The Highlands of Scotland conjure up images of still, glassy lochs surrounded by rising hills and forests. Eagles survey the landscape from their lofty crags, herds of deer roam the heather clad moors and woodlands in search of fresh fodder, salmon streams rush headlong over rocks and stones and nature takes care of flora and fauna in a spectacular fashion.
The remote beauty of the Highlands is a big attraction and reward for tourists venturing north for a self-catering holiday. In the midst of this scenic panorama of hills and mountains are Highland towns, villages and the city of Inverness. Whisky distilleries are a feature in this part of Scotland, they rely on clear spring water to produce the golden hued alcohol and many are open to day visitors and sampling.
The hills or munroes of the Highlands offer plenty of challenges to walkers and climbers. Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Britain is 1,344 metres high. An annual race takes place on the first Saturday of September each year as walkers vie to be first to get to the top. It is traditional to add a rock or large stone to a ‘cairn’ on the summit of many hills.
The Highlands are not all about walking, climbing and nature. Numerous visitors come for cottage holidays for the scenery and drive to beauty spots and vantage points. Good hospitality and self-catering accommodation is available all over the Highlands offering comfortable rooms for a week or short break. Log cabin holidays are popular, the wooden structures blend in nicely with the landscape. Aviemore and certain other larger Highland towns have that ‘tourist buzz’ because of the throngs of tourists, organised events and entertainment. Many people come to the Highlands for a good time, to sail on the lochs, listen to Scottish music and perhaps visit the tourist attractions.
Take a look at the self-catering cottages and log cabins in the Highlands listed below and find that perfect spot for your encounter with the Highlands and Scotland.