20 Most Scenic Places in Scotland: Experience That Stunning Scottish Beauty

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Omnia Essawy

Anyone who has had the opportunity to visit Scotland will tell you that its natural beauty is simply stunning. From rolling hills and misty lochs to dramatic coastlines and wild forests, Scotland is a landscape photographer’s dream come true. So if you are up for an adventure and want to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, then Scotland should definitely be on your bucket list. 

Whether you are visiting Scotland or a native Scottish, it could be quite overwhelming to know which of Scotland’s many scenic gems you should start with; that’s where we come in! The following list includes 20 of the most stunningly scenic places in Scotland to get your itinerary started. 

1. Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona is one of the most beautiful and scenic places in Scotland. It is located off the coast of Mull in the Inner Hebrides and is home to a variety of interesting wildlife, including red deer, seals, dolphins, and eagles. 

The island also has quite a rich history and was once the site of a powerful monastery founded by St. Columba. Today, Iona is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy its stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and fascinating history.

2. Glenfinnan, Fort William

Glenfinnan is a scenic spot in Scotland that is well known for its beauty. The area is located in the northwestern part of the country, on the banks of the River Finnan. It is a well-known tourist destination and is often visited by those who are looking for scenic places to get close to rare and unique beauty. 

Glenfinnan is also home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of an old fort. Fort William is another beautiful spot in Scotland that is worth visiting. The town is situated on Loch Linnhe’s shores and offers stunningly wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. It is also home to several historic buildings, including a castle.

3. Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire

Dunnottar Castle, one of the most famous castles in Scotland, is a gorgeously scenic place located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The castle is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea. It is one of the most scenic places in Scotland and is a popular tourist destination. 

The castle dates back to the early medieval period and has been remodelled several times over the centuries. It was used as a fortress by the Scots during the Wars of Independence and later served as a Royal residence. 

Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the ramparts, towers, and dungeons and enjoy panoramic views of the coast from the castle walls. Dunnottar Castle is an excellent example of Scottish architecture and provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of this spectacular country.

4. Bow Fiddle Rock, Moray

Bow Fiddle Rock is a scenic rock formation located in Moray, Scotland. The rock is named for its resemblance to a bow fiddle and is a popular destination for tourists and photographers. The rock is formed of sandstone and is covered with moss and lichen. It is surrounded by cliffs and has a breathtaking view of the sea. Bow Fiddle Rock is one of the many beautiful places in Scotland that are worth visiting.

5. Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Tobermory is one of the most scenic places in Scotland. The Isle of Mull is located in the Inner Hebrides and is famous for its picturesque coastline, which is dotted with rocky coves, sandy beaches, and sheltered bays. 

Tobermory, the capital of Mull, is a particularly beautiful spot, with its colourful houses lining the harbourfront and 400-year-old getaway situated on a rocky headland. 

Visitors to Tobermory can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, and wildlife watching. There are also plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this scenic Scottish town.

6. Corryvreckan Whirlpool

Corryvreckan Whirlpool is one of the most beautifully scenic places in Scotland. It is situated between the islands of Jura and Scarba in the Strait of Corryvreckan. The whirlpool is created by the tidal currents which flow through the narrow strait. These currents are strong enough to cause a vortex or a large whirling body of water.

The Corryvreckan Whirlpool is one of the largest and most dangerous in the world. It has been known to capsize boats and drown people who have ventured too close. However, it is also one of the most stunning places in Scotland. The waters are a deep blue, and the whirling currents create an impressive spectacle. Visitors to the area can take boat tours of the Corryvreckan Whirlpool or view it from afar from one of the many scenic viewpoints along the coast.

7. Devil’s Pulpit, Finnich Glen near Killearn

One of the most scenic places in Scotland is the Devil’s Pulpit in Finnich Glen. The Pulpit is a 30-foot high natural rock formation that was formed by centuries of weathering. The colour of the rock is a deep red, which is said to be due to the presence of iron oxide in the stone. The Devil’s Pulpit is surrounded by lush vegetation, and the Glen itself is full of hidden waterfalls and scenic walks. It is an incredibly beautiful place and well worth a visit if you are ever in Scotland.

8. Dean Village, Edinburgh

Dean Village is one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Scotland. It is located right in the heart of Edinburgh and is renowned for its picturesque setting and historic architecture. The village dates back to the 12th century when it was founded as a milling village. 

Today, Dean Village is a popular tourist destination and is home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Dean Village is also within walking distance of Edinburgh’s city centre, making it an ideal place to explore the city.

9. Braemar, Cairngorms National Park

Braemar is a scenic village in the Cairngorms National Park of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The village lies at the confluence of the Clunie Water with the River Dee on the latter’s right bank. Braemar is around an hour’s drive from Aberdeen and two hours from Inverness.

It is overlooked by Braemar Castle, home to Clan Farquharson. The castle grounds contain scenic gardens, and there are several scenic walks in the area. Braemar is also home to the Gaelic College of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, which offers courses in Scottish Gaelic culture and language. Visitors to Braemar can enjoy its scenic setting, beautiful gardens, and traditional Gaelic culture.

10. Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa

Fingal’s Cave is one of the most scenic places in Scotland. Located on the Isle of Staffa, it is a stunning site that has attracted visitors for centuries. The Cave is formed from hexagonally jointed basalt columns, and the acoustics inside are said to be remarkable. In fact, the Cave was named after an epic poem by James Macpherson, which tells the story of Fingal, a hero from Scottish mythology.

