30+ Epic Things to Do in Scotland
The best things to do in Scotland - plus where to find the best adventures
There is so much to love about Scotland. There are simply so many epic things to do, that show just how truly diverse this little country is. From National Parks to literally hundreds of hiking trails, to an incredible food & accommodation scene, there’s something here for everyone.
As a Scotland native, I’ve spent my life travelling around the mainland and the islands - exploring a lot, from the highlands to the lowlands, west coast to east coast. And even after several road trips and weekend escapes, I’m consistently taken by surprise. This is what makes Scotland truly wonderful; no matter how many times you visit, you’ll always find a hidden gem to appreciate.
During lock-down I had the chance to look back over my previous travels and realised just how lucky I’ve been to experience some of the best things Scotland has to offer - there really are epic adventures to be had here! So, this seems like the perfect opportunity to share the best things to do in Scotland, especially if you want to head off-the-beaten-track or plan an epic outdoor adventure.
Planning a Scotland travel itinerary can be a whirlwind because there are so many amazing places to visit, whether it’s a hike, road trip, seafood restaurant, unique accommodation, or a wild camp. I hope this list of 30+ epic things to do around Scotland will inspire you to get outdoors and experience the incredible things our country has to offer.
30+ of the best things to do in Scotland
1. road trip the road to the isles
The west coast of Scotland is a special place. Combine beautiful wild beaches with soaring mountain landscapes and you have yourself the most magical road trip experience. The road along the coast from Glenfinnan to Mallaig is known as the Road to the Isles, heading through the pretty harbour villages of Arisaig and onto the Isle of Skye and beyond. I’d recommend spending at least a week here to truly soak it all in.
2. Go Island Hopping
Scotland has over 900 islands scattered around it’s coast with remote stretches of white sandy beaches, clear azure waters, incredible wildlife, and peaceful villages. It would be impossible for me to cover all of them here, or pick a favourite - don’t miss at least one or two islands on your travels; they really are some of the most epic and beautiful places to visit in Scotland.
Some of the most beautiful islands belong to the Outer Hebrides sitting out on the western edge of the Atlantic - a chain of islands actually, from Vatersay in the south to Lewis on the northern tip.
The Inner Hebrides are equally incredible though less remote, being closer to the Scottish mainland on the west coast. One of the largest islands is Mull, characterised by a rugged coastline and the colourful harbour village of Tobermory. From Mull hop over to small and peaceful Iona, or lesser-visited Ulva for seafood and walking trails.
Or tour the Isle of Skye, who’s natural beauty and geographical wonders need little introduction. From Skye take a short ferry to neighbouring Raasay.
The 150 mile stretch of Inner Hebrides islands include the epic landscapes or Jura and Islay, as well as Coll, Gigha, Canna and Eigg - to name only a few of these beautifully rocky outcrops.
You’ll also find excellent seafood as well as stunning views and hikes on Arran (watch out for golden eagles).
Head north for the archipelago of Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage site which is simply teaming with history, and then further north still to Shetland, a sub-Arctic Archipelago so far north that during summer it is bathed in near-perpetual sunlight.
Lesser known islands include Eilean Shona, a tidal island thought to be where JM Barrie wrote Peter Pan; the Slate Islands, a group of diverse islands in the Inner Hebrides (Easdale is my particular favourite); and Staffa, uninhabited except for seabird colonies and iconic puffins.
3. Visit Scotland’s most remote peninsula
Scotland has it’s fair share of remote places, but Knoydart is without doubt one of the most tucked away, hidden peninsulas. It’s also one of the wildest and most beautiful places in all of Scotland. The light here, especially on Loch Nevis, will take your breath away. Located on the west coast, you’ll need to take a short boat journey to reach Knoydart - or walk for three days over the mountainous and utterly remote terrain of Kinlochhourn. There are no cars on Knoydart but plenty of friendly locals, dramatic landscapes, and some of the best hiking to be found in Scotland. This is an extra special place.
4. Hike Scotland’s Highest Mountains
Scotland is simply chalk full of incredible hikes with epic views. Across the Highlands are Munros - mountains over 3,000ft - perfect for those looking for more remote walks. Some have clear trails and are incredibly popular, others are less populated and take more care and attention to navigate. But the summit views are always worth the effort and sore legs. Munros are not for the faint hearted though, and best attempted by those with previous hiking experience or certainly those with good walking gear like sturdy boots. My personal favourite Munros are Buachaille Etive Mòr in Glencoe, and Blà Bheinn on Skye.
