Things To See & Do
You can really enjoy the thrill of the open road in the Highlands and there are some wonderful routes and mountain passes to motor along, including the North Coast 500, Glencoe, the Rest and be Thankful, Glenshee, Glen Spean, and the hairpin bends of the Bealach na Ba.
You might like to explore lovely Perthshire with its rushing rivers and misty glens. This is great walking country and is famous for its connections with the outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. Blair Castle in nearby Blair Atholl is highly recommended for an impressive insight into Scottish social history.
The quiet and peaceful beauty of Ardnamurchan is hard to beat; a long, narrow peninsula along the shores of Loch Sunart, it includes the most westerly tip of the British Mainland.
Head to the far north, by scenic train-journey or car, to discover the wilderness of the Flow Country, atmospheric highland glens now long-deserted, but once home to thriving communities, and the glorious coastal scenery of Sutherland and Wester Ross.
While others tick off John O’Groats, head a mile or two further north east to Duncansby Head, with its squat lighthouse and expansive views across to the Orkney Islands. A short walk along the coast, taking in the salty air, will reveal the jagged beauty of a rocky arch and sea stacks, battered into creation by the relentless tides.
Travelling To & Around
Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen airports all act as easy gateways to the Scottish Highlands – pick up a car and you’ll be out in the countryside in less than an hour. Or you could fly directly to the Highland capital, Inverness, and begin your trip from there.
Trains serve the major cities well, including the overnight Sleeper service from London. Beyond that, the West Highland Line, Kyle to Inverness Line and the Far North Line journey through spectacular scenery and provide the basis for our independent train touring holidays. Pre-arranged local driver/ guides or short taxi hops ensure everything connects smoothly – just leave that to us and make the most of your break.
Distances may not appear big on a map but roads can be twisty and narrow, especially when heading off-the-beaten track, so do take your time to ensure a stress-free holiday in the Scottish Highlands. A self-drive or fly-drive holiday can help you reach some of the further-flung spots with ease, while our carefully-designed train tours will dispense with the need to drive, yet still make sure you take in the highlights and some hidden gems along the way too.
