Most beautiful places in Scotland

Excited to visit some of the most beautiful places in Scotland? I bet because this country has an array of stunning locations. Scotland is a gorgeous country, with so much to offer. Think dramatic coastal roads, wild hiking trails, ancient forests and rugged terrain. Topped with delightful castles and mysterious lochs.

Many start their Scottish trip in the capital city of Edinburgh. And rightfully so, because Edinburgh is a bustling city, with so much to offer, including gorgeous traditional accommodation. Continue your Scottish trip and visit Loch Ness, and the ruins of Urquhart Castle. See the city of Inverness, swim in the Moray Firth and hike up Ben Nevis, which is the highest peak in the UK. You’re going to love your trip and fall in love with Scotland’s most gorgeous locations.

If you really want a dramatic landscape, you must visit The Scottish Highlands. The Highlands are a mountainous region encompassing northwest Scotland. Beyond mountains and rugged terrain, Scotland is home to some of the most postcard-perfect beaches. While they might not be the warmest coastal retreats, they sure look out of this world.

The Isle of Harris

The Isle of Harris is one of the islands that form part of the Outer Hebrides, and there is one main reason you might want to consider visiting here: the breathtaking views and scenery.

This is the perfect location for couples or families that love to be out in the countryside. It’s ideal for hiking enthusiasts who want postcard-perfect vistas. You’ll visit two stunning beaches, which must not be missed: Scarista and Luskentyre. There are few hotels and restaurants on the island, but there are excellent options for camping. This location feels like a real adventure, with a dramatic landscape, perfect for making memories. It sure is one of the most beautiful places to add to your Scottish itinerary.

isle of harris scotland

The Scottish Highlands

We have a joke in our family: throw a pin on the map anywhere in the Scottish Highlands, and you will discover a gorgeous place in Scotland. The whole area is stunning and you cannot go wrong with any location you want to visit here. Waterfalls, mountains, lakes, climbs, rolling hills, you have everything you need to see Scotland’s true soul.

Take a road trip and explore the main villages, lochs, and towns within them. One of the most well-known locations to visit is the famed Loch Ness. Famous for the Loch Ness monster but also so many beautiful sights and things to do in the surrounding areas. Taking a boat trip on Loch Ness is a great way to see the vast water and surroundings in all their glory. While you are there, visit the often overlooked Urquhart Castle. It is surrounded by mystery and the perfect location to get the imagination going for all ages.

The Scottish Highlands can offer you fabulous hotels and bed and breakfast options, but there are also some excellent camping sites for people who are looking for adventure on a budget.

The Scottish Highlands

Glencoe

Want to visit a beautiful and quaint village in Western Scotland? Then you must add Glencoe to your list. The area is known for trails that will take you to gorgeous and steep peaks such as Buachaille Etive Mor and Bidean Nam Bian. You’ll have plenty of photo opportunities thanks to the myriads waterfalls in the area.

Stay in one of the thatched cottages located in Glencoe village and learn about the local heritage and history. If you wanted to find a beautiful place that would embody Scotland’s natural charm and character then Glencoe is your destination. It is an ancient volcanic glen flanked with incredible lush greenery and plenty of beautiful locations to see.

Glencoe in Scotland

The Isle of Skye

Picture one of Scotland’s most stunning locations: The Isle of Skye has beautiful rugged landscapes, quaint fishing villages and medieval castles you must visit. You’ll see narrow lochs, surrounded by the mountainous interior. You’ll sit down in harbourside pubs and shop for Scottish souvenirs in some of the local boutiques.

Stay in the town of Portree and start exploring the isle from there. You’ll be close to nature and wildlife, and you’ll enjoy some incredible adventures, especially if you’re up for epic trails.

For the more active traveller, there are plenty of opportunities to do activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, or abseiling. Ready to visit?

Isle of Skye in Scotland is one of the most beautiful places to visit

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is a gorgeous lake located in southern Scotland, part of the Trossachs National Park. You’ll walk through wonderful oak woodlands and see red deer. You’ll enjoy a true sight of the British countryside, with villages and stone cottages. You’ll want to move there, it’s so beautiful and peaceful.

If you want adventure, natural beauty and stunning photography locations, then Loch Lomond is your place. We recommend staying in the area for at least a couple of nights so you can hike in a few of the trails. We think Loch Lomond is an ideal location for couples and families who love the great outdoors.

There’s so much to see and do in the area, it’s well worth adding it to your Scottish itinerary.

Loch Lomond Scotland

Dean Village

Dean Village is a quaint location located north of Edinburgh. It’s a gorgeous location to visit in Scotland, abutting a tranquil stream, with gardens, 19th-century buildings & a museum. If you love rural places and want to enjoy the Scottish countryside, then Dean Village is the place to visit.

Dean Village was known as the “Water of Leith Village” and used to be an area for grain milling. The area has now become a desirable residential area, and we think you should add it to your itinerary if you’re visiting Edinburgh.

Dean Village near Edinburgh

Caithness and Sutherland

Scotland is home to some incredible coastlines, which is why we’re sending you far North. Caithness and Sutherland can be explored by driving the North Coast 500 a well-known coast road trip in Scotland.

The North Coast 500 has been voted one of the world’s top coastal touring routes that follow the rugged coastal edges of the North Highlands.

Perfect for couples or families, this location is one to embrace if you are looking for a typical British seaside staycation in Scotland.

north coast 500 scotland

Eilean Donan

We’ve got another beautiful location in Scotland, this time a castle on the island of Loch Duich. Eilean Donan is classed as one of the most photogenic castles in Scotland, a hidden gem you need to see for yourself.

From the castle, you can also see the Isle of Skye which is less than an hour drive away. This is raw Scotland at its finest, with wildlife and incredible scenery, so you will not find yourself short of walking opportunities while visiting Loch Duich.

Eilean Donan in Scotland

Scotland really is a fabulous place full of beautiful locations awaiting to be discovered. Vibrant cities, medieval villages and raw natural landscapes, this country is perfect for road trips with family and friends. We love Scotland so much, we hope to move there one day. Make sure to explore this gorgeous country filled with natural beauty and delight. Great, you are now ready to start planning your own itinerary full of beautiful places in Scotland. We wish you a wonderful holiday!

Love Great Britain? Here’s more content to help you plan your trip:

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or find yourself Travel Guide to England

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Cory from You Could Travel entering Senso-ji in Tokyo, Japan

Cory Varga – Cory is a published travel writer and award-winning photographer. She travels full time with her husband and is passionate about creating in-depth travel guides. Cory published her first book on Japanese customs and manners because she’s obsessed with everything Japan. She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester.

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One response to “Most beautiful places in Scotland”

  1. What a great article Cory. It makes me want to make a special trip just to check it all out!

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