Today, Fingal’s Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, and it is easy to see why. The Cave is truly a natural wonder, and its unique geology makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the natural world.

11. Ullapool

Ullapool is one of the most scenic destinations in Scotland. Situated on the shores of Loch Broom, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, making it a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Scotland.

Ullapool is also renowned for its musical heritage, and there are a number of bars and clubs that host live music. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy scenic views or to enjoy some fun music performances, Ullapool is definitely the place to visit.

12. Shetland

Shetland is one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Scotland. It is an archipelago of more than 16 inhabited islands located northeast of the Scottish mainland. Shetland is known for its dramatic landscapes, including cliffs, beaches, and moorland. The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and birds.

Shetland’s landscape and wildlife make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The islands offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and camping. Shetland also has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of historic sites and museums. Visitors can learn about the island’s Viking past, as well as its more recent history as a fishing community.

13. Bealach Na Ba, Wester Ross

Scotland is renowned worldwide for its mesmerising scenic beauty, and the Bealach Na Ba is one of the most scenic spots in the country. The Bealach Na Ba is located in Wester Ross, in the northwest Highlands of Scotland. The name Bealach Na Ba means “pass of the cattle” because it was used by drovers to take their cattle to market in Inverness.

The Bealach Na Ba is a scenic road that winds its way through the mountains, with spectacular views of the valley below. It is one of the most beautiful roads in Scotland, and it is well worth a visit if you are ever in the area.

14. Eoligarry Beach, Isle of Barra

Eoligarry Beach on the Isle of Barra is one of Scotland’s most gorgeous beaches. The white sand and turquoise waters are simply stunning, and the views of the surrounding islands complete the almost-too-good-to-be-true scenery.

Visitors can find a number of excellent walking trails nearby, as well as a few small shops and cafes. Eoligarry beach is the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Scotland. So make sure to disconnect from the outside world and let the magnitude of this beach’s beauty wash away all your worries and stresses.

15. Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is another gorgeously stunning Scottish attraction that you will not regret visiting. The island is known for its rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and stunning views. Visitors can explore the island by car, bike, or on foot. There are also a number of tour operators that offer boat trips around the island.

The Isle of Skye houses a number of popular attractions, including the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, and the Quiraing. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s many sandy beaches, such as Talisker Beach and Ushenish Beach. With so much to see and do, there is no doubt that the Isle of Skye is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

16. Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands, North Uist

Located on the northern coast of the island of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides, Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands is one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Scotland. The beach is almost two miles long and is composed of white sand and turquoise waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

The nearby village of Clachan Sands has a few shops and restaurants, as well as a golf course. Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands is a great place to relax and enjoy the unique beauty of Scotland.

17. Loch Ken, Galloway Forest Park

Scotland is well-known for its scenic beauty, and Loch Ken is a perfect example of this. Nestled in the Galloway Forest Park, Loch Ken is one of the most scenic places in Scotland. The loch is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, and it is home to a variety of wildlife.

Visitors to Loch Ken can enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking or simply take in the stunning views of Scotland’s incredible natural beauty. Whether you are looking for a scenic place to relax or an adventurous place to explore, Loch Ken is sure to impress.

18. Rannoch Moor, Perthshire

Rannoch Moor is one of the most scenic places in Scotland. It is located in Perthshire, near the town of Pitlochry. The moor is home to a number of lochs, including Loch Rannoch, Loch Ericht, and Loch Lomond. There are also several Munros, or Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet, including Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles.

The moor is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, as it is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and ospreys. The moor is also one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, with its blue waters, green hills, and overall unique landscape, making it quite popular among photographers and painters.

19. St. Abb’s, Scottish Borders

St. Abbs is a scenic fishing village located on the Scottish Borders. It is renowned for its stunning cliffs and harbour, which attract visitors from all over the world. The village is also home to a wealth of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and puffins.

In addition to its natural beauty, St. Abbs is also home to a number of historic buildings, including a 12th-century Abbey and a 16th-century castle. As a result, the village is a popular destination for both tourists and history buffs alike. Whether you’re looking for a scenic coastline or fascinating history, St. Abbs will, for sure, have something to offer you.

20. Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack, Orkney

Yesnaby Castle is a scenic sea stack located in Orkney, Scotland. The stack is made up of old red sandstone and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the castle itself is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. 

Unfortunately, the castle is in danger of collapsing due to erosion from the sea. In recent years, large chunks of stone have fallen from the stack, and it is only a matter of time before the entire structure crumbles into the ocean. Despite this, Yesnaby Castle remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Orkney, and its beauty will continue to be enjoyed by many for years to come. So if you want to experience its magical beauty up close, waste no time and pay it a visit now! 

Scotland is a land full of beauty and wonder, from the rolling hills to the stunning coastlines. While there are too many places to list them all, these 20 scenic spots give you a taste of what this lovely country has to offer. So whether you want to explore an idyllic island or marvel at an ancient castle, Scotland truly deserves a place on your travel list.

Also, before taking off to Scotland, make sure to check out our Scotland travel guide with everything you will need to know before booking your plane ticket and embarking on this gorgeous adventure!