Travel
Discovering the Scottish Highlands If outdoor adventures and romantic scenery sound like key ingredients for your perfect staycation, it won’t take you long to fall in love with the Scottish Highlands. Imagine awe-inspiring landscapes, towns rich in culture, fluffy Highland cows, centuries of history and castles straight from a fairy tale – all topped off with a dose of Scottish hospitality. If, like many of us this year, you’re on the hunt for a staycation closer to home instead of your usual holiday abroad, the Scottish Highlands should definitely be on your radar.
24
Whether you choose to drive there in your own vehicle, kick back on a train journey or take one of the direct flights to Inverness from an airport near you, the Highlands are easier to access than you’d think. With so many sights and experiences to tick off while you’re there, we’ve put together just a ‘wee’ selection of the top things to do on a staycation in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. 1. Hike or ski Ben Nevis A hiker’s paradise in summer and a skier’s playground in winter, the UK’s highest peak is a year-round magnet for keen outdoor types. Nevis Range is the Scots’ favourite ski resort in winter, but its panoramic mountain views make it well worth a visit in the summer too. Take a cable car there to enjoy hikes of varying degrees, or for a real challenge, tackle the seven-hour trek to Ben Nevis’s peak! Regardless of the season, wrap up warm and wear your waterproofs; the weather can change very quickly at this altitude. While exploring Ben Nevis, it’s a good idea to base yourself at nearby Fort William. Set amidst magnificent mountain scenery, this charming town has been coined the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’ and is a fantastic jumping off point for exploring the Highlands’ glens and mountains.
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts