cute scottish towns to visit

The 20 most charming towns in Scotland

Few countries are quite so thoroughly beautiful and charming as Scotland is, which is why TravelMag polled over 300 travel professionals to discover what they think the best town in Scotland is. We heard from writers, photographers and selected members of the tourism industry with a love for all things Scottish, in naming their three favourite towns in Scotland.

The Kelpies outside Falkirk (Photo: Paul Stafford)

At TravelMag we have a soft spot for Scotland. The country’s stunning diversity of natural vistas compete for attention with commanding cities and quaint towns everywhere between the Mull of Galloway in the south and the Shetland Islands in the north. It is a truly beautiful country, and that got us wondering what people who know it well consider to be the pinnacles of the Scottish urban experience.

Naturally cities spring to mind immediately. The artistic grace of historic Edinburgh, or the sincerity and forthrightness of Glasgow; the Highland capital of Inverness and the granite black goldmine of Aberdeen; these are all excellent choices to explore for a couple of days. But they’re the low-hanging fruit of the Caledonian experience. Gateways, and ornate ones at that, but gateways none-the-less, to a much more authentic and personal experience of Scotland. Therefore, this list aims to examine what the best small towns in Scotland to visit are.

The charm of Scotland comes predominantly from the people, and it is generally accepted that the smaller the town, the stronger the sense of community. As such, it makes sense for this exercise in assisted bucket-list construction to hone in on the country’s towns. For the sake of order and sanity, we tried not to include any villages, although a couple sneak onto the list by popular demand. While we have undoubtedly missed off some corkers, below you will find the 20 charming Scottish towns that accumulated the most votes, presented from A to Z (well, technically U).

Not the only entrant on this list from the East Neuk of Fife, a region of coastline that has more than its fair share of quaint fishing towns, Anstruther is the place to go if you have an affinity for all things maritime. During the warmer months, boat trips out to the Isle of May bring you closer to the natural world. The region is great for bird spotting, with large colonies of puffins. Keep your eye out too for unusual shaped rocks, which are most likely lounging seals, taking a break from the water. Back in town, the Scottish Fisheries Museum raids the annals of history to reconstruct what was once the area’s primary industry before tourism took that mantle. A few fisherfolk still operate from the harbour, and the results of their catches can be sampled at Anstruther Fish Bar, one of Scotland’s most celebrated fish and chips shops.

Anstruther Chip Shop (Photo: Magnus Hagdorn via Flickr)

Broughty Ferry

First gaining prominence as a defensive settlement at the mouth of the River Tay estuary in the 15 th century, Broughty Castle still cuts a poised figure by the water’s edge. As the centuries passed however, wealthy citizens of Dundee, the city Broughty Ferry helped to protect, began using the quiet seaside idyll as a place to build their mansions. The production of jute in British India had made many people in Dundee, four miles away, incredibly wealthy. Both the jute industry and the need for fortification may have waned but the town retains much of the affluent charm, with boutique shopping, galleries and fine dining all available in the town centre. There is a good museum at the castle with exhibits about local history and a particularly interesting one about Dundee’s former whaling industry. There’s also a sandy beach, but it being Scotland, traditional beach activities are restricted for most of the year.

Broughty Ferry sunset (Photo: dun_deagh via Flickr)

For over a century, Crieff has been well-established as an important tourist centre in Scotland. It acts as a gateway to the rolling hills of Perthshire and a moderate walk up to the top of Knock Hill is the best way to appreciate the surroundings. Although the great Scottish outdoors are wonderful at any time of year, and constantly changing, the autumnal show is the most enthralling. Crieff town is lovely and is dominated by independent and family-run businesses, which is always an endearing quality in more popular tourist spots. Crieff is home to one of Scotland’s most popular blended whisky brands, The Famous Grouse. Themed grouse tours take place at Glenturret distillery, which has produced single malt whiskies since an impressive 1775. The beautiful Renaissance gardens of Drummond Castle, one of the best sights in the whole region, are also just a couple of miles outside of Crieff.

The countryside around Crieff (Photo: SwaloPhoto via Flickr)

Cromarty is home to one of Britain’s more unusual film festivals: Every December spaces around the small town are transformed into film venues. Even Cromarty Lighthouse becomes a canvas, as short films are projected onto the side of it. The town came to gain importance as a point along the coastal route north of Inverness. It is also strategically located at the narrow inlet of the Cromarty Firth. At certain times it is possible to see huge oil rigs that are not in service to be moored up in these sheltered waters. A walk around the quiet streets takes you past pretty waterfront cottages, painted white. Places of note include Cromarty Courthouse, which holds a small community-run museum that provides an intriguing glimpse into the working of an 18 th century courtroom. Close by is Hugh Miller’s House, National Trust for Scotland-operated buildings that show a glimpse into the life of the 19 th century geologist and contentious church reformer.

Cromarty (Photo: Gideon Chilton via Flickr)

As one of the bigger towns to make this list, Falkirk blends the modern and historic to showcase perfectly the past and present of Scotland. In terms of history, one of the most significant events was the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, in which William Wallace’s army was defeated by Kind Edward I of England. Although the exact battlefield location is contended, the grave of Sir John Stewart of Bonkyll, who commanded the Scots bowmen in that battle, can be found in Falkirk Trinity Church in the town centre. Callendar House is a beautiful manor house with medieval towers. Here the Antonine Wall, built by the Romans, runs through the grounds, although the tree-covered mound of earth is hardly recognisable as a man-made fortification anymore. To the north, The Kelpies are two remarkable 30-metre horse head sculptures beside the Forth and Clyde Canal. Follow this canal all the way to the west of town to reach a juxtaposition of modern and old with the Falkirk Wheel, an engineering work of art that rotates boats to lift them up to a separate canal, the Union.

Callendar house in Falkirk (Photo: Paul Stafford)

Fort William

The Scottish Highlands are captivating and world renowned for their natural beauty, but they have fostered some lovely towns as well, Fort William being one of them. Due to its proximity to Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in Britain), Glencoe and the head of Loch Linnhe, a sea loch, Fort William has become a hub for outdoors enthusiasts of all kinds. As such, services for hikers and mountain bikers are especially prevalent in town. The West Highland Way and Great Glen Way, both popular hiking routes, have Fort William as a terminus. In town, there are plenty of great bars and restaurants overlooking the water, and the West Highland Museum tells the story of the Jacobites who tried, and ultimately failed, to take the town in 1746. There are also anthropological and natural exhibits that examine the wider West Highland region.

A steam engine arrives at Fort William station (Photo: Jacques Dufrenoy via Flickr)

Walter Scott was the master blender of the refined whisky that is modern Scotland’s national image. Regardless of your stance on the Walter Scottification of Scotland, the man’s legacy seeps into the global perception of Scotland more often than not; so when Kelso was dubbed by Scott the “most beautiful if not the most romantic village in Scotland,” many people took notice. Kelso was where Scott attended school for a while and where his writings were first published. Now a small town, Kelso is more than its early association with Scott however. The handsome Kelso Abbey ruins date back to around the 12 th century. The site was an important religious centre before falling into ruin after the Scottish Reformation. The ruins overlook the confluence of the Teviot and Tweed Rivers, the latter forming a pleasant valley of gentle countryside. Floors Castle is the seat of the Duke of Roxburghe, and the country house’s turrets give the impressive building a commanding presence. Although Floors Castle is still inhabited, parts are open to the public.

Kelso centre (Photo: Son of Groucho via Flickr)

Kirkcudbright

The first thing you should know about Kirkcudbright is how to pronounce the name. Ker-coo-bree is about right, and it is the only complicated thing about this pleasant, working harbour town. Colourful fishing boats leave Kirkcudbright’s marina of a morning and return laden with fresh catches each day, making it one of the busier fishing ports in Scotland. The town, set back from the Dumfries and Galloway coast on the estuary of the River Dee (one of many Rivers Dee in the UK), is also known for its link to the Glasgow art world roughly between 1880-1980, when a number of notable artists established themselves in town, forming the Kirkcudbright Artists’ Colony. The link has dulled somewhat today but two good galleries, Tolbooth Art Centre and Harbour Cottage Gallery remain. Among the other sights in town, MacLellan’s Castle stands out, literally, as a pleasant ruined castle that has been gradually surrounded by terraced houses over the decades.

House in Kirkcudbright (Photo: Beth via Flickr)

One of the best day trips from Glasgow for families has long been the seaside Cumbrae Island town of Millport. Sprinkled along gently curving Newtown Bay this small town of 1200 people is very much the terrier of this list, as there have been moves in the last decade to seek city status. If that sounds ridiculous, the legitimacy of such a bid lies in the claim that Millport has Britain’s smallest cathedral. Most places with a cathedral have city status, the smallest officially being St. Davids in Wales, with a population of 2000. The Cathedral of the Isles, as it is called, only holds 80 people in its nave and was built relatively recently as far as cathedrals in Britain go. Various sources report different years of completion ranging between the 1850s and 1870s. For now, Millport remains a town, which is easily reached by ferry from Largs on the mainland. The centrepiece of the town is the lovely Garrison House, which has a good local museum and tearoom.

Millport’s Cathedral of the Isles in spring (Photo: Karen Brodie via Millport.org)

North Berwick

Yet another seaside town proves that you don’t need daily doses of sun to be a popular destination in Scotland. North Berwick has been voted one of the best towns in Scotland for a number of reasons. While its proximity to Edinburgh helps drive conventional tourism, the town is flanked by separate golf courses too. North Berwick’s location, where the Firth of Forth empties into the North Sea, is particularly welcoming to bird life, which in turn draws avid nature lovers to the region; some way offshore to the east of town, Bass rock holds one of the largest gannet colonies in the world. Back in town, at the tip of a natural promontory, is the Scottish Seabird Centre. Taking a boat trip out to the islands is a popular activity, as is ambling along the seafront past the pretty Edwardian houses before getting some good local fish and chips.

Bass Rock near North Berwick (Photo: go elsewhere… via Flickr)

­­­ Oban styles itself as the seafood capital of Scotland, but you don’t need to eat fish to appreciate this wonderful west coast town. One of Scotland’s main ferry ports (and gateway to both the Inner and Outer Hebrides), Oban’s population can triple during the main holiday season. Around town there are opportunities for sea kayaking, hiking and cycling. The town itself is not too old, despite, like many parts of Scotland, there being evidence of human habitation in the region dating back to the Bronze Age. In fact, Oban’s growth was thanks to whisky; Oban Distillery was established in 1794 and has a visitors’ centre open to the public. For good views over the water, walk up to McCaig’s Tower, a prominent feature that dominates Oban and looks somewhat like an unfinished colosseum. It was in fact the passion project of John Stuart McCaig, a local philanthropist who wanted to keep local stonemasons in work during the winter while leaving behind a family legacy.

Oban from the water (Photo: Stephen Archer via Flickr)

Perthshire’s northern frontier borders the Highlands, with Pitlochry offering one of the best bases from which to explore the nearby mountains. It is a good starting point for hiking both Ben Vrackie and Schiehallion. The occasional glimpses of Scottish Baronial architecture from the Victorian era can still be seen in town. Queen Victoria was believed to be a fan of the town and through the decades many others have followed suit; coming for the various castles, distilleries and natural sights that dot the fringes of town. Cairngorms National Park is just a few miles to the north and the range of sports and activities in the local area, which include bungee jumping and white-water rafting, means that many people visit Pitlochry with many a purpose.

The main street in Pitlochry (Photo: Paula Funnell via Flickr)

For many who have visited the East Neuk of Fife, a region of coast on the north side of the Firth of Forth, Pittenweem, even more than Anstruther, embodies the quaint fishing village vibe more than any other. It is important to note here that inhabitants of each East Neuk town will of course argue this statement and all will have a good point. In Pittenweem however, unlike some of the other ports, fishing is still commonplace, with a fish market each morning, and shoals of colourful fishing boats moored in the protective harbour. Many of the shops are still locally-run and there are sites in town dating back to the 8 th century, including the hermit cave of an aging St Fillan, an Irish missionary who left relics of his work all over Scotland.

Pittenweem Harbour (Photo: James Stringer via Flickr)

Around Plockton, the landscape rears up out of Loch Carron in whorls of rock and forest. The land changes colour according to the season and yet the village (one of only two that make this list) is spared the onslaught of the prevailing winds that shape the Highlands in these parts. Sailing boats bob on the waves, at the same time delicate and robust. Plockton announces itself in the form of a row of pretty, painted cottages that do not betray the hardship visited upon the village’s residents in many guises; potato famine, Highland clearances and the boom and rapid bust of local herring fishing have all had their impact. It is tourism that has really buoyed Plockton however, with seal watching trips and pleasant gardens being particularly popular enticements.

Plockton (Photo: Alexandre Dulaunoy via Flickr)

Considered the capital of Skye, the island beloved by many a tourist, Portree is a pleasant town built by a sheltered sea inlet. The photogenic row of houses lining the edge of a large rocky protrusion known affectionately as The Lump, are perhaps one of the more popular features of the town. For others, Portree is simply a good place to rest and refuel before pressing on to wilder and more rugged quarters of Skye. Although the town’s population barely peaks above 4000, there are lots of good hotels and practically every other house is a Bed & Breakfast. A good range of shops and cafes are complemented by the excellent tourist information office. Additionally, the Aros Centre has great cultural programmes and is worth checking to see if there are any events on during your stay.

Portree (Photo: Paul Stafford)

St. Andrews

Golf is synonymous with St. Andrews and many people will insist that the globally popular 18-hole game was invented right here in Fife. Like most sports, there were most likely antecedents in many reaches of the globe, but the global consensus suggests that the modern game emanates from St. Andrews and The Open Championship is frequently held at the Old Course, which dates to 1552. But St. Andrews is not all clubs and balls. The town’s University is one of the best in Britain and students account for at least one in three residents of a town whose history stretches back much more than a millennium. St. Andrews Castle, now little more than a ruin with a sea view, was built in the 12 th century. There are medieval streets and museums aplenty to keep anybody up and about on their feet, golf club in hard or not.

St. Andrews Cathedral (Photo: Neil Howard via Flickr)

While most of the towns on this list are located on the mainland, Stornoway is a little trickier to reach. The Outer Hebridean town is the main urban centre of Lewis & Harris and home to the popular Lews Castle that was built in the mid-19 th century for James Matheson with money he made during the opium trade in China. Matheson also owned the entire island and came back to settle during his later life. There is also a museum outlining the island’s history and providing an exhibition that explores the community’s relationship with both land and sea. Every year in July the town hosts one of the best Celtic music festivals in Scotland. The town has some excellent pubs and restaurants on and around the harbour front, as well as shops selling the famous Harris tweed, which is handmade on the island, and then adapted to various items of clothing and upholstery.

Lews Castle in Stornoway (Photo: First Minister of Scotland via Flickr)

Perhaps the most remote town on our list of the best towns in Scotland, Stromness may not be the Orcadian capital, but it is the most popular. Some say that if arriving by ferry in the Bay of Hamnavoe, Stromness looks much like it would have done a few hundred years ago. Once upon a time it was the last port of call for trans-Atlantic sea voyages. On terra firma , the town is a joy to explore, with winding, enclosed streets lined with shops and hotels. Stromness Museum’s collection suggests as close an affinity with Iceland and Greenland’s Inuit as there is with London, and the occasional whalebone entryway to houses provides a reminder that whales have not always been a protected species in the waters around the British Isles. Some of Scotland’s best Neolithic sites are easily reached from Stromness, including Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar.

Stromness Harbour (Photo: Tash Scott via Flickr)

Tobermory is a small town, with a population of 1000 people. The town’s impeccably presented main road consists of buildings painted all sorts of colours from pastel green to bright sunshine yellow. When viewed from across the harbour on a calm day it is a particularly arresting sight. The capital of the Isle of Mull may even be one of the best-known towns among one to five-year old children, as it was the setting for BBC show Balamory. Despite the early indoctrination, Tobermory is well-deserving of its spot on this list. There are some good places to find fresh fish, Sgriob-ruadh Farm makes some excellent cheese and the Tobermory distillery in town has been producing whisky for more than 200 years. Many people use Tobermory as a gateway to Mull thanks to the Oban ferry link. Sea kayaking and hiking are popular activities.

Tobermory (Photo: Vanvelthem Lionel via Flickr)

A population of 1500 may make Ullapool sound diminutive, but it is one of the largest settlements for miles around. Located on the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool feels like a self-contained settlement, and is certainly a very laid-back town. It was designed by the eminent civil engineer Thomas Telford who designed bridges and aqueducts that can be found all over Scotland. Ullapool looks particularly pretty when accessed from the south by road; although the town is on relatively flat land, it is surrounded by sweeping hills that plunge right down to the loch in many places. Near the harbour you can get excellent fish and chips to eat along the waterfront. Although there is not a great deal to do in town, Ullapool Museum is housed in an old church designed by Telford and provides insight into the local area’s history and heritage.

Ullapool Harbour (Photo: Paul Stafford)

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20 of the prettiest villages & towns in scotland.

Scotland is blessed with so many beautiful places: vibrant cities, quirky villages, majestic mountains, rugged coastlines and vast amounts of wilderness. This post is about my favourite photo-worthy villages and small towns in Scotland. From the colourful harbour towns dotted along the coast to romantic villages nestled among the mountains – these are real gems to include in your Scotland itinerary!

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Even though there are seven amazing cities to visit in Scotland, the real charm of Scottish culture lies in the pretty towns and villages dotted across the country. This is where you can mingle with locals down in the pub and experience what life is like in the Scottish countryside.

Immersive tourism is on the rise – people want to make authentic experiences, have easy access to Scotland’s natural beauty, go on unexpected adventures and have unscheduled encounters. Scotland’s small towns and villages offer all that and more. 

I’m a “big city girl”. I love living in Glasgow and it’s actually well-located to spend time in nature . But when I travel around Scotland, I also really appreciate the smaller places. Scottish towns are easy to navigate, there always seems to be the right amount of restaurants and pubs to choose from – always enough choice, never overwhelming – and locals are welcoming and open for chats with strangers. And boy, are those towns pretty!

This is a post about some of the most beautiful towns in Scotland. A hand-picked selection of 20 pretty towns and villages all over Scotland that I think are worth to be included in your itinerary. 

All are picturesque and great photography locations, but they are also handy home bases for a trip to Scotland. With choices of accommodation, restaurants and pubs, activity providers and cultural sites nearby, and located in regions that are worth exploring in-depth.

If you are here for inspiration for a Scotland staycation, you should also read my guide to adding oomph to your staycation !

Dreaming of Scotland? Listen to my immersive travel podcast Wild for Scotland !

I mulled over which towns to include forever. Every time I thought I had the perfect number of places together, I remembered another town or village to add…

I have purposefully left out some of the most famous towns like Oban , Portree or St Andrews in order to draw your attention to lesser-known hidden gems in Scotland. At the same time, I haven’t been everywhere and some villages you might expect to find here are still on my travel wish list – Plockton, Portpatrick, I’m looking your way!

If you can think of a town or village you love, but can’t find it on this list, add it in the comments – let’s grow this list of pretty Scottish towns together!

Find out how to choose the best Scotland itinerary for you!

Table of Contents

20 Pretty Villages & Towns in Scotland

Cullen, moray coast.

Cullen on the Moray Coast is a hidden gem on Scotland’s north-east. Nestled between golden sands and dramatic cliffs that dominate the coastal scenery, Cullen is known as the birthplace of Cullen Skink soup. It is also famous for its beautiful viaduct which today is open to the public and makes for a fantastic walk with scenic views.

The village is split into a lower part by the waterfront and an upper town bustling with antique shops and quirky cafes.

Cullen is the perfect stopover after a hike along the Speyside Way or the Moray Coast Trail, and a great home base to explore the area.

There are many pretty towns on the Moray coast. Also check out Portsoy!

Tarbert, Argyll

Nestled around East Loch Tarbert, an inlet of Loch Fyne, Tarbert has a colourful horseshoe-shaped waterfront with restaurants, pubs and shops. The ruins of Tarbert Castle tower high above the harbour and offer sweeping views of the bay.

Guarding the narrow strip of land that connects the Kintyre peninsula to the rest of Argyll, the scenic village of Tarbert is perfectly located to explore the region. The village also sits on the Five Ferries Route , a road trip and cycle trail that connects the Ayrshire coast with the Isle of Arran, Kintyre Peninsula, Cowal Peninsula and the Isle of Bute.

Read up on my Kintyre guide to plan your trip. 

You might also like: Plan a trip with my  2-Week Itinerary for the West Coast of Scotland

Gairloch, North Coast 500

Gairloch is a small, but sprawling, coastal community on the famous North Coast 500 road trip with fantastic views towards the mountains of Torridon and Applecross. The heart of Gairloch centres around Strath where you can visit the amazing independent Hillbillies Book Store or stop for cake & coffee at the neighbouring Mountain Coffee Company.

There are several viewpoints along the bay, but in my opinion, it’s worth driving a bit further past the village until you reach Big Sands beach and spend a day there.

There is no shortage of pretty towns in the northern Highlands, but Gairloch is particularly well-located to explore south towards Torridon, Applecross or Plockton, and north to Ullapool, the Summer Isles and the mountains of Wester Ross.

Check out my post about things to do on the NC500 for your trip.

St Abbs, Scottish Borders

Ten miles north of the Scottish-English border lies the picturesque seaside village of St Abbs. Located on the scenic Berwickshire coast and just a stone’s throw from the St Abbs Head Nature Reserve, it has always been a favourite among birders and outdoor enthusiasts, lovers of seafood and colourful harbours.

In recent years, the quaint village has even risen to world-fame as New Asgard in Avengers: Endgame . Do I need to say more?

You might also like: My Top 20 Places to Visit in Scotland

Arrochar, Argyll

Stretched along the northern shore of Loch Long, Arrochar is a beautiful village in the Scottish Highlands. Many people come through on their way to Oban or Inveraray, but it’s worth spending a few days here to explore the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.

Climb a Munro in the Arrochar Alps, “thread the needle” on top of the Cobbler or hop across to nearby Loch Lomond. Wander along the scenic waterfront and book a table at the historic Village Inn.

On a trip to Arrochar, many of my favourite outdoor activities in Argyll are at your doorstep.

You might also like: My adventure guide to Helensburgh & Lomond , incl. Arrochar

Dunfermline, Fife

By far the largest town on this list, Dunfermline is Scotland’s former capital in the heart of Fife. Cobbled roads lead through the colourful town centre.

Stop at Dunfermline Abbey where you can visit the grave of Robert the Bruce. Swing by the new Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries. See the stunning French Gothic clock tower of the City Chambers and walk up the bustling High Street. I also recommend a walk down Pittencrieff Park!

PS: Dunfermline isn’t far from Culross and Falkland, two scenic villages in Fife that are both Outlander locations .

Less than 20 miles from the capital, Dunfermline is a great day trip from Edinburgh but is also a great home base to explore more of Fife .

Crovie, Aberdeenshire

Crovie is easily one of the most remarkable villages I have ever come across in Scotland. Built on a narrow stretch of land by the sea, the “road” by the waterfront is not even wide enough to fit a car. The houses are battered by the wild waves of the North Sea and locals and visitors alike have to climb down to the village via a set of stairs.

It’s worth walking among the houses to get a taste of how isolating life could be on the Scottish coast and stop at the viewpoint above the village to see it in its full glory.

Many houses in the village have been turned into holiday rentals for a unique edge-of-the-world experience, but can be pretty pricey. Nearby villages Gardenstown and Pennan are more accessible and a good alternative home bases on the northern Aberdeenshire coast.

Brodick, Isle of Arran

Nicknamed “Scotland in Miniature”, the Isle of Arran offers a little bit of everything that makes Scotland so special – a stunning mountain range, white sands, standing stones, whisky distilleries and of course some lovely island villages.

Brodick, the main community on Arran, is a bustling village with plenty of restaurants and quirky pubs, a cheese dairy, beer brewery and soap manufacturer (all great for souvenirs), a pretty castle and great hospitality. Perfect for an island getaway if you only have a few days!

You might also like: The best islands to visit in Scotland

Wigtown, Galloway

For book lovers, Wigtown barely needs an introduction – for everyone else: welcome to Scotland’s National Book Town! The quirky village is home to 16 (!) book shops most of which are located in the colourful houses nestled around the central village square. The second-largest book festival in Scotland is held here every year in September.

Browse the bookshelves of second-hand bookshops for hidden treasures, discover the latest Scottish publication or mingle with other literary travellers in one of the cosy cafes. 

There are many scenic villages on the Galloway coast. Also check out Portpatrick, Whithorn, Isle of Whithorn and Kirkcudbright!

Use my South Scotland itinerary to plan your trip to the region.

Aberlour, Speyside

The picturesque town of Aberlour (also: Charlestown of Aberlour) lies on the banks of the River Spey and is a welcoming destination in the productive Speyside whisky region of Scotland. Many of the houses built around the central square of Aberlour are made from beautiful red stone that is so characteristic for the area.

Make sure you stop by The Mash Tun for a whisky tasting and Aberlour distillery. Walk to Linn Falls and learn everything about the famous Walkers shortbread which originated from this Scottish town.

Aberlour was one of my favourite towns on the Speyside Way !

Use my Speyside travel guide to plan your trip!

Pitlochry, Perthshire

While I would not call it a hidden gem, I could not get myself to write a list of my favourite towns in Scotland without including Pitlochry! This lively town in the heart of Perthshire is a popular stopover for people travelling up and down the A9.

Hugging the banks of River Tummel, Pitlochry is an incredibly scenic Highland town. Stroll along the Victorian high street, poke your head down picturesque Mill Lane, wander down to the River and across a suspension bridge to Port-Na-Craig on the other side. 

Like all of Perthshire, Pitlochry is particularly beautiful in autumn – plan your trip with my Perthshire travel guide .

St Monans, Fife

From Elie to Kingsbarns, the East Neuk of Fife is famous for its fishing villages with colourful harbours, quirky waterfronts and cobbled lanes. St Monans is easily one of the most beautiful villages in Scotland and has some quirky features that make it stand out from the others: the ruins of Newark Castle and a beautiful windmill overlooking the seaside.

White-washed houses with colourful window sills line the harbour, fishing boats bob up and down with the tides and a beautiful coastal path leads out to the windmill – a relic of the once-thriving sea salt industry in Scotland.

A great way to discover St Monans and other picturesque fishing villages in Fife is a day hike on the Fife Coastal Path from Elie to Anstruther.

Melrose, Scottish Borders

Melrose in the Scottish Borders has captured the hearts of many historic Scottish figures, including Robert the Bruce and Sir Walter Scott. While Broce asked for his heart to be buried at Melrose Abbey, Scott made his stunning home at nearby Abbotsford House – both worth a visit on a trip to Melrose.

The small town offers beautiful views of the Eildon Hills and the hiking path begins right at the Market Cross. There are gardens filled with flowers and fruit trees, the stunning ruins of the Abbey and more.

Use my Melrose travel guide to plan your visit to the Scottish Borders.

Kilchattan Bay, Isle of Bute

The tiny village of Kilchattan Bay on the Isle of Bute will always have a special place in my heart. The seaside community lies at the southern end of the West Island Way, a 30-mile trek across Bute. The main feature of the village is the pretty Victorian waterfront and stunning views across the Firth of Clyde towards Great Cumbrae and the Ayrshire coast.

I arrived here after a night of wild camping at a nearby beach, stopped for coffee at the village shop and dreamed of staying a few extra nights to take in the views. 

Kilchattan Bay would be a great home base to hike the West Island Way or explore other parts of the Isle of Bute.

Ballater, Royal Deeside

The Royal Deeside has been a popular destination in Scotland since the days of Queen Victoria. When she decided to buy a large estate here and build the castle of her dreams ( Balmoral Castle , which you can visit from Easter to July), many others followed suit.

Everyone who took the train from Aberdeen had to come through the nearby town of Ballater and the town grew into a bustling hub for the area. This is true until today!

The church at the heart of the village is surrounded by pretty shops, cafes and pubs, many houses have beautiful flower gardens and in the distance, there are always views of the beautiful hills of the valley.

Another scenic Highland village in the Royal Deeside is Braemar.

Killin, Highlands

The scenic Highland village of Killin lies a bit off the beaten path but is so worth the detour. Nestled at the western head of Loch Tay, the village is built around the magnificent Falls of Dochart.

A narrow, multi-arched stone bridge leads across the falls and down onto an ancient burial ground of the Clan MacNab. When the water is low, it is possible to hop down onto the rocks to the foot of the bridge, but after some rainfall, the Falls turns into a torrential river. 

From Killin, you can explore Perthshire , the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park and the southern Highlands around Crianlarich and Tyndrum.

Kenmore, on the other end of Loch Tay, is also a beautiful village to visit.

Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire

Stonehaven is a bustling seaside town on the Aberdeenshire coast, just 16 miles south of Aberdeen, particularly famous for the awe-inspiring ruins of Dunnottar Castle .

The town itself also has a lot to offer though – from a picture-perfect harbour with white-washed houses and colourful boats, to public art along the waterfront walkway, a long beach with views of nearby cliffs and pretty architecture around Market Square. Outdoor enthusiasts and foodies, history buffs and helpless romantics will all get their money’s worth here!

My friend Claire rents out two stunning beachfront apartments in Stonehaven on AirBnB . 

Use my Stonehaven guide to plan your trip.

Glencoe, Highlands

Glencoe Village sits at the northern end of the breathtaking Glen Coe valley – home to the impressive Aonach Eagach ridge and made from the stuff of Highland dreams.

It stands out from the rest of the villages on this list because the village itself is actually just a street. There are many beautiful buildings and scenic views in the village, but it’s actually the scenery around Glencoe that gives this place a spot on this list.

Huddled at the foot of the iconic Pap of Glencoe and framed by Loch Leven, it is the perfect location for an adventure trip to the Scottish Highlands or a romantic getaway.

There are many romantic places to stay in Glencoe. Why not book a few nights at Woodlands Glencoe – luxurious lodges with private hot tubs and stunning views overlooking Loch Leven.

Use my Glencoe travel guide to plan your trip.