5. see the Old Man of Storr on a tour around Skye
There’s so much to see on Scotland’s largest island that it would be impossible to list everything Skye has to offer. There are endless hiking trails, numerous scenic viewpoints, coastal havens, natural wonders to marvel over, harbour villages, cute hotels… It’s an incredible place to escape. My personal favourites are Neist Point Lighthouse, the Old Man of Storr, and the remote villages of Elgol and Sleat. There is so much to see here, you could easily make a week-long trip of it.
My recommendation is to take a slow, scenic tour of the island, stopping to soak in the views.
6. Road Trip Through the Scottish Highlands
When you think of Scotland, do you automatically think of road trips? I certainly do and there’s nowhere more incredible than the Highlands. Whilst the North Coast 500 loop is stunning, it involves a lot of driving - but you can experience the wild beauty of the Highlands without going so far north. I love to start at Loch Lomond in the Trossachs and drive north to Lochaber, to explore places such as Glencoe and Glen Nevis - only a 2 to 3-hour drive from the major cities. There’s so much to see here you could easily visit several times and still not see it all! Alternatively, the Cairngorms National Park makes for an incredible road trip, only a 3-hour drive north of Edinburgh.
7. Do the most epic walks in breathtaking Glencoe
If you make your way north to the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is home to some of the most beautiful - and challenging - walks in Scotland. There are several Munros to choose from - my favourite is the iconic Buachaille Etive Mòr. Short walks through forests are equally beautiful but less challenging, whilst full day walks through the glen, nestled amongst the peaks, will take you into the heart of this Highland wilderness. Be sure to check the weather ahead of your walk and always wear proper walking clothes.
8. Stay in a boutique bothy
Scotland has an array of unique accommodations and the one that tops the list has to be the bothy. These small huts or cottages were originally built as mountain refuges for farm workers. You’ll find these basic dwellings dotted around wild places in the Highlands, mostly used now by weary walkers on long-distance hikes. However, recently there has been a design-led reimagining of the humble bothy, with some real architectural gems popping up. Combine remote, back-to-basics with a touch of luxury at Inverlonan near Oban or The Bothy Project via Canopy & Stars (below).
9. swim in the remote waters of Loch Etive
Surrounded by the distinctive mountains that sweep up from the waters edge, the northern point of Loch Etive is one of the best lochs in Scotland for a wild swim. Accessed by a minor, single track road from Glencoe, the area is wild, remote and utterly beautiful. Whilst the dramatic views make this the perfect place for a dip, remember that Loch Etive stretches all the way to the sea at Connel, making this a sea loch - so take care.
10. Catch the autumn colours at the Glenfinnan Viaduct
An iconic Scottish site, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is also known now as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’. But there’s so much more to Glenfinnan than the Viaduct. Follow the trail along the east side of Loch Shiel for one of Scotland’s best short walks, or take a cruise down the loch to really experience the wildness of this area. If you’re a hiker be sure to check out the Glenfinnan Munros, a long and arduous day in the mountains, but worth it for the epic scenery. No matter what you choose for your outdoorsy day, be sure to head to the Glenfinnan Dining Car for lunch with a side of nostalgia.
11. Explore the history of an ancient castle
If historic landmarks are your thing, Scotland certainly delivers. Ancient ruins dot the landscape all around, from breathtaking coastal castles to fairytale fortresses. Steeped in legend, you can usually explore inside to see the dramatic architecture up close. There’s lots of castles to choose from, but my favourites are Kilchurn Castle at Loch Awe, Dunnottar Castle at Stonehaven, and Eilean Donan on the road to Skye.
12. Experience glamping in the Cairngorms
Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park is a glamping spot called Howe of Torbeg. If you’ve never been glamping, this is one of the best places to go in Scotland. These cosy little cabins are nestled amongst rolling hills and surrounded by woods. Featuring environmentally conscious on-site facilities, cabins have their own firepits and share a tea shack and outdoor oven. It’s an experience to remember, and the perfect blend of being in the outdoors with a touch of luxury.
13. Dip your toes into Morar’s silver sands
Scotland is home to some of the most incredible white sandy beaches and definitely the bluest water. You’ll find epic beaches dotted all around the coast, and on the mainland one of my favourite is the Silver Sands of Morar. This series of beaches are truly some of the best, peppering the coastline from Arisaig to Morar. Nearby you’ll find the white dunes and crystal-clear waters of Camusdarach Beach, also well worth a visit.
