What Is a Scottish Highlands Tour? Landscapes, Routes & Experiences Explained
Escape the urban hustle and bustle and unearth the untamed beauty of Scotland. Immerse yourself in tales of ancient castles perched above lochs, and set off from Scotland’s capital city, or embark on a whisky tour.
If you’ve been thinking of visiting the beautiful, historic Scottish Highlands but don’t know where to start, this blog is a great place to begin your journey.
Where are the Scottish Highlands?
The Scottish Highlands are located in the north and west of Scotland, covering a vast area of mountains, glens, lochs, and coastline. Known for their wild beauty and remote charm, the Highlands are one of the most iconic regions in the UK and a popular destination for those looking to experience Scotland at its most dramatic.
The region includes well-known spots such as Inverness, Fort William, Glencoe and Loch Ness, as well as smaller villages and islands full of character. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a guided tour, or a walking holiday, the Highlands offer countless opportunities to take in Scotland’s natural beauty and rich history, and our tour will take you to see it all.
What Landscapes Can You Expect to See?
One of the most remarkable things about the Scottish Highlands on our private Highland Scotland tours is the sheer variety of landscapes waiting to be explored. From misty mountains and deep glens to sparkling lochs and rolling moorland, each area of the region has its own unique features.
The most popular destinations and sights are:
- Isle of Skye: The Isle of Skye is known for its unique land formations, such as the Fairy Pools and the iconic Cuillin mountain range.
- Ancient Highland Castles: Some of the most beautiful castles to visit include Dunrobin Castle, Castle Tioram and Kilchurn Castle.
- Jacobite Steam Train: The Jacobite Steam Train runs for 84 miles through some of the most dramatic scenery in the Scottish Highlands.
- Highland Cattle: also endearingly known as ‘Highland coos’, are an iconic image of Scotland, with their shaggy fringes hanging over their eyes and their long, pointed horns.
- Scottish Highland beaches: A tour of the Scottish Highlands is incomplete without seeing the beautiful sandy beaches backed by dramatic, craggy rocks. Sandwood Bay and Knockvologan are two of the many beaches worth visiting.
Popular Scottish Highland Tour Routes
Experience the essence of Scotland on one of our private tours. Design your own bespoke tour, choosing from a selection of sights to suit your personal tastes.
Edinburgh
We start in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, where you can enjoy the medieval and Georgian architecture. Our expert guide will bring landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace to life.
Isles of Mull & Skye
The beauty of the coastal vistas of the Rocky Cliffs above the treacherous waters of the Western Isles is yours to discover on this tour. You will also have the opportunity to visit Iona Abbey, a sacred site and former monastic community that has been in existence for millennia. Enjoy artisanal whisky distilleries and freshly caught seafood while you’re there.
Highlands & Outer Hebrides
Escape the ordinary and discover the wild beauty of Scotland’s remote north with a bespoke Outer Hebrides adventure. Set sail from Ullapool across the shimmering waters of the Minch to the Isle of Lewis, or journey along the Great Glen and take a boat ride on the world-famous Loch Ness.
Experience Scotland’s Capital With A Day Tour to Edinburgh
While we understand your desire to explore the more remote parts of Scotland, the first few days in Edinburgh can be just as exciting. Our bespoke Edinburgh tours, whether by chauffeur-driven car or on foot, offer experiences tailored to your interests.
Old Town
This walk through the Old Town reveals the heartbeat of historic Edinburgh, from medieval marvels to Jacobite legends. You can explore the Royal Mile with a private guide who will breathe life into the histories of its hidden alleys and gardens.
New Town
Take in the Georgian architecture of the New Town, a UNESCO gem. Here you can unwind with some shopping along George Street or visit private art collections.
Whisky Distilleries and Private Tastings
You haven’t seen Scotland until you’ve visited a whisky distillery and experienced the aroma and flavour of single malt or blended Scotch whisky in its very own birthplace.
Guided Tours vs Self-Drive: Which Is Better?
Guided tours and self-drive trips both have their advantages, so the right choice depends on the kind of Highland experience you’re looking for.
Self-Drive Tour
- Gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace.
- Make spontaneous stops and build an itinerary around the places that interest you most.
- For confident drivers, it can be a great way to explore more remote corners of the region on your own terms.
Guided Tour
- Easier and more relaxing option, especially if you are visiting for the first time.
- Rather than worrying about directions, parking and unfamiliar rural roads, you can simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.
- Guided tours also give you the benefit of local knowledge, helping you to uncover stories, history and hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.
For travellers seeking a stress-free way to explore the Highlands, guided tours with MyUKtour are an especially appealing option. With carefully planned routes, expert guidance, and the opportunity to take in Scotland’s landscapes without the hassle of driving, they provide a convenient way to experience some of the region’s most memorable sights.
Book a Bespoke Scotland Highland Tour with MyUKtour
A tour of the Scottish Highlands is well worth it for the chance to experience one of the most beautiful and historic regions in the UK. With their breathtaking landscapes, fascinating routes and unforgettable experiences, the Highlands offer something special for every traveller.
If you’re considering visiting the charming towns of the Scottish Highlands or taking in the dramatic landscapes, you can tailor your experience by booking Scotland tours with MyUKtour.
