The Scottish Highlands are a vast and beautiful region, with stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. There are countless places to visit in the Highlands, but if you’re looking for something off the beaten path, here are seven secret places that you won’t want to miss. From hidden waterfalls to secluded beaches, these places offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
July is a great time to visit the Scottish Highlands, as the weather is generally mild and the days are long. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the region’s many attractions, and you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery at its best. If you’re planning a trip to the Scottish Highlands in July 2024, be sure to add these seven secret places to your itinerary.
1. The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye
The Fairy Pools are a series of beautiful waterfalls and pools located on the Isle of Skye. The water is crystal clear and the scenery is stunning, making it a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The Fairy Pools are easy to get to, and there is a car park nearby. However, be aware that the pools can get crowded, especially during the summer months.
2. The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye
The Quiraing is a dramatic mountain pass located on the Isle of Skye. The pass is known for its stunning scenery, which includes towering cliffs, jagged peaks, and lush valleys. The Quiraing is a popular spot for hiking and climbing, and there are several trails that lead through the pass. The most popular trail is the Quiraing Loop, which takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
3. The Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye
The Old Man of Storr is a iconic rock formation located on the Isle of Skye. The formation is made up of a series of basalt columns that rise out of the ground. The Old Man of Storr is a popular spot for hiking and climbing, and there are several trails that lead to the summit. The most popular trail is the Old Man of Storr Trail, which takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
4. The Black Cuillin on the Isle of Skye
The Black Cuillin are a range of mountains located on the Isle of Skye. The mountains are known for their rugged terrain and challenging climbs. The Black Cuillin are a popular spot for hiking and climbing, and there are several trails that lead through the range. The most popular trail is the Cuillin Ridge Traverse, which takes about 2-3 days to complete.
5. The Loch Coruisk on the Isle of Skye
Loch Coruisk is a beautiful lake located on the Isle of Skye. The lake is surrounded by towering mountains and lush valleys, making it a popular spot for hiking, boating, and fishing. Loch Coruisk is easy to get to, and there is a car park nearby. However, be aware that the lake can get crowded, especially during the summer months.
6. The Arisaig Lighthouse on the Morvern Peninsula
The Arisaig Lighthouse is a beautiful lighthouse located on the Morvern Peninsula. The lighthouse is known for its stunning scenery, which includes views of the Sound of Arisaig, the Isle of Eigg, and the Isle of Rum. The Arisaig Lighthouse is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching, and there are several trails that lead to the lighthouse. The most popular trail is the Arisaig Lighthouse Trail, which takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
7. The Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Line
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a beautiful railway viaduct located on the West Highland Line. The viaduct is known for its stunning scenery, which includes views of Loch Shiel, the Glenfinnan Monument, and the surrounding mountains. The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a popular spot for hiking and trainspotting, and there are several trails that lead to the viaduct. The most popular trail is the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail, which takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
Culture
The Scottish Highlands are home to a rich and vibrant culture. The region has a long history of Gaelic culture, and there are several Gaelic-speaking communities in the Highlands. The Highlands are also home to a number of traditional Highland Games, which are held throughout the year.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit the Scottish Highlands are May, June, and September. These months offer the best weather conditions, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, the Highlands can be visited year-round, and each season offers its own unique experiences.
Nearby Transportation
The Scottish Highlands are accessible by car, train, and bus. There are several airports in the region, including Inverness Airport and Glasgow Airport. The Highlands are also served by a number of train lines, including the West Highland Line and the Kyle Line. There are several bus companies that operate in the Highlands, including Stagecoach and Scottish Citylink.
Local Food
The Scottish Highlands are home to a number of local specialties, including haggis, neeps and tatties, and shortbread. Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s pluck, oatmeal, and spices. Neeps and tatties are a traditional Scottish dish made from mashed turnips and potatoes. Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit made from butter, sugar, and flour.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels in the Scottish Highlands. Some of the best hotels include the Gleneagles Hotel, the Balmoral Hotel, and the Isle of Skye Hotel. The Gleneagles Hotel is a luxury hotel located in Perthshire. The Balmoral Hotel is a luxury hotel located in Edinburgh. The Isle of Skye Hotel is a luxury hotel located on the Isle of Skye.
Conclusion
The Scottish Highlands are a beautiful and fascinating region, with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for stunning scenery, rich culture, or exciting activities, you’re sure to find it in the Highlands. If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, be sure to add the Scottish Highlands to your itinerary.