14. See Scotland’s marine wildlife
Scotland is well-known for its stretch of coastline that’s home to some pretty spectacular marine wildlife. Just off the shore you’ll frequently see dolphins, seabirds like puffins and white-tailed sea eagles, and seals - if you take a Calmac ferry to the islands always go out on deck and keep your eyes peeled! Some great spots for marine wildlife are:
Western Isle Cruises offer one-hour wildlife tours from Mallaig.
Head to the Moray Firth on the east coast to spot the resident colony of Bottlenose Dolphins.
Plan a boat trip to Staffa to experience adorable puffins up-close-and-personal.
15. Do the 6-mile hike to the green loch
When it comes to hikes, the Cairngorms National Park offers plenty to choose from. One of my favourites is the 6 mile / 10km short hike to An Lochan Uaine and the Ryvoan bothy. It starts in the ancient Caledonian pines and works its way to the tranquil green waters of the loch - words just don’t do justice to how beautiful this area is. From there follow the clearly marked trail to the Ryvoan bothy. Plan to spend at least a half day to do this hike, I recommend starting early in the morning.
If you’re looking for a bigger hike then instead of visiting the bothy follow the trail to Bynack More, a nearby Munro with stunning views over the surrounding Cairngorm mountains.
16. Chill out at a spa hotel on Loch Lomond
If you’re looking to get outdoors then the Trossachs National Park is an adventure playground, with hills, mountains, forest trails, and watersports all on offer. So, why not spend your evenings relaxing in a spa hotel? Near the conservation village of Luss, the Lodge on Loch Lomond offers spa facilities with a pool to relax by. There’s also the opportunity to dine in its waterfront restaurant focussing on seasonal dishes.
Read: The Lodge on Loch Lomond
17. Drive the famous North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 - or NC500 - is truly one of a kind. Combine windswept beaches with classic Highland landscapes, turquoise waters, soaring mountain peaks, ancient castles, and empty hiking trails and you have yourself a picture-perfect postcard of our country.
Road tripping the North Coast 500 is at the top of everyone’s list, especially if you love remote places and getting outdoors. There’s just so much to do in this part of Scotland - remote Wester Ross, wild Sutherland, the iconic mountains of Suilven and Stac Pollaidh, the beaches of Sango at Sandwood Bay… I’d recommend you give yourself at least a week to really soak it all in. Bring your walking boots, plan your stops, and prepare to experience our frankly jaw-droppingly beautiful wild vistas.
18. Sample the best of Scottish food at a traditional inn
Scotland’s strong connection with seafood and seasonal produce is one of my favourite things to experience on my travels. When it comes to top places to eat there’s lots of amazing options - frankly it’s hard not to eat your way around Scotland! One of my favourite places for Scottish dining is the Glenelg Inn, located on a lesser visited west coast peninsula. With a chalkboard menu that changes daily, the Glenelg Inn serve up some of the best food.
If you’re on a road trip or on your way to Skye, you’ll want to make a detour and eat here. It’s a personal favourite of mines and the scallops with black pudding are not to be missed. If you’re lucky you can also book one of their few rooms, with views over the Isle of Skye.
19. Visit the UK’s most westerly point on Ardnamurchan
Few people know about this destination on the west coast. With beautiful beaches, sleepy coastal villages and dramatic sea views, the peninsula of Ardnamurchan is something of a hidden gem. Home to incredible scenery and wildlife, there is an untouched beauty to this remote peninsula.
For those who love to get outdoors, Ardnamurchan has endless walking trails that often lead to empty beaches and ancient castles. My favourites are the walk over 3m high sand dunes to reach stunning Sanna Bay and the tidal trail to Castle Tioram. Plus, one of the highlights is a drive through the crater of an ancient volcano on your way to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, the most westerly point on the British mainland.
20. Stay in a luxe Highland lodge on Loch Ness
Scotland is home to some seriously incredible places to stay, from luxe-hotels to cosy cabins. But my favourite boutique getaway is Foyers Lodge. Spend the day exploring the forest trails around Loch Ness and the spectacular Falls of Foyers before retreating to the roaring fires and gorgeously plush rooms of this Highlands bolthole. Bliss!
