The TCT Regional Round-Up: The Highlands

Scotland’s Wild and Wonderful North

The Scottish Highlands are a landscape of drama and grandeur. Mountain ranges rise steeply from the glens, lochs stretch for miles like mirrors surrounded by ancient pine forests, and quiet villages sit tucked beneath big skies. This is the Scotland many people imagine when they close their eyes: wild, romantic and deeply atmospheric.

The Highlands cover a vast area, from the cultural hub of Inverness to the misty Isle of Skye, the rugged west coast and the remote northern fringes along the North Coast 500. Despite its size, the region never feels uniform. Every corner has its own identity, shaped by geography, history and deep-rooted Highland traditions.

Travellers come for many reasons: to hike in the mountains, to unwind in peaceful glens, to sample world-class whisky, or to chase landscapes that look like film scenes. The Highlands offer a sense of escape that is rare in modern travel, making it one of Scotland’s most captivating regions.

How to Get There

The Highlands are easy to reach from most parts of Scotland. You can travel by car, train, coach or air, depending on where you begin your journey.

The closest major airport is Inverness Airport, with regular flights from London, Bristol, Manchester, Belfast and Dublin.

Rail routes from Edinburgh and Glasgow run to Inverness, Aviemore and Fort William, with the West Highland Line often listed as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.

If you enjoy flexibility, hiring a car is the best way to explore remote villages, coastal roads and Highland viewpoints at your own pace.

Most Popular Areas in

the Highlands

Inverness and Loch Ness

Inverness is the unofficial capital of the Highlands and an ideal base for exploring the region. The River Ness flows through the centre, creating a calm, walkable city with friendly pubs, cosy restaurants and bridges lit beautifully at night.

Nearby, Loch Ness is Scotland’s most famous stretch of water. Whether or not you are searching for Nessie, the loch is a spectacular sight, especially when viewed from Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most impressive medieval ruins.

Fort William and Glen Coe

Fort William is the adventure capital of the Highlands. It sits at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, and offers a mix of hiking, mountain biking and outdoor pursuits.

A short drive away lies Glen Coe, a breathtaking valley carved by volcanic activity and glaciers. Its peaks and ridges rise sharply above the road, creating a landscape that feels untouched and cinematic. Even if you are not hiking, simply driving through Glen Coe is an unforgettable experience.

The Isle of Skye

Skye delivers some of the most striking scenery in Scotland. Iconic spots include the Quiraing, Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr and Neist Point Lighthouse. While the island is popular, it still offers quiet corners if you travel early in the morning or explore lesser-known areas like Waternish or Sleat.

The North Coast 500

The NC500 loop is Scotland’s most famous road trip, circling around the far northern edge of the mainland. Expect vast beaches, rugged cliffs and tiny fishing villages that feel unchanged for generations. Summer can be busy, but quieter months reveal the route’s true magic.

Hidden Gems in the Highlands

Plockton

One of the prettiest villages in Scotland, Plockton’s calm bay, colourful houses and unexpected palm trees create a serene coastal setting.

Corrour Station

Accessible only by train or on foot, this remote station offers unmatched tranquillity. The surrounding moorland feels endless and wild.

Ardnamurchan Peninsula

For those who enjoy winding single-track roads and wild beauty, Ardnamurchan is a dream. It is the most westerly point on the UK mainland and remains blissfully quiet.

The Fairy Glen (Skye)

A surreal landscape of grassy mounds and spirals. Despite being stunning, it remains much quieter than Skye’s major attractions.

Why Visit the Highlands

The Highlands are perfect for travellers who want nature, space and scenery that stirs the soul. Whether you are planning a romantic escape, an outdoor adventure or a quiet luxury retreat, this region offers endless opportunity. With TCT guidance, members discover the smartest bases, the quietest times to visit, and the hidden corners that make Highland travel truly memorable.