Scotland is the northernmost country in the United Kingdom and famed around the world for its whisky (not whiskey), kilts, dramatic landscapes, and of course the Loch Ness Monster.
I first visited Scotland as a child when my family holidayed in the Trossachs National Park in the West Highlands. I returned many years later at the age of 21 on my first ever solo backpacking trip.
Since then I’ve returned many times and climbed Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in the UK), indulged in whisky tastings and hiked and camped my way around the highlands.
There is lots to see and do in Scotland from exploring beautiful Edinburgh, and Inverness to a plethora of outdoor activities up and down this gorgeous land.
Scotland has a “right to roam” law which means hiking and camping are permitted almost anywhere within reason.
blog posts about scotland
Glasgow Whisky Tours
Glengoyne Distillery
Inverness to Skye Tour
Cairnryan Belfast Ferry
top places to visit in scotland
Glasgow
Glasgow is Scotland’s vibrant capital. Although arguably not as nice as Edinburgh, there is plenty to see and do in and around the city. Explore museums, go whisky tasting and try a deep fried mars bar. Glasgow is also an excellent jumping-off point for reaching the Highlands.
Edinburgh
The historic city of Edinburgh is one of the top places to visit in England and sees huge numbers of tourists each year. Visit Edinburgh Castle, climb Arthur’s Seat and marvel at the gorgeous architecture on display.
The Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is a wild and rugged land of glens (valleys), mountains, lochs, rivers and forests. Some of the highlights of the Highlands include Loch Lomond, Loch Ness, Glencoe and Fort William.
Inverness
Inverness is a city (formerly a town) and gateway to the Highlands. The city sits on the banks of the River Ness a few miles from famous Loch Ness, home of the legendary monster.
Ben Nevis
Ben Neis is the highest mountain in Scotland (and the whole of the UK) at 4.411 feet (1,344 metres). It’s located near the town of Fort William on the West Coast of the Scottish Highlands. It takes around eight hours to hike to the summit and back.
The Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is the largest island of the Inner Hebrides and connected to the mainland by a bridge. Skye is famous for its rugged scenery, waterfalls, mountains and as the home of Talisker Whisky (one of my favourites).
Read my guide to visiting Skye.