Magic waterfall pools, deserted islands and Victorian gardens among 9.50 holidaymakers’ fave nature spots in Scotland
With its spectacular wildlife, ancient architecture, fascinating history and vast open skies, Scotland has many treasures to discover.
Whether you’re a history buff or prefer to embrace nature, this spirited country will captivate you.
With tips from local experts and Sun readers who have holidayed in Scotland, we’ve cherry-picked some of the country’s best historic and natural attractions that are worth visiting.
They’re all located near our £9.50 Holiday Scottish destinations, so you’ll easily be able to tick them off as day trips if you want to explore the local area.
From wild swimming spots to a “museum without walls”, these are some of the best places to visit in Scotland for a dose of history and nature…
Dolphins and ancient history on the Black Isle
Sun reader David James, from Port Talbot, stayed at Parkdean Resorts Nairn Lochloy in the Scottish Highlands.
David, 72, said: “I like walking, and the beach (East Beach Nairn) is clean and tidy. It’s not commercialised at all, which is very pleasant.
“I also took a bus over to the Black Isle peninsula – there is brilliant walking there and down-to-earth nature, the kind of place for a quiet life.
“I spotted lots of birds but you can also see seals and bottlenose dolphins in the Moray Firth if you’re lucky.”
As well as having two RSPB nature reserves, the Black Isle is also home to historical treasures, including carved stones from the Pictish period (AD300-900), now housed at the Groam House Museum.
Look out for medieval stonework at Udale Bay or visit Hugh Miller’s Cottage in Cromarty to see what life was like here as a 17th-century stonemason and writer.
Kayak to a deserted island
Adele Murray is a Scottish blogger, originally from Aberfeldy in Highland Perthshire.
She said: “Tummel Valley is close to some incredible lochs, like Loch Tay (around a 25-minute drive south).
“While most people head to the little beach and sailing centre at Kenmore, you can head off on a canoeing adventure to a deserted island.
“It doesn’t look like much from the shore, but once you reach Priory Island, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
“The island is home to a 12th-century priory and burial ground. You can explore the ruins or simply enjoy a picnic – you’re likely to be the only ones there as the island is only accessible by water.”
Tip: hire a canoe, kayak or paddleboard from Kenmore village (try Taymouth Marina, who rent equipment from £20 per hour) if you don’t have your own.
Wild swimming spots
You don’t need to be beside the seaside to swim in nature.
Daniel Start, author of Wild Swimming Britain, recommends the string of river pools in Glen Etive in the Scottish Highlands for a true wilderness dip.
He said: “The river here winds through a dramatic glen, surrounded by soaring peaks and breathtaking Scottish scenery, offering a series of deep, clear pools with smooth rock ledges perfect for jumping.
“The water, crisp and tinged with peat, is invigorating and wonderfully clean, making for an unforgettable swim.”
Further south, on the edge of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Rob Roy’s Bathtub is a massive plunge pool fed by the spectacular Falls of Falloch.
Daniel says: “Surrounded by woodland and steeped in Highland history, this inviting spot is named after the famed Scottish folk hero who is said to have hidden out here.
“Easy access just off the A82 and the beauty of the falls make it a great introduction to wild swimming in Scotland.”
Bag a mountain
Keen to burn some energy with a mighty view as your reward? Then climb one of Scotland’s beautiful mountains (if the peak is higher than 914 metres, you’re doing the Scottish activity of “Munro bagging”).
Morvyn Cattanach, General Manager at Sandylands Holiday Park in Ayrshire, recommends a day trip to the Isle of Arran, where Goatfell is the highest peak (874m).
She said: “Goat Fell is really popular – you can walk up it in around two to five hours and get a photo at the top. Or you can just go over for the cheese – because Arran cheese is brilliant!”
Tip: ferries to Arran can get cancelled due to poor weather, so check in advance and aim for summer.
For something bigger, Schiehallion in the Highlands is one of the easiest Munros to “bag” if the weather is good (1,083m).
Christopher Hill, Administration Manager at Tummel Valley Holiday Park, says: “This high mountain is right on our doorstep at Tummel Valley. Its name comes from the Gaelic meaning ‘fairy hill’.
“It’s very cone-shaped, and higher than any English mountain. It’s a fantastic place.”
Magical woodlands and walled gardens in Argyll
Just six miles from Hunters Quay Holiday Village in Dunoon, Benmore Botanic Garden spans 120 acres and includes Giant Redwoods.
The Scottish Sun Travel Editor Heather Lowrie also recommends Puck’s Glen (which has a free car park), saying: “It’s a magical woodland near Dunoon and the perfect place for a walk – whatever the weather!
“Follow a magical trail that winds along a Victorian walkway up the dramatic rocky gorge that is said to be home to mischievous spirits. Keep an eye out for the mystical Ghillie Dhu!”
Heather also recommends the nearby Glenfinart Walled Garden for a picnic on a sunny day.
She said: “This little hidden gem is a tranquil spot away from the bustle of town. Take a stroll through orchids and fruit trees, with fresh fruit and vegetables available to buy.”
Take learning outdoors in Perthshire
There’s also plenty of history and nature to discover in Perthshire.
Tummel Valley Holiday Park is within easy reach of Killiecrankie Gorge, the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Jacobite uprising.
You can walk around the woodland (look out for Soldiers Leap, where a Redcoat soldier leapt across the raging river to flee the Jacobites) or step inside the visitors centre to learn all about the gory history of the famous battle.
Around an hour’s drive away is Cateran Ecomuseum, a “museum without walls”.
You can tour the sprawling outdoor site, which features ancient Pictish stones and the Cateran Trail, through walking, cycling and driving itineraries.
Heather Lowrie describes it as “a great way to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the area with history that stretches back through millennia.”
She added: “With lots of glens and forests, Perthshire is the perfect destination for cycle enthusiasts seeking outdoor active getaways.”