Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) FAQs: Your Guide to Stress-Free Travel to the UK
Planning a trip to Scotland or the UK? There’s an essential new step to add to your travel checklist: the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Designed to enhance border security and streamline the immigration process, the ETA is a digital travel requirement for many visitors. This guide covers everything you need to know about the UK’s…
Outlander Filming Locations in Scotland: A Must-Visit Guide for Fans
Step into the world of time-travel, romance, and history with Highland Experience Tours. Outlander, the globally beloved series inspired by Diana Gabaldon’s novels, has brought Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history to life. If you’re an Outlander fan, you’re in for a treat as we take you on a journey to the series’ most iconic…
Discover Why a Highland Experience Gift Card Is the Perfect Unique Christmas Present
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…
How to Celebrate Hogmanay & New Year in Scotland: The Ultimate Guide
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…
Top Tips for Winter Travel in Scotland: Weather, Destinations & Essential Packing Guide
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…
Most Haunted Places in Scotland: Where the Past Never Truly Dies
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…
5 Best Places to Visit This Autumn in Scotland
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…
Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024: Tips, Highlights, and Must-See Attractions
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…
Best and Most Famous Castles in Scotland
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….
Discover the Beauty of Scotland’s Top 25 Walking Trails
Scotland is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, from majestic mountains and serene lochs to rugged coastlines and ancient forests. Walking these trails is one of the finest ways to truly immerse yourself in the country’s natural splendour. Whether you seek challenging hikes or peaceful ambles, Scotland’s trails cater to adventurers of all levels. In this…
Locations Every Harry Potter Fan Must Visit in Scotland
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…
10 Reasons to Add Loch Lomond to Your Bucket List
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,…
Discover Scotland’s 7 Remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites
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…
Outlander Filming Locations in Scotland: Explore the Magic of Claire and Jamie’s World
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…
The Best Spas Breaks in Scotland for 2024
Scotland’s rural landscape offers a natural retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. The region is home to some of the UK’s finest spa hotels, providing bespoke facials and immersive retreats, perfect for unwinding and revitalising. Take a look at some of our top choices for the perfect relaxing treat.
Where to Find Dinosaur Footprints on the Isle of Skye
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….
10 Things to Do in Inverness
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…
Exploring the Beauty of Wild Swimming in Scotland: A Comprehensive Guide by Highland Experience
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…
20 Surprising Facts About Lewis & Harris
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…
Exploring the Magic of Alnwick Castle, Howick Hall Gardens, and Barter Books
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…
Uncover Scotland’s Top Filming Locations with Highland Experience Tours
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…
Chasing The Northern Lights in Scotland
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…
Scottish Gaelic Words to Know
World Gaelic Week, celebrates Scottish Gaelic across the globe, this year (2024) it is taking place between 19th – 25th February. We asked some of our driver-guides which Scottish Gaelic words they think you should know. Here were their top 5.
Reasons Why You Should Visit The Fairy Pools on Skye
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’s Most Romantic Locations
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…
Discovering St Andrews’ Hidden Treasures
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…
Make the most of Scottish Winter with Highland Experience Tours
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…
How to travel sustainably
Top tips for making your next trip as eco friendly as possible. In recent months there has been a big shout about looking after the environment and natural resources prompting many people to bring more eco-friendly practices into their daily life from making sure to recycle things when possible and reducing their waste in general….
The Best Places to Photograph in Scotland
“How do you feel about writing a blog on the best places to photograph in Scotland?” What a question! My initial reaction was to reply with sarcasm, “everywhere,” I scoffed. But after a few hours the question was still eating away at me…What are the best places in Scotland to photograph? Is there a “best…
Top Tips for Touring in Scotland
By nature, Scotland is quite an unpredictable place (especially the weather). So, here are a few top tips to help you prepare for touring Scotland with us. Preparing for Scottish Weather Make sure you dress in comfortable or outdoor clothing, layers are great, so you are prepared for all weather and temperatures. To quote Raymond…
Top 10 Scottish Castles
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…
Beach Holidays in Scotland
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…
Life Lessons from Scottish Mythology
Scottish history is captured by myths and legends, tales that have inspired writers and artists for centuries. In old times, people struggled to explain the mysteries of life, so they believed very deeply in stories transmitted by word of mouth. These tales also taught moral values, lessons on how to live our lives consciously and…