Scottish Highlands Castles

Written by Viator, January 2011

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Castle, Castle

Famed for their lush greenery, sweeping views, and pristine landscape, the Scottish Highlands certainly live up to their billing. A plethora of picturesque views saturate the landscape, making the area one of the most beautiful places on earth. Numerous mountain ranges dominate the region, giving way to ethereal lochs and a harsh but beautiful coastline. One could spend weeks traversing and enjoying everything the Highlands have to offer.

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is the ideal place to immerse oneself in the Scottish Highlands. Less than a decade old, the 1,700 square miles of breathtaking landscape that comprise Cairngorms make it the largest national park in the British Isles, with plans for expansion still in the works. The park is perfect for hiking, biking, canoeing, and countless other outdoor activities. Also, check the local calendar, as Cairngorms is home to hundreds of festive countryside events and celebrations of Scottish culture.

The Isle of Skye

After you’ve had your fill of Cairngorms, head northwest to The Isle of Skye. Rated one of the best islands in the world by National Geographic Magazine, Skye is home to iconic striking peaks and arrestingly sheer seaside cliffs. Portree, the largest city on the island, makes an ideal hub for exploration. Be sure to visit Portree’s quaint harbor and take a hike through Trotternish Ridge to get an eyeful of the Scottish landscape. Finally, visit Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic castles in Scotland, featured in such films as The World Is Not Enough and Elizabeth: The Golden Age.

The West Highland Line

From Portree, make your way southeast to the coastal town of Armadale, and take the ferry across to Mallaig. After roaming around this bustling fishing village, hop on the famed Hogwarts Express steam train to Fort William, otherwise known as The West Highland Line, one of the most scenic in the world. This line crosses the Glenfinnan viaduct, a sight made famous by its frequent appearance in the Harry Potter franchise.

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All Scottish Highlands Castles Reviews

Reply by Viator, May 2013
Doing what: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Whisky Trail Small Group Day Trip from Glasgow

Another great day. Paul was very informative and helpful. The locations where we stopped to spend time, were well worth it. We drove through areas which I had not seen in many years and others which were new to me. Excellent.
Dorcas Brampton Ontario Canada

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Reply by Viator, May 2013
Doing what: Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Small Group Day Trip from Glasgow

This was an amazing trip. I was in awe of the magnificent landscapes and sheer beauty of the places we visited. I feel so lucky to have gotten the tour guide we did, Michael from rabbis, he was such a nice friendly guy and extremely knowledgeable in Scottish history and facts about the flora and fauna around the sights. I would recommend this tour for anyone who wants to pack in loads and only has a short time to do it.

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Reply by Viator, May 2013
Doing what: Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh

Would recommend this tour, we had a great time, it rained all day, but that didn't spoil it for us, we had the best every guide, Mac: Scotline tours, he gave us a very animated history tour of Stirling Castle and Loch Ness, he was just fantastic, I just loved the history lesson. Just do it with him.

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