IL Guide to 8 of The Most Stunning Views in Scotland

With low-cost air travel enabling us to jet off as far as Morocco or Tenerife for a short break, it’s sometimes easy to forget that we have the most stunning views in Scotland. We have some of the most beautiful sights in the world right on our doorstep. We’ve put together 8 of the most spectacular views in Scotland, which we’re proud to say tourists come from all over the world to see. Feast your eyes and get inspired for your next trip.

Eilean Donan Castle on Loch Duich

One of the most photographed sites in Scotland, the iconic Eilean Donan castle sits atop a small island at the intersection of three lochs: Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlands of Scotland.

• Besides the castle, Loch Duich and the surrounding village of Dornie have lots to see and do. Try Loch Duich Cruises, private sightseeing tours on board a luxury boat for up to six people. You’ll have the chance to get a closer look at the castle, explore the three lochs, and see some of the rare local wildlife.

• If you’re looking for accommodation set in the beautiful scenery right next to the loch we’d recommend Glomach House, a cosy, comfortable bed and breakfast with attentive staff and an excellent restaurant.

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2. The Three Sisters, Glen Coe

Glen Coe is probably the most famous and scenic of Scotland’s Highland glens, characterised by rugged wilderness , awe-inspiring mountains and a sense of mystical grandeur. Possibly the most well-known of its peaks are Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach and Aonach Dubh, collectively known as the Three Sisters.

• If you’re heading out to explore the glen, Go Glencoe hostel are able to provide carefully plotted routes and tours from experienced guides.

• For stays in Glen Coe, there are a number of companies providing self-catering accommodation right in the heart of the beautiful scenery. We would recommend Glencoe Cottages or Glencoe Mountain Cottages.

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3. Seilebost Beach, Isle of Harris

Stunning Seilebost, with its turquoise waters and golden sands, has been voted as one of the ten best beaches in the world. It’s located in the south of the Isle of Harris and is a little difficult to access, but can be viewed best from the roadside lay-by on the side of the twin track road about half a mile left of the village.

• For accommodation close to Seilebost, most tend either to camp or rent out a holiday cottage. Beul Na Mara self-catering cottages are modern, comfortable and have large glass windows commanding a beautiful view of the bay.
• Nearby on Harris you can also visit the Isle of Harris Distillery, which prides itself on its premium spirits, a welcoming atmosphere and warm islander hospitality.

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4. Dunotarr Castle, Stonehaven

Dunotarr castle, a dramatic ruined medieval fortress, sits on top of a rocky headland on Scotland’s north-east coast, about 3km south of Stonehaven.

• Close to Dunotarr castle is the RSBP Fowlsheugh nature reserve, where you can take stunning cliff-top walks and see a wide variety of sea birds including Puffins.

• Executive Beach Apartments in Stonehaven provide modern, luxury apartments which have a great view of Stonehaven beach.

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5. The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

The famous fairy pools lie at the foot of the Black Cullin mountains, on the River Brittle. If you’re brave enough to face the cold, these beautifully crystal clear blue pools are perfect for a bracing dip. If not, they also make for some very pretty pictures.

• The nearest village to the pools is called Carbost. From there, if you take the road going to Glenbrittle you’ll find the start of the route leading to the Fairy Pools. The walk takes about 40 minutes, and passes several waterfalls along the way.

• We would highly recommend the Cuillin Hills hotel on Skye for opulent, traditional-style comfort, which has magnificent views of the Cuillin mountain range

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6. The Glenfinnan Viaduct

Located at the top of Loch Shiel in the west Highlands, The Glenfinnan Viaduct carries the railway to Glenfinnan Station across a 1,000 foot span, at a staggering 100 feet above the ground.

• The best way to see the viaduct is to take the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail, a pleasant, leisurely 1 hour walk that takes you from Glenfinnan to the station.

• Another must-see is the Glenfinnan Monument and Visitor Centre, which commemorates the Jacobite clansmen who fought and gave their lives in support of Bonnie Prince Charlie.

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7. The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

The Old Man of Storr is located on the north Isle of Skye in the area known as ‘Trotternish’. It is a large pinnacle of rock that was created by a massive landslide, which sits high up and can be seen for miles around. The Old Man is just one of many fascinating rock formations in that area, and the views from there out towards the mainland are also fantastic.

• The best way to see the Old Man of Storr up close is to take the Old Man of Storr Walk, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• Also highly recommended are Aspire Boat Trips, which go out on the nearby Sound of Rasaay and allow you to see dolphins, porpoises and sea-birds.

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8. Rackwick Bay, Hoy, Orkney

Rackwick Bay is a strikingly beautiful yet desolate beach, located on the Western coast of Hoy on the Orkney Isles. It’s surrounded on either side by high, red sandstone cliffs, and is home to a wide variety of birds and animals.

• Many visitors walk the scenic trail from Rackwick, along the bay and down to see The Old Man of Hoy, an impressive 450-feet tall sea stack at the far-side of the beach.

• The rest of Hoy has plenty more natural beauties and historic sites to see. We’d recommend taking a private tour from Orkney Tailor Made Tours or Explore Orkney.

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Contributor: Josie Benge