Inveraray, Argyll

Inveraray is one of my favourite towns in Scotland – it is so pretty! Located on the banks of Loch Fyne, a 40-mile long sea loch off the Firth of Clyde, Inveraray is the ancestral home to the Duke of Argyll. The village was actually moved to its current location to make space for the construction of Inveraray Castle & Gardens – worth it if you ask me!

The high street is lined with white buildings with characteristic black door frames and window sills (even regular high street shops are bowing to the design) and the views over Loch Fyne are simply stunning.

Tobermory, Isle of Mull

The brightly coloured waterfront of Tobermory’s Main Street is famous around the world. Of course, the Isle of Mull is well worth a visit for many other reasons like stunning beaches, boat trips to nearby islands like Ulva, Iona or Staffa, hiking up Ben More or a visit to Duart Castle. But if you are already on the island, it would be a shame not to also visit the bustling village of Tobermory.

Apart from finding the best photo spots to capture the colourful houses by the water, you can find a whisky distillery, many local arts & crafts shops, the Mull Museum and a great arts centre.

My Isle of Mull travel guide is a great resource to plan your trip to Mull!

I could go on and on – there are so many beautiful villages and towns in Scotland. 

I hope that this list has inspired you to plan a trip to Scotland that takes in several of these scenic towns on the go. Whether you just stop for a stroll down the high street or base yourself in one of these places for several days – Scotland’s small towns have a lot to offer!

Now I’d love to hear from you – which villages or towns in Scotland are your favourites?

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11 thoughts on “ 20 of the Prettiest Villages & Towns in Scotland ”

Also callendar and aberfoyle are Stunning!

you should add Carnoustie to that list voted prettiest war memorial in scotland

Ooooh, I’ve never been! A trip to the Angus coast is definitely on the horizon this year 🙂

One of the prettiest little towns on Islay was Port Charlotte with it’s legendary distillery. Campbeltown was another lovely old fishing village. And completely on the other coast is Cruden Bay with one of the most exciting golf courses in Scotland.

Ooooh, I’ve not been to Port Charlotte (or that part of Islay) before, but agree: Campbeltown and Cruden Bay make fantastic additions to the list!

Strathblane should be on the list! If not strathblane then killearn, fintry or drymen. All an easy drive from Glasgow!

Ahh great list, so many that would also go onto mine and some that I haven’t been to but will now definitely have to check out! I’m glad Pitlochry made the list as I really love it there but feel like it’s very touristy so I shouldn’t love it as much as I do, if that makes sense? I guess it’s popular for a reason, though. I would also add Culross in Fife, Callander in the Trossachs and Braemar in Aberdeenshire!

I could have gone on and on! Glad the list resonates with you and you also found some new places to discover. Sometimes it feels like we can’t love the touristy spots, but as you say – they are popular for a reason. Pitlochry is a charming place and in such a great location, I couldn’t have not included it!

Hi Kathi. My name is Bryan from Worcestershire and over several decades have visited Scotland around 120 times. Have visited 14 of your top 20 so am already curious about the other 6. To the list, I would add Applecross, Moffat, strontian, Craighouse, Crail, Inverie, Clashnessie, and St Margarets Hope, Orkney to name just a few. Thank you for your presentation.

Thanks, Bryan – some wonderful additions and a few I’ve not been to yet! There is always more to explore 🙂

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The 25 Prettiest Villages in Scotland You Must Visit + Map

From Isle of Harris and Lewis to Dumfries and Galloway, Perthshire to Isle of Skye , Scotland has a variety of scenic villages dotted all around the country.

Although Scotland is probably best known for its dramatic  castles , serene lochs, rugged mountains and whisky, there are also some insanely charming villages in Scotland to visit. 

These villages are perfect for escaping the urban chaos and embracing a slower pace of life, where locals gather in traditional pubs and cosy cafes. 

Small villages are always a great choice if you want to get a real taste of a country and experience it more like a local.

Each of them is unique on its own.  St Abbs   in Scottish Borders draws film crews from Hollywood, while  Braemar   in Aberdeenshire has royal connections. 

Many of the villages are in the most beautiful parts of Scotland . So there will be plenty of things to do in the local area. They also make a perfect base for exploring the Scottish countryside. 

A few of the villages mentioned in this article are easily accessible on a day trip from  Edinburgh  and  Glasgow .

We’ve rounded up the 25 prettiest villages in Scotland with dreamy views. This article talks about what’s unique about them, things to see and do, how to reach there by public transport and driving distance and time.

📖 Read More: 25 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland You Must Visit

Best Fishing Villages in Scotland

1. plockton, wester ross.

Close your eyes and picture the perfect Scottish village in your mind. Chances are it will most likely look like Plockton .

Tucked away on the pristine coastline of Loch Carron in North West Scotland, Plockton is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind .

Known as The Jewel of the Highlands, this small village is famous for its awe-inspiring landscapes, milder climate and appearance in the Scottish drama series – Hamish Macbeth.

📖 Read More: One Day in Plockton, 16 Amazing Things to Do

Also, Plockton is just a few miles away from the famous Isle of Skye , one of the most visited places in Scotland.  

In its heydays, in the era of ‘The Herring Boom’, Plockton was a major haven for sourcing herring, which made it rise to its prosperity.

The main village street is lined with traditional whitewashed houses and the prettiest gardens against the spectacular backdrop of the loch and the mountains from the Applecross peninsula.

You can take a wildlife boat tour to spot seals, otters, dolphins, porpoises and numerous sea birds. There are a few pubs and restaurants along the promenade.

How to Reach : 🚂 Plockton train station sits on the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh railway line.

🚗 From Portree, 1 hour / 40 miles.

2. Cullen, Moray Firth

Once a bustling fishing port, Cullen is renowned as the birthplace of the famous traditional Scottish dish, Cullen Skink – a delicious thick soup made of smoked haddock, potato and milk.  

Nestled on a sheltered bay on the coast of Moray Firth, this idyllic village has a dramatic coastline, stunning sandy beach, an imposing victorian railway viaduct and a cosy small harbour.  

You could easily visit Cullen on a day trip from Inverness and Aberdeen.

📖 Read More: 17 Incredible Things to Do in Cullen, Moray Firth

The lovely Cullen Beach attracts a lot of visitors during the summer months. Moray Firth is famous for the bottle-nosed dolphins. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the dolphins jumping and playing in the sea.  

The bustling main street has a few antique shops, a busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants. Taste a bowl of delicious Cullen Skink at Rockpool Café and the Cullen Bay Hotel.

You can hike to the neighbouring village Portknockie to see the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock – one of the most dramatic rock formations in Northeast Scotland.

How to Reach : 🚌 Ride Stagecoach bus service 35 from Aberdeen and Elgin.

🚗 From Aberdeen, 1 hour 25 minutes / 55 miles.

From Inverness, 1 hour 30 minutes / 59 miles

3. St Abbs, Scottish Borders

Recently featured in the superhero movie Avengers: Endgame, as the fictional place of New Asgard, this sleepy village is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

St Abbs is a picturesque small fishing village on the Berwickshire Coast in East Scotland.

It is well-known for its rugged coastline and rich wildlife and is one of Scotland’s best scuba diving places.

📖 Read More: 12 Best Things to Do in St Abbs, Scottish Borders

The walking trail to the St Abb’s Head Nature Reserve is quite popular with hikers. Around 60,000 birds nest in the high cliffs here.  

The volcanic clifftops, scenic sea stacks, abundance of wildflowers and butterflies, a photogenic lighthouse and the uninterrupted view over to the North Sea will completely blow your mind away.

One of the main highlights of this village is the small harbour. You would see local fishing and tour boats carrying tourists and divers. The nearby rocky shores are great for rock pooling. Devour some delicious crab sandwiches from the cafe on the harbour.

How to Reach : 🚂 Ride a train to Berwick upon Tweed from Edinburgh and then catch a bus 235 from there.  

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour / 47 miles.

4. Crail, Fife

Nestled in East Neuk of Fife, Crail is one of the loveliest fishing villages in Scotland, with an eye-catching harbour and charming houses with pantile roofs. 

Crail falls on the famous Fife Coastal Path, a long-distance walking route of 116 miles that runs from Kincardine on the River Forth Estuary to Newburgh on the River Tay Estuary along the coast of Fife.

From the centre of the village, take a ramble down the cobbled streets to reach the harbour. You will find many creel boats moored there. If you fancy feasting on freshly caught lobsters and dressed crabs, pop by at Lobster Hut on the harbour. They are usually open every day in summer.

Also, stop by Crail Harbour Gallery & Tea Room and enjoy beautiful paintings by a local artist. You will also get a stunning view out to the Firth of Forth. They serve hot beverages and light bites.

At the centre of the village, step inside the family-run Crail Pottery. You will find a wide variety of beautifully decorated handmade earthenware to buy.

How to Reach: Catch Stagecoach bus services 95 from Leven to St Andrews.

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour 30 min / 54 miles.

5. Crovie, Aberdeenshire

With a neatly arranged single row of houses on the North Sea coast underneath an imposing cliff, Crovie has one of the most dramatic settings among the villages in Scotland .

The history of this tiny well-preserved fishing hamlet dates back to the 18th century.

Very frequently, the sea sprays lash against the narrow ledge in front of the whitewashed houses. Some of those cottages offer holiday accommodation if you fancy a stay.

This village is only accessible via steep steps that descend the cliff to the seafront. So, if you are coming by car, you cannot simply drive through the village. You will have to leave your vehicle at the clifftop car park and walk down the wooden stairs.

Ony 10 minutes’ walk from Crovie is Gardenstown, another picturesque fishing settlement. Also, Troup Head in the east is a popular place for birdwatching. It has the largest gannet colony on mainland Scotland.

How to reach : Catch bus service 273 from Banff.

🚗 From Aberdeen, 1 hour 5 minutes/ 45 miles.

6. St Monans, East Neuk

St Monans is a stunning traditional fishing village in East Neuk of Fife and a jewel on the jagged coastline of the Firth of Forth in Scotland. This pretty harbour-front village is the smallest of the series of fishing ports dotted along the coast of East Neuk.

Around the cosy harbour huddle a charming blend of whitewashed and colourful houses with crow-stepped gables – possibly a Dutch influence.  

It gets very photogenic at high tide with the wild churning waves pounding on the breakwater – super atmospheric!  

Don’t miss a visit to the photogenic St Monans Windmill and St Monans Parish Church. The church is one of the oldest medieval churches in Scotland.

Being on the Fife coastal path, this former fishing and boat-building village is very popular with walkers. Along the coast, you would find the ruins of Newark Castle, a beehive dovecot, a seaside church, salt pans – a reminder of its salt-producing past, and a windmill spinning its arms in an idyllic setting.

How to Reach : 🚌 You can catch a Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh, St Andrews and Leven.

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour 15 min / 48 miles.  

From St Andrews, 20 min / 13 miles.

Best Coastal and Lochside Villages in Scotland

7. luss, loch lomond.

Perfectly positioned on the western shore of bonnie Loch Lomond , Luss is often regarded as one of the prettiest Scottish villages.

Just 45 minutes drive from Glasgow , this place is an ideal day-trip destination from there.

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Luss to make you fall in love with this village.

📖 Read More: 10 Epic Things to Do in Luss, Loch Lomond

Admire the row of quaint stone cottages lined with beautiful small gardens and floral displays. They look gorgeous in full bloom during the summer months.

The small beach near the pier is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming in summer.

Take a stroll along the wooden pier to get a stunning view of the loch and the towering Ben Lomond on the other side of the loch.

You can take a relaxing boat tour to get a chance to see the numerous tiny islands on the Loch Lomond closely. Also, you can visit other villages on the banks of Loch Lomond – Balloch, Balmaha, Tarbet and Rowerdennan.

How to Reach : Hop on a Citylink bus service from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station.

🚗 From Glasgow, 45 minutes / 26 miles.

8. Elgol, Isle of Skye

With only a few clusters of whitewashed cottages on the shore of Loch Scavaig on the Isle of Skye , Elgol is a remote Scottish village offering one of the best views of the magnificent Cuillin ranges.

A hidden gem on Skye, Elgol has some great walking opportunities, including the coastal walk to Loch Coruisk. Also, you can explore Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Cave, where he hid after the defeat of the Jacobites in the mid-18th century.  

📖 Read More: How to Spend a Day in Elgol and Loch Coruisk

The boat services to Loch Coruisk and the wildlife trips depart from the village harbour.

Lying at the foot of the Black Cuillin, Loch Coruisk is a breathtaking freshwater loch on the Isle of Skye. The loch is also accessible by a long and strenuous walk from Sligachan and Elgol.  

Legend has it that it was once the home to the Kelpies – mythical water horses in Scottish folklore.

The famous Scottish folk song ‘The Skye Boat Song’ originated in Loch Coruisk, getting inspired by a Gaelic version sung by the local rowers.

📖 Read More: 25 Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye: Detailed Guide+ Map

How to Reach : 🚎 Stagecoach runs bus service 55 from Broadford to Elgol a few times a day on weekdays and Schooldays.

🚗 From Broadford, 30 min/ 14 miles.

9. Fort Augustus, Scottish Highlands

Just an hour’s drive from the Scottish city of Inverness, you will find the tiny hamlet of Fort Augustus on the impressive Caledonian Canal.

Halfway between two large settlements of Scotland – Fort William and Inverness, this village lies at the southern end of Loch Ness, the largest freshwater lake by volume in the UK and home to the celebrity monster, Nessie.  

📖 Read More: Epic Things to do in Fort William

This small village has many beautiful things to do and explore for all. You can pop inside the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre and learn local history, cruise into Loch Ness, walk or cycle around the area and enjoy the breathtaking view of Loch Ness.

The magnificent Urquhart Castle is not too far from here. It is one of the largest ruined castles in Scotland and holds thousands of years of history.

If you are a serious hiker, you might be interested in the Great Glen Way, a long-distance walking trail between Fort William and Inverness, which runs through this Scottish village.

How to Reach : 🚎 Citylink bus from Inverness to Fort William stops here.

🚗 From Inverness, 55 min / 34 miles.

From Four William, 45 min / 32 miles.

10. Applecross, Wester Ross

Applecross is an incredibly stunning small village in a peninsula with the same name in the Wester Ross part of Scotland . It is a must-visit place on the North Coast 500 route, one of Scotland’s most scenic driving routes.

Take a walk to the Applecross Bay near Applecross Heritage Centre. You will get a stunning view over to the Isle of Raasay, Rona and the Isle of Skye . You might spot a herd of red deer strolling on the beach.

Also, step inside the heritage centre and discover the local history.

Applecross Inn on the village seafront is an excellent place to tuck into locally sourced delicious seafood. If you are in a hurry, grab some food from the takeaway truck opposite the inn.

If you came to Applecross via the road that runs along the shore of Loch Torridon, then make sure you head back through Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle) – one of the highest and most picturesque mountain-passes in the whole of Britain.

How to Reach: From Inverness, 2 hours / 80 miles.

11. Lochranza, Isle of Arran

Lochranza sits in the northernmost part of the beautiful Isle of Arran. The village is named after a sea loch called Loch Ranza.

This cute village has a ruined lochside castle, a distillery, and a field centre for the Geology enthusiasts.

The incredible scenic beauty of Lochranza has inspired one of Scotland’s renowned novelists Sir Walter Scott in the poem The Lord of the Isles.

You might spot a herd of red deers roaming freely around the village. It is a perfect blissful spot to commune with nature. There are a few hiking trails nearby.  

Also, pop inside The Sandwich Station near the ferry terminal for some delicious freshly baked artisan sourdough bread sandwiches and cakes.

Another thing we really like about Lochranza is that it is less touristy than other areas in Arran.  

How to Reach : 🚎 The Stagecoach bus service 324 from Brodick to Blackwaterfoot stops here.

🚗 From Brodick, 30 min / 14 miles.

12. Shieldaig, Wester Ross

Shieldaig is a hidden gem tucked away on the shore of Loch Torridon in Northwest Scottish Highlands. Mostly whitewashed cottages along the shore of the loch make this coastal village very photogenic. 

You will find a rocky outcrop just about a quarter-mile off the coast. That’s Shielding Island with a dense population of Scots Pine.

Shieldaig was established in 1800 to train local people ready for battle in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars. Later it turned into a fishing hamlet. 

In Gaelic, Shieldaig means ‘Herring Bay’. Now, this village largely relies on tourism. It has a small population of about 100 permanent residents.

Shieldaig is one of those places where you don’t have much to do apart from soaking up the breathtaking view. There are a couple of hotels, pubs and restaurants here.

Also, explore the nearby Torridon at the foothill of Torridon Hills. It’s just 15 minutes drive from Shieldaig.

How to Reach:   From Inverness, 1 hour 30 min / 68 miles.

13. Portpatrick, Dumfries and Galloway

Located on the Irish Sea coast of Dumfries and Galloway in South West Scotland, the village of Portpatrick was once the main port for bringing goods to Ireland, which is only 21 miles from here.

Once compared with Gretna Green, many young couples from Northern Ireland would come here to get hitched.

There are quite a few restaurants, shops and pubs along the seafront. Take a ramble around the village. Take a look inside the historic ruins of the old parish church.

Follow the coastal path to visit the nearby picturesque ruins of Dunskey Castle. The hike offers a gorgeous view of the sea, beaches and clifftops. You can also walk to the north to see the Killantringan Lighthouse.

If you are in this part of Scotland, don’t miss a visit to the Mull of Galloway, the southernmost point of Scotland.

Also, the long-distance walking trail Southern Upland Way starts from here.

How to Reach : 🚎 Catch bus services 367 and 411 from Stranraer.

🚗 From Dumfries, 1 hour 40 min / 76 miles.

14. Dornie, Kintail

Located within a short walking distance from Eilean Donan Castle – one of the most famous castles in Scotland, Dornie is often overlooked by tourists visiting the castle. The village is only a few minutes by car from Kyle of Lochalsh, the gateway to the Isle of Skye . 

Nestled in the meeting point of Loch Long, Loch Duich and Loch Alsh, the village has a natural scenic setting.

Aside from exploring the castle, this former fishing village is a great place to roam around. You will find a row of houses, whitewashed and some with colours creating a nice contrast. 

Don’t miss the viewpoint near the Dornie Community Hall on the other side of the road bridge over Loch Long. You will have a fabulous view of the castle with the impressive mountains of Kintail in the backdrop.

How to Reach:  🚎 The Scottish Citylink bus from Portree to Glasgow or Inverness stops near Dornie.

🚗 From Kyle of Lochalsh, 15 min / 9 miles.

Best Villages in Scotland for Mountains and Hikes

15. braemar, aberdeenshire.

Located deep in the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar is truly a beautiful village in Scotland, where you can immerse in the wilderness, escaping the hustle-bustle of city life.

Surrounded by the Grampian Mountains and the River Dee, Braemar is one of the coldest places in Scotland and sits at an elevation of 339 metres above sea level.

It hosts the famous Braemar Gathering and Highland Games every year, which is attended frequently by Her Majesty the Queen and the other members of the British Royal Family.

📖 Read More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Braemar, Cairngorms National Park

The rustic charm of this scenic Scottish village has attracted visitors over the centuries.  

There are plenty of walking, hiking and fishing opportunities around this area.

Aside from the majestic scenery, it has an abundance of wildlife, especially red deer and red squirrels. Just keep your eyes peeled out.

Constructed in the 17th century by the Earl of Mar as a hunting lodge, Braemar Castle has a turbulent highland history of over 400 years.

Balmoral Castle, the Royal Residence in the Scottish countryside, lies about 9 miles east of Braemar.  

How to Reach : 🚎 Stagecoach Bus service 201 runs daily between Aberdeen and Braemar.

🚗 From Aberdeen, 1 hour 25 minutes/ 56 miles.

From Dundee, 1 hour 25 minutes / 52 miles.

16. Glencoe, Lochaber

With a population of just around four hundred people, Glencoe is a little village on the shore of Loch Leven in the Scottish Highlands. It is only 25 minutes drive from Fort William .

Visit the Massacre of Glencoe Monument – a memorial erected to the infamous Massacre of Glencoe. It took place on the night of 12th February in 1692.  

Almost 40 members of Clan MacDonald of Glencoe were murdered by the government forces under the command of Archibald Campbell, 10th Earl and 1st Duke of Argyll, for failing to meet the deadline of swearing allegiance to King William III.

Take a look inside the thatched roof Glencoe Folk Museum. This village has rich wildlife as well. Watch out for red deer and golden eagles. They are seen here frequently.

Glencoe Lochan, an idyllic place for a family-friendly walk, lies within a short walk from this village.

Keen hikers can climb the Pap of Glencoe, which looms large over this village. This 742-metre high mountain has a strikingly conical shape.

How to Reach : 🚎 Citylink and local Shield Buses N44 give a stop in Glencoe.

🚗 From Fort William, 25 min / 16 miles.

17. Killin, Perthshire

Located at the western end of Loch Tay, Killin is a stunningly attractive Scottish village in Perthshire. This charming settlement at the foothill of Breadalbane mountains is one of the best villages in Scotland for outdoor enthusiasts. 

It offers plenty of scenic walking opportunities. Wander around the magnificent Falls of Dochart and visit the burial place of Clan Macnab. 

One of the most scenic walks around Killin is Sròn a’Chlachain. It is a steep hill walk of about 2 miles with an ascent of around 400 metres. From the summit, the view is absolutely breathtaking. You can admire the stunning panoramic views of Loch Tay and the surrounding mountains.

Loch Tay is famous for salmon fishing. You can hire a fishing boat or take a guided fishing adventure tour from Loch Tay Fish ‘n’ Trips. 

If you are a fan of water sports, you will enjoy high-speed rib boat tours over the lake. Afterwards, visit the ruins of Finlarig Castle nearby. It was once a stronghold of Clan Campbell.

This village has quite a few nice cafes and restaurants. Falls of Dochart Inn is a lovely dog-friendly place to eat and drink with a beautiful view.

How to Reach:  From Callander, catch the C60 bus.

🚗 From Glasgow, 1 hour 20 min/ 62 miles.

18. Comrie, Perthshire

Winner of the Britain in Bloom Award in previous years, Comrie lies in the West Strathearn part of Perthshire. Comrie offers fabulous walking opportunities, having an abundance of big trees and woodlands in and around.

The Deil’s Cauldron and the Melville Monument Trail is a quite popular nature trail that starts at the centre of this Scottish village. This circular walk takes about 2 – 3 hours. We did this in autumn, and it was stunningly beautiful with a dazzling display of colours. The water of Ruchill and Cultybraggan is another scenic walk in Comrie.

If you are into geology, you would be interested to know that Comrie has more earth tremors than anywhere else in the UK due to its location on the Highland Boundary Fault. Actually, one of the first seismometers in the world was installed in Comrie around the mid-19th century.

This picturesque village of Scotland hosts a few cosy events like Comrie Fortnight in Summer and Flambeaux – torchlight parade during the Hogmanay celebration on New Year’s Eve.

Lastly, don’t miss Drummond Castle, famous for its enchanting garden. You can reach here just in 20 minutes by car from Comrie. The castle garden is usually open to visitors from June to October. 

How to Reach:  Ride Stagecoach bus number 15 from Perth.

🚗 From Perth 50 min / 25 miles.

Best Historical and Cultural Villages in Scotland

19. culross, fife.

Have you ever been to a place where you feel like you have stepped back in time? Nestled on the coast of the Firth of Forth, the Royal Burgh of Culross is one of those places.  

Founded in the 6th century by Saint Serf, it is one of the best-preserved historic villages in Scotland.

Wander around the cobbled streets lined with the 16th and 17th century whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs. Take a tour of the brightly yellow-orange coloured Culross Palace.  

Established in the 17th century by a wealthy merchant, the house has painted ceilings and passageways connecting the small rooms.

You will get a lovely panoramic view from the top of the palace garden. Also, explore the nearby ruins of Culross Abbey.

In recent years, the popular TV series, Outlander has brought this village on the tourist map. You can easily visit Culross on a day trip from Glasgow and Edinburgh .

How to Reach : From Edinburgh, catch a bus or train to Dunfermline. Next, jump onto the Stagecoach bus 8, 8A to Culross.

🚗 From Edinburgh 40 minutes/ 24 miles.

20. Wanlockhead, Dumfries and Galloway

The former mining village of Wanlockhead sits high in the Lowther Hills at an elevation of around 1,531 ft. It is the highest village in Scotland.  

The main tourist attraction of Wanlockhead is The Museum of Lead Mining. Take a guided tour to learn about this area’s industrial past. Also, you can go down to take a look inside a former working mine.  

Meander around the village to admire the stunning scenery of the cottages and the surrounding mountains. You will find several pieces of machinery used in mining scattered around Wanlock Water.

You can also go panning for gold at Mennock Water, a little stream near Wanlockhead. Gold panning has been quite popular in this area for centuries.

The gorgeous Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens is only 25 minutes from here by car.

If you are travelling with kids, you can hop on board a heritage diesel train between Leadhills and Wanlockhead. It runs only on weekends during the summer months.

Scotland’s long-distance coast-to-coast walking trail, The Southern Upland Way, goes through this village.  

How to Reach : Catch a local bus service operated by Stuarts of Carluke from Lanark Bus Station.

🚗 From Dumfries, 50 min / 32 miles.

21. Falkland, Fife

A former royal burgh of Stuart Kings and Queens of Fife, Falkland is a living time capsule of the past. It is the first conservation village in Scotland.

With the Lomond Hills looming over, Falkland is home to honeycomb houses, pretty cobbled lanes, Falkland Palace and Gardens, and Bruce Fountain.

The 16th-century royal residence boasts of having the oldest tennis court in the World. It was once a country residence for Scottish Kings. Mary, Queen of Scots, frequently visited this palace and enjoyed falconry and hunting.

Not only that, Falkland has a few local boutique shops, cosy cafes, tearooms, and restaurants. It is also one of the filming locations for the famous time-travelling historic TV Series, Outlander.

For nature lovers, there are some great walks around the village. The nearby Maspie Den walk is popular with walkers. Fit hikers would love to explore the full East Lomond Circuit.

How to Reach : Hop on board a train to Ladybank and catch a local bus from there.

🚗 From Edinburgh 1 hour/ 39 miles

22. New Lanark, Lanarkshire

New Lanark is one of the six  UNESCO World Heritage Sites  in Scotland. This charming historical small village was founded in 1786 by David Dale, who built cotton mills and housing by the River Clyde. 

Later under the pioneering industrialist and philanthropist Robert Owen, the mills flourished. He implemented many revolutionary ideas that were way ahead of his time. 

Today visitors can explore and learn about the history of these 200-year-old restored mills and houses. You can see recreated school rooms, village stores and mill workers’ homes.

While here, take a short woodland walk to see the nearby Falls of Clyde.

How to Reach : Catch a bus or train from Glasgow to Lanark. 

🚗 From Glasgow, 50 min / 28 miles.

23. Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, Isle of Lewis

The remotest place on our list, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village is a former crofting village on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It’s a must-see attraction on the island because of its unique cluster of thatched stone cottages.  

You can get a really nice insight into the Hebridean life of the past centuries, like how they used to weave the world-renowned Harris Tweed and survived in the wild North Atlantic weather. There is a cafe and a small shop selling local souvenirs.

You can either day-trip to Gearrannan or spend the night at their holiday accommodations in the thatched cottages. There are walking, cycling and fishing opportunities here. 

Also, the renowned Calanais Standing Stones and the Iron Age Broch are close to this place. You can easily combine them in a single visit.

How to Reach:   From Stornoway, 33 min / 18 miles.

24. Dysart, Fife

Dysart has turned into a photogenic village, with picturesque old buildings and narrow alleys leading to the seafront. It sits on the Fife Coastal Path and is a hidden gem.

Once a prosperous bustling industrial town, Dysart today is a suburb in the northeast of Kirkcaldy.  

Crow-stepped gabbles on the historic building are stark reminders of its trading past with Holland. On the High street, a tolbooth stands tall with a clocktower as a prominent landmark of this former fishing village.

The lovely little Dysart Harbour is one of the Outlander filming locations in Scotland. There is an excellent view of the harbour with St Serf’s old Parish Church from the Sailor’s walk, which continues to the Ravenscraig Park.  

How to Reach : Hop on a Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh or Dunfermline.  

🚗 From Edinburgh, 1 hour / 30 miles.

25. East Linton, East Lothian

East Linton lies about 20 miles east of the capital city of Edinburgh . Locals consider this village a gem of the East Lothian county in Scotland.  

In past centuries, this farming settlement on the River Tyne had a number of working watermills dotted on its bank. However, the only remaining one now is the picturesque Preston Mill, which has a unique shape with its conical roof.

After Preston Mill’s feature in the TV Series, Outlander, this village started gaining popularity in the last few years. They have guided tours to tell interesting stories about the mill’s grinding past.  

Another must-see attraction in East Linton is Phantassie Doocot, a 16th-century beehive-shaped dovecot.  

You would also love to explore Preston Kirk and the village square that has a small fountain. Also, walk to the nearby Linton Linn, a lovely waterfall on the River Tyne.

How to Reach : Get the X7 East Coast Buses from Edinburgh.

🚗 From Edinburgh 40 min/ 24 miles.

Map of the Villages in Scotland

Here is a map of all the villages mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google map on your phone. You can also use it offline.

We hope this guide to the most striking villages in Scotland has inspired you!  

After visiting these places over the years, we have had many fond memories of them.  

Sometimes overlooked by tourists, they are perfect for a tranquil holiday in nature. So, definitely add a few of them to your Scotland travel itinerary.

Let us know whether you have any favourites among the Scottish villages.

To fuel your travel inspiration further, check out some of our other Scotland travel guides .

Love, Moumita & Sankha

6 thoughts on “The 25 Prettiest Villages in Scotland You Must Visit + Map”

Thankyou for inviting me to your travels of Scotland. These photos have brought back hundreds of happy memories of holidays my late husband Geoff and I shared. We both loved Scotland and rain never stopped us from enjoying our visits. Yes we had rain and sunshine in equal measure and enjoyed every minute. Thankyou.

