Top reasons to visit Scottish Highlands
- Stunning Landscapes: Experience breathtaking scenery, from rugged coastlines to serene lochs, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy skiing, hiking, and scenic drives, catering to thrill-seekers and those looking for relaxation.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Scottish history and charm by visiting quaint villages and engaging with friendly locals.
- Whisky Distilleries: Discover the art of whisky-making with tours of local distilleries, a highlight for connoisseurs.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming B&Bs to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller.
Find great hotels near Scottish Highlands
Explore the enchanting Scottish Highlands, where a variety of accommodation options await you. From charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, there’s something for every traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, a pet-friendly stay, or a family-friendly experience, the Highlands offer it all. Discover the allure of castle hotels or unwind at the Bettyhill Hotel, ensuring a memorable stay in this breathtaking region.
- The Cluanie Inn: A charming 3.5-star hotel located 18km from the Scottish Highlands, The Cluanie Inn boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for pet-friendly travellers. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this inn allows dogs on-site and offers amenities such as food and water bowls. The rustic decor combined with modern comforts ensures a comfy stay, making it a perfect retreat after a day exploring the stunning landscapes of the Highlands.
- Kintail Lodge Hotel: Situated 19km from the Scottish Highlands, Kintail Lodge Hotel is a budget-friendly accommodation with an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This hotel is ideal for adventure seekers, offering various outdoor activities such as fishing, horse riding, hiking, and birdwatching nearby. The pet-friendly policy allows dogs, and guests can enjoy a range of recreational activities on-site or close by. The inviting atmosphere and proximity to nature make this hotel a delightful choice for an adventurous getaway.
- The wooden floors, vintage furniture, and tartan accents create a comfy room: This budget-friendly Bed & Breakfast is located 18km from the Scottish Highlands and caters to those seeking adventure. With a charming aesthetic featuring wooden floors and tartan accents, it provides a cosy atmosphere for visitors. Guests can partake in activities such as fishing, mountain climbing, and kayaking nearby. The personal touch of vintage furnishings enhances the experience, making it a delightful stop for those looking to immerse themselves in the Highland spirit.
Where to stay near Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offers an unforgettable escape for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Explore breathtaking landscapes, from rugged coastlines to the serene Haven of Speyside. Immerse yourself in Scottish history within charming towns and secluded spots, where friendly locals enhance your experience. Whether you seek luxury or thrilling excursions, the Highlands provide a unique blend of scenery and adventure, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.
- Kyle: Nestled approximately 16km from the Scottish Highlands, Kyle is a charming town that serves as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The picturesque scenery, characterised by stunning mountains and glistening lochs, invites visitors to explore its hiking trails and enjoy various outdoor activities. In Kyle, you can indulge in shopping at local stores or venture to nearby ski fields during the winter months. Notable landmarks such as historic castles and national parks are within easy reach, making Kyle a must-visit destination for those captivated by nature and history.
- Strathcarron: Located around 21km from the Scottish Highlands, Strathcarron offers a romantic and scenic getaway for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Scottish landscape. This city is famed for its breathtaking views and outdoor adventures, including hiking trails and ski options. Visitors can explore tranquil lakes and historic sites, including charming villages that evoke the rich heritage of the region. Strathcarron’s appeal lies in its ability to provide a peaceful yet adventurous experience, perfect for couples and nature lovers alike.
- Camban: Situated approximately 13km from the Scottish Highlands, Camban is a quaint village ideal for families and eco-conscious travellers. The area is known for its outdoor offerings, particularly its scenic hiking trails that wind through lush landscapes. Camban is a perfect base for exploring local parks and enjoying serene water features, making it an excellent spot for family outings. With a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, Camban provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist spots, allowing for a genuine connection with nature.
Things to do in Scottish Highlands
Shopping
In the Scottish Highlands, visit the scenic Inverness Market, where you can find local crafts and produce. For a larger selection, explore the Eastgate Shopping Centre, featuring a mix of high street shops and eateries, perfect for a leisurely shopping experience.
Recreation
Glenmoriston Manor Hotel offers a tranquil spa experience with treatments using local products, surrounded by stunning landscapes. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore the rugged trails of Cairngorms National Park, where you can hike, cycle, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
At The Old Manse, indulge in restorative yoga sessions amidst picturesque gardens. Nearby, the serene Loch Ness invites leisurely walks along its shores, where you can appreciate the calming sounds of nature and the beauty of the Highlands.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel features a luxurious wellness retreat with expert-led fitness classes and spa therapies. For a more adventurous experience, try kayaking on the pristine waters of the Great Glen, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying the stunning views.
Adventure
Explore the rugged landscapes of Glencoe with a thrilling hike through dramatic valleys and mountains. For a unique experience, try canyoning in the crystal-clear waters, or embark on a wildlife safari to spot red deer and golden eagles amidst stunning scenery.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Highlander Inn in Inverness for live music and a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, visit the Ben Nevis Bar, where you can enjoy a fine selection of ales and whiskies while soaking in the local charm.
*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 visit to the Scottish Highlands, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book hotels about a month in advance to secure better rates, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Wednesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s filtering options to find budget-friendly hotels, including eco-certified ones. Additionally, save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for a more economical holiday experience.
- 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in the Scottish Highlands with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, making it a prime destination for those seeking exploration and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions such as parks, historic villages, and stunning waterfalls. With ample opportunities for adventure and beach experiences, the Highlands truly cater to all types of travellers. For a comfortable stay, be sure to explore the local hotels available in the area.
- Glen Strathfarrar: Nestled 21km from the Scottish Highlands, this stunning valley offers a true adventure experience. Surrounded by dramatic landscapes, it’s ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting, immersing visitors in the great outdoors.
- Glen Affric: Located 11km away, this picturesque park is renowned for its eco-friendly atmosphere. With enchanting woodlands and tranquil lochs, it’s a family-friendly haven for picnics, walking trails, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the area.
- Loch Carron: A historic village positioned 21km from the Highlands, Loch Carron boasts charming architecture and a vibrant local culture. Visitors can wander through quaint streets, enjoy traditional Scottish hospitality, and learn about the region’s heritage.
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
Visiting the Scottish Highlands is convenient via three major airports. Aberdeen Airport (ABZ), situated 177km from the Highlands, features nearby hotels like the 5-star Marcliffe and Trump® International Scotland, both within 13km. Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 187km away, offers accommodations such as the highly-rated Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both approximately 11km from the airport. Glasgow International Airport (GLA), 167km from the Highlands, is close to luxury options like JA Mar Hall Scotland and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, both offering airport shuttle services. Each airport provides easy access to the stunning landscapes of the Highlands, making your journey seamless.