Why Go to Scottish Highlands
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
The Scottish Highlands come about as close to perfect scenery as anywhere on Earth. This vast region north of Glasgow covers more than 11,000 square miles of soaring peaks, long misty lochs, wild coastlines and quiet green glens, plus island groups off the north and west coasts that take off-the-grid travel to a whole new level.
Drive through the dramatic valley of Glencoe, search for the legendary monster on Loch Ness, and ride the Jacobite steam train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous from the Harry Potter films. Take the ferry or bridge to the Isle of Skye for its rugged cliffs and Fairy Pools, and explore castles like Eilean Donan and Urquhart. Then dive into Scottish culture: grab a pint at a cozy pub, try haggis, wear some tartan and tour centuries-old whisky distilleries in Speyside and the islands. From early summer to early fall, catch a Highland Games, where kilted athletes compete in traditions that go back centuries.
The Highlands are best explored by car or on a small-group tour, with Inverness as a great base. I'll plan your route, castle stays and distillery tours, and connect the Highlands with Edinburgh.
BEST FOR
Road-trippers, hikers, photographers and history lovers
BEST MONTHS
May–September, with longer daylight for touring
EXPLORE
Inverness is a practical gateway; Glencoe is known for rugged mountains; Fort William anchors western outdoor adventures; Skye is reached via the northwest coast.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Scottish Highlands
Europe › Northern Europe › United Kingdom › Scotland
Mountain glens, storied castles and dramatic lochs
National Parks & Nature
Scenic
History
Lakes
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Vast landscapes and single-track roads make a slower itinerary preferable to cramming in every landmark.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Leave room for changeable weather and book popular boat outings in advance.
Loch Ness
Take in the long, deep freshwater loch southwest of Inverness, with scenic shoreline villages and boat-based sightseeing.
Check Historic Environment Scotland ticketing and access before your visit.
Urquhart Castle
Explore atmospheric medieval castle ruins above Loch Ness and learn about their role in Highland history.
Weather can turn quickly; wear appropriate layers and avoid stopping on narrow road shoulders.
Glen Coe
Experience steep-sided mountain scenery, walking routes and the dramatic glen associated with Highland history.
Distances and single-track roads make driving slower than expected; plan generous travel time.
Isle of Skye
Explore the Isle of Skye’s mountain landscapes, coastal villages and striking sea cliffs on a longer Highland itinerary.
Check castle opening arrangements; photos from the shoreline do not require an interior visit.
Eilean Donan Castle
Admire a photogenic castle on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet near Dornie.
A luxury riverside hotel in Inverness, an accessible Highland gateway for rail arrivals and scenic road trips. A car is helpful for rural excursions beyond the city.
Ness Walk
Inverness / River Ness
Hotel Tags
An established hotel with garden grounds in Inverness, useful for travelers combining city sightseeing with Highland driving tours. Check room type and parking.
Kingsmills Hotel
Inverness / Culcabock
Hotel Tags
A riverside hotel and apartment option near central Inverness, practical for walks along the Ness and day trips toward Loch Ness. Confirm which building houses your room.
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
Inverness / River Ness
Hotel Tags
A central riverside property across from Inverness Castle, convenient for the city center and local transport. Check current spa availability and parking.
Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
Inverness / Ness Walk
Hotel Tags
An intimate boutique property near central Inverness, appealing to guests seeking a smaller luxury stay before Highland touring. Confirm dining and room details directly.
Rocpool Reserve
Inverness / Culduthel Road
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Scottish Highlands
High 45°F · Low 35°F · Rain 6.4 in
Shorter daylight invites markets and museum visits. Explore lochs, castles, Highland walks and scenic rail trips. Seasonal highlight: Highland Games typically cluster in warmer months, with local dates varying. Planning note: short daylight, mountain weather and ferry connections.
May–September, with longer daylight for touring. Check the forecast and local opening schedules before committing to outdoor excursions.
Best Times to Visit Scottish Highlands
WHEN TO GO
06
Ferries and Island Connections
Island trips require separately booked CalMac or other ferry services where available. Weather may interrupt crossings; build in buffers.
05
Buses and Coaches
Regional buses serve towns and some visitor destinations. Check seasonal frequency and last return services carefully.
04
Rental Cars and Single-Track Roads
Self-driving allows access to remote glens and trailheads. Use passing places correctly and allow for slow mountain roads.
03
Regional Rail Routes
Rail lines connect selected Highland towns and scenic corridors, but departures can be infrequent. Reserve key journeys and confirm connections.
02
Getting Around Locally
A car provides the most flexibility, but plan extra drive time and observe passing-place etiquette.
01
Arriving by Air
Inverness Airport is a convenient gateway; rail and coach routes reach principal towns.
Inverness Airport is a convenient gateway; rail and coach routes reach principal towns. A car provides the most flexibility, but plan extra drive time and observe passing-place etiquette.
Getting Around Scottish Highlands