Exploring the Scottish Highlands is a not to be missed adventure at any time of the year. You’ll be greeted with rugged landscapes, a rich history and a mystical allure that’s unique to this unspoilt northern region.
There’s a certain charm no matter what the season with golden autumnal hues during the cooler months to brighter times ahead when heathers and spring flowers burst into bloom as spring arrives.
We’ve listed some of the times to visit the Scottish Highlands for the best experiences, and we’ve offered an insight into how our 5-star hotel in Pitlochry is ideally located as a base for a Highland adventure.
Winter Highland Wonderland
The autumn and winter months in the Highlands may be cold, but the air is crisp and there’s an earthy scent thanks to the fallen leaves. It’s a great time to hike through some of the beautiful glens found in the region.
There’s a vast expanse to explore whether it’s the Cairngorms National Park or the Three Sisters of Glencoe and the majestic peaks.
Springtime in the Highlands
Springtime in the Highlands is out of this world with the warmer months encouraging wild blooms to burst into flower across the land, on hillsides and in the valleys. The higher peaks are still covered in snow at this time of the year which adds to the region’s unrivalled mystical feel.
The flowers that are in bloom at this time of the year add to the stunning, unspoilt landscapes making it a nature lover’s ideal time to visit the Highlands. It’s also a great time to explore Loch Ness in search of Nessie, it’s also where avid anglers can enjoy a day fishing for trout and large salmon.
It’s a glorious time of the year when the loch’s banks are covered in spring flowers and there are the castle ruins that are well worth exploring during a visit to the Highlands of Scotland.
Take a tour around a Scottish distillery
Scotland’s reputation for producing some of the best tipples is renowned the world over. Organising a tour around a Scottish Highland distillery is a great way to find out how whisky is produced in the region.
Plus, the Scottish Highlands boasts being the largest whisky production region in the whole of Scotland! One of the famous being the Tomatin distillery which produces a superb Highland single malt. It was built in 1897 and there’s a legend that water from the surrounding rivers is used to produce this single malt.
Summer in the Scottish Highlands
Summertime in the Scottish Highlands is a wonderful time to visit whether you enjoy exploring inland or the region’s superb coastlines. In short, it’s a great time to discover the region’s hidden treasures.
It’s also a time of the Gathering of the Clans which takes place in the Cairngorms National Park. This breathtaking backdrop adds to the tremendous atmosphere of the many events held here which includes bagpipe performances and traditional Highland dances as well as athletic competitions typical of the region. The Braemar Gathering is a firm favourite of the Royal Family as well as visitors from all over the world.
The summer months also offer a great time to explore Scotland’s lochs which includes Loch Lomond, the largest and most beautiful of them all. You can enjoy a day’s fishing, hiking or sailing in a glorious environment that’s Trossachs National Park.
Loch Tay is another loch worth adding to a list of places to visit during the summer months in the Scottish Highlands. It’s a designated UNESCO Global Geopark site.
Another glorious loch to explore is Loch Maree which is surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine forests. This pristine is another popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Plus there’s lots to explore which includes the ruins of an Iron Age crannog, a house that’s built on an artificial island!
Loch Awe is among one of Scotland’s longest freshwater lochs and is another great choice for fishing enthusiasts. But there is more to explore which includes the Kilchurn Castle ruins.
The North Coast 500 in the summertime
The iconic North Coast 500 provides a great way to discover and explore all the natural wonders found in the Scottish Highlands. Naturally, taking your time is essential because there is so much to see, savour and do along the way.
The route takes you through unspoilt landscapes and along dramatic coastlines and beaches with lots of places to stop and admire the amazing views over the sea. Plus, there are lots of eateries along the way which offer some of the best Scottish cuisine which includes locally sourced produce.
You can’t visit the Highlands of Scotland without visiting Fort William which is situated at the base of Ben Nevis. It’s among one of the more important Highland towns. There’s lots to see and do which includes exploring the city centre with its shops and traditional pubs. It’s also a great place to organise a trip on the Jacobite Express!
The perfect staycation location
Planning a Highland adventure means finding the perfect base whether you’d like to explore a specific region or take a tour of the vast, unspoilt expanse that’s the Scottish Highlands.
Our Hotel in Kinloch Rannoch provides luxury and comfort while at the same time being ideally located for such adventures. Plus, our guests benefit from some fantastic offers which includes our lazy Sunday deal.
We can’t wait to welcome you at our boutique hotel Scotland so why not book your staycation with us today. If you prefer, you can call one of our friendly staff at +44(0)1882 580444 to make a reservation to start your Highland adventure today!