Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are a large mountainous region in northern Scotland noted for rugged terrain, lochs and moorland. The area is a defining landscape of Scotland and includes the highest UK peak, Ben Nevis.

The Highlands contain steep mountains, deep glens and freshwater lochs; notable features include high peaks, scenic valleys and long routes such as parts of the West Highland Way. Loch Ness runs about 37 kilometres and draws many visitors for its size and shoreline viewpoints.

Outdoor activities dominate - hillwalking, climbing, wildlife watching and scenic drives through places such as Glen Coe and the Cairngorms. The region also contains numerous whisky distilleries and cultural sites tied to Gaelic history.

The Highlands have a long Gaelic cultural history and were structured historically around clan territories. From the late 18th century into the 19th century the area underwent major social change during the Highland Clearances, which reshaped land use and settlement patterns.

The Highlands occupy much of northern Scotland, extending from the central belt up to the north and west coasts. Inverness is the principal city often used as a base for exploring the area, and the landscape alternates between coastal sea lochs and inland mountain plateaus.

• Ben Nevis height: The highest UK peak reaches 1,345 metres, and routes to the summit are busiest and safest in summer months when conditions are milder.
• Viewing and weather: Best viewpoints for classic Highland scenery include Glen Coe and the Cairngorm plateau; mountain weather changes rapidly so layers and waterproofs are essential.

What to See #

• Ben Nevis: A British Isles high point standing at 1,345 metres and marking the highest mountain in the UK.
• Loch Ness: A freshwater loch about 37 kilometres long and famously deep, located along the Great Glen and associated with the Loch Ness monster legend.
• Cairngorms National Park: A protected area established in 2003 that covers montane plateaus, forests and ski areas and is the largest national park in the UK at roughly 4,528 square kilometres.