Are you ready to explore the beauty and history of Scotland’s Highlands? In just 48 hours, you can see quite a few of the breathtaking sites this area has to offer – from magnificent lochs and craggy peaks to lush green valleys and mysterious castles. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, travelling through the Scottish Highlands in two days can be one of the most memorable experiences of your life!
Scottish Highlands – Day 1
There are lots of great things to do in the Scottish Highlands but you can’t visit without looking for the Loch Ness Monster. Well you could, but frankly why miss out?
Start your day at the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition before the crowds arrive. This popular Scottish attraction is actually quite a scientific place and debunks several myths about the monster, although some mysteries remain.
Within the same building, don’t miss the Great Glen Distillery. Scotland’s smallest craft distillery, it specializes in premium Scottish gin made from water sourced directly from Loch Ness.
For lunch, head to Fiddler’s Highland restaurant nearby. It’s an attractive place with outdoor seating if you happen to be lucky with the weather.
Afterwards, take a walk along Loch Ness. Enjoy the stunning Highlands scenery and keep your eyes peeled for the monster.
Urquhart Castle is the second most visited monument in Scotland and occupies a picturesque spot on the lake. Construction started in the 13th century and ever since it was finished, there have been battles to gain control of it.
Scottish Highlands – Day 2
Glen Strathfarrar has to be seen to be believed. This spectacular valley is one of the best Scotland hidden gems and will take your breath away with its beauty.
It’s a private road and there’s a limit to the number of cars allowed in each day. At times, yours may be the only vehicle for miles around.
Alone with nature, you’re free to contemplate the majestic surroundings. At the end of the drive, you’ll find Monar Dam. This arch dam is the largest in Britain and wouldn’t look out of place in a Bond movie.
Plodda Falls is another fantastic sight that is well worth a visit, close to the village of Tomich.
Walking through the forest, you’ll come to a clearing where the water gushes down onto the rocks below from a height of 46 metres. The sheer force of it is mesmerizing.
As you drive back through the stunning Glen Affric, you’ll come across a statue commemorating the Golden Retriever dog breed. They were first bred on this estate in 1868 by Dudley Marjoribanks, Lord Tweedmouth.
He crossed a wavy-coated retriever with a Tweed water spaniel and the rest is history.
There are also many sheep along the way, happily grazing on the hillside. For whisky fans, there are quite a few distilleries within an hour’s drive. Some of them such as Old Pulteney Distillery specialize in single malt Scotch whisky.
If you’re a thrill seeker or simply want to try something different, don’t miss dog sledding at Eagle Brae. This collection of luxury cedar wood lodges is also a great place to stay.
They can arrange all sorts of activities for you including wildlife photography and fishing. Our dog sledding session was organised by Leask Racing Sled Dogs, who instantly put us at ease.
The dogs themselves are huskies rather than hounds and very good natured. The dog sledding takes place in a meadow where the Sled Dog Association of Scotland recently held their races and it’s a truly exhilarating ride.
Your main task is to hold on for dear life while the dog sled driver puts the hounds through their paces…and boy, do they love to race! It’s somewhat of a bumpy ride but a real bucketlist experience. Afterwards you’ll give the dogs water – all that sled pulling is thirsty work.
Getting to the Scottish Highlands
Many people imagine that the Scottish Highlands are incredibly remote but surprisingly that’s not the case at all. There are regular flights from Belfast, Bristol, Birmingham, London and Manchester to Inverness in the heart of the Highlands.
It’s also a pleasant journey on the Virgin Train East Coast line. Once you’re there, we’d highly recommend hiring a car as although there’s public transport, it’s not always regular and many of the sights are off the beaten track.
Conclusion – 48 Hours in the Scottish Highlands Itinerary
After having spent 48 hours in the Scottish Highlands, you will find that it has more to offer than lush landscapes and rugged beauty. From sumptuous seafood delicacies cooked with local ingredients to the unique cultural experiences you can gain by visiting ancient castles and sacred highland grounds, there is something special that awaits you on your journey.
