwarts Express. It runs between Fort William and Mallaig.
Inverness
Inverness is the most northern city in the United Kingdom. It is the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. The city has a great pub scene with live music.
- Visit the Inverness Cathedral.
- Check out Leaky’s Bookshop.
- Walk to the Ness Islands.
- Taste whiskies from different areas of Scotland.
Loch Ness
Loch Ness is a short drive from Inverness. It is famous for the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, called Nessie. People have reported seeing Nessie for years. The first written story about Nessie is from 565 A.D.
Even though many sightings have been proven false, it is still exciting to visit the lake. Try to spot Nessie yourself!
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed castles in the world. It sits on a small island. A curved bridge connects it to the mainland. It looks like it is from a fairytale.
The castle was first built in the 13th century. Since then, four versions of the castle have been built. It is a great stop on the way to the Isle of Skye. There is a street behind Eilean Donan Castle that offers an impressive free view of the castle.
Old Man of Storr (Isle of Skye)
Skye is the second largest island in Scotland. It has some of the most beautiful views you will see on your trip. The Old Man of Storr is a famous spot on the island.
Hike the 5 kilometer loop to see the rock formations. At the top, enjoy the views of the Storr. Try to go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Quiraing (Isle of Skye)
Quiraing is on the north end of Skye. It has some of the best natural views in Scotland. The rocky landscape was caused by a landslide. This exposed strange rock formations under a large cliff.
From the parking lot, you can see great views of the peaks. Hike to see the formations up close and get better views of the lakes below.
Plan Your Scotland Trip
To visit these places, it is best to rent a car. Scotland has so much to offer and will be an experience you will never forget.
Ready to start planning your unforgettable Scottish adventure?