Highlands Holiday – Where To Visit In The Scottish Highlands

A highlands holiday offers a great opportunity to explore Scotland’s fascinating history and culture.

Our highland luxury cottages are only a short drive away from a wide variety of cultural attractions, ranging from castles and caves to world-famous distilleries.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to immerse yourself in local traditions, we’ve put together our top recommendations for exploring Scottish history and culture during your Highlands holiday.

Dunrobin Castle

If you’re visiting the Highlands between April and October, we’d highly recommend a visit to Dunrobin Castle.

Located only 9 miles from our luxury Highland cottages, the castle dates back to the 13th century. It boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a fascinating museum that focuses on the history of the castle and the surrounding area.

Make sure that you don’t miss out on the daily falconry displays when you visit the castle – it provides an exciting opportunity to witness these magnificent birds in action.

Dunrobin Castle is a family-friendly and affordable day out, with adult admission set at £14 and family tickets (2 adults and 3 children) available for £42.

Find out more at: http://www.dunrobincastle.co.uk/

Culloden Battlefield

For anyone interested in history, your Highland holiday wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Culloden Battlefield.

Culloden was the location of the last pitched battle in Great Britain and the final battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746. If you choose to visit the battlefield, you’re able to walk along the battle lines and view the resting place of the fallen soldiers, which can be incredibly moving.

There’s also a museum on-site which takes visitors through the journey of the Jacobite rising – it has the perfect combination of ancient relics and modern technology, creating an experience that is perfect for visitors of all ages.

Culloden Battlefield is a little further away from our Highland holiday cottages than some of the other locations on this list, but it’s a must for any visitors that have an appreciation of history.

Find out more at: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/culloden

Ben Bhraggie

Walking up Ben Bhraggie near the village of Golspie is a must for anyone on a Highlands holiday.

This beautiful hill offers a challenging but rewarding hike. Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to appreciate incredible views of the surrounding landscape – on a clear day; you’re even able to see both coastlines of Scotland.

For those with an interest in Scottish history, at the top of the hill, there’s also a famous (if slightly controversial) 100-foot statue of the first Duke of Sutherland, George Granville Leveson-Gower.

Erected in 1834 and also known as “The Mannie”, the statue commemorates the life of the Duke, who made great strides in road building and transport but was also responsible for the Highland Clearances – a large-scale eviction of people from their homes across the Highlands.

Find out more: https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/sutherland/ben-bhraggie.shtml

The Bone Caves of Inchnadamph

If you feel like getting active during your Highlands holiday and want to explore some of Scotland’s natural history, consider a trip to The Bone Caves of Inchnadamph.

The caves are situated on a limestone cliff and contain a range of fossils dating back several thousand years, including those belonging to polar bears, reindeer and lynx. It’s a great day out for anyone wanting to get a glimpse into some of Scotland’s ancient natural history.

In addition to the fascinating fossils, the hike to the Bone Caves offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is not too difficult, but it does include some rocky terrain – so make sure you pack some suitable footwear and clothing.

Find out more at: https://hiddenscotland.co/listings/bone-caves-at-inchnadamph/

Fort George

Built following the Battle of Culloden, Fort George is one of Europe’s most impressive military forts and another place to add to your itinerary if you’re a history fan.

Visitors can explore the fort’s extensive ramparts, which offer stunning views over the Moray Firth and the surrounding countryside.

The barracks are open to visitors and provide a fascinating insight into what life would have been like for soldiers stationed at Fort George in the 18th century. The fort also boasts an impressive collection of historical weaponry, which includes muskets, pikes and swords.

Find out more at: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/fort-george/

Balnakeil Craft Village

If you’re interested in the creative culture of the Highlands, Balnakeil Craft Village is an absolute must-visit.

Located just a short drive from our luxury Highland cottages, this unique village is home to a wide range of talented and unique painters, potters, jewellers and chocolatiers. There’s even a workshop that specialises in making everyday items and ornaments out of recycled fishing rope, nets and plastic found on Balnakeil Beach.

As you wander through the picturesque village, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the workshops and maybe even pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your Highlands holiday.

Find out more at: https://balnakeilcraftvillage.weebly.com/artists–businesses.html

Dornoch Cathedral

This stunning 13th-century cathedral is only 20 minute drive away from our luxury Highland cottages, and it’s truly one of the most beautiful and historic pieces of architecture in the local area.

It’s difficult not to be in awe of the stonework and stained-glass windows – and don’t forget to take a stroll through the tranquil churchyard and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site.

If you visit during the summer months, volunteers are on hand to answer any questions you might have about the cathedral and the surrounding area. But don’t worry if you visit outside of peak season, printed information is still available throughout the year.

Find out more: https://www.dornoch-cathedral.com/

Castle Leod

Clan Mackenzie is one of the most well-known and historically significant Scottish clans. They have played a significant role in Scottish politics and society for centuries.

Castle Leod has been home to the Mackenzie clan for generations and has a history dating back to the 12th century. For fans of popular culture, the castle is also widely regarded as the inspiration behind Castle Leoch in the Outlander series of books by Diana Gabaldon.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience while you’re on your Highlands holiday, consider a trip to this historic castle.

But as a word of warning – it’s something you’ll need to plan in advance as Castle Leod is only open to the public on a certain number of days each month.

Find out more at: https://www.castleleod.org.uk/visit/

Tarbat Discovery Centre

The Tarbat Discovery Centre is a great place to visit if you’re interested in finding out more about Pictish history.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Picts, they were an ancient group of people who lived in Scotland prior to the Viking era.

The Tarbat Discovery Centre offers a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the art, culture, and daily life of the Picts based on artefacts that have been excavated over the years.

There’s also a great audio-visual experience that shows visitors what life in Tarbat would have been like during mediaeval times. For the kids, there are a range of hands-on activities that really help bring things to life.

Children under the age of 13 can visit the Tarbat Discovery Centre for free, and adult admission is only £5, making it an affordable day out during your Highlands holiday.

Find out more at: https://www.tarbat-discovery.co.uk/

Savour a dram at a local distillery.

No trip to the Highlands would be complete without sampling some of Scotland’s finest whiskies.

Luckily, there are three excellent distilleries within a short driving distance of our Highland holiday cottages.

The famous Glenmorangie distillery is only a 30-minute drive away and offers a range of guided tours starting from only £20 per person.

The Clynelish distillery, known as the Highland home of Johnnie Walker, is also only a 30-minute drive away from our holiday lodges and has tours ranging between £19 – £65 per person.

And the Balblair distillery is just 35 minutes away by car, offering tours starting from £20 per person.