Extraordinary things to do in the Scottish Highlands
Okay, so you’ve decided to make the excellent choice to visit the Highlands? Let’s delve deeper into some of the most extraordinary things to do in Scotland, you’re certainly in for a treat…if you can handle the picturesque views and unexpected ventures.
Delve deep into the belly of all caves
Fingal’s Cave, located on the Isle of Staffa, is the only cave in the world made out of hexagonal basalt columns. You can reach the island by a small vessel from the Mull off the west coast of Scotland. It’s said that Felix Mendelssohn, the classical composer was so inspired by the eerie echoes, water ripples and romantic setting that he composed a whole album in dedication. So why not release your inner musician and get music making deep in the cave’s belly?
Travel with flew powder
Why not take the Jacobite steam train on the glorious six-hour journey, starting from the foot of Ben Nevis and crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the wizarding world of Harry Potter, before passing the silver sands of Morar and finishing your journey in the picturesque fishing village of Mallaig, where you can also stop for a spot of afternoon tea to admire the view.
Sleep like royalty for the night
Ok, we’d be lying if we said that we wouldn’t like to sleep in a castle for a night, I mean who wouldn’t? The Glengorm Castle on the Isle of Mull can make your fairy tale dreams come true. The fortress occupies a glorious position surrounded by ruined stone circles, sapphire blue sea, and white sandy beaches against dramatic black rock on Mull’s north coast. Why not make your trip one to remember and stay in a tower room for just £250 per night!
Take a break and watch the whales go by
Arguably, the waters surrounding Mull are some of the best places to see whales in the UK where you may be able to see both Minke and orca whales. You also have a good chance of seeing some of the other big beasts of the deep including dolphins, porpoises and the second-biggest fish in the world, the basking shark, so take you binoculars, coffee flask and get spotting.
Pitch your tent in the wild
In Scotland, you’re allowed to pitch a tent almost anywhere so why not try your hand at some wild camping? It gives you the freedom to explore some of the most remote areas of the Highlands, but without having to commit to anywhere longer than a night. If this type of spontaneous adventure appeals to you, then make sure you read up on the Scottish Outdoor Access Guidelines before you head off with your tent into the vast unknown.
Brave Ben Nevis
If you already have hill-walking experience then you don’t have to climb Ben Nevis by the Tourist Path, instead follow the remarkable Carn Mór Dearg Arête, it is one of the finest ridges in Scotland, sweeping in a perfect arc towards the North Face. At the top you can join the masses as they descend via the main route and enjoy a pint of real ale in the traditional Ben Nevis Inn at the bottom of the mountain.
Run out of puff over puffins
If you plan on visiting the Highlands during the warmer months then you’ll be lucky enough to see thousands of seabirds, and even maybe the rainbow coloured puffin! The island is only a short boat trip away and the birds are surprisingly tolerant of human spectators, so the Scottish Wildlife Trust will take you to the nature reserve for a day of exploring the wildlife, make sure you look out for razorbills, kittiwakes and great skuas too!
Share the water with monsters
Even though Loch Ness is a traditional sight to visit on a tour of the Scottish Highlands, you might not have considered exploring the Loch on a canoe! Take a spectacular canoeing tour through the Great Glen, on Loch Ness – but remember to watch out for monsters.
So what are you waiting for? Buy your ticket, pack your suitcase and start exploring the Highlands! Whenever you decide you want to travel make sure you check the Visit Scotland website before you go so you can plan ahead and check out all of the latest events.
About the Author
Meg Jones Meg Jones is a prolific writer, working for Milton Executive Cars, who often blogs about all the different countries and adventure she’s experienced. When she isn’t travelling, she is completing her second degree and learning Russian in the evenings.
