Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Heritage and history define it. It is home to so many pretty towns and villages, which each offer up a true taste of Scottish life. To help you on your way, we’ve put together a list of the prettiest towns and villages that you must visit in the majestic country of Scotland.
1. Torridon, Scottish Highlands
The beautiful village of Torridon is one of the most stunning locations in the whole of the Scottish Highlands. Standing at the foot of Liathach, Torridon is known for its incredible views. This is because the three giants of Beinn Alligin, Liathach and Beinn Eighe rise around 1,000 metres from sea level around the village.
2. Fort William, Scottish Highlands
Fort William is a town in the western Scottish Highlands. Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’ Fort William is located in one of the most enviable locations in Scotland; sitting on the shores of Loch Linnhe. Magnificent mountain scenery forms a backdrop no matter which way you look. And the town is also a starting point for the Great Glen Way, which is a long distance path that runs coast-to-coast from Fort William to Inverness. This majestic route meanders through 125 kilometres of rugged Scottish countryside.
Fort William beneath Ben Nevis.
3. Portree, Isle of Skye
Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. It also serves as the capital. The town’s name originates from the Gaelic Port-an-Righ, which translates as "King's Port", and dates to a visit by King James V in 1540. Today the focus of Portree is its harbour. Its glorious natural setting, being flanked by cliffs, give it a unique feel. The peninsula to the south is unflatteringly referred to as "The Lump" by locals, and once provided a dramatic setting for public hangings. Today the harbour is a busy fishing port, offering visitors a real slice of Scottish life.
Portree, Isle of Skye.
4. Tobermory, Isle of Mull
In the late 18th century, Tobermory was built as a fishing port. Today it is the capital of the Isle of Mull in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. Quaint, peaceful and charming, Tobermory is home to many brightly painted buildings along its main street, which run all the way up to the pier. It is this colourful waterfront that serves as the iconic location of the popular BBC children's television series, Balamory.
Tobermory.
5. Braemar, Aberdeenshire
The village of Braemar is located 93 kilometres west of Aberdeen in the Highlands. The village is a popular tourist resort and the logistical hub of the Deeside Highlands, which is home to royal deer forests, castles and most famously the British royal residence of Balmoral Castle. Braemar is also the home of the Braemar Gathering, an annual Highland Games traditionally attended by the Royal Family, since Queen Victoria. History abounds throughout the region. The village is also home to the highest 18 hole golf course in Britain.