The stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highland are a must-visit if you’re heading to Scotland or perhaps embarking on a road trip of the UK. Either way, these wild landscapes will not leave you disappointed. Offering the ultimate escape from the bustling city and pressures of modern life, this mountainous region is packed with breathtaking scenery, miles of rugged coastline and interesting wildlife.
Are you planning a trip to the Highlands but not sure where to start? Check out these top tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Pack suitably
Let’s begin with the basics, your packing. For a successful trip to the Scottish Highlands you’re going to need to be prepared. Waterproof jacket and trousers are absolutely essential unless you want to sport the drowned rat look. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must-have – top tip: don’t bring a brand new pair of boots, you’ll only be left with blisters and regret. Other items such as dry snacks and reusable water bottles are useful too.
Hire a car
It hopefully won’t come as a shock to you that Uber hasn’t quite made its way over to the Highlands, so you’re going to need to hire a car if you don’t own one yourself. It’s a good idea to check out car hire Glasgow and pick up a car here to begin your journey. For additional peace of mind and safety, you might want to travel with an extra can of fuel in the car as backup, you never know when you’re going to come across the next petrol station. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your bike with you, cycling around is a great way to soak up your surroundings.
Create an itinerary
In order to make the most of your time in the Scottish Highlands, it’s advisable to create a rough itinerary, including all of the key places you want to visit. This way, you can map out a route and not end up going back on yourself and wasting fuel. Loch Ness, Inverness, Fort William and Glencoe are all worth a visit. Why not check out the wonderful Isle of Skye too? Situated off the West Coast of Scotland and connected via bridge, you can enjoy medieval castles, fishing villages and iconic landscapes. Looking for wildlife? Head over to the Cairngorms National Park where you’ll find mountain hares, gold eagles and even reindeer.
Practice slow travel
The Scottish Highlands is the perfect destination to practice the art of slow travel. Unplug and relax among nature, don’t rush, just simply take it all in. Plan in advance, but try to avoid cramming too much into your own schedule. This is about pacing yourself and immersing yourself into your surroundings.
Enjoy wild camping
Fancy living life on the wild side for a few nights among the nature? Wild camping is legal in Scotland (as long as you’re responsible!) and you’ll find some stunning spots in the Highlands. Be sure to pack plenty of equipment and your warmest sleeping bag, the temperature drops considerably at night. One rule to remember is never create any open fires which could cause environmental damage, especially during the dry season.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to see this beautiful destination with your own eyes.
