Top reasons to visit Scottish Highlands
- Breathtaking Scenery: Experience stunning landscapes, from rugged coastlines to picturesque waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy skiing, hiking trails, and scenic drives that cater to thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Whisky Distilleries: Visit the renowned Haven of Speyside and sample some of the finest whiskies Scotland has to offer.
- Charming Villages: Explore historic towns filled with rich Scottish history and warm local hospitality.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy bed & breakfasts to luxurious castle stays for a memorable lodging experience.
Find great hotels near Scottish Highlands
Experience the enchanting Scottish Highlands with a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler. From cozy bed & breakfasts to luxurious resorts, you'll find accommodations that cater to adventure seekers, families, and pet owners alike. Explore the best Highlands hotels, including charming castle stays and the renowned Bettyhill Hotel, for a memorable vacation in this breathtaking region of Scotland.
- The Cluanie Inn: The Cluanie Inn is a charming 3.5-star hotel located 18km from the Scottish Highlands, boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This welcoming inn features a cozy atmosphere perfect for travelers seeking a pet-friendly vacation. With amenities including food and water bowls for your furry companions, the Cluanie Inn ensures that pets are not only permitted but treated with care. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations, making it a great base for exploring the beauty of the Highlands.
- Kintail Lodge Hotel: Situated 19km from the Scottish Highlands, Kintail Lodge Hotel is a budget-friendly option with an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This hotel is ideal for adventurous travelers, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as sailing, fishing, hiking, and horse riding nearby. It also welcomes pets, allowing for a fun-filled experience with your four-legged friends. With its inviting atmosphere and focus on adventure, Kintail Lodge Hotel serves as a perfect launching pad for your Highland explorations.
- The wooden floors, vintage furniture, and tartan accents create a comfy room: This budget-friendly bed and breakfast is located 18km from the Scottish Highlands and is well-suited for adventure enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy various outdoor activities like rafting, motorboating, and mountain climbing in the surrounding area. The unique blend of wooden floors, vintage furniture, and tartan accents creates a cozy ambiance. This accommodation also allows pets, making it easy for you to revel in your Highland adventure with your furry companions by your side.
Where to stay near Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offer an enchanting blend of outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. Explore the rich Scottish history while wandering through charming towns and experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals. Discover the stunning rugged coastlines and venture into the Haven of Speyside, renowned for its whisky distilleries. Whether seeking luxury or seclusion, the Highlands promise unforgettable excursions and picturesque landscapes that capture the essence of Mainland Scotland.
- Sallachy: Nestled 18km from the Scottish Highlands, Sallachy is a quaint village that offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. The village experiences seasonal visitor peaks from July to September, making it a bustling spot in the summer months. Travelers flock to Sallachy for its stunning lakes, historical sites, and picturesque parks. Whether you're exploring the serene landscapes or immersing yourself in local culture, Sallachy provides a charming backdrop for your highland adventure.
- Ratagan: Located 21km from the Scottish Highlands, Ratagan is a village that promises a mix of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. While visitor numbers peak in April and during the summer months from July to August, Ratagan remains an inviting destination year-round. Adventurers can enjoy the nearby hiking trails, explore local stores, and visit landmarks such as castles and lakes. With its stunning vistas and rich history, Ratagan is a delightful stop for those eager to experience the beauty of the highlands.
- Kyle: Just 16km from the Scottish Highlands, Kyle is a vibrant city that draws visitors for its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The city sees a steady flow of travelers, with peak times in April and from June to July. Offering access to hiking trails, stores, and even ski fields, Kyle is perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Nearby, you'll find historic sites, impressive castles, and a national park, ensuring that every visitor can find something to captivate their interest in this dynamic locale.
Things to do in Scottish Highlands
Shopping
The Scottish Highlands offer unique shopping experiences, from the charming shops in Inverness providing local crafts to the bustling Aberfeldy Market where you can find handmade goods. For a wider selection, visit the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness, featuring various retail stores and eateries.
Recreation
In the Scottish Highlands, experience serene relaxation at the Fonab Castle Hotel Spa, where you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments and stunning loch views. Alternatively, visit the Loch Ness Spa for a blend of wellness therapies and breathtaking scenery, allowing you to unwind amidst nature's beauty.
Adventure
The Scottish Highlands offer thrilling activities such as hiking the rugged peaks of Ben Nevis, exploring the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, and enjoying white-water rafting on the River Tay. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Loch Ness while kayaking or mountain biking through the scenic trails of Aviemore.
Nightlife
Visit the Highlander Pub in Inverness for a cozy vibe and local ales. For a lively atmosphere, check out The Ironworks, featuring diverse live music acts. For a unique twist, try the Whisky Bar in Fort William, where you can savor a variety of fine Scotch whiskies.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Scottish Highlands
To save money during your trip to the Scottish Highlands, consider visiting between January and March when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia’s tools to filter accommodations by your budget and preferences, and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Additionally, take advantage of free outdoor activities and explore on foot to minimize transportation costs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Scottish Highlands are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Scottish Highlands is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Scottish Highlands is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Scottish Highlands is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in the Scottish Highlands with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offer a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it an ideal vacation spot. Explore captivating parks, historic villages, and breathtaking waterfalls that cater to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're seeking adventure or a serene beach experience, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to look for cozy hotels in the Scottish Highlands to complete your unforgettable getaway.
- Glen Affric: Nestled 11km from the Scottish Highlands, Glen Affric is a stunning park known for its lush landscapes and eco-friendly ethos. Families can enjoy outdoor activities, from hiking to picnicking, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Loch Carron: Located 21km away, Loch Carron is a charming historic village that offers a glimpse into Scotland's rich culture. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront and explore local shops and galleries, immersing yourself in the area's heritage.
- Plodda Falls: Just 18km from the Highlands, Plodda Falls features a dramatic waterfall set in an enchanting forest. This location provides a romantic and adventurous backdrop for nature lovers and photographers alike, with trails that lead to stunning viewpoints.
Best time to go to Scottish Highlands
The best time to visit Scottish Highlands can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Scottish Highlands falls in July and August. August has high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature around Scottish Highlands falls in February, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Scottish Highlands
Traveling to the Scottish Highlands is convenient with several major airports nearby. EDInburgh Airport (EDI) is located 187km from the Highlands, with nearby hotel options like the 5.5-star Crescent House and the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both 11km from the airport. Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is 167km away, offering luxurious stays at JA Mar Hall Scotland, just 6km from the airport. For those considering Belfast, George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) is 304km away, with nearby hotels such as The Fitzwilliam Hotel, located 5km from the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services for easy access to the airports.