I would Dervaig village as a village hardly changed with pencil tower on church. It is on Isle of Mull

Bob Scott, Due to my age also a full time carera to my wife, not knowing at the time looking into my ancestery that I have Scottish history going way – way back in and around the areras you have covered. So when people like your good selves post your reports of your time spent in these wonderfull places, it brings to life of where my ancestors live. So thank you so much for sharing your experiences, Gratefully Sharde. Bob Scott.

considering a move to Scotland, so just starting research

Aberlady in East Lothian is absolutely gorgeous.. 2 great pubs of excellent standards and the people are like family .. we have the walks of gosford house and also the beaches of Longniddry and Aberlady along to Gullen which holds a gorgeous golf course and another white sandy beaches.. never lived in such a Bonnie Bonnie Villiage . Thankyou

I enjoyed your exploration of the Isle of Skye here! I visited there in 2017, staying in Sligachan, and did some hiking of the Cuillens. Nice picture of Eilean Donan Castle, near the entrance to Skye. I took a similar shot and it’s a favorite. I stumbled across your site because I’m going back to Skye next month, and will stay 3 nights at the Uig Hotel, Uig. I had also read about Elgol and will do some hiking there also while on Skye. I’m a retired police Lt., and still an avid hiker at 73 (did Ben Nevis last trip to Scotland). Your photos were excellent! Thanks, Terry (Wisconsin, USA)

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15 Most Charming Small Towns In Scotland

History and heritage sweep across Scotland from Highlands to Lowlands, from Orkney to the Hebrides. Centuries-old castles and ancient ruins dot the land, evidence of a past that encompassed internal conflicts as much as struggles against invaders, including Norse kings as much as the English.

Glens and bens are the order of the day for the Scottish outdoors are simply stunning: the highest mountain of the British Isles is to be found here, Ben Nevis, as well as some of the most dramatic coastlines you’re likely to encounter.

Add that to rolling hills, calm lochs and a wealth of islands to explore (over 790), and there’s even more reason to visit Scotland. But where should you go? Here’s a look at the prettiest small towns in Scotland you can base yourself in.

15. Anstruther

A trip to this picturesque fishing village would not be complete without visiting the Anstruther Fish Bar – and yes, that’s a fish and chip shop. It’s won bags of awards for its fare (the mushy peas are of particular notoriety) and has served the likes of Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks, and Prince William.

Another award-winning place in town is the Scottish Fisheries Museum, where you can learn about the Scottish fishing industry from prehistory to present day and soak in the museum’s historic buildings, including the 16th century Abbot’s House.

14. Braemar

The Royal connection in this town is strong. First of all, Balmoral Castle, sometime-residence of the Royal Family, is just a few miles down the road, and is partially open to the public when it’s not being lived in. Secondly, Braemar is the site of the Braemar Gathering, an annual Highland Games traditionally attended by the Royal Family, since Queen Victoria.

History abounds: there’s the 17th century antique-filled Braemar Castle, and the ruins of 14th century Kindrochit Castle, for instance. It’s also on the doorstep of easy hiking in Morrone Birkwood Nature Reserve, as well as a steep ascent up the nearby hill of Creag Choinnich.

Just a stone’s throw from the English border and full of historical and architectural interest, Kelso came to life when the construction of its monastery was given permission in 1138.

Almost a millennium later, the ruins of Kelso Abbey are still imposing and well preserved. More recent is the grand Floors Castle, which dates from 1721; outside, the size and scale of this palace are impressive, but interior is majestically hung with tapestries. Situated on the confluence of the Tweed and Teviot rivers, this historic town is packed with things to do, eat, and drink.

12. Linlithgow

The ancient town of Linlithgow, with its historic High Street, boasts a very famous landmark: Linlithgow Palace. Although the present building was begun in 1424, it lies on the site of an even older original building.

Possibly Scotland’s finest example of late medieval architecture, it’s the birthplace of James V and Mary, Queen of Scots and is surrounded by an idyllic stretch of parkland known locally as “the Peel”, which includes the idyllic Linlithgow Loch. To the south of town is a portion of the Glasgow-Edinburgh Union Canal.

11. St Andrews

Although St Andrews is most well known for being the location of the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world – and the place of higher education for the British Royal Family – the town is an attraction in itself, with historic sites dotted throughout its streets.

On the coast there’s the spectacular clifftop ruins of 13th century St Andrews Castle, complete with dungeons and secret passageways, and further inland there’s the 18 acres of sculpted nature at the Botanical Gardens. Elsewhere there’s the now-ruined 12th century cathedral – the largest church ever to built in Scotland.

10. Fort Augustus

Fort Augustus lies at the southwest end of the most famous of all lochs: Loch Ness. This second-largest of Scotland’s lochs draws tourists from far and wide – a few in the hopes of actually spotting the cryptozoological Nessie.

Aside from taking a cruise on Loch Ness itself, learning about Highlands culture at the Clansman Centre, or checking out the 19th century abbey, it’s the natural setting in an attractive area of the Scottish Highlands that Fort Augustus enjoys which make this an albeit well-trodden charmer of a town.

Pastel-colored buildings, shops, pubs, and the atmospheric ruins of 13th century Tarbert Castle make this little town a slice of aesthetic joy on the isthmus that links the Kintyre peninsula to Knapdale.

Mentioned as far back as 731 AD, Tarbert was previously known as the place where ships and boats could be carried across the relatively narrow strip of land to avoid going all the way round the Mull of Kintyre. For walkers, hikers and runners alike, this is the starting point of the 100-mile Kintyre Way, which encompasses the landscape of this incredible peninsula.

8. Plockton

This small village began life as a planned community based on fishing, an attempt to stem emigration from the Highlands. As such most of the houses are 19th and 20th century. But its location is very attractive: though on the west coast Plockton faces east, giving it a mild climate and allowing quaintly out-of-place cabbage tree palms to grow here.

The town was popular with 20th century art collective the Edinburgh School and continues to attract artists (and tourists) today.

7. Kirkcudbright

This town has association with art. Collectives Glasgow Boys (from the late 1800s) and early 20th century Scottish Colorists both of which visited and stayed in the area, establishing an artists’ colony in Kirkcudbright that lasted roughly 30 years. But the artists kept coming, cementing a reputation for art and artists that lives on today.

Founded sometime in the 12th century, Kirkcudbright’s rows of pastel-colored houses and medieval buildings, such as the 16th century McLellan Castle, clearly add to the town’s allure.

Situated at the western end of Loch Tay, scenic Killin is in a prime position for Highlands exploration. It’s set very near the raucous Falls of Dochart, which you can see from a stone bridge that crosses the wild white-water.

The famous MacNab clan were dominant here – there’s a prehistoric stone circle in the grounds of their old seat of power, Kinnell House; and you can find their family burial ground on Inchbuie, an island in the River Dochart. To the north of town are the ruins of 17th century Finlarig Castle. But the walking and hiking on nearby mountain Beinn Ghlas alone is worth a trip to this out-of-the-way spot.

5. Portnahaven

Pretty Portnahaven is a planned village built in the 19th century – its little white houses are detailed round the windows with different colors, feeling warm and cosy set amidst the rugged scenery.

Its harbor is sheltered and as such attracts grey seals, who have been known to pop in for a spot of sunbathing on the rocks. This is also a haven for birdwatchers: shearwaters, petrels, gannets and auks can be in abundance in Autumn. The remote setting alone, however, with dramatic waves crashing against the shoreline, is attractive enough by itself.

The largest town on the largest island of the Inner Hebrides, Portree is very attractive with its pastel-colored houses and harbor fringed by cliffs – with a pier designed by Thomas Telford to boot.

The town is perfectly situated as a gateway to the rocky scenery of the Trotternish peninsula (one of Scotland’s 40 National Scenic Areas), nearby to the famous landmark the Old Man of Storr, as well as for exploring the rest of Skye. The Aros Centre at Portree celebrates Skye’s Gaelic culture – there are a fair few speakers of the language on the island.

3. Pittenweem

Trade with Belgium and the Netherlands influenced the very pretty style of the houses in Pittenweem, with their white walls and red roofs. One of the most active fishing village in this area of Fife, it became even more busy from 1982 when the village launched its first Arts Festival, which is now one of the best-loved in Scotland; in 2013 over 25,000 turned up – almost 25 times its population.

The winding alleys of this picturesque place also brim with history: an abbey dating from 1318 stands over a sacred gave associated with St Fillan.

2. Stromness

Situated on the ‘Mainland’ – the largest of the Orkney Islands – this town is all about rugged coastal charm, with brownstone buildings huddled down by the choppy sea. First recorded in the 16th century as the site of an inn, Stromness became important in the next century as a port due to war with France encroaching on the English Channel.

Its pier houses the very comprehensive Pier Arts Gallery, with a lot of 20th century art on show. Less than 20 minutes’ drive north is Skara Brae, a Neolithic site predating both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, a collection of mind-bogglingly well preserved houses and just one part of Orkney’s ancient sites.

1. Tobermory

The colorful shops and restaurants of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull are famous for being featured on children’s television show Balamory, among other things. You can see why: they look incredibly picturesque against the green trees, glassy black water and (often) grey sky.

There’s lots to do in town, with the Tobermory Museum, an aquarium, and the Tobermory single malt whisky distillery to visit. Otherwise it’s perfect as a base to explore this island of the Inner Hebrides.

Map of Small Towns in Scotland

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February 12, 2024 at 2:07 pm

I have always wanted to go to Scotland and see some of these towns. I believe my ancestors come from the Fort Agustus area.

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20 Prettiest Seaside Towns in Scotland You Must Visit

July 6, 2023

Scotland is… as you know… part of an island.

And as an unsurprising result of that, it has loads of sands and shorelines.

It’s also pretty sparsely-populated, with some surprisingly-small towns and villages dotted around its sprawl.

Put those two seemingly-unrelated things together, and what do you get? That’s right—a nation with loads of lovely seaside settlements.

If you don’t know me already, I’m Paul, and not only is Scotland one of my absolute favorite places on this planet, but I’ve also dedicated countless hours to wandering its captivating landscapes, immersing myself in its vibrant cities, scaling its majestic mountains, and unraveling the secrets of its enchanting coasts. With this perfect blend of passion and exploration, you can bet this article will cast a spell on you my friend!

So in this guide, I’ve brought you my favorites, with a big fat list of the 20 best seaside towns in Scotland . Grab your backpack, slip in some sandwiches, and come join the fun!

1. Plockton

6. st andrews, 7. eyemouth, 8. north berwick, 9. ullapool, 10. durness, 11. tobermory, 12. lossiemouth, 13. stranraer, 14. brodick, 15. glencoe, 16. gairloch, 17. portpatrick, 18. peterhead, 19. lochcarron, 20. lerwick, before you go.

Loads of people reckon this is the most charming seaside town in Scotland.

And depending on my mood when you ask me, I might be one of them.

With a tiny population of around 400 people, Plockton is alluringly cute and cozy. It’s home to a few boats and houses, views of little bays and distant mountains, and pretty much nothing else.

The village has been used as a filming site loads of times—so if TV and film crews think it looks nice, it must be alright.

I love it, you’ll love it, everybody loves it. And I massively recommend it.

If you don’t have a car, you can (surprisingly) take a direct train here from Inverness. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

Highlights of visiting Plockton:

Honestly (and this might surprise you but), Portree isn’t as impressive as some of the other places we’ve covered on this list.

But it’s the main town on the Isle of Skye . And if you’re not gonna visit the Isle of Skye while you’re roaming around Scotland, you’re a big dum-dum.

Bigger than most people realize, it has a wander-worthy bay, a pretty harbor area, boat trips, those famous colorful houses, and loads of places to munch on meals. For tasty but no-fuss, I recommend the welcoming Isles Inn.

For most people, Portree is obviously the best base on the island—and if you want to see Skye’s major highlights without wasting time, trips like this (massively recommended, by the way) all leave from the town.

Highlights of visiting Portree:

Also close to Skye (you can actually take a ferry from here to the island), Mallaig flies under the radar a bit.

A still-working fishing port, it’s not as pretty as some other Scottish towns. But it’s a great base for west-coast adventures—serving up boat rides, rail trips, bike rides, long and short hikes, and loads more.

To get here, you can take a direct train from Glasgow… and that’s without doubt the best way to reach Mallaig. This rail ride is famous as one of the prettiest train journeys in Europe (and it runs along the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you probably know from the Harry Potter movies ).

Highlights of visiting Mallaig:

Another west-coast beauty-fest, Oban is like someone took all the Scottish seaside-town clichés, and bundled them into one lovely place. It’s so scenic that it’s almost funny.

It offers long and short boat trips (to distant islands, seal colonies, and bird colonies), top-quality hiking, and the best seafood scene in Scotland.

Because there’s so much to do from Oban, loads of people overlook actually exploring the town itself. But to see all the best bits (and learn all the best stuff), a walking tour is a good idea —you can hit all the historical heritage spots with a bit of context.

Like Mallaig, you can also reach Oban from Glasgow, by direct train. It’s obvs not as incredible as the Mallaig ride, but it’s still pretty nice.

Highlights of visiting Oban:

The prettiest coastal town in Fife, this cobbles-and-harbor cute-spot sits 90 minutes north of Edinburgh.

Honestly, there’s not a massive amount to do here (although you can walk and cycle along lovely shoreline routes in both directions). But when a place is this pretty, no-one really cares.

Get an ice cream, or fish and chips ( Crail Fish Bar & Cafe is full of tasty treats), watch the fishing boats, get lost in the little lanes, and just soak up the charm. Oh, and if you head here in summer, time your trip to coincide with Crail Food Festival .

To get here without a car, take the direct number 95 bus from St Andrews.

Highlights of visiting Crail:

The most famous of all the seaside towns in Scotland, Fife’s St Andrews is pretty close to Crail. But it’s much bigger than its nearby neighbor.*

*with a still-small population of around 15,000 people, it’s actually the biggest town on our list.

Anyway, you probably know St Andrews for a few different things: famous golf courses, its historic university, a massive cathedral, and its kooky collection of mish-mash architecture. To learn about those places (and some heritage), check out this history tour , and this ghost tour (spooky!).

But the town is also way more than that:

It’s a good option if you’re hunting for a multi-day base you can tackle loads of adventures from. In and around St Andrews, you get beaches, short walks, many-day hikes, kid-friendly stuff, close proximity to Edinburgh. sort-of-nearby Lomond Hills Regional Park , and plenty more.

No matter who you are and what you want to do, St Andrews should be one of your top options.

Highlights of visiting St Andrews:

If you’ve got kids, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

The area’s beaches are big and sandy, there are endless casual places to munch, and the harbor is a nice place for a fun little wander.

There’s also a great caravan park , loads of boat trips (taking in caves, cliffs, shores, sands, seals, seabirds, and maybe even dolphins), and a local man who’ll help you feed the seals .

And last of all, it’s a great base for day trips. From Eyemouth, it’s easy to reach Edinburgh, Berwick, underrated Dunbar, and lots of littler places.

In short, if you’re looking for a family-friendly place, Eyemouth is my #1 recommendation.

Highlights of visiting Eyemouth:

Pretty close to Eyemouth, North Berwick isn’t quite as well-known as its neighbor.

But it’s just as fun-packed, and it’s easy to reach from Edinburgh. So if you’re seeking a simple but lovely seaside-town day trip from Scotland’s capital, you’ve found it.

Highlights here include boat trips to bird-covered Bass Rock, loads of great beaches (Yellowcraig is my favorite), the family-friendly Scottish Seabird Center , some great golfing, the massive hulking ruins of Tantallon Castle , and lots of informal places to eat and drink (dog-friendly hipster hub Steampunk Coffee is great).

Highlights of visiting North Berwick:

The most well-known town on the North Coast 500 *, I love Ullapool.

*In case you have no idea what I’m banging on about here, I’m talking about one of the world’s best road trips—you totally need to tackle it.

For me, Ullapool is what Scottish coastal towns are all about. Brimming with an unpretentious charm, you get hyper-fresh seafood, great campsites, gentle port walks, loads of nearby hill hikes, and a bunch of friendly faces.

If you can only visit one seaside town in Scotland (and time and transport aren’t an issue), this is the one I recommend. I guarantee you’ll love the place, and you’ll start making plans to move here immediately.

Highlights of visiting Ullapool:

Further north up the North Coast 500 route, you’ve got Durness. Sitting on the western side of Scotland’s northern coast, this is one of the most remote entries on our list.

But even though it’s remote, it’s a relatively busy place… and it serves up loads of varied adventure options. Popular choices include Smoo Cave (a sea-and-freshwater cavern, great if you’re traveling with kids), Golden Eagle Zip Line (the most northerly zip line in Europe), the walk to Faraid Head, and the chocolate-filled Cocoa Mountain of Balnakeil.

… and make sure you also explore the sands and shores of Balnakeil Beach, one of the best beaches in Scotland.

If you’re into camping , pitch up at Sango Sands. One of the best campsites in Scotland, I love the place.

Highlights of visiting Durness:

You know that famous kids’ TV show Balamory? The one with all the colorful houses?

Well, that was filmed in Tobermory—and the cheerful fictional town based on it isn’t particularly different from the real-life place.

The colorful capital of the Isle of Mull, it’s packed with friendly faces and loads of stuff to do—and it’s probably one of the nicest coastal settlements you’ve ever seen. Of course, it’s the island’s best base for exploring all of Mull (with its walks, beaches, and big lovely lochs)…

… but there’s also plenty to enjoy in and around Tobermory itself.

To get here, hop on a ferry from the mainland departure point of Kilchoan.

Highlights of visiting Tobermory:

When I first came to Lossiemouth, the place was a nice little surprise.

I only visited cos my friend lived here… so I wasn’t really expecting much. But it exceeded all my expectations, and I totally fell in love with the place.

(Anyway, enough of the mundane insights of my life).

Lossiemouth is great for all types of people, but it’s particularly good for anyone with kids. Here, you get plenty of places to eat and drink, a great caravan site, lots of safe beaches, close proximity to loads of fun and day trips, and endless servings of ice cream.

The nearest city is Inverness. To get to Lossiemouth, hop on a train from Inverness to Elgin, then a bus from Elgin to Lossiemouth. The entire journey will usually take around 90 minutes.

Highlights of visiting Lossiemouth:

Here’s a controversial one for you.

Most people (who haven’t been to Stranraer) have some weird idea that the town is a horrible dirty ming-fest.

Those people are wrong.

Stranraer is actually a lovely place with lovely people. And it’s a good option if you’re with kids—it’s bigger than most places on our list, with all the comforts and conveniences you and your kids could need. You’ll always find somewhere to stay, somewhere to eat, and stuff to keep you entertained.

Other perks include beaches, a pretty harbor, great-but-easy nearby walks, and exploring all of the surprisingly-big peninsula that juts out of the town.

You can get here from Glasgow by switching trains in Ayr.

Fun fact: In Stranraer, if you pay attention, you can find some tropical palm trees! I know, it’s very odd isn’t it? I wrote an entire article about the subject, check it out here: Are There Palm Trees in Scotland?

Highlights of visiting Stranraer:

Another island entry.

Brodick is the main town on the Isle of Arran (I use the word ‘town’ loosely, cos only around 900 people live here)…

… and in some ways, Brodick is similar to Portree, on the Isle of Skye. It’s charming and pretty, but it’s nothing massively special. But it’s an excellent base for adventures around the island—and for the vast majority of people, it’s the logical place to stay.

From here, you can access all of Arran’s fun, including coastal walks (the Arran Coastal Way runs around the entirety of the island), the wander up Goatfell , and plenty of trips and treks to nearby beaches and villages.

To get here, you need to reach the mainland west-coast town of Ardrossan, then hop on a ferry.

Highlights of visiting Brodick:

I know, I know. Glencoe isn’t strictly a coastal town. Sorry for being a big liar.

But it lies on the shores of a loch, and that loch leads directly into the sea. So it’s sort of coastal, isn’t it? Isn’t it?

Better than nearby Fort William, Glencoe is one of Scotland’s best bases for hiking.

The village itself is nothing special (and is hardly even a village—it’s absolutely tiny). But if you want to get some of the best hikes in Scotland without heading to a more remote village, this is where you want to be.

Visiting Glencoe on a tour is easy and convenient. Options include this Glencoe (and Oban and more!) tour from Glasgow, and this sort-of-similar day trip from Edinburgh.

Highlights of visiting Glencoe:

Another Scottish west-coast option, another North Coast 500 option.

I love this place. Absolutely tiny, there’s not much to do here except eat a bit of food, splash around on the beaches, and gawp at all the lovely lovely views.

But when a place looks this good, that’s all you really need. Pitch up in Sands Caravan and Camping (one of my favorite Scottish campsites), and just spend a few days exploring all the outdoors here.

It’s (surprisingly) possible to reach Gairloch via the direct 700 bus from Inverness.

When you’re in Gairloch, make sure you wander to Hillbillies Coffee , a quirky cafe offering books, cakes, and plenty of charm and smiles. They make their coffee with beans from a company owned by one of Bob Marley’s sons.

Highlights of visiting Gairloch:

If you want to go remote without heading too far north, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

Sitting close to Stranraer, Portpatrick is plonked on a weird little peninsula jutting out of the southwestern part of Scotland.

Adventures here include fishing, clifftop wandering, and munching on seafood in and around the harbor. From this harbor (and all of Portpatrick’s seafront), you can even nab some views of not-too-distant Northern Ireland.

If you’re hunting for a hefty adventure, Portpatrick is at the westerly edge of the Southern Upland Way , a massive 214-mile (344 km) coast-to-coast wander along some of the most underrated parts of remote Scotland.

To reach Portpatrick, you can catch the direct 367 bus from Stranraer.

Highlights of visiting Portpatrick:

Close to Aberdeen, Peterhead is home to a surprising amount of fun.

Highlights include the busy harbor, the almost-as-busy marina, the clear-watered shores of Scotstown Beach, and the great fish and chips of The Dolphin Cafe . Make sure you also check out the daily fish market, just north of the harbor (Peterhead is one of the busiest fish ports in Scotland).

… and south of the town, you’ll find Slains Castle , apparently one of the inspirations for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

To get here from Aberdeen, take a direct 1-hour bus. The X60 and the X63 are your best options.

If you like unique (or grisly) fun, get yourself on a Peterhead Prison Museum tour . Known as “Scotland’s Alcatraz,” this place has a pretty horrendous history.

Highlights of visiting Peterhead:

Another tiny place, another of my favorites.

Soz for being a big stinking liar, but this isn’t exactly a Scottish seaside town. Like Glencoe, it sits on a loch rather than on the sea.

But, again, this loch stretches into the sea… so if you use your imagination a bit, Lochcarron is definitely a Scottish seaside town. There’s not much to do in the settlement itself (except sit in some outrageously-charming cafes on the shores of the loch)…

… but it’s an incredible base for cycling, hiking, visiting other small towns, and doing some open-mouthed gaping at all the lovely scenery.

If you want to see this area of Scotland, but don’t have much time, get yourself on this convenient but fun-crammed adventure tour from Inverness . You’ll see loads of lochs, a bunch of wildlife, and the iconic Bealach na Ba pass.

Highlights of visiting Lochcarron:

To get as remote and rural as you possibly can, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

The main settlement on the Shetland Islands, it sits a long ol’ way from the rest of Scotland—the peninsula (made up of around 100 islands, only 16 of them inhabited) sits around 100 miles (160km) north of the mainland.

It’s the best base for exploring the southern parts of the Shetland Islands—you get endless beaches, wanders, villages and more.

In-Lerwick highlights include the Shetland Museum and Archives , some little coastal walks, Shetland Seabird Tours , and a load of cute and cozy cafes.

To get here, you’ll have to tackle an overnight ferry. These ferries depart from both Kirkwall (on the Orkney Islands) and Aberdeen. The 12-hour direct-from-Aberdeen option is most popular.

Highlights of visiting Lerwick:

There they are—the 20 best seaside towns in Scotland.

You probably don’t have time to visit them all—so if you can only choose three, I recommend St Andrews (the best all-rounder), Ullapool (one of my personal favorites, but it’s pretty far north), and Eyemouth (if you’re hunting for family-friendly fun in the south of the nation).

For more highlights of the nation, check out our guides to the best cliffs in Scotland , the best castles in Scotland , the prettiest villages in Scotland , and the best road trips in Scotland .

Thanks for reading, and thanks for choosing Travelness. See ya!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

These are the 13 Cutest Small Towns in Scotland

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Looking for beautiful small towns in Scotland to visit? We are here to help!

Scotland is a land of wilderness, lochs and mountains. There is so much to do here, especially if you love the outdoors !

You will also find many pretty small towns in Scotland and visiting them should be on your bucket list whether you are a local or first-time visitor.

From Edinburgh to the islands, we tell you everything about the cutest Scottish small towns!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Portree, Isle of Skye

Portree is surrounded by magnificent hills and an attractive natural harbor where you can stay to enjoy a cruise or relax after a long day. It began as a small fishing village about two centuries ago.

It is the main town on the Isle of Skye and an excellent base to explore the area.

Skye is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. From Portree, you can easily get to the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr and Mealt Falls.

The most beautiful part of the town is the harbour because that’s where you’ll find the beautiful row of colourful houses.

Other places of interest include the Portree iCenter and the Skye Blue Art Gallery. If you will be staying close to the sea, make sure you visit a restaurant to enjoy the delicious local cuisines.

For authentic and traditional food, head to the Isles Inn pub on the main square. They are dog-friendly too!

HOW TO GET TO PORTREE: It’s very easy to get to Isle of Skye by car. The Skye Bridge is free and it’s very easy from the mainland.

Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour that includes Portree and other famous attractions on Skye. Tours are available from:

• Inverness. See prices.
• Edinburgh. See prices.
• Glasgow. See prices.

WHERE TO STAY: The Portree Hotel is ideally located in the town centre. It was built in 1875 and is a beautiful building. They have rooms for solo travellers, couples and families of 4.

Oban is a seaside town located within the Argyll and Bute council area. It’s mainly known as the gateway to the isles, especially Isle of Mull.

It’s also famous for its delicious seafood! That’s one of the perks of visiting a town with a harbour, the seafood is exceptional! You can experience it in one of the local restaurants or opt for a seafood tour of Oban. See prices here.

You can walk around the town to discover the cute streets but if you want to make the best of your time, make sure to go up to the tower.

It’s only 10 minutes walk and the views are well worth it! You’ll also find a lot of cafes and restaurants in Oban but make sure to book in advance as they can get pretty busy.

Finally, Oban is also one of the best kayaking destinations in Scotland. If you’ve always dreamt of going kayaking in the sea and camping, that will be an excellent place to do so!

HOW TO GET TO OBAN: You can easily get to Oban by car. It takes 2h15 from Glasgow.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Glasgow ( prices here ) or from Edinburgh ( see prices here ).

WHERE TO STAY IN OBAN: Failte Bed & Breakfast is an excellent place to stay in Oban, especially for a couple. See reviews here.

Nestled near the Scottish borders, Kelso has a lot of beautiful attractions to see, especially for nature lovers.

It is a small, agricultural town that was once the most powerful in Scotland before it was damaged by the English during the war.

Everywhere you go in this town you will find beautiful architectural buildings and designs that are a testament to the era when the town thrived. 

Today, Kelso is still a popular town in Scotland, with beautiful attractions to explore.

Castles seem to be everywhere with the most prominent ones being the Smailholm Tower and the Floors Castle, and Kelso Abbey and Gardens.

To fully appreciate the ancient architectural designs, you should step into the St. Andrews Scottish Episcopal Church.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive from Edinburgh to Kelso. It’s about 1h15 drive.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Edinburgh which includes both Kelso and Alnwick castle. See prices here.

WHERE TO STAY: Queenshead Hotel Kelso is an authentic and cute hotel located in the heart of Kelso. See reviews here.

4. Plockton

Plockton is a small village in the Scottish Highlands . If you are looking for a cute and authentic village in Scotland, it will be the perfect destination!

As you roam around, you’ll discover cute painted cottages and beautiful white houses. It almost feels like you are abroad, especially if you go to the waterfront where you can find rows of palmtrees.

Plockton is a relaxing place to stay and perfect for a romantic staycation in the UK. Cycling, walking… there are a lot of peaceful activities here.

You can also go on a boat tour on the lochs nearby.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can get to Plockton by car. It takes a bit under 2 hours from Inverness.

If you don’t want to spend the weekend, you should opt for a day tour from Edinburgh that includes also Applecross and Gleneg, two other cute villages in Scotland. See prices here.

WHERE TO STAY: The Haven Guest House is the perfect place to stay in Plockton, especially for a couple or small family. See prices.

5. Brodick, Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and Brodick is the main village, making it a convenient place from which you will explore the island and surrounding towns.

It is home to numerous attractions including the Brodick Castle, garden and country park, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, the Auchrannie Leisure Center, the Arran Coastal Way (for nature and wildlife lovers), the Isle of Arran brewery (where you can taste wine) and the Arran Sense of Scotland (Where you can buy a souvenir).

Kids will enjoy visiting the Playbarn, an indoor play center inside the town.

HOW TO GET THERE: You will need a car to explore properly the Isle of Arran. You can take the ferry from Ardrossan and will need to book in advance. They also offer island hopper tickets so if you want to visit several Scottish islands, you may want to opt for those instead.

The tickets are not too expensive but still pricey enough not to go for a single day. If you can spend at least a weekend, that will be better.

Alternatively, you can opt for a multi-day tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow .

WHERE TO STAY: The Douglas Hotel is an absolutely stunning hotel in Brodick featuring stunning views over the bay. See reviews here.

6. Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Built as a fishing port in the 18th century, Tobermory is the main town on Isle of Mull and one of the most colourful small towns in the UK.

The best place to visit is the Tobermory harbour. You’ll be able to admire the vibrant colours of the row of houses there. It’s a great photo spot!

You can also visit the Mull Museum, Mull Aquarium, the distillery and the lighthouse.

HOW TO GET THERE: There is no bridge to Isle of Mull so you will need to book a ferry ticket from Oban. Again, if you want to visit several islands, the island hopping ticket will work out cheaper.

Make sure you visit with a car as you won’t be able to visit much more on the island without it.

Alternatively, you can opt for a multi-day tour to Isle of Mull from Edinburgh or Glasgow .

WHERE TO STAY: Western Isles Hotel is a stunning hotel overlooking the bay. It’s such a beautiful place and ideal for a romantic getaway. See reviews here.

