The Scottish Highlands Travelers Recommend

The scenic capital of the Highlands is the perfect base from which to explore the northern wilderness, but there’s no reason to limit yourself to the mainland — many of Scotland’s islands are also reachable from Inverness. Head to John O’Groats, the northernmost point of mainland UK, from where ferries set sail across the Pentland Firth for the Orkney Islands, as well as to the remote Shetland Islands. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for their remarkable collection of Neolithic monuments, stone circles and tombs, there’s plenty to take in on the Orkney islands, but don’t miss the striking 12th century St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, the Standing Stones of Stenness or a drive across the famous ‘Churchill Barriers’ causeways, which connect the islands of Burray and South Ronaldsay to the main island. The islands’ highlights can be seen on a day trip, but to really experience the region, opt for a 3-day tour and stay overnight in one of the traditional villages.

Day 1: Take a walking tour Take in the historic St Andrew’s Cathedral and Old High Church; get a view from the hilltop Inverness Castle; stroll the banks of the Ness River, then head out to the nearby Culloden Battlefield to learn about the last battle fought on British soil. Day 2: Learn the legends of Loch Ness Inverness sits at the mouth of Scotland’s most famous lake, Loch Ness, notorious for hiding the mythical Loch Ness Monster. Learn the eerie legends of Loch Ness, then take a cruise along the lake or hike along the banks and get a view from the battlements of Urquhart Castle. Day 3: Step in the footsteps of Macbeth Explore the 14th Century Cawdor Castle, the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, then head to the coast where the North Sea inlet of Moray Firth is famous for its pods of dolphins. Learn about the region’s wildlife at the Dolphin and Seal Centre in North Kessock.