10 Off-Beat Places You Must Visit In Scotland

Planning a trip to Scotland? Ditch the cities, and take the off-beaten track! Live like a local and explore picturesque villages, stunning landscapes, exotic art galleries, and savour some lip-smacking local delicacies. Sounds like a perfect plan? Read on as we take you on a surreal journey around Scotland’s hidden gems.

1. Loch Glencoul, Assynt

Tucked away among the rugged mountains of Scotland lies the hidden treasure of Loch Glencoul, where the Glencoul bothy sits at its end, offering stunning vistas of the peaceful loch. This isolated location, reachable from the parking lot at Kylesku Bridge, remains one of Scotland's best-kept secrets, drawing in the most daring adventurers to experience its charm.

Making the trek to Glencoul bothy is no easy task, appealing mostly to those with a love for adventure. The path involves navigating some of Scotland's toughest and unmarked landscapes, beginning from either Inchnadamph or Kylesku. Those who opt for the route from Inchnadamph are graced with views of Eas a' Chual Aluinn, the tallest waterfall in Britain. Alternatively, visitors can reach the bothy by sea, with Kylesku Boat Tours offering journeys that explore this enchanting region. Despite the challenging hike, the journey to the bothy is extraordinary, distinguishing it from Scotland's many bothies due to its remarkable setting and the breathtaking sunset views over Loch Glencoul it offers.

For those who admire wildlife, the vicinity of Loch Glencoul serves as a sanctuary for both common and grey seals, enhancing the unique appeal of this isolated Scottish spot.

2. Cluanie, Scottish Highlands

Many travelers pass by Cluanie while heading to Eilean Donan Castle or the Isle of Skye, unaware of this hidden treasure. Cluanie boasts some of Scotland's finest hiking opportunities that are well off the typical path. The segment from Cluanie to Morvich on the Cape Wrath Trail ranks among Scotland's most breathtaking trails. Nearby lies Loch Cluanie. A 4×4 track ascending the hillside offers one of the finest views of the loch. From this viewpoint, I once spotted a large herd of wild deer! The track is primarily frequented by hikers on the Cape Wrath Trail, allowing you to park safely at the base of the track and walk up. The Cluanie Inn is regarded as one of Scotland's top pubs, making it a fantastic stop for a meal while enjoying the stunning scenery. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy a meal or a drink (if you're not behind the wheel).

3. Cairnpapple Hill, West Lothian

West Lothian may not be a well-known destination for tourists, but it boasts a variety of lesser-known activities in Scotland, including fascinating historical sites. Typically, travelers pass through West Lothian en route to Glasgow or the Highlands, but I strongly suggest taking a break at Cairnpapple Hill, an ancient burial and ceremonial site that is over 5,500 years old!

While many people head to Inverness to visit Clava Cairns, few are aware that Cairnpapple Hill is just a short drive from Edinburgh. After parking in the modest lot, you can take a quick stroll to reach the hill, which offers beautiful views of Edinburgh, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Isle of Arran. Although there aren’t any standing stones at this site, the henge is still captivating. The ideal time to explore Cairnpapple Hill is between March and October, allowing you to enter the cairn.

4. The Four Border Abbeys, Scottish Borders

Exploring the Four Border Abbeys in the Scottish Borders is an excellent day trip option from either Edinburgh or Glasgow. These abbeys were founded in the 1100s and showcase stunning architectural designs.

While many people believe that most of Scotland's history is found in the Highlands, it is actually deeply rooted in the Scottish Borders. This is logical, since ancient armies would pass through the Scottish Borders en route to Edinburgh or Stirling, leading to conflicts and significant activity in the area.

Numerous notable Scottish figures also selected the Scottish Borders as their place of burial.

5. Falls of Glomach, Scottish Highlands

Ranked among the tallest waterfalls in the UK, The Falls of Glomach stand at 113 meters high. This area is recognized as one of Scotland's wildest terrains. To reach the Falls of Glomach, you need to hike for approximately three hours starting from Morvich. The trail follows a stalker’s path through Bealach na Sroine, which means ‘the pass of the nose.’ Upon arriving at the falls, you will see a warning sign before the path descends into the gorge for a closer view. Only those with significant hiking experience should attempt this trail, as it is rough and slippery, and sometimes involves some scrambling.

6. Bealach na Bà, Applecross

Bealach na Bà provides an exhilarating experience and is one of the most stunning passes you will navigate. At 626 meters, it ranks as the third-highest road in Scotland, making it quite daunting for those who are squeamish! If you approach from the east, the pass leads you to Applecross, a peninsula with a population of only a few hundred. There is a parking area at the summit of the pass where you can pull over and soak in the breathtaking views.

7. Handa Island, Inner Hebrides

Docked on the northwest coast, Handa Island offers a unique adventure for those traveling along the North Coast 500. A quick 10-minute ferry will take you to this gorgeous hidden gem. As a bird sanctuary, Handa Island ranks among the finest locations for birdwatching in Scotland. Among the avian species you'll encounter on Handa are puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, kittiwakes, and great skuas. Observe thousands of birds nesting on the cliffs, or explore the island by foot, making it an ideal half-day activity.

8. Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, Scottish Highlands

The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve holds the distinction of being the first National Nature Reserve in Britain, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, featuring golden eagles, pine martens, and crossbills. Embark on The Mountain Trail, the only waymarked mountain walk in Britain, which guides you through Scots pines and involves a climb over quartzite rocks to enjoy breathtaking views of the nature reserve.

9. Glen Feshie, Cairngorms National Park

Glen Feshie is a stunningly beautiful glen that has inspired some of the most prominent artists in the United Kingdom. With its captivating Scots pine forests and the River Feshie that winds through it, the allure is easy to appreciate.

The glen depicted by Sir Edwin Landseer in his renowned painting ‘The Monarch of the Glen’ is, in fact, Glen Feshie! Glen Feshie has also served as a filming site for various films and television shows, including Mary Queen of Scots, The Queen, and the Netflix series The Crown. Currently, Glen Feshie draws in hiking enthusiasts. To access the glen, you need to walk and cross a few rivers. Fret not! The effort is certainly worthwhile.

10. Loch Ossian, Rannoch Moor

Loch Ossian, located in Rannoch Moor, is among the most untamed regions in Scotland accessible by public transport. Spend a weekend at Loch Ossian with a friend, where you can hike and unwind in nature. The loch is encircled by munros and hiking paths are suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

To arrive here, there is a direct train departing from Glasgow that takes three hours to reach Corrour station, the most isolated train station in Scotland. From there, it is a short 20-minute walk along a shingle path to get to the loch.