7. Kirkcudbright

Situated on the banks of River Dee, Kirkcudbright is the only town with a working harbour on the Solway Coast.

The town was very popular with Scottish artists in the 19th century. If you visit here, expect to see all kinds of creative artworks, paintings, and sculptures that have stood the test of time.

There are the Kirkcudbright galleries, the Stewartry Museum, the ICenter, the Orchardton Tower, the Maclellan’s Castle, the Anwoth Old Kirk, the Whitehouse Gallery, the Tolbooth Art Center, the Harbor Cottage gallery, and other artistic attractions to visit.

Outdoor lovers can explore gardens and hiking trails in the town.

The Barhill woods, Elizabeth MacGregor Nursery, the River Dee walk, and the Dhoon Beach are great places to take a hike in Kirkcudbright.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive to Kirkcudbright from Dumfries (45 minutes) or Carlisle (1h30).

WHERE TO STAY: The Kirkcudbright Bay Hotel is a super cute hotel located in the centre. They also have a traditional bar and restaurant. See reviews here.

8. Fort Augustus

Fort Augustus offers a magnificent view of Loch Ness, the beautiful expanses that are a popular tourist site in Scotland.

Although it has not been proven that the Loch Ness monster exists, tourists still enjoy cruising in these waterways because of the spectacular views of the surrounding nature.

Fort Augustus is surrounded by sprawling hills and mountains that are characterized by jutting rocks and uneven terrain.

The Suidhe viewpoint is a vantage point to sample the town’s scenic natural wonders.

While here, visit the Fort Augustus War memorial centre, the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Foundation, General Wade’s Military roads, the Fort Augustus Light House, and the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre.

A cruise on Loch Ness is a must-do activity within this beautiful town. See prices here.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can drive from Inverness to Fort Augustus. It’s only 55 minutes.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Inverness , Glasgow or Edinburgh .

WHERE TO STAY: Lock Chambers, Caledonian Canal Centre is a great hotel in the centre of Fort Augustus. It’s a great place to stay especially for couples. See prices here.

9. Saint Monans, Fife

Saint Monans is an old, small fishing port in East Neuk. Salt production and fishing were the main income-generating activities in this town, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

You can still find the old, exhausted salt pans in the town today and they have a lot of historical significance to the town’s residents.

They also act as landmarks when you are walking or passing by the town.

These are some of the many attractions you can expect to see when you come into the beautiful town.

Visit the St. Monans Church of Scotland, a beautiful church and graveyard that offers you beautiful views of the sea.

Other places you can visit in this town include the Newark Castle, St. Monans War Memorial and cemeteries, and the St. Monans Harbour.

Most of the old buildings in this town have been restored to retain their architectural significance.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive to St Monans from Edinburgh. It takes 1h20. Alternatively, you can take bus X60 from Edinburgh. It’s a 2-hour ride.

WHERE TO STAY: Harbour Heights is a cute holiday house in the centre. It can sleep up to 6 guests. See prices here.

10. Anstruther

This was originally set up as a fishing village as well.

As a tourist, the best way to experience the little town is by taking a stroll on the cobblestones that pave the walkways before enjoying the award-winning local fish and chips delicacy from the Anstruther Fish Bar.

Some of the best attractions you can visit while you are in this town include the Isle of May National nature reserve, the Scottish Fisheries Museum, the Anstruther harbour, the Anstruther lifeboat station, the bow house and the farmer’s market, the Anstruther cemetery, and the Billow Ness beach. 

11. Killin, Loch Tay

Killin has a rich history. The name translates to the white (or fair) church in Gaelic and like most small towns in Scotland, it has a very rich history and heritage.

Because of its ideal location close to the Trossachs National Park, the Ben Lawers National Reserve, and Loch Lomond, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted access to abundant wildlife and lush landscapes.

Kayak lovers can paddle in the rapids that follow the River leading to the Falls Of Dochart or enjoy the scenic hiking trails at Loch Tay.

Other places of interest include the Stone Circle Killin, the Finlarig Castle, the Breadalbane Folklore Center, the Killin railway viaduct, and the Acharn Forest. 

12. Stromness

Stromness is an old, well-established seaport that contains beautiful homes built in the ancient Viking style.

Stretching for over a mile along the Hamnavoe, Stromness narrow streets weave their way past closely-tacked buildings and onto the harbour where cute little boats dock.

Cobblestones line up the walkways, making this one of the most beautiful small towns in Scotland.

13. North Berwick 

Although it’s one of Scotland’s small towns, North Berwick is well known among golfers, birders, and just about anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. 

To get to North Berwick it’s simple enough from Edinburgh. It should only take an hour or less on A1 and then A198. On the ScotRail you’ll arrive in 35 minutes, which is even better!

Birders take note: North Berwick is home to the Scottish Seabird Center and the world’s largest colony of gannets. One of the best things to do is take a boat out to Bass Rock to see them up close.

With ideal conditions for golfing, it’s no wonder there are 25 different golf courses in North Berwick. 

Set along the seashore, North Berwick has super tasty seafood. Ordering the fish and chips is a no-brainer. No visit to North Berwick is complete without a walk along the beach.

With calm waters and wide sandy shores, you’ll love the view and breathing in the sea air. 

Don’t miss exploring Tantallon Castle perched on the cliffs above the water.

You may also be interested:

• 19 Best Things to do on the Isle of Arran, Scotland
• 5-day Scotland Itinerary: how to spend 5 days in Scotland (+5 alternatives)
• 7 Best Staycations in Scotland
• 10 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Scotland

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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10 Prettiest Towns In Scotland With Magical Charm

March 22, 2020 //  by  Maggie McGill //   Leave a Comment

Towns in Scotland are well known for their quaint, old-fashioned charm, and you’ve come to the right place for a guide on the best Scotland destinations for immersing yourself in this country’s magical character! Are you looking for pretty towns in Scotland that embody its charm with an old-fashioned village atmosphere? Or for places to see in Scotland with magical, surreal landscapes that take your breath away? Good news, we have recommendations for everything!

No matter where you’re going, being prepared and picking the right places to see in Scotland will absolutely make your visit more enjoyable and ensure you get to enjoy the experience of a lifetime. That’s why we’ve compiled this list to help you decide ahead of time which Scotland destinations will give you exactly the experience you’re searching for. We’re confident that these towns in Scotland will charm you and take your breath away with their magical atmosphere, and we also include tips on where to stay and how best to spend your time while there to get the most out of your trip!

10 Prettiest Towns in Scotland with Magical Charm

Dundee is an amazing hub of culture and history, situated right on the water.

Dundee has long been a largely underappreciated Scotland destination, but its popularity has been steadily increasing, and its easy to understand why! Dundee is a fantastic choice and the location is one of our favorite things about this Scotland destination. It’s right on a channel of water, and it’s only about an hour and a half drive from both Glasgow and Edinburgh. There’s even an airport located just five minutes from the center of Dundee, so you can fly directly into the town if you want!

Our must-see places on a visit to Dundee are Discovery Point, Verdant Works Museum, and the McManus art gallery. The McManus art gallery is in a fantastic gothic-style museum that will magically whisk you back in time before you even step into the building! Verdant Works Museum, an old mill, is fascinating and appropriate for a visit to Scotland as it is the land of tartans. Due to its location on the water, Dundee has a rich naval history and Discovery Point is the place to see in Scotland to immerse yourself in that aspect of Scotland’s fascinating history. Dundee is a great spot that offers a unique look into Scotland’s unique and charming culture, whether you’re interested in learning about mills, seafaring, or art history.

Falkirk is not only in a great central location, it has some stunning sights and wonders of its own for a small town

We love that Falkirk embodies Scotland’s ancient charm while also stunning with magically surreal modern architecture and engineering that will leave your inner science nerd in awe! Falkirk was striking to us for its marriage of old and new culture, but it’s also a good choice for convenience purposes. This Scotland destination is even closer to Edinburgh and Glasgow – less than an hour! – so it’s the perfect place to plan for a long stay where you can easily travel between other must-see towns in Scotland during your trip.

If you go to Falkirk, we recommend opting staying at the Spoke ‘n’ Boot farm, a “glamping,” otherwise known as “glamorous camping” site. This way, you can enjoy the charming landscapes Falkirk has to offer, including a view of the Kelpies, massive sculptures of horse heads that were finished in 2006, standing 300 meters tall! The Falkirk Wheel, a boat lift that connects the two canals and passes boats from on to the other, is another must-see. There is plenty of parking, and there is lots to do besides riding on the boat lift, including a kids play area, which is great for traveling families. Regardless of whether you’re itching to explore the magical Scottish landscape or dying to view the one of a kind engineering and architectural masterpieces of modern Scotland, Falkirk is a great way to get the best of both worlds!

The city of Aberdeen, aka “The Granite City,” is bursting with old architecture that will take your imagination back in time

This city makes our list for its extensive history and beautiful buildings. It is located on the water on the east side of the country like Dundee is, but the old buildings are responsible for this city’s claim to fame, as you can tell by the nickname. Staying in town and using public transportation or walking is a great, hassle-free way to explore Aberdeen.

We love beautiful old churches, so we recommend stopping by St. Machar’s cathedral. The oldest building in Aberdeen, it’s been dated to the 1300’s although some say it was used for worship hundreds of years before that. The University of Aberdeen is another stunning building that’s totally worth it to see during your stay, and there are also many free cultural activities and museums to enjoy in addition to the architecture. We also suggest researching to see what kind of festivals you can attend during your stay, as they are frequent and would be easy to get to if you’re staying in the city.

Of all the towns in Scotland, Anstruther captures the charm of Scotland perfectly as a picturesque harbor town

This quaint town will show you a different, more charming perspective of life by the sea! Before the herring shoals disappeared from the North Sea, this town was unbelievably busy with all the fishing boats that filled the harbor, and it’s a pleasurable experience to wander the old town getting a glimpse of what it was like in its heyday.

Anstruther is packed with cute old shops to wander, and the Scottish Fisheries Museum walks you through the rich history of the fishing culture in this small town in Scotland, keeping alive the old fishermen’s tall tales. Better yet, take the May Princess to the Isle of May to enjoy the stunning coastal waters and wildlife from offshore. After exploring the magical views and educating yourself on the city’s fishing history, treat yourself to the award-winning cuisine: fish and chips! This Scotland destination is perfect if you’re looking for a more quaint, laid back experience.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and is one of those towns that won’t get old no matter how many times you visit

What makes this Scotland destination interesting is that it has two “sections”: an Old Town that has preserved the charming medieval style of days long past, and a New Town that is the quintessential modern Scottish town, with countless things to do . Edinburgh is in the heart of Scotland and is packed with breathtaking history and magical experiences.

When you go to this town in Scotland, seeing Edinburgh Castle is a must! This castle not only sits on top of an inactive volcano, but also used to be the residence of some fascinating historical figures like Mary, Queen of Scots. After seeing the sites, the Royal Mile is a road that will take you down to the Holyrood Palace. Straight through the middle of town, this road has enough to see and do to keep you busy for hours on its own! Regardless of what season you visit or what you do, you’re certain to have a good experience here.

Ayr is the perfect town to visit to indulge your inner hopeless romantic

If you’re a fan of literature, poetry, or history, this town in Scotland is a must-see for you! This town is the perfect example of old fashioned beauty. This town is not only charming with the many buildings that have stood the test of time, but also intriguing to the imagination as it is the home and inspiration for some of Robert Burn’s most famous works.

You can stroll through the town and visit places such as where Robert Burns was born and the “Auld Kirk,” or old church where he was baptized. We also recommend checking out the Tam O’ Shanter Inn! It is one of the only thatched buildings left and is known from Robert Burn’s poem “Tam O’ Shanter. There are also a pair of old bridges that inspired their own poem, in which the bridges argue over which one would stand longer: the new bridge or the old one. While all the towns in Scotland have history to them, Ayr has a unique charm and it’s feels magical to see in person the places that inspired renowned literature!

The largest town on the Isle of Skye, Portree is ideal for either exploring the charming town or the magical surrounding landscape

This town in Scotland is bursting with beautiful sights that would excite a traveling photographer! Not only is the town itself picturesque with both brightly painted, colorful buildings and traditional, white cottages, the land all around where the town is situated is stunning as well. Portree is the epitome of the Scottish highlands landscape, with towering cliffs and moody waters.

A suggestion for spending time here would be to get up early and spend the day exploring the countryside. There are many tours and activities you can do, and the Old Man of Stoor is a notable walk that takes you through the one of a kind rock formation of the same name. Later, you can come back to the harbor and watch from a local eatery as the sun sets over the town and the colors of the sky blend with the bright houses on the water.

Oban, though relatively small, is a tourist hub and is known for being Scotland’s seafood capital

Depending on whether you visit in winter or summer, the town could be either bustling or peaceful, but it has a magical charm either way. Oban is on the way out to the Hebrides islands, which is one of the reasons it is such a popular tourist stop in the summer, but you could easily spend a few days enjoying the sights and sounds – and seafood! – of Oban.

We think you should definitely take a hike to visit McCaig’s Tower while in Oban. It is an unfinished monument begun by John Stuart McCaig before his passing that somewhat resembles the Roman Colosseum, and it offers a magnificent view of the countryside. And when you return from exploring, the harbor will await you with seafood you simply must try. If you enjoy a good drink, wash it down with malt whiskey from the Oban distillery. The food and drinks alone are worth it to come back for!

St. Andrews is a great Scotland destination for golf lovers, with beautiful golf courses and museums galore

Rich in history and culture while being adorably charming, of all the places to see in Scotland, St. Andrews is a must. As long as you don’t visit during graduation seasons – St. Andrews University is a busy, world renowned school – the town is a great place to become more familiar with Scottish culture, especially golf.

Of course, St. Andrews is well known to golf fans because it is home to the oldest and most famous golf course in the world. While it’s expensive to play there, you can always tour the course and learn about the fascinating history surrounding the sport. And naturally, many people love to visit St. Andrews University, the oldest in Scotland, and learn about the celebs who studied there such as Prince William and Kate. The school itself is beautiful, as are the St. Andrews cathedral and castle. Whether you’re a golf fan or not, there are plenty of sights to see and activities to enjoy in St. Andrews!

Set on the River Tay, Perth was once the capital of Scotland hundreds of years ago, and is chock full of royal history

This beautiful city is on the longest river in Scotland, the River Tay, and the views are certainly magical! The stunning views combined with the city’s extensive history make it one of the best towns in Scotland to visit, and it’s the kind of place that will make you want to come back over and over again. If you’re a music lover, look into when the music festivals are so you can plan your trip accordingly.

If you’re feeling outdoorsy, we think you should absolutely spend some time on the beautiful river. Instead of rushing around trying to tick off the boxes while on vacation, sit back and relax while fishing in the best spot for salmon in Scotland! Or you can spend time in the city checking out Concorde music, an old family music store with records and all different kinds of music. Then stroll down George Street where there is an abundance of quaint, local stores and places to eat; you could probably spend a whole day immersing yourself in the local culture there! It’s safe to say you will always enjoy your stay no matter how many times you visit.

Scotland is truly a charming country full of rich history and magical culture. Immersing yourself in the moody landscapes and quaint towns is an amazing adventure, and we think all of the towns on this list will give you a memorable experience that will make you want to return no matter which you choose. Every one of the towns in Scotland on this list captures the charming personality we think you’re looking for in a Scotland destination!

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14 Top-Rated Small Towns in Scotland

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley spent three years attending university in Scotland and has returned many times to revisit and explore the country.

One of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom , beautiful Scotland offers no end of fun things to see and do, many of which can be found in the small towns. And given the fact you can drive its entire length in a few hours, this leading travel destination is easy to explore.

To help you choose the best places to visit during your holiday or weekend getaway, be sure to refer to our list of the top small towns in Scotland.

1. Killin, Loch Tay

2. tobermory, isle of mull, 3. portree, isle of skye, 4. dornoch, sutherland, 5. balloch, loch lomond, 6. plockton, wester ross, 7. brodick, isle of arran, 8. pittenweem, fife, 9. roslin, midlothian, 10. peebles, peebleshire, 11. portnahaven, islay, 12. hopeman, moray, 13. anstruther, 14. fort augustus, map of small towns in scotland.

Located on Loch Tay and an easy drive from the historic town of Stirling , the quaint village of Killin should be on everyone's list of the top places to see in Scotland. In addition to its proximity to the lake, itself a popular spot for sightseeing and gentle water sports such as sailing and kayaking, Killin is home to the beautiful Falls of Dochart .

The falls are a delight to explore, and given their gently sloping nature, it's not difficult to get up close to really appreciate the beauty of these spectacular rapids. From here, you can easily explore the village, which also offers a number of nice places to stay and eat. Our favorites include the three-star Killin Hotel , which looks directly over the river; and the family-run The Courie Inn , which offers a great breakfast with your stay.

Also fun is taking a hike across the Breadalbane mountains with its spectacular views, or chartering a boat for a spot of salmon fishing. Other sightseeing opportunities in Killin include the nearby ruins of Finlarig Castle , where you can also explore an authentic Scottish longhouse.

Located on the northwestern tip of the Isle of Mull , the coastal fishing town of Tobermory is certainly a nice small Scottish town to visit. Getting here is part of the fun, with perhaps the best routes being the ferries from either Kilchoan direct to Tobermory, or from the town of Oban to Craignure and driving north to the town. Private water taxis are also available.

Once ashore, start exploring the sights around the picturesque harbor, popular for its many colorful houses. From the port, which is considered one of the prettiest in all of Scotland, head to Main Street.

Here, in addition to its great shops, art galleries, and restaurants, you'll also find some of the best places to stay on the Isle of Mull, from quaint B&Bs to historic old inns and guesthouses. Other tourism highlights include the Mull Museum , the Marine Visitor Centre, and a theater.

Another great island destination, and this one accessible by road, is the town of Portree on the Isle of Skye . The island's largest community, Portree's attractive natural harbor is fun to explore on foot, especially after the many fishing boats based here return with the day's catch. From here, you can also enjoy a fun sightseeing cruise or fishing trip.

Other fun things to do include shopping and dining, taking in a show or event at the arts center, or even horse riding excursions, which are especially fun for families traveling with kids.

There are also a variety of top-rated hotels and B&Bs worth staying in, a great idea as you can easily extend your stay here and use Portree as a base from which to explore the many other beautiful places to visit on Skye, which has a well-deserved reputation as a hiker's paradise.

The town of Dornoch has much to offer travelers visiting the beautiful Scottish Highlands .

Not only is this historic coastal destination almost as famous among golfers as St. Andrews with Royal Dornoch considered one of the world's top golf courses. It just so happens to benefit from having one of Scotland's sunniest climates thanks to its relatively sheltered location on the northeast coast. This fact alone makes its long sandy beaches even more attractive to day trippers and vacationers alike.

Whether traveling as a family or a couple, there are plenty of other things to do here, too. Highlights include exploring nearby natural attractions such as the Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve with its abundance of wildlife; taking a tour of the 13th-century Dornoch Cathedral ; or checking out the infamous Witch's Stone, the site of the country's last witch burning.

Of the many fun places to visit near Glasgow , it's Balloch that gets our vote. Located at the southern tip of beautiful Loch Lomond , "The Queen of Scottish Lakes," Balloch is just 30 minutes from Scotland's largest city and makes for an excellent and easy day trip.

It's an especially popular stop for outdoorsy types, many of whom use the village as a base for hiking and biking adventures into Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park . It's also a popular place to cast a line, as Loch Lomond is famous for its awesome fishing, especially for salmon and trout.

Looking for something a little more sedate to do? Fret not. Balloch is where a variety of fun boat cruises across Britain's biggest lake can be enjoyed, taking in the natural splendor of this most photo-worthy of travel destinations.

Other fun things to do here include paying a visit to the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre and wandering around Loch Lomond Shores, a unique tourist attraction that houses shops selling traditional Scots crafts, food items, and clothing, plus a variety of great dining experiences.

It's also where you'll find the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium , home to displays of both domestic and exotic marine species.

Anyone who remembers the classic 1990s TV detective show Hamish Macbeth will almost instantly recognize the lovely seaside community of Plockton when they see it. Used as the setting for the fictional Lochdubh, Plockton's charm lured many a traveler who had first seen it on the small screen. More than 20 years later, this charming fishing village has lost none of its appeal.

Set on a lovely bay on Loch Carron, this picture-perfect scene is enhanced further by the lovely old terraced homes and cottages spread around the harbor. While it's almost always busy in the summer months, pay a visit in spring or autumn, and you'll enjoy the same superb views without the crowds.

Fun activities include exploring the surrounding countryside or hopping aboard a pleasure craft for a tour of the loch. Fishing, hiking, and biking are also popular things to do in Plockton and can usually be organized by area hotels and B&Bs.

And do try to spend a night here if you can. Not only will you enjoy an evening meal featuring fresh seafood caught that day, you'll enjoy a quiet morning in one of the top villages before the other tourists arrive.

An easy ferry ride away from Glasgow , the lovely Isle of Arran is where you'll find the town of Brodick. Considered the capital of the island, which is often referred to as "Scotland in miniature," Brodick is where you'll disembark, opening it up to overseas travelers not wanting to drive — Arran also has a great bus service that circles the whole island.

In addition to enjoying water sports such as fishing and sailing, visitors can participate in other outdoor activities such as golf on the town's 18-hole course, sunbathing and swimming, along with horse riding.

Be sure to also spend some time exploring historic Brodick Castle, Garden & Country Park . This sprawling and well-preserved manor house boasts an impressive collection of antique furniture and a delightful garden.

As Brodick offers a variety of cool places to stay, it also serves as a great base from which to explore other island attractions, such as the fun-to-hike 873-meter-tall Goat Fell mountain.

Pittenweem is another quaint old fishing village on Scotland's east coast that's well worth a visit. If you can manage to find somewhere to sleep, which is sometimes difficult as things do book up quickly in the busy summer season, try to stay for at least a night or two — yes, it's that nice!

A highlight of a stay here will undoubtedly be exploring the harbor area, especially early in the morning after the fishing folk return with their fresh catch, some of which will make its way from the fish market onto the menus of the top restaurants in Pittenweem. It's certainly a picture-perfect scene, and even more so as the harbor is surrounded by numerous restored old townhomes.

If you're able to visit in the summer, try to have it coincide with the popular Pittenweem Arts Festival , held each August and a big draw for visitors from across the UK.

Other fun things to do in Pittenweem include visiting Kellie Lodge , a splendid old home built in the 1500s, as well as the ruins of an even older Augustinian priory next to the village church.

Other interesting historic sites worth checking out are St. Fillan's Cave , used to shelter a saint, along with attractive Kellie Castle .

One of the top places to visit near Edinburgh , just a seven-mile commute away, Roslin makes for a great day trip from its larger neighbor. A highlight of a visit to this charming village is the chance to explore the beautiful Rosslyn Chapel , a 15th-century late-Gothic masterpiece. Festooned with amazing gargoyles and elaborate flourishes, it's a remarkably romantic spot and one that was immortalized by The Da Vinci Code .

Also worth checking out: the ruins of Roslin Castle , just a few minutes' walk from Rosslyn Chapel; the hiking trails of Roslin Glen Country Park ; and Pentland Hills Regional Park. The latter is a pretty area of rolling hills and peaks that's fun to walk and will reward you with amazing views over Edinburgh in the distance.

Another great small town close to Edinburgh , and one which can easily be visited the same day as a stop at Roslin, as they're only a few miles apart, is the picturesque market town of Peebles.

Settled since Roman times and possibly even earlier, Peebles is rich in history and churches. While exploring the town, be sure to pop into one or two places of worship, including the attractive Leckie Memorial Church , which you won't miss due to its 146-foot-tall spire.

After exploring the shops and stopping for a bite to eat, be sure to visit the local museum, the Tweeddale Museum and Gallery with its fascinating displays relating to local history and customs, and the nearly 600-year-old Tweed Bridge.

A few minutes' drive away but well worth a visit is Neidpath Castle , built in the 14th century. Though closed to the public, it makes for a stunning selfie backdrop.

For a taste of life in the Inner Hebrides, plan on visiting the village of Portnahaven, located on the western tip of the island of Islay. The effort to get to this attractive Scottish fishing village is definitely worthwhile. A word of caution, though: it does involve a ferry and a fair bit of driving.

The rewards, though, are plentiful. Topping the list is the chance to enjoy the kind of place people typically picture in their heads when conjuring up images of Bonnie Scotland: a quaint fishing harbor surrounded by tidy whitewashed terraced homes, and relaxed, laid-back residents. Both are definitely true here, especially the latter, as those not involved in traditional pursuits, such as fishing, include everything from artists to service industry workers, here to make a living from the tourists.

Given its distance from the mainland and the planning required to get here, you should certainly consider booking at least a night in a quaint B&B or classic inn. This will not only ensure you've got plenty of time to really enjoy this idyllic and peaceful setting, but to explore a little, too.

For example, if you plan your day around the tides, the low tide will enable you to make the short journey to the tiny island that sits near the harbor, and which serves as home to a variety of species of wildlife, from birds to seals.

Many visitors are often surprised to learn that the UK's most northerly holiday destinations in Scotland are often situated near excellent beaches . Hopeman in Moray is one such spot. Located in northeast Scotland on the Moray Firth, this small fishing village in fact boasts two great beaches, both sandy and pleasant for a swim, sunbathing, or enjoying activities like windsurfing.

When you're done exploring the beaches, be sure to check out other highlights, including fossils, an old druid site, plus a number of quaint shops along the main street. Feeling peckish? Pop into the excellent beachside Hopeman Sands Coffee Shop for a bite of breakfast or lunch, or a sweet treat to go with your coffee or tea.

From Hopeman, you can also check out two other attractive locations in the area: Burghead Bay and Findhorn.

Located just 20 minutes' drive south of the famous golf courses of St. Andrews and only an hour and a half from Edinburgh, the charming coastal town of Anstruther in Fife makes for a pleasant day trip for visitors to Scotland. Set overlooking the Firth of Forth, Anstruther is easily as pretty as any town you'd find in the UK, and offers plenty of related fun seaside things to do, from beaches and tea shops to a pleasant stroll along the old harbor walls.

In fact, the harbor area has long been the heart and soul of this community, with the fishing industry still playing a major role here. In fact, Anstruther has the distinction of being home to the interesting Scottish Fisheries Museum . Spread across a number of heritage buildings dating back to the 16th century, this unique attraction explores fishing over the centuries to the current times, with fascinating hands-on exhibits and displays.

No visit to a seaside town is complete without a visit to a traditional fish and chips shop, and Anstruther is blessed with one of the best. By far the best known is the Anstruther Fish Bar , where freshly caught fare has been served to everyone from British Royalty to Hollywood celebrities, with Prince William and Tom Hanks having visited.

Adventure seekers also visit, using Anstruther as a jumping-off point to visit the nearby Isle of May. This popular nature reserve can be reached by tour boat and is a delight to hike. Along the way, you'll likely see a variety of wildlife, from puffins to seals.

Named after the original fortress built here in the 1700s to safeguard the Caledonian Canal, picturesque Fort Augustus can easily be combined with a visit to Loch Ness . This small Scottish town is in fact located to the southwest of the country's most famous lake and is an ideal spot to experience a little of life in the Highlands.

In addition to its picturesque setting on the canal where you can watch small leisure boats come and go through the locks, you can also get out on the water yourself.

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24 Beautiful Scottish Villages and Towns That You Must Visit (2023)

I’m highly partial to Scotland, having gone there on numerous occasions, and, much like Depeche Mode in the 1990s, I’m still enthralled with it.

Table of Contents

The nation is wonderful due to its low population. With just 5.5 million inhabitants, Scotland offers plenty of room for small towns and villages situated near rivers, beaches, lochs, and the impressive mountains that surround them.

In this guide, I’ve shared a selection of my favorite Scottish villages and towns that I consider to be the most beautiful.

1. The Fort William.

Let’s begin this list with a location that is familiar to everyone.

Fort William, renowned as one of Scotland’s most renowned small towns, is situated at the conjunction of Loch Eil and Loch Linnhe beneath Ben Nevis. It is a great place to go trekking, biking, and discovering the local towns, mountains, and lochs. Moreover, it has all the services that a traveler might need.

In addition, the West Highland Way, which is arguably the most renowned long-distance hiking trail in Scotland, culminates here.

Despite its fame, there are plenty of other better Scottish villages and towns to visit. Therefore, if there is no particular reason to visit Fort William, it would be wiser to opt for another destination.

Fort William is well-known, but unfortunately, it doesn’t offer much in terms of attractions or beauty. Furthermore, there are other locations in the country that are worthier of visiting. With a population of just 6,000, it is not as quaint as other places that have been featured.

2. Fort Augustus.

Approximately 50km to the north east of Fort William lies Fort Augustus, a renowned small town in Scotland.

Perched on the southern bank of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is beautiful.

The village is renowned for the five locks at its core, right before the canal of the village flows into Loch Ness. It’s a popular spot for picnics as you can observe the boats travelling up and down the locks.

Apart from that, Fort Augustus is an excellent starting point for discovering Loch Ness (and its most renowned attractions) to the north, Glencoe to the south, the Cairngorms to the east, and much more. Furthermore, the whole village (albeit small) is aesthetically pleasing and endearing.

Fort Augustus makes for a great starting point for discovering many parts of the Scottish Highlands due to its easy access and central location.

3. The town of Ullapool.

Ullapool is definitely my top pick for a town in Scotland, especially since it’s located in the best region of the country. The northwest coast of Scotland is simply breathtaking, and Ullapool is perfectly situated in the middle of it.

This coastal settlement, shaped like a square and filled with boats, fishermen, delicious seafood and picturesque views, is so charming that everyone who visits falls in love with it. I certainly did, you will too, and whoever you are with will undoubtedly also be enamored. You’ll never want to leave.

Ullapool is a fantastic option for a home-away-from-home. Its quaintness and beauty are balanced by its size, allowing it to offer a variety of amenities like pubs, eateries, lodgings, and a grocery store.

You should definitely make a trip to the Seafood Shack in Ullapool and experience the amazing menu of fresh seafood they have to offer. I am a huge fan of this restaurant.

