Table of Contents
Exploring the Highlands – Traveling from Glasgow to the Highlands
Exploring the Highlands is a great way to experience the rugged beauty of Scotland. Located just a short drive away from Glasgow, the Highlands offer stunning and dramatic scenery and an abundance of opportunities for outdoor activities.
From Glasgow, you can easily reach the Highlands via the A82 road, which runs through the western edge of Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s famed lochs. Once you reach the shores of Loch Lomond, you can take a relaxing boat tour around the loch and admire the spectacular views of surrounding mountains and forests.
As you continue north on the A82, you’ll soon arrive at Glencoe, a glen of beautiful mountains and picturesque valleys. Here, you can take in the stunning landscape while exploring some of the area’s historic landmarks, such as the Clachaig Inn, a popular stop for travelers seeking refreshment.
Further north of Glencoe is the city of Fort William. Here, you can take a cable car ride up to the top of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. After taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glens, you can rest at one of the many hotels and restaurants.
Onwards from Fort William, you’ll find yourself steeped in the quiet beauty of the Highlands. You can explore the remote glens, take a stroll along the rugged coast, or simply take a moment to marvel at the remarkable medieval castles.
Whether you’re after an outdoor adventure or a peaceful getaway, a trip to the Highlands is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. With its spectacular scenery and abundance of activities, it’s no wonder why the Highlands have become one of Scotland’s most beloved destinations.
The Best Routes to Take on Your Journey to the Highlands
Exploring the Highlands is a great way to experience the beauty of Scotland’s countryside. From lush green rolling hills to dramatic coastlines and tranquil lochs, the Highlands offer something for everyone. However, with so much to explore, deciding what route to take can be difficult. To help you make the most of your journey, here are some suggested routes to take when travelling to the Highlands.
The North Coast 500 is one of Scotland’s most popular routes, known as Scotland’s answer to America’s famous Route 66. This 500-mile circular route takes you through some of the country’s most stunning coastal and mountain scenery, making it a must-do for any Highland adventurer. Highlights include the iconic Inverness-shire coastline, the Torridon Mountains and the charming fishing villages of Ullapool and Gairloch.
The Great Glen Way is a 71-mile route running from Fort William to Inverness, taking hikers and cyclists through a stunning array of lochs, rivers and forests. Along the journey, you’ll pass the ruins of Urquhart Castle and Fort Augustus, with its remarkable Caledonian canal. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, sailing and mountain biking.
For drivers, the A82 heading from Glasgow to Inverness is a great option. Running through some of Scotland’s most spectacular countryside, this route takes you across the aptly named ‘Highland Line’, where you’ll witness the breathtaking Glencoe and Deserternish. What’s more, you’ll be able to enjoy the landscapes of Loch Lomond and Loch Ness along the way.
Alternatively, the A9 taking travellers northwards from Edinburgh to Thurso is another great option, especially if you’re looking to explore the Northern Highlands. Highlights of this journey include the picturesque town of Pitlochry, the romantic Airlie Castle and the traditional market town of Forres.
Whichever route you decide to take, exploring the Highlands is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With so much to discover along the way, take your time to fully appreciate this stunning part of the world. With plenty of activities and awe-inspiring scenery around every corner, the Highlands are sure to leave you with many wonderful memories.
Planning Tips for the Perfect Glasgow to Highlands Trip
1. Plan your route: Scotland’s scenery is incredibly beautiful and varied, so be sure to plan your route to make the most of your trip. There are a variety of ways to get from Glasgow to the Highlands, so decide what works best for you. If you have the time, we highly recommend travelling by car so that you can take in the stunning views at your own pace.
2. Have an itinerary: Having an itinerary is key for all trips, especially for a Glasgow to Highlands trip. Research each of the places you plan to visit and decide what you would like to see and do. Look for local accommodation, activities, and attractions before booking. Taking a tour can be a great option for those who don’t have a lot of time.
