Visiting underrated places in Scotland offers a unique and authentic experience away from the typical tourist hotspots. One such gem is the Fairy Pools, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude.
The Isle of Iona, known for its spiritual ambiance and historic significance, features ancient ruins and stunning beaches, providing a sense of serenity and reflection.
Oban, a charming coastal town, captivates visitors with its picturesque harbor, delectable seafood, and a gateway to explore the nearby Hebridean islands.
Crovie, a hidden fishing village, offers an authentic taste of traditional Scottish life, with its narrow alleyways and quaint cottages perched on cliffs overlooking the North Sea.
Lastly, The Kelpies, magnificent horse-head sculptures in Falkirk, symbolize Scotland’s rich history and folklore, making them a must-see for art and culture enthusiasts.
By exploring these underrated places, travelers can uncover Scotland’s hidden treasures in less-visited yet enchanting destinations.
Isle of Iona, Inner Hebrides
The Isle of Iona, which lies opposite Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull, is one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. From this small island in the Inner Hebrides, the journey to the nearest airport takes four hours. Often referred to as the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland, the island of Iona has shaped the country’s history. Explore this tiny island and its 120 inhabitants, then enjoy a stay punctuated by the sea and clean Hebridean air.
Fairy Pools Glenbrittle – Isle of Skye
Situated on the Isle of Skye, approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Inverness, the Fairy Pools rank among Scotland’s concealed treasures. Nestled near Glenbrittle, these enchanting waterfalls create genuine natural pools. The allure of the Fairy Pools lies in their crystal clear waters, enticing adventurous swimmers to immerse themselves in the invigorating freshness of the pools. A visit to this captivating location promises a memorable experience, where the beauty of nature beckons both explorers and those seeking a refreshing dip in the cool and pristine waters.
St Kilda Archipelago, Outer Hebrides
This World Heritage Site in the Outer Hebrides is home to one of the highest sea cliffs in Scotland. Learn about the remarkable history of the islanders who were forced to flee in 1930. In the United Kingdom, St. Kilda is a very special place. It was one of the least populated islands. Today it is the perfect place for bird watching as all the inhabitants have left the island. Several companies offer boat tours to St. Kilda on the Isle of Harris. Even cruises of several days can be booked through “The National Trust for Scotland”.
Oban, Argyll and Butte – West Scotland
With a population of 8000 residents, Oban is an unmissable Scottish town. Its name, meaning “small bay,” perfectly describes its picturesque coastal charm, making it an ideal retreat for nature and ocean enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its abundance of restaurants along the pier, providing a delightful way to conclude a day filled with exploring nearby gems like the Hebrides, Isle of Mull, Staffa, and Kerrera. Whether basking in the beauty of nature or savoring delicious cuisine, Oban offers an enchanting experience for travelers seeking a perfect blend of seaside allure and culinary delights.
Fingal’s Cave, Fionnphort – Isle of Mull
Fingal’s Cave is incomparable to any other cave in the entire world. Tourists who venture into the magnificent basalt cave that rises dramatically from the sea will be thrilled. Wildlife abounds, and when the puffins are in season, you might be lucky enough to see them. Numerous boat tours are offered throughout the day from Fionnphort.
Portree, Isle of Skye – Highlands
The largest town on the Isle of Skye is Portree. It is the ideal starting point for excursions to the Inner Hebrides. Just cross the bridge in Loch Aillse to get to Portree; no need to take a ferry. The first two weeks in August are ideal if you like Highland Games. However, if you want to avoid crowds, book before or after the competition, when prices are more appealing.
The Kelpies, Forth and Clyde Canal – Falkirk
The Kelpies are two imposing statues that you will find in Helix Park 20 minutes from Edinburgh and 30 minutes from Glasgow. Throughout Scotland’s history, horses have played a crucial role, in agriculture and in defense against countless attacks and in transportation. Similar to the Scottish waterways, the Kelpies are strong, legendary water horses that are 10 times stronger than regular horses.
Crovie, Aberdeenshire
Crovie, situated in the Aberdeenshire region of North Scotland, is a quaint village characterized by its small size and picturesque coastal setting. With just one road and 50 houses lining the seafront, the village exudes a charming simplicity. However, due to the road’s narrowness, residents are obliged to park their cars outside the village, preserving its traditional and unspoiled ambiance.