4. Durness .

Approximately 110km/70 miles north of Ullapool is Durness, which is a widely visited area along the northwest coastline of Scotland.

Durness is situated at the northernmost tip of the area, and its beaches are particularly renowned. Notable spots include Durness Beach, Balnakeil Beach, Sango Bay, and Achmelvich Bay.

Although the population of Durness is only 350, this part of Scotland is so tranquil and sparse that it appears like a bustling city. As it is surrounded by cliffs, coves, far away hills and magnificent beaches, its scenery is simply stunning.

Departing from Durness, boat excursions to reach Cape Wrath, a very secluded promontory, are available and the only way to get there is either with a boat or on foot.

It’s a great idea to take a trip to Cocoa Mountain when you’re in Durness; it’s a charming little chocolate shop located in a remote area.

5. I’m talking about Plockton.

Located south of Ullapool and Durness, on the west coast of Scotland, is the charming Plockton.

This location is absolutely stunning, yet there’s not much to do. Nevertheless, you’re sure to be enchanted by the village. To get there, you’ll need to take single-lane roads that lead to a tiny harbor, an itty-bitty beach, and a miniscule wood. Although Plockton is home to only 450 people, it seems like a much less populated area.

When you pay a visit to Plockton, it’s a good idea to drive via Duirinish, which is situated a few minutes to the south. The village centre is a stunning sight to behold, featuring a stone bridge, a tranquil river, Highland cows freely roaming the grass, and approximately six houses.

6. In Portree.

Located west of Plockton is the popular Isle of Skye in Scotland, and its capital is Portree.

Portree, the biggest town on the island, with an approximate population of 2,500, is often used as a starting point for trips to the Isle of Skye. This is understandable, as it is centrally located and provides all the necessities for any type of traveler.

Portree is renowned for its row of vibrant homes that look out to the ocean in the heart of the city. Nearby is a stunning harbour, where you can capture some wonderful pictures.

Despite its popularity, Portree is not necessarily the best option. It’s nice enough, and makes a convenient home base, but there are more picturesque villages and towns on the Isle of Skye. Therefore…

I absolutely love this place.

Elgol is made up of merely a few homes that are scattered, making it more like a group of isolated dwellings than a village. It is one of the most isolated places I have included on this list, located on the extreme south of one of the most tranquil parts of Skye. There is an oddly apocalyptic atmosphere here.

I’m not saying that everyone has an uncontrollable desire, rather I’m implying that it has a captivating effect.

In spite of its remoteness, Elgol provides some great attractions, such as beautiful beaches, impressive cliffs, Spar Cave, and superb boat trips to Loch Coruisk, where, in the appropriate season, you can observe dolphins, whales, sharks, and other marine life.

If you’re yearning for a wild island experience, Elgol is the place to be – but you’ll have to go elsewhere if you’re looking to buy groceries, as there aren’t any supermarkets around!

8. Brodick.

From one west coast island to another.

Brodick serves as the chief gateway to the wonderful island of Arran, which is one of my personal top picks in Scotland. It is also the chief settlement on Arran, and it makes a great launching point.

From Brodick, it’s possible to climb Goatfell (the highest mountain on the island) and traverse much of the Arran Coastal Path, an outstanding multi-day trek which encompasses the whole circumference of the island.

Aside from everything else, you can enjoy Brodick Castle, wonderful nearby beaches, excellent restaurants and bars, as well as a lively small port city with straightforward routes to the rest of the island.

9. Tobermory.

Have you ever watched the British children’s program Balamory? It was recorded in this location.

Tobermory is similar to Portree, but with even more vivid colored houses – the Balamory houses featured in the show are actual dwellings in Tobermory. Seeing them in person, snapping a selfie, and sharing how vibrant they are is a must!

The Isle of Mull, situated between the islands of Arran and Skye, is part of Scotland and its capital is Tobermory. This quaint fishing port town offers visitors hills, forests, a pleasant bay, and some great places to dine and socialize.

Tobermory is a peaceful, attractive, and endearing spot, and it would be wise to use it as a starting point for discovering the entirety of the Isle of Mull (though, unfortunately, it is quite far to the north).

10. Stranraer.

We have now travelled southwards along the west coast of Scotland.

Stranraer, my top pick for an underrated Scotland municipality, boasts a population of about 10,000 inhabitants.

Many fail to venture into this region of Scotland. Tourists flock to the Highlands and Edinburgh, or take a trip along the North Coast 500, but not many make their way to Dumfries and Galloway, which is the most southwestern corner of the country.

The harbour town of Stranraer may not be aesthetically pleasing, however it has a warm hospitality. The areas in the vicinity of it however, are beautiful. The nearby beaches, lochs, a large shoreline, great drives and the underrated Galloway Forest Park make it a wonderful place to visit.

If you’re looking for a lesser-known base in the south of Scotland, Stranraer is an outstanding option.

If you ever drop by, give my buddy Derek a shout-out. He’s a good guy and would likely take you on a stroll.

11. Portpatrick.

Situated only 8 miles (13km) from Stranraer, Portpatrick is undeniably the most picturesque coastal village in Dumfries and Galloway. Therefore, if you desire a stunning Scottish village without having to travel too far up the west coast of the country, Portpatrick is your ideal destination.

In comparison to Stranraer, it’s much smaller and tranquil. The best part is, it has a distinct appearance.

Many of the buildings in Portpatrick are painted in pastel hues, making it a great spot for taking pictures, unlike other Scottish coastal towns and villages that often have white homes, stone walls, or vivid facades.

The harbor is quite attractive, and the town provides amazing boat tours for fishing and observing wildlife.

If you’re a fan of going on long hikes, Portpatrick marks the beginning of the Southern Upland Way – a 214-mile (344km) journey that traverses from coast to coast, finishing in Cockburnspath (and we’ll have more about that soon).

12. A Melrose.

Melrose, which is situated in the Scottish Borders, is the southernmost destination on our list. It is just east of Stranraer and quite near England.

If you’re searching for a location that is not very popular with tourists, you have come to the right place.

Melrose is renowned for being the commencement point of St. Cuthbert’s Way, an ancient pilgrimage trail which transverses England and culminates at the isolated coast of Holy Island. The entire trek is approximately 62 miles (100km) and incredibly beautiful.

Aside from that, Melrose has a beautiful abbey, a pleasant town center, and easily accessible hikes to the Eildon Hills. To get the best perspective of Melrose, climb the hills and turn around.

13. The Eyemouth.

Hidden away on the southeastern coast of Scotland, Eyemouth makes the ideal spot for a cozy family vacation. If you’re traveling with kids, this destination is the one for you.

Eyemouth offers a classic British seaside atmosphere with caravans, buckets and spades, welcoming people, playgrounds, beaches that are easy to access, and an abundance of fish and chips. It will be cherished by everyone in your family and you’ll likely be eager to return.

This area of Scotland may not be the most daring, yet it is incredibly enjoyable and hospitable. Furthermore, it is visually appealing, enclosed by stunning cliffs, and neighboring areas like Dunbar, North Berwick, and St. Abbs are picturesque.

At a mere 5 miles from the English border, Eyemouth is an ideal destination for those eager to discover the southern regions of Scotland.

14. St. Abbs .

St. Abbs lies to the north of Eyemouth, differing greatly from the more entertaining atmosphere of the latter.

Boasting some of Scotland’s most stunning clifftop walks, the small and rugged St Abbs is much more tranquil than Eyemouth. It is a great place for hikes, with nesting seabirds and Coldingham Bay and the renowned St Abbs Head lighthouse.

This picturesque port town of St Abbs boasts a charming collection of white houses perched atop stunning cliffs. If your ideal getaway includes a tranquil village atmosphere and gorgeous scenery, St Abbs is the perfect destination.

The ten-mile/sixteen-kilometer section that lies between here and Cockburnspath is my favorite part of Scotland. Taking a rollercoaster-like journey up and down the cliffs, past wind farms, oceans frothing with crashing waves and panoramic vistas, it is truly spectacular. If you are tackling the Coast and Castles cycling route, you will be traversing this area and it is sure to be your favorite part.

15. St. Andrews.

If you’re searching this list for a day trip from Edinburgh, St. Andrews should be your choice.

Located approximately 50 miles (80km) away from Washington D.C., This is an excellent spot to spend a few hours or, if you have the time, a whole weekend.

St. Andrews is renowned for its golf, boasting seven courses at St. Andrews Links, the biggest public golf facility in Europe. Beyond the golf, the city offers a ruined church, an old cathedral, a picturesque university and some lovely beaches.

The town is aesthetically pleasing, boasting orange-tiled roofs on its stone structures, grand architecture, and a picturesque hilly landscape.

St. Andrews is a huge area, with approximately 17,000 residents, so there are a lot of restaurants and bars to explore.

16. Shieldaig.

The village of Shieldaig is very small, so your visit won’t take long. However, the short time you spend will be full of enjoyment.

Shieldaig is home to only around 85 inhabitants, with the village consisting primarily of a school, a church, a couple of eateries, a few dwellings, and not much else. Yet, it offers an abundance of stunning vistas.

The village is situated next to the beautiful Loch Shieldaig, surrounded by mountains and perfect for exploring. Therefore, if you have the opportunity, take the chance to explore outside of the village’s small boundaries.

Here’s a tip : if you’d like to witness the area’s natural beauty, take the relatively short and easy Shieldaig peninsula walk , which is roughly 3 miles (4.5km) in length.

Be sure to check out the Loch Torridon Smokehouse in Shieldaig for a delicious smoked salmon experience like no other.

17. Gairloch.

Gairloch is located about 15 miles (25km) in a northerly direction from Shieldaig, though due to the winding roads in this region of Scotland, the total driving time is significantly longer.

Despite the length of the journey, you must visit Gairloch. This diminutive settlement (home to approximately 700 inhabitants) features a beach framed by hills and many cheerful white dwellings. Some are located close to the shoreline, while others are further up the inclines. Nonetheless, each is absolutely delightful.

Be sure to take in the sights of the hills, mountains, lakes and the town itself. This area of western Scotland is a delight to behold.

Head to the Mountain Coffee Company and Hillbillies Book Shop for a cozy experience. The two establishments are connected and offer the unique specialty of coffee from Bob Marley’s brother.

Oban is super beautiful.

This town, located atop a small hill, is made up of multiple levels that overlook the edges of a bay. It even has an imitation of a colosseum on top! People come to this town for more than just pictures; they come to fish, go hiking, and explore the islands along Scotland’s west coast.

Oban is renowned for its seafood, and there are lots of great restaurants to choose from, such as Oban Seafood Hut and Ee-Usk. With an array of options including lobster, oysters, mussels, crab, salmon, haddock and more, it’s arguably the best seafood spot in Scotland.

A word of advice: Oban is more crowded with tourists than many other locations we’ve featured. Therefore, if you want to experience it without a great deal of people, it’s best to visit during a time other than summer.

19. Pitlochry.

Pitlochry, like most other towns and villages in the Cairngorms, is located on a main road, making it a convenient destination to visit. It is a charming Scottish town, so if you are looking for a place that is easy to get to, Pitlochry is a great option.

The town is visually pleasing, composed of several small brownstone structures. However, the true beauty lies within the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK. You’ll find mountains, lakes, valleys, rivers, cascades, scenic drives, and more. You could easily spend a decade there and never be tired of the scenery.

Here’s a tip: Aside from Aviemore, which is the most renowned, other nice places to visit in the Cairngorms are Ballater, Breamar and Boat of Garten. On the other hand, although it is not within the park’s official boundaries, Pitlochry is my personal favorite.

20. Glencoe

If you are a fan of hiking, road trips, and beautiful scenery, then Glencoe is the place for you.

Unless you have an exceptionally negative outlook, you will be enchanted by Glencoe.

In proximity to Fort William, Glencoe and its environment are more picturesque, yet it is overshadowed by its nearby neighbor due to Fort William having more amenities and restaurants, pubs, and lodgings.

The village, which only has 400 inhabitants, looks absolutely charming and inviting, but the true beauty lies in the mountains that encircle it. It is located in the center of a steep valley, with stunning mountain peaks surrounding the village and its shoreline at Loch Leven. The journey to get to Glencoe village is spectacular, but the hikes, trips by car, and bike rides around it are even more so.

21. Lochcarron

This is a very small location, one that you would likely not stay in for more than two hours.

When you reach Lochcarron, you’ll understand why I included it in this list.

Perched atop the banks of Loch Carron (which has the same name as the village, creating some confusion), it’s a great spot to grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat and take in the view. Not many activities are available here, but when the mountains look this beautiful, just gazing at them is enough.

Here’s a great suggestion for a mini-adventure: take a ride around Loch Carron (the lake, not the town) on either the A896 or A890 roads. It’s a great way to catch a glimpse of the entire lake, and the views are stunning. For the best experience, it’s best to do it on a bike, but you can do it by car as well.

22. In Stromness.

It’s been some time since I last spoke of island towns and villages, so let’s rectify that.

Stromness is the second largest settlement in the Orkney Islands, a sizeable chain of islands located in the northeastern part of Scotland’s northern shore. This archipelago consists of 70 islands, many of which have lovely towns and villages. However, in my opinion, Stromness is the most attractive of them all.

The charming and vibrant port of Stromness in Orkney is filled with winding alleyways, residences atop hills, and a picturesque village that borders the harbor.

Stromness is stunningly gorgeous, and it provides an excellent starting point for exploring the hills, trails, and coastlines of Orkney.

23. The town of Lossiemouth.

Few people are aware of Lossiemouth, yet it is one of my favorite underrated places.

However, more people ought to. And now, you are one of them.

I had never heard of Lossiemouth until I visited there to see a friend. I was astonished by how beautiful it was.

Lossiemouth is a fishing village located in Moray, at the border of Aberdeenshire near Elgin. Being remote, it’s a great destination if you’re looking to explore Scotland’s eastern seaboard. Here, you will find two remarkable beaches, heaps of sand dunes, friendly locals and an attractive town.

This spot is quite popular among locals for day trips with their families, so there are plenty of opportunities to gorge oneself on ice cream, fish and chips.

24. Bridge of Allan

This last destination has a greater number of inhabitants than our other stops, boasting a total of around 5,500 residents.

Many of the places included in this list offer abundant chances for activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploration.

If you’re more of a person who enjoys taking it easy in towns rather than participating in outdoor activities, you’ll likely find Bridge of Allan delightful. It is picturesque, hospitable, and amiable and is a great place to spend a few days or hours. However, to really get to know the town, it’s best to visit its eateries, pubs and eateries.

Head to The Hideaway Cafe if you’re in search of an unforgettable brunch.

If you’re in Bridge of Allan, don’t miss out on a trip to Stirling, which is often overlooked despite being Scotland’s most underrated city.

Final Thoughts and Further Reading.

I believe these 24 towns and villages in Scotland are the most lovely. Thank you for taking the time to read!

I apologize if I omitted your favorite spot. Scotland has an abundance of stunning locations, so I trust you can excuse my oversight.

Topic: 24 Beautiful Scottish Villages and Towns That You Must Visit (2023)

Join the “I Left My Heart in Scotland” in Our Community on Facebook. A place where members can be honest with each other, share their stories and travel photos, and try out a new way to see Scotland together.

By:  Travel Pixy

Sarah Slattery

I have visited more than 50 countries, as well as lots of towns and villages all around the world. Our website is full of tips, reviews and travel deals to help you plan your next trip away.

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8 Best Small Towns in Scotland — From Bucolic Islands to the Rugged Highlands

Striking castles, stunning scenery, fascinating history, and much more await in these beautiful small towns in Scotland.

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

Celebrated for its deep, fascinating history, striking mountains, stately castles , and misty lochs — not to mention its mythological monsters — Scotland is arguably the most ruggedly beautiful of all four United Kingdom nations. Like its southern neighbor, England, it has its fair share of major cities — Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Glasgow, to name a few — but there's also a wealth of smaller gems scattered across the glens and valleys of its incredible landscape — if you know where to look.

Whether you're seeking the finest dram of whisky (it's been distilled here since the 15th century and always spelled without an "e" to set it apart from the American stuff) or simply want a break from the grind in some spectacularly romantic surrounds, these are the small towns in Scotland you should add to your next U.K. itinerary. (Kilt and sporran optional).

Fort Augustus, Lochaber

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

Perched at the southwest end of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus began as an 18th-century military garrison, but today it's at the heart of an entirely different battle: the fight to prove the existence of Nessie. Come here to enjoy a cruise on the most famous of all the Scottish lochs, scouring the surface for telltale signs of the cryptozoological monster, before checking out the town's 19th-century abbey and learning about Highlands culture at the Clansman Centre . Fort Augustus is also a superb jumping-off point for road trips into the bucolic, heather-strewn mountains of the deeper Highlands .

Killin, Loch Tay

An easy drive from the historic city of Stirling, Killin is a popular spot for sailing and kayaking on dazzling Loch Tay. It's also home to the Falls of Dochart , a cascade of waterfalls at the western end of the loch, where locals sprawl on the rocks in the summer months, pint or picnic in hand. The town boasts several great places to stay and eat, as well as the fascinating Breadalbane Folklore Centre , dedicated to the myths and legends of the area. Other sightseeing opportunities include the ruins of Finlarig Castle , where you can also explore a traditional Scottish longhouse. The fantastic hiking on nearby mountain Beinn Ghlas is also well worth experiencing.

Tobermory, Isle of Mull

The idyllic capital of the Isle of Mull, Tobermory is famed for its rainbow-hued houses, single malt whisky, and picturesque fishing port — one of the most beautiful in Scotland. Getting to this lovely bolthole in Scotland's Inner Hebrides is all part of the adventure, with ferries from the mainland (Kilchoan) taking 35 minutes. Private water taxis are another option. Once you're in Tobermory, you'll find a great selection of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and old-fashioned inns to explore — just don't leave without buying one of the famous ceramic water jugs from the Tobermory Distillery (and a bottle of whisky to go with it, naturally).

Braemar, Aberdeenshire

A pretty little village in a grand location, Braemar has strong royal connections. For starters, Balmoral Castle , the late Queen Elizabeth's beloved Scottish retreat, is just a few miles down the road and open to the public when it's not being lived in. (It also offers holiday cottages for rent inside the grounds.) Secondly, Braemar is home to the legendary Braemar Gathering , a traditional Highland Games contest that takes place in September and has been attended by the British royal family since the 1840s. Otherwise, there are two ancient castles to explore and the Highland Games Centre for those interested in charting the roots and rules of some of the strangest Scottish sports.

Plockton, Lochalsh

If pastoral Plockton, with its charming cottages surrounding an idyllic bay, looks like a film set, that's because it was. This little slice of paradise was the backdrop for the 1973 classic horror movie "The Wicker Man" and, more recently, the popular British drama series Hamish Macbeth .

The unique microclimate in this sunny pocket of Scotland's western coast means that, bizarrely, tropical palms line the waterfront. From here, you can even rent sea kayaks or join wildlife-watching cruises to spot seals and otters. Meanwhile, just south of Plockton, you'll find the Kyle of Lochalsh railway line — one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the U.K.

Roslin, Midlothian

One of the top day trip destinations from Edinburgh (an easy seven-mile bus ride away), little Roslin is home to Scotland's most beautiful and enigmatic church, Rosslyn Chapel . The 15th-century Gothic masterpiece, adorned with elaborate flourishes and symbolic images, is one of the most romantic spots in the country, immortalized first by William Wordsworth and later by Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code." While you're in town, check out the rugged ruins of Roslin Castle and the hiking trails of Pentland Hills , which reward with amazing views of Edinburgh's venerable skyline.

Portree, Isle of Skye

The largest and liveliest town on the famed Isle of Skye, Portree is known for its cliff-fringed harbor, congenial pubs, and the Aros Centre , which showcases traditional Gaelic dance, music, and art. Skye is easily accessible from mainland Scotland via a modern road bridge, and Portree is the perfect base to explore one of the country's most celebrated islands — a renowned hiking and wildlife-spotting paradise.

Kelso, Roxburghshire

A charmer of a town just a stone's throw from the English border, Kelso has a cheery, welcoming feel and boasts one of the finest Georgian houses in the U.K., Floors Castle (don't miss the walled garden — a particular highlight of the extensive grounds). Built around the statuesque ruins of a 12th-century abbey and situated at the confluence of two great rivers — the Tweed and Teviot — Sir Walter Scott proclaimed Kelso the most beautiful of all Scottish towns.

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19 Most Beautiful Towns in Scotland

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There are so many places to visit in Scotland , so it can be hard to choose where to go during a trip! Should you visit hot spots like Edinburgh or Glasgow? Maybe relax at Loch Ness? Or experience island life at the Isle of Lewis or the Isle of Harris? Well, this post of the most beautiful towns in Scotland has got you covered and even includes a few cities!

This guide is the answer to all of your questions. Read on to find all of the most beautiful towns in Scotland. Each place comes highly recommended by a travel blogger who has explored the area!

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Towns in Scotland

Edinburgh is truly one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland because it’s filled with so many great historical sights, and there are so many awesome accommodations. It was the first city that I explored in the country, and it’s truly one of the most memorable.

Here are the best things to do in Edinburgh!

Hike Arthur’s Seat

The hike up to Arthur’s Seat doesn’t take more than a few hours, and the view at the top is absolutely impeccable. It truly is one of the most picturesque parts of Edinburgh ! It does get a bit hard to hike at the top, but it’s completely worth it.

Eat all the food

Edinburgh is filled with amazing places to eat . There are cafes, restaurants, pubs, and more. I can’t recommend Oink enough, which is one of the best places I’ve eaten at while traveling. It’s located right on Victoria Street and serves up great pig roast sandwiches for only 5 pounds!

Visit the picturesque Victoria Street

Victoria Street is absolutely gorgeous. Just looking at it reminds me of something straight out of Harry Potter ! This street is lined with lots of cute little places to shop, including a store called The Boy Wizard, which is perfect for Harry Potter fans. Remember your camera; you’re going to want it.

Do some Harry Potter sightseeing

J.K. Rowling famously wrote a lot of the Harry Potter series while living in Edinburgh . So much of her inspiration can be found between these cobblestone streets.

For instance, there’s the Elephant House Cafe , Greyfriars Kirkyard, Victoria Street, and more. There are even lots of tours that will take visitors to all of the top sights throughout the city that J.K. Rowling frequented.

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the Queen’s royal residence in Edinburgh. It’s open for visitors, but keep in mind that there are times when it will be in use last minute, and you won’t be able to go inside. This happened to me when I visited, but it’s still just as worth it to see it from the outside!

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Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the most uniquely beautiful and breathtaking places in Scotland, a country full of awe and beauty. Skye is a perfect place to visit for those who appreciate rugged beauty, hikes (of varying difficulty), and incredible landscapes.

As its popularity grows with tourists, I would recommend visiting off-peak, so outside of the summer months, and ensure you’ve packed rain gear.

What to see on Skye?  Here are the highlights:

The Quiraing

A trip to Skye is incomplete without visiting this stunning landslip, which offers incredible views of the Island; it is one of the most picturesque points on the islands. And for hikers, a 4-mile hike along the elevated ridge (or you can cheat by doing a section and double back rather than taking the entire 4-mile loop).

Talisker Distillery

Talisker is a single malt whiskey produced on Skye and shipped worldwide to be enjoyed by a global community. Their distillery is open for tours and tastings, both of which I’d highly recommend, but you’ll need to book the visit in advance. You’ll learn about the unique pairing of sea and smoke that dominates their whiskey palate and much about the process of making it.

The largest village on Skye – with its beautifully quaint, charming quayside, beautiful harbor views, and charming overall vibe, it is an unmissable stop on any trip to Skye. It is the best place to get food on the island, and several good pubs for a pint or a dram; as well, there are small shops along the high street.

Fairy Pools

These beautiful interconnected pools, fed by streams and waterfalls, are accessible by foot only after a short hike from a parking lot. Stepping away from the road seems to transport visitors to a magical place.

The pools are remarkably clear and unusual blue in color, with the ability to see straight to the bottom, and possess an otherworldly quality.

Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

This charming seaside castle has a long history on Skye – you can take a tour of the castle, the gardens, or even a seal tour in the neighboring bay.

traveled by Jamie from Travel Addict

Read next: 11 Enthralling Isle of Skye Tours from Edinburgh

Isle of Muck

The Isle of Muck, the smaller of the Scottish Small Isles, is situated on the west coast of Scotland. It is only about 4 kilometres long and has about 45 households along with a large farm—no church, no post office, no fire station — not even a supermarket. There’s WiFi, electricity, a petite café with irregular hours, and a few diverse accommodation choices.

Yet what might be missing in everyday conveniences, the Isle of Muck repays in sheer physical charm. Beautiful white sandy beaches equal those of Fiji, with crystal blue seas, isolated bays, and exotic wildlife. Seals, otters, puffins, and even whales and dolphins can be spotted here.

No, we are not lying; this little slice of paradise is genuine and in Scotland, no less. Part of what has made the Isle of Muck so distinctive is its solitude, with just one narrow lane road, a ferry dock, and … well, not much of anything else.

Since most of Muck is in open farmland, you’re free to walk about, see animals and wildlife, make friends with the stunning white Highland Horses, and marvel at the natural landscapes everywhere you go.  Not to mention the breathtaking views across the water to the cliffs of the Isle of Rum.

Everybody knows everybody on this island- and intrepid adventurers that make it here are going to be stopped by locals for a chat. They are just so happy people who come to admire their little world.  And chat, you should, because they’re going to have a lot of inside scoops, advice, and tips for you.

They will know popular fishing spots, how to spot the sea lions and puffins, what’s what in terms of swimming, and, well, any other local knowledge of the day’s events they might impart to you. The inhabitants of Muck are all, to say the least, unique and add to the charm of this place.

Being such a small island, your  travel opportunities to the Isle Of Muck  are restricted to ferry services from the settlements of Arisaig and Mallaig. You can also get on one of the nature cruises from Arisaig in the peak summer season

traveled by Jordan from Inspired By Maps

Orkney Islands

The  Orkney Islands  are located 8 miles from the northeast corner of mainland Scotland. They are made up of Mainland, with the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness, and then several smaller islands reached by either causeway, ferry, or short flights.

Despite their remote location, the islands have a UNESCO World Heritage status for their Neolithic past and beautiful landscapes to explore.

St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall

The cathedral stands in the centre of the main town of the islands and is flanked by the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace and the Earl’s Palace.  Inside there are interesting headstones and carvings, as well as the chance to climb the spire.

Skara Brae is one of the most intact Neolithic villages ever discovered and dates back over 5000 years. Found after a storm in the 1850s, the beach location of this archaeological site is stunning.  A small visitors centre takes you back in time to put findings into context.

Italian Chapel

On the island of Lamb Holm, south of Kirkwall, is a small chapel inside a Nissen hut.  Built by Italian prisoners of war during World War 2, it is filled with beautiful frescoes and ironwork.

Brough of Birsay

The Brough of Birsay is located in the northwest of the mainland and is a tidal island with a lighthouse and puffin colony.  A circular walk takes you around the island as well as visiting the nearby ruins of the Earl’s Palace.

Ring of Brodgar

This is a large Neolithic stone circle with several large standing stones that are still in place.  Close by are many other standing stones, as well as a large burial mound and an ongoing archaeological dig.

traveled by Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is off the West Coast of Scotland and is about an hour away from Glasgow and is the largest of the islands in the Firth of Clyde. Arran can be reached by ferry from Ardrossan, where you can leave your vehicle and go over as a foot passenger or take your car with you so you can go for a drive around the island.

There are plenty of things to do on the island, especially if you love the outdoors. Arran has something for everyone, from solo travellers to families.

The island is excellent for cycling, and there are not that many roads either so you won’t get lost easily! You can hire bikes on the island, or you can take your own across with you. Even though the island is famous, the roads have never seemed too busy, and if you do encounter a vehicle, then drivers are usually excellent and leave you plenty of space.

There are plenty of hiking trails on the island! You could tackle the Arran Coastal Way, which I have personally done, and it is a great challenge. Goat Fell is the highest peak on the island, and most visitors to the island will try and get to the top. Goat Fell is next on my list with my eldest son, as he wants to take the “mountain” on!

Enjoy the main sights

Around the island, you can enjoy plenty of excellent views, especially for those who love history and castles. You can explore Brodick Castle, Lochranza Castle (a ruin), or even visit Kings Cave (where Robert the Bruce is said to have had his famed encounter with a spider).

If you do not mind a short walk, you can visit the Machrie Moor Standing Stones, which is not too far from Kings Cave, so you could do them on the same day.

Distilleries and breweries

There are 2 Whiskey Distilleries on the island (including the new distillery at Lagg) and the Arran Brewery, which makes craft beer. I have only visited the Lochranza distillery, and it was very informative to visit. I do not drink, so I did not try any of the Whiskey, but I do know it is trendy.

For being an island, there are plenty of golf courses for you to play on. I am no expert when it comes to golf, but enjoying a game of golf while enjoying the stunning views seems like an excellent reason for visiting the island.

If you did not want to do any of the above, then you could also enjoy a spa break and sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery.  The isle of Arran should be on your to-do list if you are planning on coming to Scotland.

traveled by Sam from Travels With My Boys

North Coast 500

The far northwest of Scotland is wild, rugged, and remote — and it’s stunning!

It’s a part of Scotland that is off the tourist trail,  takes time to get to (but is so worth it) , and where a car is a must.

There is a driving route called the North Coast 500 that goes around this peninsula. Many folks race around it. But I recommend taking your time.

I didn’t make it very far around, as I stayed for five nights in the Gairloch area in a settlement known as Big Sand. It’s gorgeous, with views of the Torridon Hills to the south and the Isle of Lewis and Harris to the west. I’m going to concentrate on this part of the Northwest peninsula.

Any spot along the North Coast 500 is a place to slow down and enjoy the beauty of unspoiled Scotland.

Here are a few things I recommend for this particular part of the North Coast 500.

Walk or drive out Rua Reidh Lighthouse and do some walking

I drove to Melvaig and parked. From this parking area, the road is very narrow, but it’s drivable to the lighthouse. I chose to walk to take in the views of the sea at a slower pace.

