The Scottish Highlands are a magical mix of rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, dramatic coastlines, and ancient history. Whether you’re chasing misty glens, windswept beaches, or castle-studded landscapes, the Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Europe.
Here are 15 of the most beautiful places to visit in this legendary region—each with its own unique charm and things to see and do nearby.
1. Isle of Skye
Why it’s beautiful: The Isle of Skye is Scotland’s crown jewel, known for its dramatic cliffs, moody moors, and otherworldly rock formations.
Where it is: Off the west coast of mainland Scotland, connected by bridge.
What to do nearby:
- Hike the Quiraing or Old Man of Storr
- Visit Fairy Pools and Fairy Glen
- Explore Dunvegan Castle and its gardens
2. Glen Coe
Why it’s beautiful: A hauntingly beautiful valley carved by glaciers, Glen Coe is a favorite among photographers and hikers.
Where it is: Southwest of Fort William along the A82.
What to do nearby:
- Hike the Lost Valley or Bidean nam Bian
- Visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre
- Drive through the dramatic Pass of Glencoe
3. Loch Ness
Why it’s beautiful: This iconic loch is not only mysterious thanks to tales of the Loch Ness Monster, but also incredibly scenic with deep, dark waters framed by rolling hills.
Where it is: South of Inverness in the Great Glen.
What to do nearby:
- Visit Urquhart Castle ruins on the loch’s edge
- Take a loch cruise from Drumnadrochit
- Explore the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition
4. Eilean Donan Castle
Why it’s beautiful: Sitting on its own little island where three sea lochs meet, this castle looks like something out of a fantasy film.
Where it is: Near Dornie, just before the Skye Bridge.
What to do nearby:
- Tour the castle and learn about its Jacobite history
- Enjoy a scenic drive along Loch Duich
- Head west to the Isle of Skye
5. Cairngorms National Park
Why it’s beautiful: A haven for wildlife and outdoor lovers, the Cairngorms offer snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and sparkling rivers.
Where it is: Northeast Highlands, spanning Aberdeenshire, Moray, and Highland council areas.
What to do nearby:
- Hike or ski in the Cairngorm Mountains
- Visit the Highland Wildlife Park
- Explore the villages of Aviemore or Braemar
6. Plockton
Why it’s beautiful: With palm trees lining the harbor and views across Loch Carron, Plockton feels almost Mediterranean—yet still undeniably Scottish.
Where it is: On the west coast, near Kyle of Lochalsh.
What to do nearby:
- Take a boat trip to spot seals
- Stroll the waterfront and enjoy fresh seafood
- Visit nearby Duncraig Castle
7. Ben Nevis
Why it’s beautiful: As the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis offers dramatic views and a bucket-list hiking challenge.
Where it is: Near Fort William, in the western Highlands.
What to do nearby:
- Hike the Mountain Track (or hire a guide)
- Visit the Ben Nevis Distillery
- Explore the Nevis Range gondola and biking trails
8. Loch Assynt & Ardvreck Castle
Why it’s beautiful: This remote loch with its haunting ruined castle is wildly romantic and utterly peaceful.
Where it is: Sutherland, northwest Highlands.
What to do nearby:
- Explore the castle ruins
- Visit nearby Inchnadamph Bone Caves
- Drive the North Coast 500 scenic route
9. Applecross Peninsula
Why it’s beautiful: Known for its remoteness and sweeping coastal views, Applecross feels like the edge of the world.
Where it is: Wester Ross, west coast Highlands.
What to do nearby:
- Drive the hair-raising Bealach na Bà pass
- Eat fresh seafood at the Applecross Inn
- Enjoy hiking and wildlife spotting
10. Glenfinnan Viaduct
Why it’s beautiful: Surrounded by lush green hills and reflecting lochs, this curved railway viaduct is iconic—especially with the Jacobite steam train puffing across.
Where it is: West of Fort William.
What to do nearby:
- Watch the “Harry Potter” train cross the viaduct
- Visit the Glenfinnan Monument overlooking Loch Shiel
- Hike the Glenfinnan Trail for views of both
11. Loch Maree
Why it’s beautiful: Often overlooked, Loch Maree is one of Scotland’s most serene and pristine lochs, dotted with forested islands.
Where it is: Wester Ross, near Gairloch.
What to do nearby:
- Hike the Slattadale Trail
- Kayak or paddleboard on the loch
- Visit Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve
12. Torridon
Why it’s beautiful: With towering sandstone peaks and mirror-like lochs, Torridon is a dream for hikers and photographers alike.
Where it is: Northwest Highlands, Wester Ross.
What to do nearby:
- Hike Beinn Alligin or Liathach
- Stay at the Torridon Hotel for luxury and views
- Explore Shieldaig village nearby
13. Dornoch
Why it’s beautiful: This seaside town combines history, charm, and wide golden beaches with a Highland backdrop.
Where it is: East coast Highlands, north of Inverness.
What to do nearby:
- Visit Dornoch Cathedral and town square
- Walk the stunning Dornoch Beach
- Tee off at Royal Dornoch Golf Club
14. Ullapool
Why it’s beautiful: Nestled on Loch Broom, this colorful fishing village is a gateway to the northwest Highlands and the Western Isles.
Where it is: Northwest coast, Ross and Cromarty.
What to do nearby:
- Take a ferry to the Isle of Lewis
- Walk the Ullapool Hill trail
- Enjoy the artsy vibe and local music scene
15. Arisaig & the Silver Sands of Morar
Why it’s beautiful: White sand beaches and turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean—yes, in Scotland! All with mountains rising in the background.
Where it is: West coast, near Mallaig.
What to do nearby:
- Relax on the beaches at Camusdarach
- Take the ferry to the Isle of Eigg
- Ride the West Highland Line train
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.