Explore Welcome to Northern Scotland
Explore a striking landscape of world-famous lochs and jagged mountains – welcome to Northern Scotland.
Whether to conquer the outdoors or savour the rural Scottish hospitality, our selection of holiday brochures and visitor guides will get you started on a Scottish holiday to remember.
Holidays in North Scotland & the Highlands
Walking, cycling and boating holidays are some of the best ways to experience Northern Scotland and the Highlands. Cut through the lochs on an epic journey through the Caledonian Canal or wander the slopes of Ben Nevis.
Ruins, castles, monster-hunts and festivals – Northern Scotland and the Highlands have them all. Below are some of the most highly recommended locations for one-of-a-kind events.
Northern Meeting Piping Competition
Annual senior and junior bagpipe competition held at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness, one of Scotland's oldest piping contests.
World Stone Skimming Championships
Annual championship on the slate quarries of Easdale Island near Oban, drawing skimmers from around the world.
Spirit of Speyside Distilled
Whisky and craft beer tasting event at the Alexander Graham Bell Centre, UHI Moray in Elgin, marking its 10th anniversary.
Argyll Food Festival
A celebration of regional food and drink featuring local producers, live cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities in Oban.
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon 2026
Rated by Runner's World as one of the top 100 races in the world, this point-to-point marathon traces the shores of Loch Ness before finishing in the Highland capital, Inverness.
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running
Marathon, half marathon and 5K races starting near Loch Ness and finishing in Inverness city centre.
See all Welcome to Northern Scotland events →
Beach and coast locations
Oban
Oban stands on the west coast of Scotland, a picturesque gateway to the Hebrides, offering a unique blend of captivating scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for a staycation. This charming town, often referred to as the "Seafood Capital of Scotland," boasts an array of attractions that appeal to nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and culinary adventurers alike.
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Cities and towns
Inverness
Inverness, often celebrated as the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, merges history, natural beauty, and vibrant urban life into a compelling destination for staycations. Poised at the northern terminus of the Great Glen and near the storied Loch Ness, Inverness serves as a bridge between modernity and the ancient traditions and landscapes of Scotland. With its picturesque setting and an array of attractions, Inverness ensures a mix of serene and adventurous experiences for every visitor.
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