Once you get to the lighthouse, which does have rooms, you can pick up the dirt trails along the coast. Since Scotland is a right of way, you can go anywhere. The views are stunning from here!

Visit Inverewe Garden

I did not make it to this National Trust site, which was an epic fail on my part. This garden is located in an area where the Highlands meet the Gulf Stream, so the flora is unique. There are trails to walk, historic buildings to explore, and much to learn about wildlife and plants.

Eat at The Barn Cafe

The Barn Cafe was a short walk across a field from where I was staying, Solas B&B in Big Sand. Believe it or not, this fabulous cafe is part of Sands Caravan and Camping. The food was delicious! I highly recommend eating a meal here.

Walk on Gruinard Beach

As you drive further north from Inverewe Gardens, you’ll come to a little overlook. At this overlook, you’ll spot Gruinard Beach. Drive a bit further and park in the lot for this lovely beach. Go for a walk on this beautiful stretch of sand. If the weather permits, maybe a picnic is in order. For those brave souls, go for a swim in the chilly water.

Drive further north, stopping when the spirit moves you

As you drive further north on the A832 and the A835, you’ll come to more places to stop and drink in the gorgeous scenery. I drove almost to the town of Elphin around the Knockan Crag Nature Reserve. I wish I had gone further, as this is the beginning of the Assynt region of the peninsula. I hear it’s spectacular. So don’t be afraid to take a drive and stop for views or walks.

Get out on a trail

There are lots of trails all over the Northwest, including some around Big Sand and Gairloch, where I stayed. Pack up your daypack and get out and explore. This part of Scotland is made for hiking!

traveled by Lynne from Wander Your Way

Glenfinnan is a small village in the northwest Highlands of Scotland, just 17 miles from Fort William. Known for its picturesque scenery, Glenfinnan is a popular highlight for many (especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan). Plus, it’s one of the best Edinburgh day trips by train !

Despite its small size (with an average population of 120), the majority of things to do in Glenfinnan are off the main road. This gives travelers a unique perspective on exploring the rustic and authentic beauty of this portion of the Scottish Highlands.

Here are 5 things you can do in Glenfinnan (all of them are free except for the ticket on the Jacobite Steam Train):

Explore its stunning landscapes

Glenfinnan is surrounded by towering mountains along the banks of Loch Shiel, so it’s an incredible place to hike or just explore for the day.

Viaduct Trail

This is a 1-2 hour walk passing through Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel and has an incredible view of the steam train chugging along the viaduct.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

This is the most commonly visited attraction in Glenfinnan since you can actually ride the Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express) to Fort William and Mallaig in the summer. Harry Potter fans flock to this iconic site!

Glenfinnan Monument

This is a historical monument from 1815 dedicated to Jacobite clansmen who died during the Jacobite rising.

Glenfinnan Station Museum

This is a working railway station that tells the history of the viaduct and life in the West Highlands.

Along with a few Harry Potter films, Glenfinnan has also been used as a filming location for popular TV shows such as “Outlander” and “The Crown.” Thus, whether you’re looking to satisfy your inner geek or just want to photograph some iconic landscapes on an easy trail, Glenfinnan is a must-do while you’re in Scotland.

traveled by Debbi from My Debstinations

South Queensferry

A peaceful town located to the west of Edinburgh, South Queensferry is easily accessible by a 20-minute train journey from the beautiful capital of Scotland. This quaint town makes a convenient  half-day trip from Edinburgh  for those seeking a haven from the hustles and bustles of tourist groups in the capital.

Upon visiting South Queensferry, don’t forget to:

See the renowned Forth Bridge

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge (aka Forth Rail Bridge) is a distinctive landmark voted as Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder in 2016. There is a viewing point at Ferry Glen – a woodland situated between the Dalmeny railway station and High Street – where you can enjoy a great view of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth.

Take a stroll around the Hawes Pier

If the weather is good, nothing feels more relaxing in South Queensferry than taking a stroll around the Hawes Pier. This is also a great place to watch the sunset and breathe in the fresh air from the river. You can even board one of those day cruises to enjoy the scenery around this area fully.

Enjoy fresh seafood at various restaurants

South Queensferry prides itself on a number of seafood restaurants that serve delicious fresh seafood prepared in various styles. You can visit The Boat House or Samphire Seafood on High Street to try these delicacies while simultaneously enjoying a beautiful view of the river.

Visit the Queensferry Museum

If you are interested in knowing more about the history and traditions of Queensferry, don’t miss the chance to visit the Queensferry Museum on High Street. Entrance is free, and you will also be able to enjoy a stunning view of the Firth of Forth and the Forth Bridge from here.

Walk along High Street

High Street is where you can truly experience the unique vibes of South Queensferry. Walking along High Street, you will find a wide range of interesting places to drop by, including lovely coffee shops to sit and chill when it’s sunny, cool souvenir stores to purchase a piece of Queensferry and bring back home, as well as cozy old book shops whose owners are both friendly and knowledgeable.

With all these interesting things to do in South Queensferry, this pretty town is surely the place to be if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from bustling Edinburgh.

traveled by Fiona from Fiona Travels from Asia

A little gem in the beautiful but less-traveled part of Western Scotland, Oban, is a large seaside village with a few nice attractions, but more than this, it has charm and some of the pleasures of life – fresh seafood, good whisky, and an interesting seafront.

Oban and its surrounds  can be an ideal base for several enjoyable day trips to explore this part of Scotland. 

There are some interesting places to visit in Oban:

McCaig’s Tower

McCaig’s Tower is an unfinished tower prominently visible over the Oban skyline. It almost looks like the Roman Colosseum. You can get a beautiful panoramic view from the platform atop a  rather steep hill.

Oban Distillery

Oban Distillery has a great informative tour and is highly recommended. The 14-year-old single malt is popular due to its fortification with crystallized ginger!

Carnasserie Castle

Located in Kilmartin, this ancient castle cum residence would be interesting for architecture admirers.

Connel Bridge and the Falls of Lora

Connel Bridge and the Falls of Lora, about 5 miles from Oban, offer great views from the car park viewpoint. The unique falls, technically white water tidal rapid, are worth viewing.

Dunstaffnage Castle

Dunstaffnage Castle   is a half-ruined castle in Connel. This fortress is another must-see for history buffs.

Finally, if you have the time, you could visit the famous Inveraray castle and its lovely gardens, which is just an hour’s drive away from Oban. Apart from the above, Oban is the seafood capital of Scotland and boasts a plethora of terrific restaurants – many overlooking the bay. 

traveled by Jan from Leisurely Drives

Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis’ main settlement is the bright and vibrant town of Stornoway, it’s the largest island and the capital of the Western Isles, but it’s more than that; the Isle of Lewis offers many breathtaking opportunities, it is rich in history and beauty with unique experiences that cannot be seen elsewhere.

Callanish Standing Stones

Older than Stonehenge and with a real air of mystery. No one knows what they were for; some suggest tracking the lunar cycle, some say they are shaped like a cross, and some say they were giants turned to stone; we’ll never know for sure but what we do know is that they have become a world-famous symbol of the Isle of Lewis. 

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

The Gearrannan Blachouses is a collection of stone cottages from an old crofting village. You can take a step back in time by visiting one of the refurbished blackhouses to experience these cottages as they would have been and to see how the people lived and worked. 

You can even watch some traditional weaving of Harris Tweed.

Lews Castle/Museum Nan Eilean

Lews Castle is a large Victorian mansion that sits upon a hill overlooking the town of Stornoway. Not only has it been refurbished for visitors and creating beautiful hotel accommodations, but it is also home to Museum Nan Eilean, which holds some of the infamous Lewis Chessmen! 

Surrounding the castle are the castle grounds, and here you can find magical walks, cycle routes, fishing spots, and even the local golf course.

Butt of Lewis

The Butt of Lewis is the most northerly point of the Isle of Lewis and even made the Guinness Book of Records the UK’s windiest destination. Here you will find some incredible sights which surround the lighthouse, with incredible crushed and twisted rocks standing up to 80ft high and some which date back as far as 3 billion years old.

Mangersta Sea Stacks

The Mangersta Sea Stacks are a sight to see. There are many beautiful beaches on the Isle of Lewis, but none offer such a dramatic backdrop as the Mangersta Headland with its high sea cliffs and its seabird colonies.

You can even book a free stay in the Mangersta Bothy, which is on the edge of the sea cliff, and wake up to those incredible views.

traveled by Peter & Lauren from Oursocalledlife

Isle of Harris

The Isle of Harris is in the Outer Hebrides, north of mainland Scotland, and is only accessible by a domestic flight or ferry. But the effort it takes to get there is rewarded by fantastic scenery.

The top 5 things to do are:

Luskentyre Beach

With its wide white sands and aquamarine water, makes it worthy of the TripAdvisor award for 3 rd  best beach in Europe. Try to visit when the tide is out and the sun shining to see the beach at its best.

Scarista Beach

Scarista Beach is another pretty, crescent-shaped beach with the Harris hills in the background and Atlantic waves crashing onto the sands.

Visit the Gin Distillery

Since 2015, a local gin distillery in Tarbert has been producing Isle of Harris gin. A tour and tasting is the perfect wet weather activity.

Drive the Golden Route

The Golden Route is the one-lane road on the rocky south side of the island that has very different scenery from the sandy beaches on the northern side.

There are many hills to climb for fantastic views over the island and out into the Atlantic. The two best hikes are Ceapabhal Hill and the full-day circular walk over Beinn Dhubh.

It is possible to visit at any time of year, but the main tourist season is April to September, and some of the local cafes and restaurants might be closed outside of this period.

The Outer Hebrides is more remote than other areas of Scotland and sees fewer visitors. As a result, there are few hotels, restaurants, and shops outside the largest town, Stornoway. A self-catering  Isle of Harris cottage  is the best choice for accommodation.

traveled by Kristin from Adventures with Ensuite

Aviemore is one of the largest towns in the Cairngorms National Park. It has good rail connections to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness and many accommodations and dining options. All these make it an ideal base for  exploring the area even without having a car .

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve is a protected area less than 10 minutes away from the train station. It offers four hiking trails of easy to moderate difficulty doable in a few hours. My favourite route is the one going up to the viewpoint, which provides great views over the area.

Strathspey Railway

The Strathspey Railway is a traditional steam train that offers a relaxing way to see the beauty of the area. It departs from Aviemore train station and stops at Boat of Garten and Broomhill. The services are not very frequent, so check the timetable in advance.

Rothiemurchus Estate

If you fancy some outdoor adrenaline activities, you should head to the Rothiemurchus Estate. They offer pony trekking, Segway tours, and more. If you become an Explorer, you will get a map of trails around the area. My favourite is the one to Loch an Eilein, a picturesque loch with a ruined castle.

Glenmore Forest Park

At the Glenmore Forest Park, apart from hiking routes, you will find the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, which organises hill trips to spot deer, learn more about them, and hand-feed them. Besides, across their visitor centre, you will find Loch Morlich, with a sandy beach and a water sports centre.

Cairngorm Mountain

Lastly, a short bus ride from the centre of Aviemore is Cairngorm Mountain. In the winter, it operates as a ski centre, while in the rest of the year is the starting point of hikes to the top of CairnGorm Mountain and Ben Macdui, the highest peak in the Cairngorms National Park.

traveled by Elina from Empnefsys & Travel

Exploring the Highlands is a must when visiting Scotland. Spend a weekend in Inverness, soaking in its beauty. From mysterious stones to stunning overlooks, Inverness is one of my favorite places in Scotland.

Clava Cairns

The Clava Cairns is a collection of standing stones and massive tombs, or cairns. This place is full of mystery and speculation as to why they are there. To some, it is just a burial ground; to others, a place to study the sun.  The parking lot is very small; I recommend you go early.

Culloden Battlefield 

The Battle of Culloden was a turning point in Scottish history. Just 11 euros to enter, stop by the memorial, and visit the ‘clan stones’. The battleground walk is very easy. There are paths all the way around to the left side of the battlefield. However, it does not make a complete loop.

I had the amazing opportunity to take a cruise down Loch Ness. You can go hunting for monsters on Loch Ness , one of the top things to do there. Tickets are available online or at the Loch Ness visitor center, 22 euros per person (adult). I highly recommend this; it is such a beautiful way to see the Loch.

Urquhart Castle

The castle would have been standing today. However, during the Jacobite uprisings, the government forces did not want the castle to fall into the rebels’ hands, so they destroyed it. There are many paths to explore in the ruins. General Admission: 9 euros.

Castle Leod

This has been the home to the Clan Mackenzie Chieftains for over 500 years! I was told when the owner is home, he is known to talk to the guests and even invite them into his home! On the castle grounds, there is an awesome tree walk you can explore. There were so many unique trees! We found a tree that dates to the 1500s!

traveled by Emily Dalton from Dalton’s Destinations

Glencoe, Scottish Highlands

On a visit to Scotland’s Highlands, Glencoe is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore the region’s natural beauty. From picturesque lochs to babbling brooks, rolling hills, and heather-hewn moors, Glencoe offers an ideal escape to experience the finest outdoors in Europe.

Three Sisters

Even a drive through the hills is worth the trip, especially to the Three Sisters car park, which looks over the mountains and waterfalls of the upper Glencoe Valley.

Scotland’s Right to Roam laws allow visitors to pull off at one of the many roadsides stops to explore around on foot – Glen Etive is one such not-to-miss natural wonder. Birdwatchers will rejoice in keeping an eye out for ptarmigans and red grouse flitting around the rocky landscape.

West Highland Way

The country’s famous long-distance trek, the West Highland Way, also traverses through this path and is perfect for those seeking some extra adventure. Stop at the Glencoe Visitor’s Center for a hiking map and updated trail information.

Water lovers have the opportunity to sea kayak, paddleboard, boat, and sail the massive Loch Leven. The loch sits just at the edge of Glencoe, and myriad nature trails run all along the water’s edge. Evening sunset strolls around Loch Leven make for some wonderful “golden light” photography.

Clachaig Inn

Top off any adventure-filled day with a hearty meal and some live Scottish music at the Clachaig Inn!

If going to Scotland in winter , take note that the days are quite short, yet the scenery is equally as stunning. Glencoe is the perfect jumping-off point for other awesome destinations in Scotland, including Ben Nevis, Castle Stalker, and Glenfinnan. Definitely don’t miss the opportunity to visit Glencoe and its beauty on your trip to Scotland!

traveled by Christa from Expedition Wildlife

Crieff is one of the most charming towns in Scotland, nestled in Perthshire, just about an hour from Edinburgh. Known for its distillery, old-fashioned high street, and gorgeous grounds of the Crieff Hydro resort, you’ll be able to find something to do here, no matter your interests.

Check out the top  things to do in Crieff  for visitors to dream up your Scottish bucket list! You won’t want to miss out on Cardiff; it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.

Crieff Hydro Hotel

From horseback riding to walks on the glen to a wonderful meal at the top restaurant, the Miekle, Crieff Hydro Hotel isn’t just a place for sleeping, but a destination for activities, gorgeous views of Crieff, and more. Get afternoon tea in the Winter Garden and watch the locals play bowls on the lawn. 

Get Shortbread on the High Street

Stop by JL Gill on the Crieff High Street for the best shortbread you’ll ever eat. You can’t go to Scotland without trying some of their world-famous buttery shortbread, and this shop has plenty of homemade shortbread on offer, as well as other delightful candies and treats. 

Take a Walk in Macrosty Park

With one of the best children’s play areas in Crieff, Macrosty Park is a family favorite. There are also peaceful walks along a stream and beyond. Bring a picnic and plan to spend a sunny day people-watching and enjoying the atmosphere in this park. Parking is free on-site, which makes it a no-hassle day out!

Glenturret Distillery

Ever wanted to see how Scotch whiskey is made? This is Scotland’s oldest working distillery (or so they claim), and regular tours will take you through the entire process as you see how their famous whiskey is made. Also, they have two distillery cats who help to keep the mice out and may just join you. 

Drummond Castle

While you can’t go inside, Drummond Castle is famous for its gorgeous landscaped gardens. Used as a filming location over the years, it is truly a magical place to escape into. You’ll find hidden mazes, stunning views, and colorful blooms as you explore. 

traveled by Kalyn from Girl Gone London

Isle of Whithorn

If you’re in the Dumfries and Galloway region, it’s worth a trek off the beaten path toward the rugged coast, where you’ll find the Isle of Whithorn. 

The Isle of Whithorn is located three miles south of Whithorn and thirteen miles south of Wigtown and is a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours taking in the sights and sounds of one of the most southerly points of Scotland. While it’s technically a village, this is one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.

Steam Packet Inn

It’s likely you’ve travelled to this stunning village from quite a distance thanks to its remote location, so why not stop off at the Steam Packet Inn first for a bite to eat and a pint of Sottish ale. The outdoor seating overlooks the harbour meaning you can watch the lobster boats come in and out as you enjoy delicious homemade food.

St. Ninian’s Chapel

Head out towards Isle Head to discover the ruins of St. Ninian’s Chapel, located next to the rugged coastline. Free to enter and easily accessible, St. Ninian’s was a 13th-century chapel that would have been visited by pilgrims stopping off on their way to Whithorn Priory. Outside the chapel is ‘Witness Cairn’, a pile of painted stones for modern-day pilgrims to leave their mark. 

Isle of Whithorn Tower

Continuing up the path from St. Ninian’s Chapel is the Isle of Whithorn tower, a large square, the white tower that stands on the highest point of Isle Head, looking out over the wild and windy coast. On a clear day, you can look out from here towards the Lake District and Isle of Man, and the rest of the Kirkcudbrightshire coast.

Isle Castle 

One of the island’s oldest buildings and perhaps recognisable from the film The Wicker Man is Isle Castle, built in the 17th century. Looking for somebody’s home, a traditional castle, can be easy to miss, but this historical landmark is well worth a visit when on the Isle. 

traveled by Nicola from Travelling With Boys

Shetland, at the very top of the UK, is as far north in the country as you can get and have its own culture, community, and feel. The islands here are completely unique, lying just over 200 miles from Norway (who it once belonged to) there is an undeniable Norwegian lilt to the Scottish accent here.

On our trip to Shetland with kids we explored the islands and found a collection that was both welcoming and interesting, packed full of history and culture. This is somewhere that really gets under your skin, and we loved it. Shetland is one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.

Spend time in the capital of Lerwick, where a foodie revolution is occurring. Eat in the restaurants, shop the little boutiques which sell unique, locally produced products and wander through the streets with bunting fluttering overhead.

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

Head to the furthest north you can get and the island of Unst. Visit Hermaness National Nature Reserve here, where sea birds, including Gannets, Fulmars, and Puffins, crowd the cliffs creating an unbelievable spectacle. The views out to the Muckle Flugga lighthouse are beautiful.

Viking Sightseeing

See Viking remains across the islands. From the remains at Jarlshof through to reconstructed Viking houses in Unst, the Viking presence is tangible.

Head out to the island of Mousa where an Iron Age broch (the largest in Scotland) dominates the skyline and clouds of sheep wool litter the ground. This is an RSPB-maintained island packed full of wildlife (particularly the Storm-Petrels, which come here to nest), and there’s a perfect circular walk around it.

Take a boat trip around Noss, where you might spot whales, dolphins, and seals, along with other sea birds dancing around. The wildlife all over Shetland is breathtaking, and the birds nesting on the cliffs here is another of those moments that feels spectacular.

Shetland feels mystical and magical and is a fantastic place for a trip that all the family will love.

traveled by Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

Pronounced eye-la, Islay is the southernmost island of The Inner Hebrides located just off the east coast of Scotland towards the island of Ireland. And while it is not the most scenic or exciting island for scenery and landscapes, it is easily one of the most popular island destinations in Scotland due to its world-renowned whisky trade.

Meaning it is also easy to reach by regular ferry services from the mainland of Scotland, making it possible to cover on a day trip to Islay leaving from the port at Kennacraig.  Islay is one of the most underrated beautiful towns in Scotland.

Whisky Distilleries

Islay is foremost famous for its peat-smoked whisky, including many big-name global brands like Bowmore, Ardbeg, and Laphroaig. On the island, there are 8 fully functioning whisky distilleries, and each offers its own unique distillery tours and experiences. Give 8 days of whisky exploration alone.  

The Three Distillery Walk

The arrival port at Port Ellen marks the beginning of a convenient walk for those arriving on foot to the island known as the “3 Distilleries Walk”. This follows a 3-mile route connecting 3 of Islay’s more prominent Whisky distilleries Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg, along the southern coastline of the island. 

Island Tour

There are some tourist interests as well away from Islay’s whisky distilleries, and the island can be covered on a simple road trip on a short visit, including the lighthouses of Islay, the American Monument, and some nice sands at Machir Bay beach.  

Islay Wines

Not fussed for whisky? Then there is always Islay Wines. This is a newly established business on Islay and is the only West Coast winery in Scotland. They are also open for free tastings throughout the week. 

traveled by Allan Wilson from It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

The stunning town of Inveraray in Scotland lies on the banks of Loch Fyne, the picturesque architecture reflecting perfectly in the lake’s still waters. This Georgian town centres around the church, jailhouse, and castle, built for the Campbell Clan and is a spectacular place to visit to get a taste of historic Scottish life. If you’re looking for the most beautiful towns in Scotland, don’t miss out on Inveraray.

Visit the Castle

Located on the edge of Loch Fyne, Inveraray Castle is a neo-Gothic fortress that has been in the Dukes of Argyll family since the early 15th century and which today welcomes visitors to discover historical armour, weaponry, and artwork.

Guests can explore the house and gardens and can also walk up to Dun Na Cuaiche to enjoy excellent views of the castle and the town and loch beyond.

Visit Inveraray Jail and Courthouse

The Inveraray Jail and Courthouse is a living museum where visitors can step back in time to the 19th century to uncover the stories of those who were tried and imprisoned there. Gruesome punishments and strict sentences were doled out here, and visitors can see the cells and courthouse where it all took place!

Walk around Loch Fyne

Loch Fyne is one of Scotland’s many picturesque landscapes, with gentle hills gracing the shores of the lake and deer, birdlife, and even sometimes seals and otters being spotted around the water’s edge. Take in a small section of the lake as you walk out from Inveraray, perhaps stopping to enjoy a picnic en route.

Check out the Scottish Georgian architecture

Established in the mid-18th century by the Adam family and architect Robert Mylne, Inveraray is a planned town known for its Scottish Georgian architecture, with a grand neoclassical church, the Georgian jailhouse, the folk museum, and the bell tower.

Visit a Family-Run Brewery

An alternative activity to enjoy while visiting Inveraray is the Fyne Ales Brewery, a family-owned farm that creates Scottish beer and ales, taking water from the hills around Loch Fyne and turning it into the delicious amber nectar.

traveled by Chrysoula from All About Castles

Fort William

With around 6,000 inhabitants, Fort William is the largest city in the western Highlands and, without question, an important focal point of any road trip through Scotland.

This is truly one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland. It forms an axis with Inverness and Fort Augustus / Loch Ness along the lochs of the Central Scottish Highlands. In the tourist hotspot, you will find many bars and shopping opportunities.

However, you will not find the most important sights in the city itself, but as daily destinations in all directions:

No doubt, the main attraction of Fort William is the ascent of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Great Britain at 1,345 meters. But be careful: The tour should be planned and prepared accordingly, not only because of some difficult climbing passages, equipment, and weatherproof clothing are essential. The paths can be very crowded depending on the weather and time.

Nearby Mountains

The Ben Nevis is still a size too big or too touristy for you? Then the mamores are a good alternative. The picturesque mountain range lies between Kinlochleven and Glen Nevis. Here are a few more Munroes, the Scottish name for mountains higher than 3,000 ft. (914 meters).

In winter, the whole region is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders with the appropriate infrastructure of slopes and lifts. In summer, the area becomes more and more popular for mountain bikers.

If you prefer the water instead of the mountains, a boat trip to the picturesque Loch Linnhe is a great option. The ships regularly depart from Fort William, and on board, you have a completely different perspective of the city, surroundings, and nature.

You will find a special structure around 20 kilometers west of Fort William: The Glenfinnan Viaduct, also known as the Harry Potter Bridge, and a world-famous photo opportunity.

West Highland Museum

One of the attractions in Fort William itself is the West Highland Museum. Especially when the weather doesn’t play along for outdoor activities – and that should happen here and there in Scotland. In the museum, you will learn a lot about the history of the Highlands and the islands. Admission is free (!); donations are requested.

You see, Fort William is a great starting point for exploring the Western Highlands.

Traveled by Phil from JOURNICATION Travel Blog

Final Thoughts: Most Beautiful Towns in Scotland

Now you know all of the most beautiful towns in Scotland! Hopefully, this post has helped you to plan your next trip – there are so many lovely places to visit in this country.

Explore Edinburgh & Scotland

Be sure to check out the rest of Scotland while you’re visiting! See more of our posts below.

• 17 Best Photo Spots in Scotland From Castles to Mountains
• 12 Fun Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours for Literary Muggles
• 15 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh by Train
• 16 Best Edinburgh Instagram Spots
• 13 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh Scotland
• Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland | Ultimate Accommodation Guide
• How to Spend One Day in Edinburgh, Scotland

10 Edinburgh Ghost Tours That Will Freak You Out

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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20 Most Beautiful Places & Beauty Spots in Scotland

It's easy to find beautiful places to visit in Scotland. With our wild beaches, sparkling lochs and romantic castles, we're often referred to as one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Dunnottar Castle Aberdeenshire

A couple at Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

Dunnottar is one of the most recognisable castles in Scotland. Perched on the cliff edge of the North Sea, it boasts a dramatic and evocative atmosphere with centuries of history. Marvel at the intricate details and amazing condition of the castle, alongside the incredible panoramic views out to sea.

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Bow Fiddle Rock Moray

Bow Fiddle Rock, Portknockie

Bow Fiddle Rock in Portknockie is a stunning sight to admire as the sun shoots its last rays over the coastline. Hike the trails around the area, find your own secret slice of paradise and keep an eye out for the nesting seabirds, such as herring gulls, great black-backed and lesser black-backed gulls.

Isle of Iona Isle of Iona

Looking across the coast to the jetty on Iona

The Isle of Iona is a small, picturesque island just off the south west coast of Mull. Known for its strong, historic connections to Christianity, explore Iona Abbey or head to the northern coast which has beautiful bays and beaches, boasting the best views out to sea.

Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands North Uist

Camping at Clachan Sands

The Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands on  North Uist  is an impressive stretch of pristine white sands, perfect for a scenic stroll or a picnic on the beach. The crystal-clear waters and shallow bay give the perfect opportunity for snorkelling and swimming. Head for a wander at dusk to enjoy an immaculate sunset.

Bealach na Ba Wester Ross

Bealach na Ba

© @wills_onthehills

The Bealach na Ba is one of the most famous driving routes in Scotland. Known as the Road to Applecross, the route offers epic views out across the whole of Wester Ross, the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. With its tight bends and single track, this road isn't for the faint hearted but the views from the top are astonishing.

Loch Ken Galloway Forest Park

Loch Ken, Galloway Forest Park

© VisitScotland / Damian Shields

Located in the south east corner of the Galloway Forest Park, Loch Ken offers walking, cycling, watersports and fishing. Take a stroll around the banks of the loch at sunset and you'll be mesmerised by the landscapes.

Glenfinnan Fort William

Glenfinnan Monument

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Glenfinnan Monument is a striking tribute to those who fought in the Jacobite Risings. Set amid superb Highland scenery at the head of Loch Shiel, it sits opposite the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. A must-see for any amateur photographer or Instagram enthusiast.

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Eoligarry Beach Isle of Barra

Eoligarry Beach, Isle of Barra

© @steve_gormley

Eoligarry Beach is an unspoiled white sand beach on the Isle of Barra, the most southerly of the Outer Hebridean islands. Land on the island by plane along the famous Traigh Mhor beach and begin your adventure north to Eoligarry, featuring incredible views out to the islands of Orosay, Fuday and Fiaraidh around you.

An Lochan Uaine Cairngorms National Park

An Lochan Uaine

Legend says that this mysterious loch is green because the local fairies used to wash their clothes in the waters. It might just be due to the trees lying along the loch floor but either way, we think there is something pretty magical about the Green Loch in Glenmore Forest Park, situated in the heart of Cairngorms National Park .

Mealt Falls Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock, Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls on the north of Skye is an incredible sight. Partnered with the popular Kilt Rock, together they create a fantastic viewpoint. Take a wander around Mealt Loch, or along the coast and take in the jaw-dropping views for miles around you.

Rannoch Moor Perthshire

A frozen Lochan na h-Achlaise with a snow-capped Black Mount in the background, Rannoch Moor.

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved.

Rannoch Moor is one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe. You'll find grassy moorland, peat bogs, lochs and heather hillocks which all make for striking scenery.

National Wallace Monument Stirling

The Wallace Monument in autumn

Admire the famous National Wallace Monument in Stirling, and the incredible hills behind. Follow the story of Scottish patriot and martyr, Sir William Wallace at this national landmark where you can learn about centuries of history.

Ullapool Wester Ross

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Head to the north west coast of Scotland where you'll come across the quaint fishing village of Ullapool. The town boasts a variety of things to see and do, as well as being a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset or two over the pretty harbour.

St Abb's Scottish Borders

St Abb's is a small fishing village sitting on the Berwickshire coast only an hour south east of Edinburgh. You might recognise the jagged cliffs and old fishermen's cottages from the big screen - Marvel filmed here for the blockbuster, Avengers: Endgame . The town has even been twinned with New Asgard, the fictional village in the movie.

Glen Clova Angus Glens

Corrie Fee, Glen Clova

Glen Clova is a valley with superb views and an abundance of flora and wildlife. It's one of the Angus Glens, a series of tranquil valleys split by single-track roads, offering some of the most majestic landscapes of north east Scotland. It sits between Angus, Perthshire and Aberdeenshire and makes up part of the Cairngorms National Park.

Fingal's Cave Isle of Staffa

Fingals Cave on Staffa Island

This awe-inspiring natural formation will take your breath away. Marvel at the towering basalt columns and intricate rock details of Fingal's Cave as you take a boat tour out to the island and explore the enticing atmosphere of the cave itself. You'll find it off the west coast of Scotland.

