Sightseeing

With Christmas around the corner, finding the right gift can be a challenge. This year, why not make your present stand out by giving the gift of experience? A Highland Experience tour certificate offers adventure, culture, and memories that last a lifetime—truly the perfect choice for anyone on your list. Not only is this a…

No other country celebrates New Year quite like Scotland. Hogmanay, the Scottish term for New Year’s Eve, is a time of spectacular festivities, ancient traditions, and a sense of camaraderie that stretches across the land. Whether you’re keen to join in the street parties, marvel at the fire festivals, or cosy up in a Highland…

Winter in Scotland is an enchanting time to explore a landscape transformed by frost and snow, where historic castles look even more dramatic, and the Highlands offer serene, crowd-free experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the crisp coastal air of the Isle of Skye, the snow-dusted mountains of the Cairngorms, or the festive warmth of Edinburgh…

Scotland, a land rich in history and legend, is often seen as a gateway to the past. Its mist-covered glens and towering castles hold not just stories of battles and kings, but also chilling tales of restless spirits. From eerie ruins to ghostly battlefields, Scotland is home to some of the most haunted places in…

As the vibrant greens of summer fade into warm, golden hues, autumn in Scotland offers a stunning backdrop for adventure. Whether you’re chasing misty mountains, wandering through ancient castles, or savouring whisky by a crackling fire, this season brings out the magic in every corner of the country. Here are the five best places to…

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of East Lothian, just a short drive from Edinburgh, Glenkinchie Distillery offers a unique and captivating insight into Scotland’s beloved whisky heritage. Renowned for its rich history and exceptional single malt whiskies, Glenkinchie is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in whisky, Scottish culture, or simply enjoying a delightful day…

If you’re dreaming of festive magic and an unforgettable winter holiday, look no further than the Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024. Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s vibrant capital, this iconic event runs from Friday 15th November 2024 to Saturday 4th January 2025. It offers a dazzling mix of holiday shopping, entertainment, and seasonal delights that…

Scotland is home to over 1,500 castles, from ancient ruins to beautifully restored landmarks, offering glimpses into its rich past. Whether perched on dramatic cliffs, nestled in rolling hills, or guarding bustling cities, these fortresses tell tales of power, intrigue, and romance. We’ve handpicked our top 10 favourite Scottish castles to inspire your next adventure….

From the iconic Hogwarts Castle to the legendary Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland has provided the backdrop for many memorable moments in the beloved Harry Potter series. Explore the real-life locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s imagination as you discover the hidden gems and secrets that have made Scotland a must-visit destination for Potter fans worldwide. The Significance…

Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Loch Lomond is a breathtaking destination that captivates travellers worldwide. This stunning freshwater lake, surrounded by the majestic Scottish Highlands, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an thrilling adventure, Loch Lomond has something for everyone. Here, we’ll explore the rich history,…

Scotland is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Among its many attractions, seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites stand out as must-visit destinations. These sites offer a glimpse into Scotland’s rich past and its stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration, exploring these remarkable sites…

If you’re a fan of the beloved Outlander series, you’ve likely been fascinated by the stunning landscapes, historical sites, and charming villages that serve as the backdrop for this epic tale. From the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands to the picturesque streets of Edinburgh, the world of Outlander has come to life in a…

While guides to the Isle of Skye often highlight the Quiraing, Fairy Pools, and Old Man of Storr, something you might not know is that you can see massive dinosaur footprints on Skye. This little island off the west coast of Scotland has one of the most significant collections of dinosaur tracks in the world….