Read: Scottish Highlands boutique stay: Foyers Lodge, Loch Ness
21. Explore hidden lochs in the Trossachs National Park
Located in the Trossachs National Park, less than an hour from Glasgow, the Three Lochs Forest Drive is chalk full of trails and epic views. It’s the perfect weekend day trip for those looking to take a forest walk surrounded by gorgeous scenery. The trails here wind through the Queen Elizabeth Forest, passing three beautiful lochs. My favourite is Loch Achray, which has views over the mountains of Ben Venue and Ben A’an. Each time of year here is different, but autumn is particularly lovely when the forest canopy shines with shades of orange. You can park at various points around the park and hike short distances to see each loch or walk several short trails. It’s well worth a detour if you’re exploring the Trossachs.
Find out about the trails here.
22. Go stargazing in a Dark Sky Park
When it comes to being out in nature with no light pollution, the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park is the first place I think of. Close to the Scottish Border, the park is incredible to explore during the day for hikes and scenic viewpoints. But, at night, it really comes to life. Brimming with stars, with the lack of nearby cities, Galloway is one of the best places in Scotland to stargaze.
Outside of Galloway there are plenty places to see the stars in Scotland - at night, in the Highlands, turn your eyes upwards for a blanket of stars. Glencoe and Torridon are my favourites for constellation spotting. For a chance to see the northern lights head north to John O’Groats (pictured below) or to the Cairngorms - the Tomintoul and Glenlivet Dark Sky Park is the most northerly recognised dark sky site and has some of the clearest skies in the UK.
23. Catch ocean views from the Fife Coastal Path
If you want to spend time near the ocean, then the Fife Coastal Path is the perfect place to be. The 183km long trail links the pretty harbour villages of Fife, following the coast passed golden sandy beaches, nature reserves, and ancient castles. The route itself is well waymarked and straightforward (some parts are tidal) and passes through historic villages offering plenty of accommodation and places to eat.
A favourite village is Crail, a pretty fishing village with a lovely, relaxed vibe - I’d recommend walking a section of the trail between Crail and neighbouring Anstruther.
24. Visit the ancient town of St Andrews
Another Kingdom of Fife gem. If you make your way to the east of Scotland, you’ll find the historic town of St Andrews. Tucked away in Fife’s East Neuk, St Andrews is home to Scotland’s oldest university, the most spectacular sandy beaches, and beautiful coastal views. Be sure to check out the medieval cathedral and historic harbour. You’ll want to spend at least a day here exploring but it’s a truly wonderful place to escape for the weekend, with tons of cute B&Bs to choose from. If you stay in the town, you can easily walk to restaurants and go for a dip in the ocean. St Andrews is also accessible from the Fife Coastal Path.
25. Walk through the ancient Caledonian forest
Scotland is home to some beautiful forest walks with the remnants of the ancient Caledonian Forest providing plenty of magical trails. If you enjoy an outdoors stroll, you can visit the native forest in Torridon, the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond. And if visit lovely Perthshire, stop in the village of Comrie for a walk through some rather special giant sequoia redwoods (the walk starts at Comrie Croft - stop for sweet treats and coffee).
Plan your hiking using these detailed maps and walking routes.
26. Stay in Scotland’s only motel
We have an array of unique accommodation across Scotland and one bolthole that always tops the list is Mhor 84 - Scotland’s only motel. On the roadside on the way to the Highlands, this motel has simple but lovely rooms - but it’s in the restaurant and café where Mhor 84 really shines. Recognised by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional food, you’re always sure to find something tasty to eat here. Pop in on your road trip or after a hike on nearby Ben Vorlich; muddy hillwalking boots are welcome here.
Stay: Mhor 84
27. Explore the incredibly Picturesque moray Firth Coast
Often overlooked by visitors to Scotland, the Moray Coast is one of Scotland’s most beautiful jewels. Picturesque fishing villages are linked by stunning seaside scenery, dramatic sea cliffs, hidden bays and breathtaking beaches - yet few people seem to visit this gorgeous hidden gem. To fully experience the Moray area walk the Moray Coastal Trail, a well marked 50 mile route connecting the harbour towns of Forres and Cullen. Along the coast, my favourite villages are Buckie, Findochty and Portsoy, but make a point to visit the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock at Portknockie, and Cullen for its sweeping beach.
28. Road trip the North East 250
A road trip less taken, the North East 250 is one of the most scenic drives in Scotland and a personal favourite. Often called Scotland’s ultimate road trip, the NE250 covers so much of the best of this small country. Start in the mountains of the Cairngorms and then follow the route north to explore the ancient castles of Royal Deeside, towns like Aberdeen and Fraserburgh, the harbour villages along the Moray Coast and finally then onto whisky-famous Speyside. There’s so much to explore that you could easily make a week-long trip of it.