Corryvreckan Whirlpool Isle of Jura

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

The Corryvreckan Whirlpool is one of the largest permanent whirlpools in the world and one of the most dangerous stretches of water around the British Isles. Take a boat ride out around the islands with a bumpy ride through the whirlpool itself, all in the hands of a very capable and experienced captain. It's located on the Gulf of Corryvreckan, between the isles of Jura and Scarba.

Loch Lomond Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Walkers on Conic Hill

Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland. Experience peace and quiet, whilst spotting wildlife and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Relax amongst the natural beauty of the lochs and breathe in the air of the hills and awe-inspiring views from each of these summits.

Yesnaby Castle sea stack Orkney

Yesnaby Castle sea stack on the west coast of Orkney

You can't help but admire the beauty around the Yesnaby Castle sea stacks. Sitting off the west coast of Orkney, this impressive rock formation is a great place to see various sea birds including the oyster catcher.

Tobermory Isle of Mull

A sea plane glides over the multicoloured houses along the pier at Tobermory, with the hills of North Mull over the water in the distance

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

Tobermory is one of the most easily recognisable towns in Scotland, thanks to the brightly coloured houses along the harbour-front. Head to the Isle of Mull where you can experience the magic of this quaint fishing port, which was used as inspiration for the popular children's TV show, Balamory .

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We might be biased, but we think Scotland truly is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Why not share your beautiful holiday destinations over on our social platforms -  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  X (formerly Twitter) ?

There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in every region, but why not slow down your travels and experience all that Scotland has to offer?

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10 BEST Scottish Highland Towns to Visit in Summer

Scotland is a dream destination for many, with breathtaking scenery, historic castles, and wildlife to discover throughout your journey. During my two-week road trip in Scotland exploring the NC500 route and nearby islands, I noted down a few scenic Scottish highland towns and villages that I would definitely love to come back to for a stay-cation. Here are the top 10 scenic Scottish highland towns and villages to visit and explore in Scotland, that are close to some epic scenery and diverse experiences.

• Planning a trip to Scotland?

Related Reading:   Scotland Road trip itinerary I followed for a two-week road trip that covered all the scenic towns below.

Scenic Scottish Highland Towns to Visit and Explore in Scotland

1- portree, isle of skye, 2- tobermory, isle of mull, 4- torridon, 5- plockton, lochalsh, 6- kinlochleven, glencoe, 7- fort augustus, loch ness, 8- inveraray, loch lomond, 9- pitlochry, perthshire, 10- luss, loch lomond and the trossachs, pin the top scottish highland towns.

Portree, the capital of Isle of Skye is a pretty romantic little town filled with cute houses and shops. The charming theme of this town catches your attention as soon as you enter. The colorful harbor is filled with boats including some old boats giving it an old setting look at the same time. This amazing Scottish town has some really cute shops making the shopping opportunity here very unique and it is a hub for other entertainment like music, theatre, movies, etc.

Staying at Portree offers many outdoor options to discover nearby. Skye is a heaven for mountaineers as with a wide range of mountains and trails to explore- Treshnish to the North which has the Old Man of Storr and the Cuillins in the Center and the South. 

Tobermory, one of the busiest towns on the Isle of Mull, is another picturesque Scottish village that has the Arctic ambiance as you see similar colored houses as you see in the bays of Sweden and Norway. Tobermory harbor is bigger and has so many types of colored houses that look like a lego themed island.

From Tobermory, you can catch boats and ferries to a series of islands in the sea formed by volcano lava and hunt for some sea wildlife. Whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, puffins; the list goes on depending on the time you visit. We saw some seals and birds during our journey but were not lucky to see whales or dolphins, which we saw earlier during the trip in Inverness. If you love animals like me, you can read this blog on wildlife spotted in Scotland and where to see them.

Oban is a pretty and relatively one of the largest Scottish highland towns in the southwest of Scotland but in my opinion, one of the top Scotland towns to visit and stay at. It is an amazing busy town with lots of nice architecture and is known as a seafood capital for food lovers out there. What makes it the best spot to stay at is it being a ferry hub to catch a ride to most of the islands around here. It is a 45 minutes ferry ride from Oban to Mull and a 5 minutes ride to the Isle of Kerrera. If you don’t know about Scottish islands, here is a good start.  

During my two-week road trip to Scotland , I only took two island trips due to time limitations and covid restrictions, which made finding tickets more difficult. I have become an island fan from this experience and have marked Oban as a place to go back and explore further in the future. 

I would call Torridon one of the most scenic Scottish Highland Towns in the NC500 route with amazing landscape and scenery. The picture says it all 😉

If you do not have the budget or time to do the entire NC500 route just going to Torridon and around Applecross will give you a good taste of the scenery Scottish highlands towns has to offer. I also spotted many native wild animals in Scotland driving around here.

Plockton is my favorite village in Scotland that I could even see myself retiring here. It is frequently referred to as the “Jewel of the Highlands”. With a scenic Loch Carron view, some tiny islands, and stunning houses or cottages, it is a perfect setting for a staycation. Many many movies are shot here and I can see why. I would love to go back and stay there for a week reading some of my favorite books or maybe write one 😉 

The seafood here is the most amazing I have ever had in my life, don’t miss the crab and the linguistics. Furthermore,  the restaurant I ate at, Plockton Hotel,  had one of the best services I have ever experienced. If you are looking for an authentic Scottish experience and a tranquil Scottish village to stay for a holiday, go to Plockton!   Kyle of Lochalsh , another amazing location, and the Eilean Doan Castle ,  is very nearby and all the places around Loch Carron will provide you with amazing views of islands including Skye. 

Glencoe near Fort Williams is a popular outdoor destination among Scottish Villages with a mountain resort and has many famous walking trails. It is located in the banks of Loch Leven and a famous Glen, the road is actually passing through an old volcano. The drive via this region is definitely one of the scenic most for a reason. Kinlochleven is a small Scottish village at the end of Loch Leven at the foot of stunning mountains with epic scenery along the route.

Fort Augustus is in the south of Loch Ness, one of the scenic Lochs in Scotland. This is a famous town with a Lock (read boat staircase) that lets boats in the canal  travel upstream. The shops here are very cute too and it is a romantic place to stop by or stay at. This Scotland town is very popular among cyclists and walkers. 

Invermoriston in a scenic little village near Fort Augustus that hosts Invermoriston falls and this very old bridge supporting the main road. On one side of the road there is a short walk to another old bridge where this picture was shot from, and the other has has a trail to a little summer house, as seen under the bridge in the picture above, which has a great view of the two bridges. Don’t miss this tiny Scotland village  walk if you visit.

Inveraray is a pretty town overlooking Loch Fyne with a lot of character making it so special and unique. I actually went there to see the famous Inveraray castle not knowing how splendid a town it was. With an epic black and white theme, this town is designed with careful planning and all the shops have a theme to them. The scenic loch view is breathtaking with a stunning bridge. This town also has a lot of history attached to it including a 19th century prison called the Inveraray Jail.

Pitlochry is another one of the prettiest Scotland villages which actually has the charm of Europe to it. The cafes here reminded me of Italy and California. The village hosts multiple distilleries nearby including Blair Athol and Edradour and is very picturesque. There is also Pitlochry Dam which is well known for its Salmon ladder, specifically designed to allow Salmon to make their way past the dam, but it was closed to due to Covid restrictions during our visit, however we were lucky to still spot salmons jumping to escape during the trip at Rogie waterfalls.

Luss is my most favorite Scottish village in Loch Lomond for its charming houses. The ambience of the shops and houses here is magical and you would love a walk through the village down to its pier here. 

The drive from Luss to Balloch is pretty scenic and the mountains here are great for a hike. I have been to Luss twice and I totally recommend it if you visit this area. Unfortunately I have lost some of my pictures taken in Luss, so  you can find some better pictures here.

I hope you found the top ten towns to visit and explore in Scotland interesting. I would certainly recommend these places to be added onto your Scotland Bucket List. If you have already been there, let me know your ranking and do suggest places I missed out.

Planning a Trip to Scotland?

If you want to plan a getaway to Scotland including these places, here is the Scotland Road Trip itinerary I followed pinned on a downloadable map. You can easily find all the highlights around a location in the map. Don’t forget to pin for future reference!

Jumana is a travel writer and technologist living in the United Kingdom, born and brought up in India. While she is busy with her full time job as a computer technologist, she is an active explorer during her spare time. She has been exploring states of India since she was 15 and then around the world since she moved to the west in her 20s. Her favourite travel style is “On the Road” and she has perfected the art of road trip planning, covering multiple famous and undiscovered routes around Europe, UK and USA. She is on a mission to road trip the planet and learn more about the cultures around the world.

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63 comments

What an epic road trip! I very much want to see all these scenic towns myself eventually and eat some of that best-ever seafood too!

Thanks Steven♥️ You are gonna love these towns, they are super pretty. And seafood is too good to be true here too. I wish you travel here soon.

Jumana, your road trip sounds good. I have read about the NC500 route. Will definitely be there this year end to see all the attractions.

Thanks Bella. Hope you could see the itinerary post as well to plan your adventures. Thanks for reading.

Oh! My word. “Crab and linguistics” at the Plockton Hotel. Sounds like a mouthful.

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Planning A Scotland Trip? Travel Experts Say This Small Town “Oozes Charm”

Don’t miss it.

There are so many places worth visiting in scenic Scotland. Edinburgh, the country’s capital, was named number one in Time Out’s list of best cities in the world for 2022. Glasgow is renowned for its music, nightlife, and arts scene. Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, boasts stunning landscapes, medieval sites , and proximity to Loch Ness. But while all should certainly be on your must-see list, they sometimes overshadow the quainter places that contribute just as much to Scotland’s beauty and intrigue as their larger counterparts. In fact, you may not have heard of many of Scotland’s most charming (albeit, smaller) towns at all.

And it’s time to change that. If you’re planning a trip to the country, definitely make space for its biggest attractions — but at the same time, be sure to include some under-the-radar , equally character-filled places to give you a fuller experience. Not only will they expose you to more of Scotland’s rich history and endless outdoor adventures, but they’ll also give you plenty of the classic storybook-like charm that the country is so well known for. Perfect Instagram pics, here you come.

Though if you’ve never been to Scotland, that’s obviously easier said than done. Thus, TZR tapped several experts to get the lowdown on some of the quaintest, prettiest, and lesser-known Scottish towns you shouldn’t miss. From tiny coastal villages to breathtaking lake-front destinations , here’s what they suggested.

Scotland is brimming with charming towns, but Oban is one in particular that comes highly recommended from our sources. Mandy Pullin, co-owner and agent of DPP Travel and a Virtuoso Travel Advisor, calls it one of her favorite places in the country. According to her, that’s because it has “all the things” that make Scotland unique and wonderful. “It is a seaside port city with historical sites nearby (two castles!), wonderful local shopping, and pubs.” And, she continues, “It’s a gateway to the Isles and in fact, you can see the Isle of Mull from the shoreline.”

There are many other draws as well. Pullin says it serves “some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat” right near the port at the Oban Seafood Hut. Oban is part of the Above and Below Argyll trail initiative , and is also a great place to experience “wild water” in Scotland. For accommodations, she loves staying a little out of town at Loch Melfort Hotel . “You don’t get much more charming than Highland Cows (Coos) right there on the property and sweeping views of the loch.”

According to Rick Lunt, Head of Travel Curation at Origin , Kenmore is a small town in Perthshire located on the banks of Loch Tay worth visiting. While there, he recommends exploring the place as well as the small villages surrounding the lake. He also says not to miss the Black Rock Viewpoint, the town of Killin, and the hamlet of Ardeonaig during your visit. And as for where to stay? “There are several luxury inns and private mansions to call home while you explore this stunning region of the Highlands.”

Looking for something truly picture-postcard perfect? Victoria Gooch, a UK-based journalist and British travel expert who runs the website Curiously British , says Tobermory, the capital of the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides, is it. “Brightly colored buildings line the harbor front and are backed by tree-lined hillside,” she tells TZR, setting the scene.

According to Gooch, the town was originally built as a fishing port in the 18th century, and is now “a popular stop-off point for boaters sailing in the western isles of Scotland as well as visitors by ferry.” On its main street, she says you’ll find hotels, arts and craft shops, lively pubs, and the Tobermory Distillery . And, there’s plenty to do in its surrounding areas as well. “Beyond Tobermory, you can explore the wilder parts of Mull and its trails, or follow the coastline for spectacular scenery in the Sound of Mull,” she continues.

All you Outlander fans, take note — Gooch says Falkland was recast as Inverness in the cult-favorite show, meaning you’ve probably already added this stunning town to your travel list without even realizing what it was.

According to Gooch, Falkland is a former royal burgh in the Kingdom of Fife in eastern Scotland. “At the foot of the Lomond Hills, the medieval town is home to the 16th-century Falkland Palace, a favorite of Mary, Queen of Scots,” she says. And that’s not all for its history: Gooch says it’s also “home to the Royal Tennis Club, the world's oldest real tennis court still in use.”

Mike Peddie is the owner of the Scottish travel website Secret Scotland , and lives in and explores Scotland year-round to research for the site and travel guides. Of all the places he’s been, Peddie cites Dornoch — a town on the east coast near Inverness — as a particular favorite.

According to Peddie, Dornoch oozes charm, “with narrow side streets that meander around the old cathedral, quaint cottages all built from a gold-colored sandstone, and beautiful flower displays in summer.” The fact that it has a castle in the town center “is the icing on the cake,” he says. Dornoch also has a rich history that makes for an interesting visit. It’s built around a small cathedral that dates from the 13 th century, and he says there are even signposted walking trails that guide you to various places, like the spot where the last witch was burnt to death in Scotland.

Accommodations allow for a wide range of budgets here, says Peddie. On the higher end, you can stay in Links House Hotel near Royal Dornoch Golf Club, or Dornoch Castle , which has a cozy whisky bar. “For something cheaper, we recommend Heartseed House B&B which is located in quiet countryside just beside Dornoch, or for somewhere in Dornoch town the Albatross B&B ,” he continues.

Matt Vickery is a former freelance journalist who founded the travel website Wandering Our World , and grew up in the Highlands of Scotland. While he says he’s lived elsewhere for more than a decade, he always spends time in Ullapool on Scotland's west coast when he returns home. “The road to this pretty coastal village from Inverness is beautiful as it'll have you meandering past mountains, lochs, and through valleys, before opening up to the west coast and the small town of Ullapool — the gateway to the remote Western Isles.”

One of the main reasons Vickery loves Ullapool is because it’s actually one of the major hubs of Scottish traditional music. “On the weekend, you can often find several cozy pubs serving delicious food, local beer, and whisky to the sound of live traditional Scottish music in the background,” he shares. According to him, three of the most popular live music spots to visit — The Argyll Hotel , Ferry Boat Inn , and the Ceilidh Place — each have accommodation options, too.

While you’re waiting for the evening festivities to start, Vickery recommends taking a road trip to Achiltibuie. “The road winds around the bottom of mountains, past loch shores, and is spectacular,” he says. “The view from the village of Achiltibuie out towards the Summer Isles is one of the best in Scotland. But it's a little known spot amongst tourists.”

For another lesser-known but charming town in Scotland, Matthew Fox, CEO of Independent Cottages , suggests Dunkeld. “It is brimming with history dating back as far as 2,000 years, with a beautiful cathedral that is the centerpiece of its town and quaint white cottages lining its streets.” Being that it’s a small town in Perthshire, Fox describes it as the perfect place to experience a quieter, more rural way of life. However, it’s also close to “popular Scottish destinations including Perth, Aberfeldy, and Blairgowrie,” he explains, so you can easily visit other destinations if you need more to do.

With its surrounding countryside, Fox says Dunkeld is also ideal for people who enjoy cycling and walking, and to take in Scotland’s renowned scenery. “Nearby there is Hermitage Woodland, which is open all year round with some of the tallest trees in Scotland, and Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve, famous for its ospreys which come to nest annually here.” And if you’re looking for a place to stay, The Bothy is a rural hideaway in the area made for retreating to after a day of exploration.

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7 Gorgeous Small Towns To Visit In The Scottish Lowlands

• Destinations
• United Kingdom

Scotland is a large and varied country, sometimes wild in its landscape, sometimes calm and serene, but always interesting. Drive out of any busy city and you’re straight into open countryside, many filled with mountains and lochs. In the lowlands, you can travel easily between the two cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, but sprinkled around them, on both coasts and deep inland, there are the most gorgeous small towns just waiting to be discovered. Some have been spawned from old fishing villages, some have taken the overflow of the cities and bloomed with a bigger population, while some are historic towns that were once royal burghs. But all of them offer beauty and interesting stories. In no particular order, here are 7 gorgeous small towns to visit in the Scottish Lowlands.

1. Anstruther

A pretty coastal town in the Kingdom of Fife, Anstruther still appears like the remote fishing village it once was. A short drive up the coast from Edinburgh, Anstruther makes a charming day trip from the city or a good base from which to explore the region of Fife. The sprinkle of little fishing villages on this coastline is a delight to discover, and the sandy beaches are pretty much deserted. Anstruther’s harbor is packed with small boats, some so intriguing that it’s relaxing and interesting to just spend time gazing out at them. With traditional pubs on corners and in the narrow old streets, it’s a place to unwind, wander, and just take in the peace and quiet. The town’s fish bar claims the best fish and chips in the world, which is a bold claim. I don’t know if that’s true, but I can confirm these are extremely good fish and chips!

Pro Tip: Book a candle-making workshop with local candle maker Jo Macfarlane . Workshops last about two-and-a-half hours and you’ll learn how to make your own candles and take home your own creation from the class.

2. Dunfermline

For a small Scottish town, Dunfermline certainly has a big history. This quiet, unassuming town was once the capital of Scotland, though you wouldn’t believe it today. It was here that King Malcome Canmore established his court after Macbeth died, and here that James I was born. Maybe it was all too long ago, but visitors tend to migrate to Edinburgh and other cities instead of this fascinating historic little town. But that does mean you get it pretty much to yourself. For a modern take on traditional Scottish cuisine, book a table at Jack O’Bryan’s . Good quality, locally sourced ingredients are used to create beautifully presented dishes, and all with a nod to the home country.

Pro Tip: If you like a historic building with a touch of the macabre, visit the abbey and palace where King Robert the Bruce found his final resting place. There are guides on hand to show you where Robert is and to tell you how he fell and how he was moved to where he is now, which seems to be just a random spot on the floor. They’ll also tell you his remains are there, except for his heart, which had been separated from his body. Bruce successfully kept Scotland free from England’s rule until his death.

3. Dumfries

Known as “the queen of the south,” Dumfries is a market town a stone’s throw from the Scottish/English border. The town boasts some famous sons, including J M Barrie, author of Peter Pan, and Robbie Burns, Scotland’s most famous poet and writer, who spent his final years here. The town’s attractions reflect how proud they are of their two most famous residents. The Moat Brae is Scotland’s national center for storytelling and children’s literature, and you can explore the gardens and house that reportedly inspired the writing of Peter Pan . You can also visit the Robert Burns Centre to discover more about the nation’s much-loved bard. Small cafes and art galleries adorn the streets here, in this traditional Scottish small town.

Pro Tip: Visit in January for the best Burns Night celebrations in Scotland. This festival, in honor of the great bard, spans 300 art shows, performances, and displays. It’s community based, so everyone you see is based in the local area.

4. North Berwick

The sleepy town of North Berwick is a quiet and peaceful place of empty beaches and large sweeping golf courses. The Scottish Seabird Centre is perfectly placed here as seabirds perch on rocks and congregate on headlands in large groups. The largest colony of northern gannets in the world choose this as their favorite place to be. You can wander out with a pair of binoculars and watch them from afar, or join an organized tour to get the best views. The town has won awards for its gardens and flower displays, and it has some beautifully maintained common parkland areas. This is the place to indulge in quaint tearooms and ice cream parlors, and to wander by the sea, enjoying the fresh air and calm.

Pro Tip: Pop into Osteria restaurant for some award-winning Italian food. The chef here is the youngest person ever to win Italian Restaurant Chef of the Year and the Scottish Restaurant Chef of the Year. You’ll soon see why when you visit — the food is outstanding.

5. Linlithgow

Birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and James V of Scotland, you don’t get much more historically important than Linlithgow . Although most of Scotland has some historical significance, this town is especially important. The ruins of the great palace where Mary and James were both born, sits on the banks of Loch Linlithgow and is an inspiring sight. You can tour the ruins, but the upper floor isn’t accessible to anyone with mobility issues. Some of the stone ground is unstable and care is needed when climbing over the ruins. The town has a good local farmer’s market on the fourth Saturday of every month. If you can time your visit to coincide with the market, you can pick up some locally produced treats. If you like walking, John Muir Way is a two-hour-round walk that takes in the highlights of the town, plus some more off-the-beaten-track sites.

Where To Stay

The Court Residence Aparthotel features 16 rooms, all equipped with a kitchenette and everything you need to take care of yourself during your stay. Perfect for anyone who wants the freedom to come and go as they please and explore Linlithgow at their own pace.

Situated in the Scottish Borders, Melrose is just a hop over from England, but it is very Scottish! The abbey, dating from 1136, is an impressive ruin with important historical significance. A casket was found in this abbey that contained the missing heart of Robert the Bruce, whose body was found in Dunfermline! The abbey is the attraction most visitors come to see, but the town itself is quaint and pretty and the surrounding countryside is quite breathtaking. The Romans built a fort here, on what they called “the place of the three hills.” Today, a museum tells the story of the Romans in this area and evidence of their occupation is still evident. Dining out will mostly be centered around pubs, with some good cafes in the daytime for cake and tea. The surrounding countryside, which you can see from the town, is perfect for hiking and walking.

Harmony House , aptly named, is an 18th-century house that was originally built as a private dwelling and is now an eight-bedroom holiday house. Plenty of period features remain in this stunning old manor house, but all modern amenities have been added, so you get the best of both worlds. This vast house sleeps up to 15 people and is set in beautiful grounds with amazing views.

7. East Kilbride

In the 1950s, East Kilbride was a rural hamlet made up mostly of farmland, but as the nearby city of Glasgow began to expand in population, this one-time village was made into a town to provide housing and amenities for more people. This makes East Kilbride a “new town.” Evidence of its former self is everywhere: in the National Museum for Rural Life and in the ruins of the area’s two castles. The oldest part of the town is still referred to as “the village,” but is now a busy scene of shops and restaurants. The town is a striking mix of old and new. The church here dates back to 1774, while Whitelee Wind Farm is the UK’s biggest onshore wind farm, complete with a visitors center. For a small town, East Kilbride has gone all out to provide things to do for its inhabitants. There’s an ice rink, an aqua center, golf courses, and a shopping mall.

The Coach House is an incredible 19th-century building, built as a stable and accommodation for the coachman and his family. It’s now an amazing cottage that sleeps 5 and is surrounded by 5 acres of grounds. This is a quirky and unusual place to stay, with lots of space and interesting history.

Scotland is large and varied, with big cities surrounded by unique villages and small towns:

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Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

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59+ Best Places to Visit in Scotland (Written By A Local)

• 27th February 2022
• 14 minute read

This country is one for the wild to run free, take bold swims and explore ruined castles. It’s unforgiving, but giving; harsh but oh-so-pretty! Does this sound like your cup of tea?.. These are the best places to visit in Scotland – recommended to you by a local.

With our mountainous landscapes, secluded beaches and overall encapsulating scenery; my country is bursting with beauty! Scotland is my birthplace and my home, and as each adventure unfolds, my love for this rugged paradise grows stronger and deeper.

Psst!… You may want to keep a note of these locations for your own visit to Scotland. Scroll down to the bottom of this exhaustive list to access a Google Map with most of the coordinates (and more) already pinpointed for your convenience.

Table of Contents

…for beaches, …for castles, …for culture, …for design, …for highland coos, …for hill-walking, …for history, …for island life, …for mountains, …for outdoor adventure sports, …for the prettiest village, …for a road trip, …for seafood, …for shipwrecks, …for train-spotting, …for waterfalls, …for wildlife, …for wild swimming, things to do & what to see in scotland, scottish highlands google map legend, save this to pinterest….

Don’t have time to read this now? Save this blog for later on Pinterest .

The Best Places to Visit in Scotland…

Time your visit with the odd day or two of summer and you will be gobsmacked by the beauty of our beaches! Take this from a Scottish Highlander and full-time traveller… I’d argue that Scotland has some of the best beaches in the world! But… What are the best beaches in Scotland?

After one quick image search of Luskentyre Beach, you’ll be sold! Luskentyre can be found in the south of the island of Lewis and Harris . The place has some of the most amazing views in Scotland. You can rest assured, knowing that they are totally worth the often choppy ferry ride and the long drive to get there!

Hushinish is located as far west as you can drive in Harris. However, once you arrive you’ll be greeted with its turquoise waters, fine sand and rugged backdrop of hills and lochs. The area is a Scottish paradise!

For more information, read this guide to the campsite and beach at Hushinish.

Sandwood Bay

Located in the remote corner of northwest Scotland, this sandy beach rewards those who take on the 4-mile walk beforehand.

Achmelvich is in the northwest of Scotland, 40 miles north of Ullapool and along the North Coast 500 . This beach does not disappoint; its perfect white sand and clear water ensure that it’s noticed by anyone who so chooses to endure the windy roads to drive there. The area is also home to Europe’s Smallest Castle .

Red Point is a remote peninsula 10 miles southwest of Gairloch in Wester Ross. It has two secluded sandy beaches that are backed by reasonably tall dunes and grassy slopes, with the most northerly being characterised by its red-hued sand. This is a great destination for anyone seeking to find some tranquillity.

Scotland is home to thousands of castles! Whether they are still standing pretty and proud, or broken into ruins; you’ll want to visit at least a few to experience Scotland’s iconic history!

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

The ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe are a popular stop-off on the northeast coast of the Highlands. They are dramatic, enchanting and very Game of Thrones!

Eilean Donan Castle

It doesn’t matter if Eilean Donan Castle is surrounded by a thick and moody mist or standing proud in the stillness of a clear blue sky, this castle is always photogenic! In fact, it has also featured in blockbuster movies such as James Bond and Highlander. For your convenience, there are many guided tours from Edinburgh that include Eilean Donan Castle within their itinerary.

Urquhart Castle

With such a superb location, Urquhart Castle is amongst some outstanding views of Loch Ness . Nowadays, the castle is accompanied by a huge visitor centre that includes a restaurant and a large gift shop.

Hermit’s Castle

It’s not uncommon to be dazzled by the white sand and turquoise waters of Achmelvich Beach , but if you walk a little further you will find Europe’s Smallest Castle . This is one of the more unique places to visit in Scotland!

Dunrobin Castle

About a mile past Golspie stands a classically fairytale castle that has a garden well-kept to impress. Between towers, turrets and falconry displays, this castle is on a whole other level than the others!

The official Fringe website states that the Edinburgh Fringe Festival ‘ is the single greatest celebration of arts and culture on the planet ‘. For three weeks in August, Edinburgh , Scotland’s capital city welcomes thousands of people from all over the world to honour creativity across its varying forms. It’s a colourful, energetic and joyful period as artists and performers take to the stage and locals gather in busy beer gardens.

The centrepiece of Dundee’s recent revival is Scotland’s first-ever design museum. The V&A Dundee is now something of a cultural hub in the city. Here, visitors can marvel at the evolution of design inside an array of both permanent and temporary exhibitions from around the world.

These furry beasts can be spotted in fields all over Scotland, and not just in the Scottish Highlands. In fact, you may even find one blocking your road ahead!

If you are looking for a more certain encounter with one of these cute, and very photogenic animals, then keep your eyes particularly peeled at the following locations.

Hushinish is a popular beach and park-up on the Isle of Harris . Incoming cars, campervans and motorhomes are often slowed down by a group of slow-moving Highland Cows on the road (one of which has been pictured below) .

Culloden Battlefield

Highland Cows are quite often kept in the nearby field to the entrance of the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre . This is on the outskirts of Inverness which is the capital city of the Scottish Highlands.

Rothiemurchus

Plan the perfect date to meet a Highland Cow with the Rothiemurchus Centre near Aviemore. From there, you can follow a ranger on a coo safari to a field of hairy Highlands who will be happy to pose for a selfie, or two!

You cannae visit Scotland without going for a wee hill walk! However, if you are more adventurous, you might want to bag a Munro or two.

The Bones Caves

Both the hiking route and the remarkable views from the Bones Caves make for the perfect introductory walk to the northwest Highlands of Scotland.

Stac Pollaidh

Our beloved Stac Pollaidh is small enough to be considered an easy climb, yet tall enough to yield some absolutely breathtaking views over the Summer Isles.

Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is one of the most popular, and consequently, the busiest walk on the Isle of Skye. The ‘Old Man’ is a large prominent pinnacle of rock that stands tall amongst other interesting rock formations. This place is a haven for photographers!

Hiking to the top of Ben Nevis is one of Scotland’s bigger challenges; Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the United Kingdom. At 1,345 metres, you should have experience in hill-walking if you are going to attempt this one!

Arthur’s Seat

This recommendation is by far, not the biggest and most beautiful hill walk that Scotland has to offer, but it is a popular choice with visitors to Edinburgh . With only a short walk, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of the City of Edinburgh , the bridges, and beyond!

Knoydart is a remote peninsula that is only accessed by foot or boat. The area is dramatic and untamed with bold peaks and beautiful views across the water to the rugged Small Isle hilltops and the Skye Cuillins.

As a born and bred Scottish Highlander, I believe that the array of history that Scotland encompasses is often taken for granted by the local people. Most car journeys, or towns even, involve some kind of impressive milestone of Scotland’s past. To any visitor, there is plenty for you to spot, stop and admire.

One of Orkney’s most-visited ancient sites is Skara Brae. This is a remarkable and well-preserved Neolithic village, take a step back in time whilst you wander amongst these homes.

Callanish Standing Stones

The Callanish Standing Stones is one of Scotland’s most iconic sights of historical interest. Their exact reason for existing has been lost to history. Can you work out the mystery?

