10 Must-See Places in Scotland That Remain Relatively Untouched by Tourism

10 Must-See Places in Scotland That Remain Relatively Untouched by Tourism: A Complete Guide

Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking mountainous scenery, centuries-old castles, wild coasts and historic towns and cities. However, some of the most fascinating sights in this country do not attract many tourists because they are located on secluded islands and in glens, where travelers can enjoy beautiful beaches, picturesque villages and natural views rather than cultural attractions. Such areas will provide visitors an excellent chance to get to know the landscapes and local culture of this country while avoiding overcrowding that is usual in the most popular sights.

As soon as travellers begin their travel from the west, they will find out how easy and quick it is to see another face of this country just moving out of the city. Although Glasgow is a perfect start for travelling to the Highlands and western coast of Scotland, planning proper transport will facilitate travellers' journey. Glasgow Taxis may be useful in such a situation before going to calmer regions of this country, especially if tourists do not want to deal with complicated roads. Nevertheless, once people leave the city behind, they will see huge landscapes full of calm nature instead of crowded streets.

1. Knoydart Peninsula: Scotland's Remote Wilderness

Knoydart Peninsula is commonly referred to as one of the last great wildernesses of Britain. This remote area is situated on the western coastline of Scotland and features mountains, sea lochs and rough terrain. Public road access to Knoydart Peninsula does not exist; therefore, this place maintains its isolation.

The only ways of getting there are by boat from Mallaig or by hiking. Once tourists get to Knoydart Peninsula, they will have the opportunity to enjoy the views of Loch Nevis and the surrounding mountains. The village of Inverie has all the amenities tourists may need in order to stay there for some time.

2. Sandwood Bay: A Wild Highland Beach

Sandwood Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Scotland and is still very tranquil due to the difficulty of getting there. This beach is located near Cape Wrath in Sutherland and boasts nearly four kilometers of golden sand with dunes and cliffs behind it.

The long trek on foot through the moorlands gives a real sense of adventure. Once you arrive at the beach, its vast size along with the surrounding wilderness allows people to feel that they have been transported back in time. Visitors should bring food and water, as well as appropriate footwear and clothing, since facilities are scarce.

3. Assynt: Dramatic Landscapes Without the Crowds

As such, Assynt in the north-western Highlands represents a dream destination for photographers, hikers and everyone who loves pristine views of nature. This region features some peculiar mountain ranges, such as Suilven, Quinag, and Stac Pollaidh.

In contrast to more popular destinations in the Highlands, Assynt has remained vast and unhurried. There are also several lochs and beaches here along with some historical sites that are worth seeing. With some time for leisure, travelers will be able to experience scenic road trips, hiking trails, observing nature and sunsets without any schedule.

4. The Isle of Eigg: A Small Island With a Big Personality

The Hebridean island of Eigg boasts a wonderful balance of scenic beauty and communal spirit. The number of its inhabitants is low, while most of the island can be discovered on foot. There are beaches, forests, cliffs, and hills, all providing numerous options for outdoor activities.

The island becomes especially appealing to tourists who are concerned about sustainable tourism practices. Indeed, the local population managed to come up with a unique approach to renewable energy and island ownership, which makes the trip very interesting from this point of view. Hiking up An Sgùrr gives a chance to enjoy panoramic views.

5. Kilmartin Glen: Ancient Scotland Away From the Tourist Trail

For history buffs, a visit to Kilmartin Glen in Argyll is well worth the while. The area boasts an incredible amount of prehistoric sites, such as standing stones, burial cairns, stone circles, and rock art. However, despite its significance in terms of archaeology, it tends to be rather quiet compared to the main historical destinations in Scotland.

People arriving in western Scotland by air could find it beneficial to take a Glasgow Airport Taxi to get to their first destination before heading to Argyll. After that, Kilmartin Glen may serve as an interesting destination on a road trip through the western Highlands.

It is important to note that visiting such places means not only looking at some structures but being immersed in the atmosphere of Scotland’s distant past.

6. Ardnamurchan Peninsula: The Wild West Coast

Ardnamurchan is one of the most isolated places reachable by car in mainland Britain. Situated to the west of Fort William, this peninsula includes rugged mountain ranges, forest, sea lochs, and a picturesque coast.

This place would suit those visitors who love to drive along the picturesque roads and make frequent stops along the way. The Western end of mainland Britain can be found at Ardnamurchan Point with its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches for leisurely walking and bird watching.

But because of the lack of visitor facilities, prior planning is crucial. But this isolation is exactly what makes Ardnamurchan unique.

Also read: Edinburgh or Glasgow: Where Should You Live With Your Family?

7. The Isle of Jura: Peace, Mountains, and Open Space

One of the less busy islands of the Inner Hebrides, Jura is well-known for the Paps of Jura – its unique mountain range that overlooks the whole island.

With little population, few roads, and no cars allowed on most parts of the island, Jura is a peaceful place to go hiking, cycling, bird-watching, and even photography. Red deer live mostly on Jura, but seal and seabird sightings can also be made from the coast.

Traveling to Jura allows you to take your time. There is no need to rush through your itinerary because one day will not be enough to explore only one part of the island.

8. Glen Affric: One of Scotland's Finest Natural Landscapes

The Glen Affric is one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, but at the same time it seems to be very calm and quiet in comparison with some places on the shores of the Loch Ness. The presence of ancient pine woods, mountains, rivers, and lakes makes this place resemble the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands.

Different walking paths are provided for people to have the chance to visit the glen at different levels of difficulty. The fall season is especially amazing due to the presence of colors created by the vegetation.

9. The Isle of Harris: Remote Beaches and Mountain Scenery

Though the Outer Hebrides have become quite trendy of late, there are still some amazing locations on the Isle of Harris where one can be completely alone.

The west coast of Harris is known for its beautiful beaches like Luskentyre, with clear turquoise water and soft white sand that can make it seem almost tropical in comparison to Scotland.

Apart from the beaches, there are the rough mountains of Harris, the quaint villages and the quiet paths that wind through a truly surreal world.

10. The Flow Country: Scotland's Vast Northern Wilderness

If you wish to have a truly unique experience, visit the Flow Country in northern Scotland. The extensive landscape of peatlands covers Caithness and Sutherland and provides one of the most important blanket bog habitats on the planet.

This place is not designed for typical tourism. On the contrary, it allows you to explore vast landscapes, amazing bird life, and an environment that has evolved over millennia.

How to Experience Scotland Beyond the Crowds

Finding the hidden places in Scotland means taking an entirely different attitude to traveling. Instead of striving to visit as many sites as you can, plan more time for each particular destination. Get acquainted with the timetables of ferries beforehand and book the place to stay early on as options might be limited, and bring appropriate clothes, as weather in the Highlands can change quickly.

Sustainable tourism is crucial too. Remote areas can be quite fragile, and therefore visitors need to walk along the marked trails if possible, take their garbage with them, be considerate to wildlife, and patronize local enterprises.

The quiet spots of Scotland show that the most interesting things in the country aren't necessarily the places shown on all the postcards. Whether it be lonely shores and archaeological sites, or islands and Highland wilderness, this list of destinations promises a unique travel experience. Anyone wishing to see Scotland in a new light, should step outside the beaten track to find some breathtaking views.