Jay S
Google
Okay, let me just say it—if you haven’t been to the Scottish Highlands yet, you’re missing out on one of the most ridiculously beautiful places on the planet. I’m talking about scenery so stunning it feels like it was made specifically to show off on Instagram. Lochs, mountains, beaches, forests—it’s like nature couldn’t decide what to focus on, so it just went, “Why not everything?”
Now, let’s get real: this isn’t the kind of place you can properly experience from a tour bus. There is no trains or public transportation to best parts of highlands. You need a car. Trust me, you’ll want to stop every five minutes to take photos, stare at the views, or argue with your travel buddy about whether you just saw a Highland cow or a very hairy rock. Just make sure your car’s in good shape, because you don’t want to break down in the middle of nowhere. And by “nowhere,” I mean 30-50 miles from the nearest person with zero cell service and a sheep judging you from a distance.
The landscapes here are insane. One moment you’re driving past a loch that looks like it belongs in a fantasy movie, the next you’re winding through misty glens where you half expect a wizard to appear. And then there are the beaches—yes, Scotland has beaches, and they’re shockingly gorgeous, with white sand and turquoise water. No, you won’t want to swim (unless you enjoy hypothermia), but still, they’re postcard-perfect.
If you’re an Outlander fan, prepare for some serious nerding out. Every other spot looks like it was plucked straight from the show. And if you’re not? Well, the scenery’s still epic enough to make you feel like you’re in the middle of your own dramatic period drama, minus the corsets and brooding stares.
Of course, the Highlands aren’t without their quirks. The roads can get a bit, uh, “exciting.” Single tracks with passing places? A fun little game of “Who’s reversing today?” And let’s not even talk about the traffic near Glencoe during peak hours—beautiful, but you’ll be stuck long enough to memorize every rock formation.
Oh, and a heads-up: the lochs may look inviting, but they’re deep and freezing. Admire them from a safe distance unless you enjoy being a cautionary tale.
But honestly, the quirks are part of the charm. The Highlands aren’t just a place you visit—they’re a place you feel. They’re remote, wild, peaceful, and utterly breathtaking. Whether you’re into photography, hiking, or just sitting in awe of nature, there’s something here for you.
So, yeah. Go to the Highlands. Just don’t blame me if you start plotting ways to move there after your trip.