Readers' Favourite Scottish Trips: From Fogbows to Bothies and Ancient Stones
Our readers have shared their most cherished experiences across Scotland, from the mystical landscapes of the northern Highlands to the historic sites of Orkney and the serene beaches of the Hebrides. These tips offer a unique glimpse into the country's diverse attractions, perfect for travellers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Winning Tip: Bothies and a Fogbow in the Northern Highlands
One reader, Rory, embarked on a trek near Oykel Bridge, staying overnight at Choire Mhoir and Magoo's bothies in the northern Highlands. These conjoined bothies, managed by the Mountain Bothies Association and others, are free to use. In the morning, a fog hovered between the mountains leading to the summit of Seana Bhràigh, with Loch a' Choire Mhóir below. As the sun rose, the fog lifted, creating a magical fogbow above the loch and bothies, a rare and enchanting sight.
Stone Age on Two Wheels in Orkney
Another reader, Matt Lunt, took bikes on a ferry from Scrabster to Orkney, enjoying views of the Old Man of Hoy. Starting in Stromness, they cycled to Skara Brae, looped round to Kirkwall via the quirky road sign for Twatt, and explored the Ring of Brodgar and standing stones of Stenness. The setting where Lochs Harray and Stenness meet is spectacular, showcasing Neolithic sites with dramatic flair. The trip concluded with a visit to Maeshowe burial chamber before returning to the mainland.
Total Escape on Harris
Lynda Gairns chose the Outer Hebrides for a solo trip, spotting minke whales and dolphins on the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway. Staying in a shepherd's hut on a Harris croft, painted in Hebridean sky colours with tweed blinds and a wood-burning stove, she weathered Storm Floris with windy beach walks. Otters, sea eagles, and grey seals were among the wildlife sightings, providing a peaceful escape for writing poetry and daydreaming.
West Coast Campervan Epic
Hannah enjoyed a campervan trip along Scotland's west coast, favouring quieter spots like Kinlochewe in Wester Ross. Climbing 981-metre Slioch offered incredible views over Loch Maree. Near Gairloch, beaches provided vistas of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. A highlight was walking along Loch Morar to Tarbet, feeling remote, with campsites costing £10-£33 per night.
Exploring Scotland's Longest Peninsula
Moira B visited Kintyre, appreciating its unspoilt scenery without ferry hassles. Activities included the Kintyre Way coastal path, fish and chips at Tarbert harbour, and exploring Campbelltown's whisky heritage. A picnic on Saddell Bay, site of Paul McCartney's Mull of Kintyre video, featured Anthony Gormley's GRIP sculpture overlooking Kilbrannan Sound towards Arran.
A City Break in Glasgow
Liz Owen Hernandez explored Glasgow, starting at Glasgow Central station and visiting Kelvingrove museum, Billy Connelly's banana boots at St Enoch shopping centre, and a tenement house run by the National Trust for Scotland. The Barras flea market and Mackintosh tea rooms highlighted the city's history, with Charles Rennie Macintosh's legacy evident in sites like the Glasgow School of Art.
Community-Owned Hebridean Island
Margherita spent a week on the Isle of Eigg at Cleadale Bothy, enjoying wild beaches, views of An Sgùrr and Rùm, and native bluebells. The community-owned island offered a film night, shop, bar, brewery, museum, and hire outlets, with no visitor cars allowed.
Rewilded Southern Uplands
Hannah Price visited Carrifran Wildwood in the Moffat Hills, where volunteers have restored native trees. The landscape, with paths and information boards, is a hopeful example of ecological healing, complemented by nearby Moffat's independent shops and museum.
Castles and Lidos in Aberdeenshire
Emma R recommended Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire for its shingly beach, heated seawater lido, and Aunty Betty's ice-cream shop. Dunnottar Castle offers dramatic coastal views, while Aberdeen, a short train ride away, features an art gallery and granite architecture, with hopes to experience the Stonehaven fireball festival at Hogmanay.
Shelter from a Storm on Tiree
Calum camped on Tiree during Storm Dave, finding warmth at Screen Argyll in Crossapol. Welcomed by locals, they watched a movie for £7.50, turning a weather-disrupted trip into a memorable evening.
These tips showcase Scotland's rich diversity, from remote natural wonders to vibrant cultural hubs, inspiring future travels.