Balmoral Cairns

Did you know Scotland has a pyramid ? The majority of cairns in the Balmoral Estate were erected by Queen Victoria to commemorate members of the Royal family, with others marking important events.

There are around 790 islands off the coast of Scotland; 94 of which are inhabited. Once you’ve experienced one, island-hopping around Scotland could quickly become your new travel addiction!

Isle of Lewis and Harris

The change of pace, lifestyle and traditions of Lewis and Harris is what attracts many visitors to this island. Learn more about an island road trip around Lewis and Harris here.

Tucked away between Skye, Rona and the mainland of Scotland is the Isle of Raasay. It may only be 14 miles long and 5 miles wide, but there are several good walks and some fascinating historical sights to visit across the island.

Orkney & Shetland

The Orkney and Shetland Islands are often referred to as the Northern Isles. Each island has a distinct character, with an array of natural wonders and interesting historical sites to explore.

The Isle of Canna is the westernmost and most northerly of the four islands known as the Small Isles in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. The island is also connected to the neighbouring island of Sanday by a small road bridge and sandbanks at low tide.

Of the four islands in the Small Isles, the Isle of Rum is the largest of the archipelago. However this is not respective to the island’s population, in fact, there are many more red deer on the island than people  – we’re talking tens of residents to hundreds of deer!

Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona offers picture-perfect sandy beaches, excellent walking opportunities, a quaint village experience and the possibility of wildlife sightings on both the land and sea. At just three miles long by one mile wide, visiting the Iona is like experiencing Scotland on a miniature scale.

One of the greatest pleasures of a visit to Scotland is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mountainous landscapes. The Scottish Highlands is an unmissable part of the country!

Surrounded by the drama of the Glencoe Valley, Glencoe is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland – these landscapes are to die for!

The Cairngorm National Park is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. It includes five of the six highest summits in the UK. This wild mountainous area is a playground for wildlife watchers and adventure sports enthusiasts.

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Or, perhaps you’re on a hunt for a challenging route to scramble, climb, ski or snowboard? If you are looking for a real adventure, then two towns instantly spring to mind as the best places to visit in Scotland for outdoor sports.

Fort William

Fort William is the beating heart of Scotland’s outdoor adventure sports. In fact, it’s widely reported as the ‘ Outdoor Capital of the UK ‘. If you take one wander around town, you’ll be surrounded by hillwalkers, mountain bikers, climbers and other like-minded individuals. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Scottish Highlands for the more adventurous travellers!

Aviemore is the gateway to the Cairngorms. It’s a happening place all year round, whether it be with snowsports or other outdoor activities. In fact, if you happen to time your visit with an event, you could find yourself being amongst anything from a Huskey Race to a Harley Davidson Rally. Hiking and wild swimming is also extremely popular in the Cairngorms.

Much of Scotland’s charm and Scottish culture can be found in the pretty communities dotted around the country. The best places to visit in Scotland for quaint villages are typically the seaside towns, though there are of course many others in between.

Situated on the northwestern coast of the Isle of Mull , the colourful fishing town of Tobermory is one of the most picturesque towns in Scotland. So much so, that the children’s TV series, Balamory, was filmed there in recent years.

Portree is the capital town of the Isle of Skye. It is yet another picture-perfect waterfront with brightly-coloured buildings. Plus, the drive there is just as gorgeous!

Dean Village

Situated five minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Princes Street, Dean Village is a much more peaceful setting on the Water of Leith in Edinburgh .

Shieldaig is a quaint village of Wester Ross in the northwest of the Scottish Highlands. As the buildings overlook Loch Torridon, the front street is worth a slow wander to take it all in.

Plockton is another one of Scotland’s pretty fishing villages. Unfortunately, the tiny streets of Plockton can’t cope with many crowds or larger vehicles so this one is not recommended for motorhomes or campervans.

Scotland’s public transport system is not the best, especially around any remote area of the country. That being the case, many choose to enjoy the expansive scenery with a self-guided road trip.

The North Coast 500

The North Coast 500, otherwise known as the NC500, is the ‘Route 66’ of the Scottish Highlands. It links together over 500 miles of unforgettable experiences and picturesque park-ups , including white sandy beaches, remote fishing villages, jaw-dropping valleys, coastal scenery then rough-and-ready mountains. The road links some of the top places to visit in Scotland.

Click here for a Highlander’s Guide to Scotland’s North Coast 500 .

Island Hopping the Outer Hebrides

The islands are where you can truly experience the wilderness of Scotland. A road trip through the Outer Hebrides will be an adventure, but spending some time on Lewis and Harris will be a great introduction. There, visitors will be able to have some of the most local experiences in Scotland without the distraction of large crowds.

It has been estimated that Scotland’s coastline is over 11,500 miles. With that being said, it would be rude not to indulge in the recipes of seafood whilst you are there!

The Oban Seafood Hut is the best place to savour superb seafood without the expense of an upmarket restaurant. It’s the small shack near the ferry terminal, usually with a queue.

Situated on the northwest coast, Mallaig is the final call along the famous Road to the Isles. It’s a fascinating harbour town which accommodates many fishermen, ferry goers and tourists disembarking the Jacobite Steam Train. Naturally, the town boasts many seafood restaurants as they sell some of the freshest produce around.

This charming port town is on the shores of Loch Broom. Ullapool is home to the award-winning Seafood Shack , this is a favourite to locals and visitors alike.

With a rich maritime history, miles of harsh coastline and wild winds, it’s unsurprising that Scotland has quite the collection of shipwrecks. Some are still unfound, whilst others have become a sight to behold as they slowly decay close to shore.

Scapa Flow is a sheltered body of water that has played an important role in travel, trade and conflict over the years. In more recent times, Scapa Flow has ranked as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Even if you don’t take a peek beneath the waters, the stories the area above the water has to tell are endless!

In my opinion, the Old Boat of Caol is Scotland’s most photogenic wreckage. Within a short drive from Fort William , this emotive shipwreck lies peacefully upon the stony beach of Corpach.

There are train connections within each of Scotland’s seven cities, plus, the rail network links many towns and villages across the country. As these services travel across the Scottish Highlands, there are many spectacular arched bridges that support the train lines; beautiful for photographs and perfect for trainspotting.

Culloden Viaduct

If you are travelling by train, you may cross the Culloden Viaduct without even realising it. The structure is in regular use, however, there aren’t any steam trains on this one.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Whether you are an avid trainspotter, an obsessed Harry Potter or someone in between, watching the Jacobite Steam Train travel across the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an unforgettable magic moment!

With the varying levels of terrain and notorious rainfall, Scotland has some pretty spectacular waterfalls hidden within glens, hills and forests.

Wailing Widow Falls

You’d think that finding beauty like the Wailing Widow Falls would only be a result of a long, enduring hike. As remote as Loch Na Gainmhich is, the whole area and the amazing waterfall are actually fairly accessible – just bring your wellies!

Steall Falls

The Steall Falls Walk is often described as one of the best short walks in Scotland. The hike is simple, yet the results are rewarding. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Steall Falls is also an iconic location that is featured in The Goblet of Fire and The Half-Blood Prince.

Scotland is one of the best places in Europe to spot marine wildlife. Also, thanks to two national parks, there are also many habitats in which you can observe land mammals, and birds too!

On the road to Hushinish, a small parking area and a 1.3-mile long track direct hikers to an observatory that has been built specifically to watch golden eagles.

Duncansby Head

Whether you are a birdwatcher or not, you will not want to miss out on an opportunity to see puffins . Duncansby Head is just one of the many places to see these cute and colourful birds. The best time to spot them is between March and May.

The Outer Hebrides

Marine wildlife is in an abundance in and around the Outer Hebrides . In fact, you are likely to spot something on a ferry ride across the Minch. The Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust have a great website with specie profiles, and where you might be likely to spot them.

Orkney and Shetland can offer the best chance of spotting killer whales. You are more likely to spot them during the summer months of May to July, although sightings have been made during these times.

Chanonry Point

A narrow peninsula, which is near Rosemarkie and a little further from Inverness , is the ideal location for spotting dolphins in the Moray Firth. Dolphin activity at this location depends on the tidal conditions, but if you time it right, you’ll witness a great display of bottlenose dolphins from a very close distance.

There are hundreds of lochs in Scotland, and the sea is just as uninviting, but the invigorating, adrenaline-pumping splash into cold water is still an unmissable Scottish experience. Here are all but a few of the best places to visit in Scotland for a wild swim…

Wild swimming in Loch Ness should only be done at your own risk because this body of water has a resident monster!.. She’s called Nessie.

Loch Morlich

With only a short drive from Aviemore, Loch Morlich is a very popular option for watersports, walking, relaxation and wild swimming.

Loch an Eilein

Loch an Eilein is an extremely beautiful body of water that feels secluded from the world by the pines of Rothiemurchus Forest. All of these natural features surround a ruined island castle that sits peacefully within swimming distance from the shore.

Achmelvich Beach

This beach is so deserving of its third mention on this list of ‘the best places to visit in Scotland’. With clear water, white sand and an alluring coastline to explore; it’s a haven for wild swimmers.

This may be the answer to all of your questions!.. It has all of the Scotland destinations plotted on an interactive map for your convenience. That way, you will not miss out on any of the best places to visit in Scotland!

This Google Map Legend showcases 140+ need-to-know coordinates within our bonnie Scottish Highlands & Islands:

• Awesome Wild Camping Park-Ups
• Best Walks, Viewpoints, Beaches
• Bucket List Locations
• Accessible Showers & Fresh Water Taps
• Relevant Links to Online Travel Guides

Let’s go! @katie.maree

Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. I travelled 100 countries before I turned 30 years of age. Now... Let's go everywhere!

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12 Must Visit Towns and Villages in the Scottish Borders

This post lists the best towns and villages in the Scottish Borders that you must visit. The Scottish Borders is a lovely region in Scotland to explore.

Despite the Scottish Borders being in an ideal central location in the UK between Edinburgh and England . The area is often missed out by tourists.

Scottish Borders is a very easy place to reach from the capital city of Edinburgh . This area has everything that you need and bonus, you can avoid all the busy tourist traffic. 

The Berwickshire coast is stunning and dramatic. Also, there is a tranquil vista of rolling hils in the countryside.

Some towns are villages in the Scottish Borders are so charming and beautiful . It is worth it to pay a visit. 

Peebles is a romantic town located on the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders . This is an area which is surrounded by outstanding beauty. A wealth of medieval buildings from the 12th century make up the town. 

The Cross Kirk is one of the medieval buildings, a Trinitarian priory founded by Alexander II in 1296. Traquair House is one of the greatest historic houses in Scotland.

A large map of Scotland known as the Great Polish Map is located nearby. This walk was made by a Polish soldier who was interested in Topography.  

Learn about a well-known Scottish author at the John Buchan Story . Also, learn more about the history of Peebles and the surrounding area at Tweeddale Museum and Gallery .

Peebles Accommodation: Macdonald Cardrona Hotel Golf & Spa , Barns Bothy , Coachman’s Cottage

Things to do in Peebles

• Traquair House
• 1881 Gin Distillery & Microbrewery
• Neidpath Castle
• John Buchan story
• Tweeddale Museum & Gallery
• Great Polish Map

Lauder is a former Royal Burgh and the town has a long medieval High Street. Also, the town is close to the Lammermuir Hills .

Lauder is one of the stops on the Southern Upland Way . The Southern Upland Way is a long-distance walking route from Portpatrick on the west coast to Cockburnspath on the east. 

Thirestane Castle is a 17th-century castle which was once the magnificent home to the Maitland family. The castle has wonderful plasterwork ceilings, fine furnishings and paintings.

There is a toy museum in the castle, tours are available during the summer months.

Lauder Accommodation: Black Bull , Lornebank Homestay , The Maitland at Thirlestane Castle

Things to do in Lauder

• Thirlestane Castle
• Southern Upland Way

In the 19th century, the textile industry was booming in Galashiels . Lots of mills were established in the area and the population increased.

You can learn more about the history and heritage on the Architectural Trail , and the Old Gala House . Also, make sure to pay a visit to The Great Tapestry of Scotland Gallery & Visitor Centre .

Galashiels is a stop on the Southern Uplands Way . Also, the Borders Railway stops here and you can join the National Cycle Network Route 1 . 

Galashiels Accommodation: Tweedbank , The Salmon Inn , Watson Lodge Guest House

Things to do in Galashiels

• Borders Railway Line
• Great Tapestry of Scotland Gallery & Visitor Centre
• Old Gala House
• National Cycle Network Route 1
• Southern Uplands Way

Melrose is a small historic town located near the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders . The small town has a lovely selection of boutique shops and lovely restaurants.

Located at the foot of the Eildon Hills , this is the perfect place to base yourself to hike one of the three hills. Eildon Hill North is a relatively easy and quick hike. 

Melrose has a long history, the Romans occupied the area. Melrose Abbey was the first Cistercian abbey to be established in Scotland . The abbey is famous for the brilliant medieval carving and as a burial place of two kings. 

There are two historic gardens nearby. Priorwood features an apple orchard and Harmony Gardens has a stunning walled garden.

Also, the home of Sir Walter Scott – Abbotsford House is located three miles west on the banks of the River Tweed .

In 1883, Ned Haig a local butcher and rugby player discovered Rugby’s Sevens. Every spring, there is a carnival atmosphere when the international tournament – Melrose Sevens takes place. 

Melrose Accommodation: Mulberry Cottage , The Ghillie , Kirklands House B&B

Things to do in Melrose

• Melrose Abbey
• Eildon Hills
• Priorwood Gardens
• Harmony Gardens

Selkirk is one of the oldest Royal Burgh in Scotland . The town is located high above the Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys in the heart of the Scottish Borders . 

The town has strong links with Sir Walter Scott, as he served as the sheriff for 33 years. Halliwell’s House is Selkirk’s oldest building and is located in a narrow wynd.

There is a museum located in Halliwell’s House which explores the long history of the town. You can learn about William Wallace and the Battle of Flodden.

Bowhill House is a stunning Georgian house located on the outskirts of Selkirk .

The house is located in an enchanting glen and the heathery hills. There are outdoor walking trails, stunning gardens and lakes for fishing.

Selkirk Accommodation: Philipburn Hotel , Heatherlie House Hotel , Kilmuir

Things to do in Selkirk

• Bowhill House
• Halliwells House

Hawick is the largest town in the Scottish Borders with a population of 13,586. There is a nice selection of shops and restaurants, particularly many selling fine knitwear. 

Located in the prime area for the textile industry, it is the perfect place to learn about Scotland’s knitwear and tweed story.

Borders Textile Townhouse is located in a 16th century tower house and offers insights into the textile industry. Also, Hawick is part of the Textile Trail .

Wilton Lodge Park is located on the banks of the River Teviot . Here, you can explore the 107 acres of riverside and tree-lined walks, and a walled garden. 

View excellent exhibitions regarding the town’s history and culture at the Hawick Museum and Scott Gallery . In addition, the Border’s Distillery has been producing whisky in this area since 1837.

Hawick is also a popular stop on the Borders Historic Route .

Hawick Accommodation: Arthur Apartment , Lyndail Cottage , Riverside Retreat

Things to do in Hawick

• Borders Textile Towerhouse
• Borders Taxtile Townhouse
• Textile Trail
• Wilton Park Lodge

Jedburgh is the most southern town on this list and is located just 10 miles north of the English Border, due to the proximity and closeness to the border between Scotland and England . Up to the 17th century, Jedburgh was a frontier town.

Full-blown and ruthless battles are thankfully a thing of the past. Now, this area of the Borders is peaceful with a nice selection of shops, cafes, restaurants and walking trails.

Jedburgh has many historical attractions. The Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre is based in the house where the queen stayed on a visit to Edinburgh in 1566. 

Jedburgh Abbey is one of the four Border Abbeys founded in the 12th century for Augustinian canons. Explore the abbey, the visitor centre and the surrounding herb garden which features aromatic plants and a stone display.

At the Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum, you can learn what life was like for the prisoners in the 19th century. Also, the old Jailer’s house now has displays of the town’s rich history, traditions and industries. 

Ale Water Valley is located between the historic towns of Selkirk , Hawick and Jedburgh . This is a nice place to stretch your legs and has many outdoor activities to participate in. 

Jedburgh Accommodation: Castle Gate Apartment , Reivers Cottage , Serena Lodge

Things to do in Jedburgh

• Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre

Kelso 

Kelso is a historic market town, located on the junction of the River Tweed and River Teviot . The town square is said to be the largest city square in Scotland . 

On the cobbles, the old rings where the cattle were tethered on market days still exist. Around the square, there is a lovely array of shops, cafes and restaurants. 

Floors Castle , Scotland’s largest inhabited house, is in the distance in the parkland overlooking the River Tweed . The interiors of the exquisite 18th-century mansion feature tapestries, grand rooms and superb views. 

Kelso Abbey dates back to the 12th century and features the best of Romanesque architecture. Kelso Abbey is one of the finest of the Border’s Abbey .

Beirhope Alpacas is set in a stunning setting, nestled in the Cheviot Hills . Experience the cuteness of the Alpacas on a short trek or during feeding time.

Kelso Accommodation: Tweed Hideaway , The Bothy , Sevenacres

Things to do in Kelso

• Kelso Abbey
• Floors Castle
• Beirhope Alpacas

This lovely historic fishing town is located five minutes north of the border with England . Eyemouth has a natural harbour and fishing dates back to the 13th century. 

Walk along the windswept coast and discover the hidden coves and unusually narrow harbour. Or, walk along the coast to Eyemouth Fort .

Gunsgreen House is a famous mansion house located on the south side. This was the centre of the illicit trade of wine, tobacco, spirits and tea in the 18th century. 

In the 18th century, smuggling with rife in the underground tunnels, narrow wynds and caves. Follow in the footsteps of the smugglers on the Smugglers Trail . 

Eyemouth Accommodation: The Westmorland , Adams House , Near Bank Cottage

Things to do in Eyemouth

• Eyemouth Fort
• Smugglers Trail 
• Gunsgreen House

Coldingham 

Coldingham is the smallest populated settlement on this list. This small village has a population of 512.

It is an attractive village on the east of the Berwickshire coast, only a few miles north of Eyemouth . 

At the heart of the village are the ruins of Coldingham Priory . Coldingham Priory was once the wealthiest and most important monasteries in medieval Scotland . 

Coldingham Sands is Scotland’s answer to Australia’s Brighton Beach . Decorated beach huts line the back of the beach, it is the perfect photo opportunity. 

In the summer this beach is very popular. Coldingham Bay is a popular surfing destination.

For those who enjoy walking, the Berwickshire Coastal Path has great views. 

Coldingham Accommodation: Templehall Cottage , The Law House , The Cedar Tiny House

Things to do in Coldingham

• Coldingham Priory
• Coldingham Sands
• Berwickshire Coastal Path

Saint Abbs is a beautiful coastal fishing village north of Eyemouth and close to Coldingham . This small village is surrounded by a rugged setting, with jagged cliffs and is lined with old fishermen’s cottages. 

Recently, St Abbs has increased in popularity. The town has been featured in the Avengers movie franchise.

Also, Saint Abbs has been the filming location for Harry Style’s music video – Adore You . 

St Abbs’s Head National Nature Reserve involves 200 acres of wild, rugged coastline and dramatic jagged cliffs. It is a hub for sea birds and other wildlife. 

Walk to Pettico Wick Bay , north of St Abbs where you can see the 400 million-year-old pink and purple volcanic lava of the Pettico Wick fault.

St Abbs Lighthouse is a stunning landmark surrounded by great scenic views and wildlife. Also, Saint Abbs is a thriving hub for scuba divers.

Things to do in St Abbs

• St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve
• St Abbs Head Lighthouse

Duns features a lovely quiet market square, where you can try and imagine all the events that have occurred here throughout the centuries. In previous times, this was the main trade market area for the townspeople.

Formula 1 legend Jim Clark grew up on a farm near Duns . Sadly, at the age of 32, the spot claimed his life.

A strong legacy has been left in the town and the wider area. 

You can visit the museum that displays how life work and career. There are displays with racing cars, trophies, fantastic photographs and audio recordings from people that knew him well.

In addition, Duns is the birthplace of John Duns Scotus, the great medieval philosopher. In the 14th century, Duns Scotus taught at the University of Paris. There is a bronze statue of Duns Scotus in the public park.

Duns Castle is a 14th-century castle which is a popular wedding venue. The grounds of Dun Castle is now a park and bird sanctuary.

Take the short and easy trek up Duns Law . At the 700 foot summit, there are remains of an Iron Age Hill Fort and 17th century forts.

Duns Accommodation: Spring Cottage , The White House , Cairnbank House

Things to do in Duns:

• Jim Clark Motorsport Museum
• Duns Castle Nature Reserve
• Duns Castle Estate
• Manderston House

What town are on the border of Scotland?

Gretna is a town in Dumfries and Galloway which is on the border of Scotland . The border runs along the River Sark next to Gretna .

Which is the nicest town in the Scottish Borders?

According to the Sunday Times, Melrose is ‘The Best Place to Live in Scotland’ . This is hard to disagree with as Melrose is a picturesque tranquil town with tonnes of character.

What is the closest village to the Scottish Borders?

The settlement of Coldstream lies just north of the Scotland/England Border on the River Tweed . Gretna is a small town in Dumfries and Galloway which overlooks the Scotland/England Border on the River Sark . 

Coldstream and Gretna were two popular destinations for runaway marriages in the 18th and 19th centuries.

What towns are on the border of England and Scotland?

Gretna is a town in Dumfries and Galloway which is next to the River Sark . The River Sark marks the western part of the Scotland/ England Border making Gretna extremely close to the border.

Coldstream is a small settlement in the Scottish Borders which is located right next to the River Tweed which marks the Scotland/England Border .

The Scottish Borders is perhaps the easiest destination to reach. Dumfries and Galloway to the west, Edinburgh and the Lothians to the north and Northumberland and northern England to the south. 

Explore the ruined historical abbeys, grand stately homes, rolling hills and the spectacular countryside.

Best of all, the little towns and villages in the Scottish Borders , filled with character and culture. On top of this, the locals are extremely welcoming. 

Many of the towns and villages in the Scottish Borders follow the typical market town set-up. Others are small picturesque fishing villages or medieval Royal Burghs . 

All the towns are close by, a short drive away from each another and most are accessible by public transport.

You can combine a few towns and villages in the Scottish Borders to create a great day trip . Eyemouth , St Abbs and Coldingham are lovely coastal towns which will make a lovely afternoon out exploring. 

Also, Kelso , Jedburgh , Hawick , Selkirk and Melrose are often completed together on a road trip. This route is called the Borders Abbey Way .

There is so much history to learn about and gorgeous views to soak in. As one of the least visited and undermined areas of Scotland, I recommend heading here for your next trip.

11 Of The Most Picturesque And Quaint Villages And Towns Less Than Two Hours From Glasgow

Time to escape from the city buzz?

It’s easy to forget sometimes that there’s more out there apart from the city, and Scotland is full to the brim with quaint and picturesque spots that are well worth a visit. Feeling the need to escape for a day trip ? Check out our guide to the prettiest towns and villages near Glasgow that are no more than an hour and a half drive away to explore if you’re bored of the same old views of concrete or your bedroom walls.

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Located south of Glasgow in South Lanarkshire , Lanark is a small town with plenty of charm. Wander the high street or venture to nearby attractions and green spots like Castlebank Park and Clyde Valley Woodlands Reserve . Lanark and the surrounding areas offer plenty of tranquillity thanks to the bodies of water in the vicinity, see the River Clyde flow by, head to the Falls of Clyde, a woodland area with breathtaking waterfalls, or enjoy a moment of calm at Lanark Loch. The area is also reaped in history with the former site of Lanark Castle located in Castlebank Park and just a 30-minute walk away you’ll find New Lanark, a World Heritage site which features a mill, cafe, hotel and a water wheel that sends water towards the Falls of Clyde .

How to get there: 42 minutes by car, 56 minutes by train.

2. Arrochar

Stretched along the northern shore of Loch Long , Arrochar is a beautiful village in the Argyll & Bute region. However, Arrochar is not only blessed with one nearby loch but two- and the other is a whopper! Head east towards Tarbet and you’ll find the almighty Loch Lomond with the Trossachs National Park and Ben Lomond towering behind the loch. You can climb a Munro in the Arrochar Alps reach the rocky summit of The Cobbler and be rewarded with views of the glorious landscape. Arrochar is not only a great base for those looking to go hiking or cycling but there are a number of bars, restaurants and cafes in the village where you can eat or drink with views across the water.

How to get there: 1 hour by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus.

3. Helensburgh

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South of Arrochar is another quaint spot in Argyll & Bute in the form of the coastal town Helensburgh with its tree-lined streets and historic architecture. Lying between the Clyde, Gare Loch and Loch Lomond , on a clear day you can sit by the waterfront and see the likes of Greenock and Rosneath across the water. Helensburgh owes its name to the wife of Sir James Colquhoun, Lady Helen- Colquhoun bought the land and encouraged wealthy merchants to leave the smog of the city for the fresh air of his new town (and even now Helensburgh still provides this escapism). On your visit to Helensburgh, you can take a lengthy wander inside the 55-acre Duchess Woods, explore Geilston Garden or venture out on a kayak as the town is the final stop on the Argyll Sea Kayak Trail, a 150km-route that begins in Oban and follows the river south. Be sure to sit by the pier with an ice cream in hand to finish your trip!

How to get there: 54 minutes by car, 44 minutes by train.

4. Durisdeer

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Durisdeer , a hamlet found at the base of the Lowther Hills in Dumfries & Galloway . This cute village is something of an undiscovered treasure, partly due to the two narrow roads which end in the village itself being the only points of access. Salman Rushdie is said to have described Durisdeer as “a village so small it didn’t have a pub”, which he’s not wrong about but don’t let that put you off as visiting this hamlet will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time thanks to its charming cottages and farmhouses nestled within the woodlands and green hills . The parish church is brimming with history having stood on the same sight since medieval times and the luscious green hills behind are just itching to be climbed.

How to get there: 1 hour by car.

5. Dunfermline

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By far the largest town on this list, Dunfermline is Scotland’s former capital in the heart of Fife. This town is covered in cobbled streets and bursting with history , culture and plenty of character. Dunfermline is also blessed with a number of green outdoor spaces to explore including Pitreavie Castle Park, Rex Park, Dunfermline Public Park and Pittencrieff Park which has extensive walking paths and a peacock enclosure. Make a stop at Dunfermline Abbey where you can visit the grave of Robert the Bruce as well as see the stunning French Gothic clock tower of the City Chambers . You’ll find plenty of cute independent shops, cafes and restaurants along the town’s main roads and for an added dose of culture swing by the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries.

How to get there: 50 minutes by car, 1 hour 9 minutes by bus.

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Calling all loch lovers, you can lust over the village of Luss . Located in Argyll & Bute , overlooking Loch Lomond from its west bank Luss is one of the most picture-perfect villages near Glasgow. What Luss may lack in size it certainly makes up for in beauty thanks to the rows of cute stone cottages that lead to the loch, lined with gorgeous flowers in their front gardens during the spring and summer months. If you’re after a postcard snap, a pic down Pier Road with the loch and green mountains in the background is the way to go. You can take a relaxing boat tour from Luss which allows you to see the numerous tiny islands on Loch Lomond close up. The Loch Lomond Faerie Trail is also found in Luss, so kids and grown-ups alike can follow the mystical route.

How to get there: 52 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus.

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This Perthshire location is one of the noteworthy villages near Glasgow, and has previously won Britain in Bloom Award a few times, so we can definitely see why as the picturesque landscape lends itself to blossoming flowers and plants (especially the White Church and its courtyard). Another fan fact about Comrie is that it has more earth tremors than anywhere else in the UK, due to being on the Highland Boundary Fault. But don’t let that shake you as like Luss, there’s a main road running through the village with rows of quaint stone cottages to walk past and admire. Ramblers can walk alongside the Water of Ruchill heading to Cultybraggan then loop back up to the village or follow the Melville Monument Trail to Deil’s Cauldron waterfall. For more blooming wonderful scenery, Drummond Castle Gardens is a short drive away from Comrie .

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Close to Dunfermline, Culross is a village in Fife full of heritage and beautiful buildings. Wander along charming, peaceful streets which were once full of the hustle and bustle of a thriving 17th-century port on the River Forth and look out towards the water on the village pier. It goes without saying that The National Trust of Scotland site Culross Palace , a late 16th to early 17th-century merchant’s house, is a must-visit whilst in the village, plus, you can’t miss it with its bright yellow external walls. But magnificent sights don’t stop there as Culross is surrounded by a number of historic landmarks such as Dunimarle Castle, Blair Castle and Culross Abbey . Better still, you can relive scenes from Outlander as Culross was one of the filming locations for the series.

How to get there: 42 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus.

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At the boundary of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and Stirling on the West of Loch Tay lies Killin , and it’s one of the prettiest villages near Glasgow. You could even go as far as to say that Killin is killing it when it comes to river views. The place is also at the base of Breadalbane Mountains , with plenty of walks available for nature lovers. On top of nature hikes, visitors can also go salmon fishing as well as climb Sron a’Chlachain peak which is a two-mile walk that takes between one and a half to two and a half hours. The 400-metre ascent is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s worth the stunning vistas of Loch Tay once one reaches the top.

How to get there: 1 hour 25 minutes by car.

10. Dunkeld

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As far as pretty villages near Glasgow go, Dunkeld was also named the best place to live in Scotland by The Sunday Times this year. Dunkeld is located in Perthshire , around one hour and 15 minutes drive from Glasgow. The village is a favourite for day trips , and boasts lovely nature walks, soothing scenery and a charming friendly atmosphere. There are plenty of local businesses to check out, such as The Great British Bake-Off star Flora Shedden’s Aran Bakery , The Taybank and The Birnam Arts Institute .

How to get there: 1 hour 15 minutes by car.

11. St Fillans

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St Fillans is located on the shores of Loch Earn towards the end of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park . The village boasts plenty of opportunities for stunning walks, as well as spots for quiet contemplation in nature with views over the loch. St Fillans is also part of the Bliss Trail of art and sculptures, connecting the place with Strathyre, Balquhidder and Lochearnhead.

How to get there: 1 hour 10 minutes

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