Scottish Highlands: Exploring its Rugged Beauty
The beauty of the Scottish Highlands is unique and well worth any traveler’s time. From climbing some of the country’s highest peaks to visiting historic battlefields, there is something for everyone to savor. The Highland landscapes range from mountains brimming with wildlife to beaches perfect for secluded strolls. Similarly, gently rolling hills and deep, mysterious lochs add to this country’s timeless beauty. No matter what kind of experience visitors seek, they will find it.
Wildlife Shaped by the Beauty of the Scottish Highlands
The bird species attracted to the Highlands include seabirds like puffins. Golden eagles are also a central feature in many Highlands areas because of the abundance of fish species. Migratory and non-migratory species both find the Highlands a suitable location. Otters are a playful addition to the Highlands, often spotted playing in many rivers. Deer, including stags with impressive antlers, also usually migrate through the Highlands. Wildlife photographers are sure to enjoy opportunities to get excellent shots.
Beach visitors might be lucky to see dolphins frolicking near the shore. Furthermore, dolphin tour boats allow visitors to encounter these creatures up close. Many of these creatures enjoy life in an environment with minimal human interference.
Islands and Beach Areas in Scotland’s Highlands
The Isle of Skye is one of this country’s most iconic locations. This island boasts some of the country’s most unusual landscapes, from the Old Man of Storr visible from the sea to the unique geography of the Quiraing. Certainly, Skye is a place that many visitors place at the top of their must-see list. The Scottish Highlands also boasts a diverse range of beach landscapes. Achmelvich Beach has nearly-white sand and turquoise water, while Camusdarach Beach has alternating craggy and hilly terrain. Regardless of the beach type visitors prefer, they will likely find an ideal option in the Highlands.
Sandwood Bay has a reputation for being one of Britain’s best beaches. Its walking trail spans four miles one way. Sango Beach has similar scenery, including deep blue water and rugged cliffs that always attract attention.
Duncansby Head features stunning cliffs with beautiful evergreen vegetation that has impressed many photographers. These cliffs have similarities to the Cliffs of Moher or the White Cliffs of Dover while also boasting a unique character.
Exploring the Beautiful National Parks
Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. To clarify, it is roughly half the size of Yellowstone National Park, which is located in the United States. Cairngorms’ hiking and biking trails are among some of the best in Scotland, and the park has varied landscapes ranging from forests to mountains. Outdoor adventurers will quickly find an activity that suits their needs.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Parks host one of Scotland’s most iconic lakes. The park also features smaller lakes, forests, and mountains, many with peaks exceeding 3,000 ft, providing tremendous challenges for mountaineers seeking adventure.
Iconic Scottish Sites Worth Your Time
Glencoe is one of the most beautiful sites in the Scottish Highlands, with a setting that has inspired many filmmakers and TV producers. Therefore, visitors have numerous viewing opportunities on hiking trails, with one spanning over two miles. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, above, is the iconic location used for the Hogwarts Express train in the “Harry Potter” series, making it one of the most recognizable sets of tracks. The real-life train that uses the viaduct, the Jacobite Steam Train, follows a route that explores Scotland’s more remote western areas that are difficult or impossible to reach by car.