The Scottish Highlands, one of the least populated areas in Europe, are home to some of Scotland’s most spectacular and diverse scenery. Like the high mountains of the Cairngorm and Nevis ranges, pockets of the ancient Caledonian Forests, many lochs and rivers and the mysterious and magical islands of the west coast.
Along with the natural scenery there is a great abundance of wildlife. The Moray and Cromarty Firths are full to the brim with many different species of birds along with the UK’s largest communities of bottlenose dolphins and seals. On ferries between the islands of the West Coast it’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of whales and basking sharks. While in the north around Shetland and Orkney you can see Killer Wales.
The Scottish Highlands are rich in history. The remains of Scotland’s pre-historic Celtic and Pictish societies can be seen in many areas, from the standing stones of Callanish on the Isle of Lewis, to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae on Orkney. All over Scotland you will be confronted with sites such as Culloden battle field and Urquhart Castle which tell the story of Scotland’s great and often volatile past.
The Scottish Highlands are home to many great houses and castles, once the home and seat of power to the many clans that ruled across large areas of Scotland. Dunrobin Castle in the Northern Highlands is the most northerly of the great family houses and is well worth a visit for the great architecture of the castle itself, as well as the gardens inspired by those at Versailles.
Despite being sparsely populated the Northern Highlands are dotted with many charming villages, towns and fishing ports; each of which have their own distinctive character and story to tell. Plockton on the west coast lies on the railway line between Inverness and the Kyle of Lochalsh. It is a protected fishing station that has its own unique micro climate that enables the locals to grow palm trees in their garden and around the harbour. It is a wondrous place to sit and enjoy a sunset.
There are a wide variety of activities that can be enjoyed in the Scottish highlands from white water rafting and mountain biking to more gentle pursuits like golf and walking. In the winter the Cairngorm and Nevis ranges offer great skiing and snowboarding facilities. Those that are looking to enjoy Scotland’s heritage sports like fishing, shooting and horse riding will find many opportunities to indulge them on Scotland’s many country estates.
One of the best ways to enjoy the Scottish Highlands is by car. If you can find accommodation in a good central location you can easily drive in a day, out and back, to the Highlands many attractions. Dingwall’s centrality has made it an important Highlands town for hundreds of years and it is easy to find a good hotel or Dingwall B&B that fits your needs and budget. Inverness is also a good base for a touring holiday, along with Strathpeffer and Alness. Look online for the best prices and facilities for you.
Craig Anderson writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
