If Scotland is at the top of your travel wish list, what about other off-the-beaten-path vacations? You should look at this ranking! Below is a list of Scotland’s greatest-kept secrets. You’ll find hidden locations in Scotland from St. Kilda to Oban via the fairy ponds in Skye, Plockton, Smoo Cave, and the Kelpies.
1. Crovie, Aberdeenshire
Crovie is a little community in the Aberdeenshire region of northern Scotland. 50 dwellings face the sea, and there is only one road. The locals must park their cars outside the settlement due to the road’s extreme narrowness.
Why are they all gathering on this small land adjacent to the water? It is difficult to imagine the cause: the affluent landowner of Crovie once made the difficult decision to evict everyone from his property because he cherished watching his sheep graze on his meadows! The locals were forced to seek safety on this narrow peninsula that faced the ocean. Despite the fact that some of the homes are now used as vacation homes, some residents still reside there.
2. Fingal’s Cave, Fionnphort – Isle of Mull
It is the only way to get the best results. Those who dare to enter the amazing basalt cave that rises dramatically from the sea will be enthralled. There is much wildlife, and if the puffins are in season, you could be lucky enough to see them. From Fionnphort, boat cruises are scheduled numerous times throughout the day.
3. Portree, Isle of Skye – Highlands
The major city on the Island of Skye is Portree. It is the ideal place from which to launch trips into the Inner Hebrides. Simply cross the bridge in Loch Aillse to go to Portree; there is no need to take a ferry.
The first two weeks of August are ideal if you enjoy highland games, but if you want to avoid crowds, book before or after the competition when rates are more appealing.
4. St Kilda Archipelago, Outer Hebrides
How to go to this isolated Scottish Isle is the first thought that enters the mind. One of Scotland’s tallest sea cliffs can be found at this world heritage site in the Outer Hebrides.
Learn the amazing tale of the island’s residents, who were forced to evacuate in 1930. St Kilda is a unique destination in the United Kingdom. One of the most remote inhabited islands was this one.
Today, since all of its residents have left, it is the best place to go bird-watching. Many businesses on the Isle of Harris provide boat cruises to St. Kilda. Even a multi-day cruise with “The National Trust for Scotland” is doable.
5. Oban, Argyll, and Butte – West Scotland
This 8,000-person town in Scotland is a must-visit location. For those who enjoy the outdoors and the water, Oban, whose name means “little bay,” is the ideal getaway. A pleasant way to conclude the day after touring the Hebrides, the Isle of Mull, Staffa, or Kerrera is its numerous eateries on the pier, which are equally well-known.
6. Isle of Iona, Inner Hebrides
The Island of Iona, which faces Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull, is one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place in case something goes wrong. The island of Iona, often known as the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland, left its influence on this country’s history.
Visit this tiny island and its 120 residents, then take in a stay that is broken up by the seas and clean Hebridean air.
7. Fairy Pools, Glenbrittle – Isle of Skye
One of Scotland’s best-kept secrets is the Fairy Pools, which can be found on the Isle of Skye and are 2.5 hour journey from Inverness. The fairy pools, which are close to Glenbrittle, are formed by waterfalls and actual natural ponds. The brave swimmer is invited to plunge into the glisteningly clear, incredibly chilly fresh water!
Make reservations for your flights to Inverness, your lodging on the Isle of Skye, and your excursions, including an Isle of Skye tour with Fairy Pools from Inverness.
8. Dean Village, Edinburgh
Along the Dean River, the Dean Village expanded. The river was necessary for the water mills that produced flour for the entire city of Edinburgh for more than eight centuries.
With the demise of the water mills, the village was progressively abandoned, and only the poorest lived there. A few years later, Dean Village became a popular place for artists and others who wanted to live in a tranquil place close to nature and the city center.
9. Smoo Cave, Durness – Highlands
Smoo Cave is one of Scotland’s undiscovered beauties; it is situated in the country’s extreme north, 5 minutes from Durness and 2.5 hours trip from Inverness. We advise you to travel to the base of the falls on the guided trip.
The cave is open daily from 10 to 17, although if it is raining heavily, your tour may be canceled. Before making the drive to the cave, we encourage you to check the weather forecast.
10. Plockton, Isle of Skye – Highlands
Plockton is regarded as the Highlands’ crown treasure. The location is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors. Your guesthouse’s windows should be open because Loch Carron is just in front of you. There is completely calm and wonderful silence.
Take a boat ride to Loch Carron to explore the area. You can also stroll and take in the breathtaking landscape and beauty of this untamed shore or try sailing, sea kayaking, cycling, or all of the above. Reserve your flights, lodging, excursions, and activities in Scotland, like a full-day tour of the Best of Isle of Skye.
