Trip to Scotland – 10 recommended and magical places

I’m excited for you that you’re planning a trip to Scotland. Even if you are here just to read the post, I am warning you in advance, after you see what it has to offer, you too will want to start planning a trip to Scotland. Scotland is among my favorite countries. It is wild and abundant in beautiful nature, combined with ancient castles, a rich history and many water sources that surround you on all sides. All this and more make it spellbinding.

1. Glencoe

Glencoe is a remnant of an ancient volcano named after the Coe River that flows in the valley. It’s hard to describe Glencoe’s beauty in words, it’s a wonderful valley. The valley stretches for 56km and is made up of stunning mountains that rise to heights with waterfalls on all sides and lakes. Scotland encourages walking in its stunning scenery and there are many hiking trails across Scotland in general and Glencoe in particular. On my last trip I spent a few days in the Glencoe area and it was magical to explore this valley.

2. Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is the largest lake in the UK. Within the lake there are many islands, including the largest freshwater island, Inchamorin. Loch Lomond is located within the Loch Lomond and Trusax National Park. The park is crossed by the ‘West Highlands Way’ hiking trail and continues along the east coast of Loch Lomond. In addition, along the lake there are towns, villages and castles. The tourist center of Loch Lomond can be found in Balloch. If you want to walk in a picturesque village on the shores of the lake, visit Luss.

•  I must note that the ‘West Highlands Way’ walking route is a route that features some of the most amazing views Scotland has to offer. The route is between Glasgow and Fort William and it also passes through Glencoe.

3. Stirling Castle

Between Edinburgh (the capital) and Loch Lomond lies the stunning Stirling Castle. The castle is built on volcanic rock and overlooks Forth River. A tour around the castle will lead you between different buildings that together make up the castle, including the palace, the great hall, the kitchen, a museum and more. I like to visit such places, to see the wall rugs, the special ceiling paintings, the furniture and the pictures. I also recommend not to miss the walk on the walls which gives special views of the city and the hills. The castle is located in Stirling which in itself is a beautiful town with a lot to offer.

4. Loch Ness

Loch Ness is the second largest lake in the UK, but the most famous following the legend of the monster that resides in it, “Nessie” the Loch Ness monster. Some say it is the last remnant of the dinosaur era and given the fact that the lake was formed as a result of the melting of huge glaciers at the end of the ice age, there may be some truth behind the observations. However even if you are not a fan of fairy tales, the lake and its surroundings are beautiful and worth a visit. In addition, on the shores of Loch Ness there are the ruins of Urquhart Castle. The castle is located at Strone Point and although only ruins remain, they are impressive and when combined with the beautiful scenery create a dramatic atmosphere.

5. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Glenfinnan way is a bridge of an iconic railway built in 1897, the bridge crosses the Viaduct River with the help of 21 arches that create a dramatic look. The Bridge has starred in several films including ‘Harry Potter’ in which the train plays the train to Hogwarts. The West Highlands Railway ride is an experience in itself and the scenery on the way is mesmerizing, but the truly beautiful sight is to observe the Jacobite train crossing the bridge against the lake and the mountainous landscape of Scotland. So you can also take a regular train to get to the Viaduct and walk to the bridge.

6. The Isle of Skye and the Old Man of Storr

The Isle of Skye is the largest of Scotland’s Inner Hybrid Islands. It is highly regarded and is considered a sought after destination. Its popularity is not in vain. The island has impressive views and easy access from Scotland, as it is connected to the highlands area by a bridge and can also be reached by ferry, as well as being accessible by bus or train. If you come to the Isle of Sky, do not miss the Rock of Old Man of Storr, one of Sky’s most famous natural phenomena. The phenomenon was created following an earthquake that created a number of huge pillars that were precariously positioned. The tallest of them is called Storr’s old man and is supposed to look like an old man. No one knows how long this phenomenon will last, so it is worth seeing before it disappears.

Planning a trip to Scotland by public transport? Do not miss the ultimate guide to a trip in Scotland without a car.

7. Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools is a small valley in the Isle of Skye with conical hills and an enchanting atmosphere. The fairy pools have a number of spectacular rock pools with clear blue water and waterfalls connecting them. The fairy pools are located near the village of Carbost in Glenbrittle. The place is beautiful and worth a walk in the area.

8. Eilean Donnain Castle

The castle was built in the 13th century and belonged to the Mackenzie clan. In the 17th century after the Jacobite rebellion in which the clan participated, the castle was destroyed. At the beginning of the 20th century the castle was rebuilt from the ruins and attempts were made to restore the original structure with the help of historical records. The castle is impressive inside and out, it is located at a meeting point of 3 lochs. Eilean Donnain Castle is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and has a great and important history.

9. Callanish Standing Stones

The circle of standing stones of Callanish on the isle of Lewis is magical, mysterious and fascinating. Throughout the British Isles and Ireland there are many groups of large stones usually arranged in a circle. I think the stones in Lewis are the most beautiful because of their size and the order in which they are placed. This stone circle was also a significant part of the “Outlander” series. The Isle of Lewis which shares space with the Isle of Harris is definitely a place worth visiting regardless. The isle is amazing in its beauty with lovely, generous people (who have a stronger accent than in the center of Scotland) the isle has even more water resources than in the Highlands and it is an amazing sight. The island can be reached by a short flight or by ferry from the island of Skye. The area where the stones are located is open all year and free of charge. The circle of stones is spectacular and enchanting. Scholars believe that the circle was used in ancient religious ceremonies.

10. Edinburgh

The majority of tourists do not miss the capital city, but because the Highlands is such an attractive and beautiful area there are those who do skip this amazing city, don’t be one of them. Many think that Edinburgh is the most special and beautiful city in Europe. It has charm and the construction is special and beautiful. Throughout the city you will find lovely bagpipe players and from almost everywhere you can see Edinburgh Castle perched on top of the volcanic rock. There is a lot to do and see in Edinburgh, in the next post I will attach recommendations.

Scotland is amazing and the truth is that no matter where you go you will just be enchanted by its beauty. It has so much to offer. Feel free to attach additional recommended and magical places for the benefit of those who are planning a trip to Scotland.