3. Pack accordingly: Scotland’s climate can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack appropriately for your trip. In addition to clothing for all weather conditions, be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, a map or GPS device, a camera, and any other items you might need.
4. Visit off-the-beaten path spots: From the rugged landscape of Argyll to the wild beauty of Assynt, the Highlands have a wealth of hidden gems that are worthy of exploration. Consider visiting some of the lesser-known spots so that you can really find out what Scotland has to offer.
5. Stay safe: Although Scotland is a relatively safe place, it’s important to follow the usual safety protocols. Be mindful of your surroundings, keep your valuable items secure, and let someone know where you’re going. Following these tips can help ensure a safe and memorable journey.
A Guide to Touring the Highlands from Glasgow
When traveling to the Highlands of Scotland from Glasgow, there are a variety of ways to explore the vast and spectacular region. From exploring the stunning nature of the Great Glen to delving into the mysterious history of its castles, there are a wealth of activities to choose from. Here, we offer the most comprehensive guide to touring the Highlands from Glasgow.
To begin your journey, the best starting point is usually Fort William. This small settlement lies at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain – Ben Nevis – and is a great launching point for exploring the surrounding area. From here, you can take the “Jacobite” steam train (immortalised in the Harry Potter Films) which takes you ninety miles on one of the most scenic railway experiences in Great Britain.
The next stop on your tour should be the mysterious town of Glencoe. This area is renowned for its sheer beauty and stunning Highland scenery, which features a rugged landscape with deep-cut glens, towering mountains, and stunning lochs. As well as being a great spot for photography and outdoor activities, Glencoe also has a rich and intriguing historical past – it was the site of a infamous massacre in 1692 and still has many monuments commemorating the event.
Continuing on, you’ll find yourself in the Great Glen National Park. As one of Scotland’s largest national parks, it is a paradise for nature-lovers, with miles of paths and trails to explore. Whether you want to hike, cycle, fish or simply just take in the views, the Great Glen is an ideal spot for outdoor activities.
After exploring the National Parks, the next stop should be the iconic and historic city of Inverness. Here, you can explore the many attractions the city has to offer, from the Inverness Castle to the Victorian Market.
Finally, no tour of the Highlands would be complete without a visit to some of the regions renowned castles. Whether it be the mighty Culloden, the romantic Urquhart, or the mysterious Eilean Donan, each castle has its own unique story to tell. So why not explore a few and learn more about the histories of the region?
Overall, the Highlands of Scotland has much to offer to those who wish to explore its sublime landscapes and mysterious history. With its many attractions and activities, the Highlands makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from Glasgow. So, why not pack your bags and come explore the Highlands today?
Unique Places to See on Your Way from Glasgow to Highlands
1. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: This national park is Scotland’s first and largest national park, located only 30 minutes from Glasgow. It is comprised of many lochs and glens, offering stunning views of nature and wildlife.
2. Doune Castle: This castle is a well preserved medieval stronghold, situated near the village of Doune in the central highlands. It is a popular spot for visitors who can explore the towers, battlements and great hall.
3. Stirling Castle: This iconic castle sits atop an extinct volcano, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. It is one of the largest castles in Scotland, and is filled with history and fascinating stories.
4. Fort Augustus: Located on the southern end of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is a picturesque town at the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Its serene atmosphere and canals give visitors a sense of peace and tranquility.
5. Ben Nevis: Standing at 4,411 feet, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles. Its peak is accessible by human-made trails, which offer stunning views of the glens and lochs below.
6. Glenfinnan Viaduct: This iconic viaduct graces the landscape of the Scottish Highlands, having appeared in the Harry Potter films. The viaduct spans 890 feet over a scenic valley, providing an epic backdrop for visitors.
7. Culloden Battlefield: This battlefield is the site of the last battle fought on British soil, with its history reflected in the rocky landscape. It is the perfect spot for visitors to appreciate the history of Scotland and reflect on its past.