29. Take A tiny ferry to a remote island
Some roads less taken are always worth the journey. One of the most scenic and my personal favourites is Ulva, a tiny island hidden off Mull’s west coast. Nature thrives on this rural gem, a community-owned island that teams with wildlife and history. Choose from one of the numerous walking trails to see evidence of the Highland clearances in the ruins of the old townships; watch for golden eagles soaring overhead or otters playing on shore. The only way over the narrow sea is the Ulva Ferry - an experience itself.
* At the time of writing the Ulva Ferry and Boathouse restaurant are temporarily closed. Check their website for the most up-to-date information.
29. Stay in a cosy cabin on Loch Awe
Located in Argyll and Bute, about a three-hour drive from Edinburgh, is Scotland’s largest freshwater loch. An amazing area, Loch Awe is a perfect weekend escape for those looking to spend time in more remote and wild place. The hiking trails here are often less visited than other parts of the Highlands, yet the landscape is simply beautiful. If you’re visiting Loch Awe, you’ll have plenty unique and cosy places to stay to choose from, but my favourites are a forest cabin in the lovely village of Dalavich, or the cosy Ben Cruachan Inn.
31. Catch sunset from a wild beach at Moidart
There are no words to describe the beauty of sunset from a wild beach as the sun drops over the distant mountains. Golden hues always make the ocean look so dreamy. There are plenty of spots all over Scotland to catch a stunning sunset, but my recommendation is the west coast. Head to one of Moidart’s wild beaches and walk along the soft sand as the sky turns pastel pinks and purples. The beach at Arisaig is my personal favourite - the sandy shores of Loch nan Ceall, with the Isle of Eigg in the distance.
32. Do a short Hike for hidden Places with epic views
From lochside strolls to forest trails, the best way to experience Scotland is to get outdoors and explore on foot. There are hundreds of low-level walks all across Scotland, some long-distance whilst others make for a short but beautiful hike. In my experience they all have the most incredible views with the added bonus of fresh air, time spent in nature - and hidden gems well beyond the usual tourist traps.
33. Try some of Scotland’s best Oysters on Skye
The oysters on Skye might be some of the best in Scotland. There are a few local spots to sample these salty bites but my favourite is the very relaxed Oyster Shed at Carbost, and at the more plush Loch Bay restaurant at Stein. If you haven’t tried them before, there’s few better places. The other fresh seafood - and the views - in both eateries is pretty incredible too.
34. Walk out to the incredible Waterfalls Falls in the Trossachs
One of my favourite places for a short walk on way to the Trossachs. Bracklinn Falls are located in the woods above the town of Callander, and has the most spectacular falls crashing into the gorge below. You can admire the waters from the bridge suspended right above the cascade. The hike out is along a trail just under a mile from the car park and often quite busy; I tend to stop in the slower-season especially after heavy rain when the falls are most impressive.
35. visit the reindeers in the Cairngorms
For a truly one-off experience, visit Scotland’s only free-ranging reindeer herd in the Cairngorms National Park. There are currently 150 tame reindeer in the herd, which you’ll be right in the middle of after a 30-minute walk into the hills. Plus, the views over the Cairngorm mountains are pretty spectacular too.
Visit (or adopt) the Cairngorm reindeers
36. Stay in a farm that has llamas in Plockton
On a recent trip to the Highlands, we discovered the most unusual accommodation that has llamas, donkeys, a heron sanctuary, and even racoons on the property! Located just outside of Plockton, on the shores of Lochcarron, Craig Highland Farm is one of the most extraordinary Airbnb’s I’ve ever stayed. The owners run a conservation farm, looking after an eclectic mix of rare breed farm animals alongside some more unusual residents. You can choose from a mix of simply decorated lodges or basic huts - all open onto the most gorgeous views, and are visited frequently by a myriad of ducks, chickens, red squirrels, and pine martens.
Drive into the pretty village of Plockton whilst you’re here and discover this little slice of palm-fringed paradise in Scotland.
Stay Craig Highland Farm
37. Go wild camping
One of my absolute favourite things to do in Scotland - and we are so lucky to have this, unlike the rest of the UK - is wild camping. If you’ve never been wild camping, this is the perfect opportunity to try it. Hiking into the hills or wandering to a wild spot along the coast and pitching a small tent, cooking outdoors and sleeping under the stars is the most incredible experience. Expect to feel remote, disconnected and totally immersed in nature.
Strictly follow the outdoor access code if you’re wild camping and always leave no trace - that means no fires and no litter.
