10 of the Most Beautiful Villages in the Scottish Highlands

Why visit villages in the Scottish Highlands?

Visiting villages in the Scottish Highlands offers a truly special glimpse into Scotland’s heart and soul. Here, breathtaking landscapes meet centuries of tradition, from shimmering lochs and dramatic glens to ancient castles that whisper stories of the past. Each Highland village has its own unique character, where time slows down and community spirit shines through. A Highland village holiday invites you to embrace this authenticity, to wake up to misty mountain views, stroll along quiet lanes, and savour local produce by a crackling fire.

Staying in a traditional cottage lets you live like a local, offering comfort, charm and the perfect base for discovering why visiting the Scottish Highlands is an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

10 of the most beautiful villages in the Scottish Highlands

Plockton

Nestled on Scotland’s stunning west coast, Plockton is often called the “Jewel of the Highlands”, and it’s easy to see why. This picturesque village sits on a sheltered bay surrounded by rolling hills, where brightly painted cottages line the waterfront and palm trees thrive thanks to the warm Gulf Stream. The tranquil setting feels almost tropical, offering perfect views across Loch Carron. Enjoy a boat trip to spot seals, stroll along the harbour, or explore nearby castles and gardens. With its relaxed pace and postcard-perfect scenery, Plockton captures the charm and serenity that make Highland holidays unforgettable.

Ullapool

A bustling harbour village with deep fishing roots, Ullapool is both a cultural hub and a gateway to adventure. Overlooking the sparkling waters of Loch Broom, it serves as the ferry port to the Outer Hebrides, but it’s much more than a stopover. Ullapool’s vibrant arts and music scene, with regular festivals and live performances, gives it an infectious energy. Wander through local galleries, sample fresh seafood, or hike in the surrounding hills for breathtaking views. Combining rugged beauty with creativity and community spirit, Ullapool perfectly embodies the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Braemar

Tucked within the majestic Cairngorms National Park, Braemar is a village steeped in royal connections and Highland tradition. Surrounded by mountains and glens, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering easy access to walking trails, wildlife spotting, and winter sports. Braemar is perhaps best known for the world-famous Braemar Gathering, one of Scotland’s oldest Highland Games, attended by the Royal Family each year. Beyond the festivities, the village itself exudes charm, with stone cottages, cosy inns, and friendly locals. Whether you visit for adventure or atmosphere, Braemar offers an authentic taste of Highland heritage amid breathtaking scenery.

Applecross

Remote and awe-inspiring, Applecross is one of the most beautiful and isolated places in the Scottish Highlands. Reached via the legendary Bealach na Bà, a winding mountain pass with hairpin bends and spectacular views, getting there is part of the adventure. Once arrived, you're rewarded with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vistas stretching across to the Isle of Skye. The village’s peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with nature. With welcoming locals and outstanding local food, Applecross feels like a world apart, wild, wonderful, and utterly unforgettable.

Dornoch

On the northeast coast of the Highlands, Dornoch blends history, charm, and coastal beauty in perfect harmony. The village is home to the striking Dornoch Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, and its golden sandy beaches stretch for miles, offering peaceful walks and sea views. Golf enthusiasts will recognise the Royal Dornoch Golf Club, one of the world’s finest links courses. The town’s independent shops, cafés, and welcoming pubs create a warm, friendly atmosphere that invites you to linger. Whether exploring its heritage or relaxing by the shore, Dornoch is a highlight of any Highland holiday.

Ballater

Set in the heart of Royal Deeside, Ballater is a graceful Highland village closely linked to the Royal Family, thanks to its proximity to Balmoral Castle. Its elegant stone buildings and tree-lined streets reflect a timeless charm, while the surrounding Cairngorms National Park offers endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Ballater’s independent shops, cafés, and galleries provide a warm welcome to visitors, and the village’s royal heritage is proudly displayed throughout. Whether exploring nearby castles or soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, Ballater combines history, beauty, and Highland hospitality in perfect measure.

Fort Augustus

Perched at the southern tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is a lively village with an unbeatable setting. The Caledonian Canal cuts through its heart, where boats rise and fall through a series of locks, providing a fascinating spectacle for onlookers. As the gateway to Loch Ness, it’s the ideal spot for scenic cruises and monster-spotting adventures, as well as walking or cycling along the Great Glen Way. With its mix of natural beauty, history, and friendly pubs, Fort Augustus captures the essence of Highland life, laid-back, picturesque, and full of quiet wonder.

