Head for the Highlands and find your clan
FROM its rich, historical background to its iconic landscape, it’s no wonder that the Highlands are a source of inspiration that helps to fuel and capture people’s imaginations.
From clans and castles to battles, it’s a place to put on your bucket list.
Want to discover your roots more and delve deeper into Scottish history? To learn about the clan system, visit MacPherson Clan Museum in Badenoch, Clan Cameron Museum in Achnacarry or the Inverness Archive Centre, where you will take a fascinating look at its colourful but also turbulent history, including the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Stop by Fort George to see one of Europe’s mightiest artillery fortifications, or visit Caithness, which holds the largest collection of Neolithic stones, Iron Age brochs and is where the last clan battle took place.
The natural landscape offers visitors the chance to explore the great Scottish outdoors and participate in fun activities. A Highland games is a great day out for the family where you will experience the very best of Scottish culture.
Every games is different and brings its very own unique character – from battling it out in the tug o’war to other classics such as the caber toss. There is a wide range of things to sink your teeth into.
Listen and enjoy the sounds of bagpipes or watch Highland dancers show off their fancy footwork while they take to the stage for an electrifying performance that will be sure to entertain audiences.
Fancy learning Gaelic? Heading to the Highlands is the perfect way to brush up your skills and test them out on the locals. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is a Gaelic college in Skye which offers a range of courses to choose from, whatever your level of expertise. Gaelic has even crossed over to popular culture, having featured in the hit TV series Outlander.
EXPERIENCE Highland nightlife like you never have before. Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy a night of traditional ceilidh dancing. Whether you are a seasoned ceilidh-goer or simply want to have a bit of fun, there is no doubt it will be a night to remember. Looking for a place to listen to some Highland music? Visit the award-winning MacGregor’s bar in Inverness for a tipple while you socialise with friends.
When it comes to sport, the Highlands take things very seriously. Shinty is one of the many great things which Scots invented. Played with wooden camans – sticks – and a ball, the game is often compared to field hockey and remains a firm favourite with many Highland communities.
For more information visit: www.visitscotland.com/ destinations-maps/highlands