Scotland is a magical destination for families, offering a variety of attractions and activities that cater to all ages. From exploring ancient castles and engaging in outdoor adventures to learning about history and enjoying local wildlife, there is something for everyone. If you are planning a family trip, here are the best 30 things to…

Inverness is the Gateway to the Highlands, a city on Scotland’s northeast coast where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth. As the largest city and cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a hub of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a…

Introduction to Wild Swimming in Scotland Wild swimming, or the art of swimming in natural bodies of water, has long been a beloved pastime for those seeking to connect with the great outdoors. In Scotland, this pursuit is elevated to a whole new level, as the country’s diverse geography and abundance of lochs, rivers, and…

The history and folklore surrounding Loch Ness Loch Ness has a rich history and is steeped in folklore that dates back centuries. Known as the home of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, this iconic loch has captured the imaginations of people from all over the world. Legends and tales of sightings have been passed down…

Introduction to the Jacobite Steam Train route The Jacobite Steam Train route is a historic railway line that traverses through the stunning Scottish Highlands. This iconic route has gained worldwide fame, thanks to its appearances in the Harry Potter movies as the Hogwarts Express. The train itself is a vintage steam locomotive, which adds to…

The Allure of the Isle of Skye The Isle of Skye is a place that seems almost otherworldly. Its rugged landscapes, majestic mountains, and dramatic coastline create a picturesque backdrop that will take your breath away. From the iconic Old Man of Storr to the awe-inspiring Quiraing, Skye is a photographer’s paradise. The island is…

History of Stirling Castle To truly appreciate the significance of Stirling Castle, we must first understand its remarkable history. Dating back to at least the 12th century, the castle has played a pivotal role in Scotland’s turbulent past. It was a favoured residence of the Stewart monarchs and witnessed numerous conflicts, including the Wars of…

Uncover the Hidden Gems of Lewis & Harris Lewis & Harris, a land of enchanting landscapes and rich heritage, holds many captivating secrets waiting to be discovered. Here are 20 surprising facts that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to explore this breath-taking destination. Scottish Gaelic Speakers: Approximately 52% of the population in Lewis…

Are you ready to embark on a captivating journey through history, enchantment, and natural splendour? Join Highland Experience Tours and let us transport you to the mesmerising world of Alnwick Castle, Howick Hall Gardens, and Barter Books. From captivating tales of Scottish and English heritage to the spellbinding allure of medieval market towns, your Scottish…

Lights, Camera, Scotland! Scotland’s breath-taking landscapes have set the stage for some of the most iconic films and TV series. With Highland Experience Tours, you can step into the cinematic world and explore the very locations that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Discover Iconic Filming Spots Join us on a journey to the…

As the days lengthen and spring flowers begin to bloom, Scotland is gearing up for summer. However, here at Highland Experience, we bid a fond farewell to winter with a touch of sadness.  The winter months in Scotland offer much to appreciate, often overlooked by many. The stunning landscape, though different, retains its stunning allure…

Scotland is a land steeped in history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Among the most fascinating pre-historic sites in Scotland are the Callanish Standing Stones and the Carloway Broch, both located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. These sites are a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient…

The Isle of Skye, located off the west coast of Scotland, is known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Among its many attractions, the Fairy Pools stand out as a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. These crystal clear waterfall pools are a sight to behold and offer a unique experience for visitors….

Scotland is known for its breath-taking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But did you know that it is also a top destination for romantic getaways and road trips? From charming villages to stunning castles, Scotland offers a variety of romantic locations for couples to explore. In this article, we’ll take a look at some…

Dunfermline Abbey, or Abbot House, as it is also known, is a fascinating historical site located in Dunfermline, Scotland. Steeped in rich history and architectural beauty, this abbey holds immense significance in Scottish history and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.   History of Dunfermline Abbey The history of Dunfermline Abbey dates back to…

When booking our Orkney Tours in 2024 our trips will now include entrance into Skara Brae, Maes Howe, Ring O’Brodgar at no extra cost! Discover the history behind these attractions before booking your next adventure with us.   Skara Brae Nestled along the rugged coastline of Scotland’s Orkney Islands, Skara Brae stands as a testament…

A Traveller’s Guide to Unexplored Delights St Andrews, located on the east coast of Scotland, is a charming town renowned for its rich golfing history, prestigious university, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Steeped in tradition and dating back to medieval times, St Andrews offers a range of attractions for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in its…

Nestled on the western coast of Scotland, the picturesque town of Oban beckons travellers with its breathtaking landscapes, historic charm, and rich maritime heritage. Let’s delve into what makes the Oban a must for every traveller seeking the essence of Scotland. Oban: Gateway to the Isles As the unofficial capital of the West Highlands, Oban…