Gairloch

Nestled along Scotland’s rugged northwest coast, Gairloch is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking true Highland tranquillity. Its sweeping sandy beaches and dramatic seascapes invite exploration, while boat trips offer the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and sea eagles in their natural habitat. Gairloch’s surrounding hills and lochs provide endless hiking and photography opportunities, and its small museums and galleries celebrate the area’s rich maritime heritage. With stunning sunsets and an unspoilt, peaceful atmosphere, Gairloch is a place to slow down and savour the raw beauty of the Highlands.

Shieldaig

Tiny yet breathtakingly beautiful, Shieldaig sits beside a sheltered bay on Scotland’s west coast, framed by the dramatic Torridon mountains. Originally founded as a fishing village, its whitewashed cottages overlook calm waters dotted with small boats and the wooded Shieldaig Island just offshore. This peaceful haven is a gateway to some of the Highlands’ finest landscapes, perfect for kayaking, hiking, or simply soaking up the serenity. Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals and can enjoy delicious seafood straight from the sea. Shieldaig may be small, but its scenery and charm leave a lasting impression.

Tobermory (Isle of Mull)

Perhaps one of the most recognisable villages in Scotland, Tobermory is a feast for the senses. Its colourful harbourfront, lined with bright houses reflected in the calm waters, gives it a storybook charm that’s instantly captivating. Located on the Isle of Mull, Tobermory combines Hebridean character with a lively spirit, home to excellent seafood restaurants, independent shops, and boat trips exploring the surrounding waters and wildlife. Enjoy scenic walks, visit the local distillery, or take excursions to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles. With its beauty, warmth, and island magic, Tobermory is pure Highland delight.

Practical tips for exploring Highland villages

Exploring villages in the Scottish Highlands is a journey best enjoyed at your own pace.

• When visiting Scottish Highlands villages, plan your driving routes in advance, many roads are scenic but winding, so allow extra time to stop and take in the views.

• Check ferry timings if you’re travelling to islands or remote peninsulas, as services can vary by season.

• Spring and autumn are ideal for Highland travel, offering mild weather, colourful landscapes, and fewer crowds.

• For the ultimate flexibility and comfort, base yourself in a holiday cottage, the perfect home-from-home for discovering the Highlands’ hidden gems.

FAQ about visiting villages in the Scottish Highlands

Can you visit multiple villages in one trip?

Absolutely, exploring several Highland villages in one trip is one of the best ways to experience the region’s variety. Scenic driving routes, such as the North Coast 500 or the Road to the Isles, link many of the most beautiful spots, passing through mountains, glens, and coastal landscapes along the way. Each village has its own unique charm, from fishing harbours to historic inland communities, so planning a route that combines a few makes for an unforgettable journey. Staying in self-catering cottages gives you the flexibility to move at your own pace and fully immerse yourself in each location.

Are Highland villages family friendly?

Yes, Highland villages are family friendly, offering plenty to delight visitors of all ages. Children can explore safe, open spaces, sandy beaches, and nature trails, while parents enjoy the relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere. Many villages have family-run cafés, local attractions, and outdoor activities like wildlife cruises, castles, and scenic walks. Staying in a cottage makes family holidays even easier, providing space, comfort, and the freedom to set your own schedule. Whether it’s paddling in a loch, spotting deer, or enjoying fish and chips by the harbour, the Highlands promise simple pleasures and shared adventures.

Do you need a car to explore Highland villages?

While some areas can be reached by train or bus, having a car offers far more freedom when exploring the Scottish Highlands. Many of the most picturesque villages are in remote or rural locations, where public transport is limited. Driving allows you to follow scenic routes, stop for photos, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Roads are generally quiet but can be narrow in places, so take your time and enjoy the journey. For those preferring not to drive, guided tours or organised transfers between key spots are good alternatives, but a car truly unlocks the Highlands’ magic.

Discover the Timeless Charm of a Highland Village Holiday

The Scottish Highlands’ villages offer timeless beauty, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery, the perfect escape for relaxation and discovery. From coastal harbours to mountain hideaways, each village tells its own story. For a truly authentic experience, stay in one of our welcoming Scottish Highlands cottages and make every moment unforgettable.