Ever fancied poking your head through an open window, tongue flapping in the wind, like an overexcited puppy? That’s probably because you’re strange. an overexcited puppy. a Harry Potter Steam Train fan. Tickets for the Jacobite Express are tricky to get,  but come with me on a tour and we can have a head out,…

We’re well and truly in the run up to the most exciting day of the year. The most magical of days, when children all over look forward in eager anticipation of the excitement of Die Hard Day. (24th Dec). As we approach this day of tense anxiety, wondering if this is the year Hans Gruber…

AI art has been taking the art world by storm in recent years. It works by learning specific aesthetics and analysing thousands of images of a certain object or in this case, location. Artists will curate images and then feel the algorithm, and the AI then tries to generate new images in line with the…

Outlander. Love it or not, the boost it has given the Scottish tour industry is immense, and the number of people coming here on holiday with some knowledge of Scotland’s history has risen accordingly. It was with the greatest pleasure, therefore, I headed out on my first Outlander tour of the 2022 season. 14 lovely…

With the holidays over, winter being in its full glory and the January blues, it may seem like there isn’t much to look forward to. Except, there is! We really should stop waiting for summer, warm weather or the weekend to start having fun and jumping head deep into new experiences. We should embrace every…

I was having a snooze. It had been an early start that morning and I can sleep anywhere. A busy ferry with noisy passengers, diesel engines and a rolling swell – no problem. Still, it was a light nap and I woke easily when the ferry engines suddenly shut down. We couldn’t be there already,…

Scotland’s Landscapes are open and rich in adventure. There’s nothing quite like it. All week long you weather watch, what’s going to happen on my days off? Will it be blue skies (yes, it does happen) or am I digging out the heavy waterproofs? Which one of the three different pairs of boots or three…

The Myth Glen Coe is probably the busiest wilderness in the world with thousands of tourists driving through. Very few people actually stop and even less take the hike up to Ossian’s Cave, mostly due to the restricted number of trails, but it is well worth the effort. Ossian’s Cave is high up on the…

Scotland is becoming more and more popular as a location in the TV and film industry due to its stunning landscapes, quaint little villages and diverse city centres. You’ll see a little bit of Scotland in the likes of James Bond’s Skyfall, Harry Potter, Mary Queen of Scots, Outlaw King, Outlander and many more! Edinburgh…

It has always been a special place for me ‘the Bonnie, Bonnie banks of Loch Lomond’ as the song goes. A good version to check out, by the way, is a version by Runrig. (A Celtic rock band from the Isle of Skye). As a small child one of our regular summer trips was to…

It is very well known that Scotland is full of dramatic natural beauty and man-made wonders which would truly take a lifetime to explore. Castles, in particular, tell their own story of Scottish History. There have been more than 2,000 castles in Scotland throughout history, so it’s been hard but we’ve chosen our top 10…

When you think of a beach holiday, do you think of Scotland? Probably not. However, our beaches are award-winning! Rather amusingly, pictures of Scotland’s beaches have even been used to sell holidays to Thailand. A photograph of West Beach on the Isle of Berneray was mistaken for Kai Bae beach. Sure, the white sands are…

Loch Ness – the mysteries of Scotland’s most famous loch When you visit Scotland, you will have the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. From our mountain ranges to our vast lochs, there really is so much to take in. Loch vs. Lake The word Loch comes from the…

A land of giants, fairies, witches and selkies, located somewhere near the edge of the known world. Where dark tongues of mist cling to even darker volcanic hillsides. Where a 65-million-year-old geological experiment has been baked to perfection and is laid bare for all to see and praise. Where beaches sparkle and surprise, some Caribbean,…

There is a debate in Scotland of what our true national flower is, some would have you believe that it’s the Scottish bluebell whilst others stand firm that it’s the thistle. For me, I always go with the thistle, not just something that grows but is symbolised all over this land, looking at a thistle…

(The story so far!) During our tour of Lewis and Harris, the outermost island of the Hebrides chain, lying off the west of Scotland two and a half hours by ferry from Ullapool, we have the chance to visit a local weaver by the name of Norman MacKenzie and perhaps get a demonstration of his…