From dramatic cliffs to serene sandy beach, Scotland’s nature is an experience of its own.
Anyone who travels to Scotland leaves deeply impressed by the
incredible beauty this country has to offer. From coast to coast, you’ll be stunned into silence at the views. Scotland is often described as the best small country in the world, and when you look closer, it’s hard to argue. Few countries of comparable size have such an abundance of natural wonders.
Here are some of Scotland’s top natural marvels, each unique and breathtaking in its own right.
The Isle of Skye: Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools
Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is a striking rock formation on the Isle of Skye. This iconic feature is part of the Trotternish Ridge and has appeared in films like The Wicker Man and Prometheus. Visitors to Skye often have the image of the Old Man of Storr in their minds as they make their way to the island.
You can climb the Storr if you have experience hillwalking via a 3.8km route of rough paths, steep rocky sections that can be scrambled, and some boggy ground. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic sweep of the surrounding landscapes.
Fairy Pools
Not far from the Old Man of Storr, you’ll find the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear, blue pools and waterfalls in Glen Brittle. These enchanting pools are popular for wild swimming and photography, offering a magical experience as you wander along the paths beside the cascading waters. The area is surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Cuillin Mountains, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Fingal’s Cave
Fingal’s Cave, located on the uninhabited Isle of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides, is one of Scotland’s most famous caves. Looming about 230 feet over the ocean, this visually astounding sea cave was formed around 60 million years ago by ancient lava flows, the same that created the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland. The cave is known for its unique basalt columns and the incredible acoustics that have inspired many, including Queen Victoria, Sir Walter Scott, and Felix Mendelssohn. The legend goes that Fingal’s Cave and the Giant’s Causeway were once part of a bridge connecting the two lands.
The Three Sisters of Glencoe
The Three Sisters of Glencoe, also known as Bidean nam Bian in Gaelic, are three steep ridges in Scotland’s most famous and scenic glen. The Sisters—Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach, and Aonach Dubh—were shaped millions of years ago from some of the oldest sedimentary and volcanic strata in the world. These mountains attract hill walkers and visitors from around the globe. The sheer scale and grandeur of the surrounding landscapes are awe-inspiring. If you have time, Ben Nevis in Fort William, the highest mountain in the British Isles, is also worth a visit.
Hidden Valley
Another gem in Glencoe is the Hidden Valley, or Coire Gabhail. This secluded valley was historically used by the MacDonald clan to hide their livestock from raiders. The hike to the Hidden Valley offers dramatic views and a sense of adventure as you navigate through rocky paths and over streams.
Luskentyre Sands
Situated on the Isle of Harris in the northwest of Scotland, Luskentyre Sands is a perfect crescent of fine shell sand and dunes. Known for its miles of white sands and the gorgeous azure waters, it is one of Scotland's most beautiful beaches.
At high tide, the sands become part of the Sound of Taransay, looking out towards the Isle of Taransay. The coastal scenery here is simply unparalleled, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Outer Hebrides.
Callanish Standing Stones
While on the Isle of Harris and Lewis, take the time to visit the Callanish Standing Stones. These ancient stones, older than Stonehenge, form a cross-shaped setting and have been a place of worship for over 5,000 years. Their mysterious presence adds to the island’s enchanting atmosphere.
St Kilda
St Kilda, a tiny archipelago far off the west coast of mainland Scotland, is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Nature Reserve. The island features dramatic, jagged landscapes and towering sea cliffs that are among the highest in Europe.
St Kilda is home to nearly a million seabirds during the breeding season, including puffins, gannets, and fulmars, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The island also has remnants of human occupation, like traditional stone cottages and storage huts (cleits). Visiting St Kilda is a unique experience, though it requires a bit of effort to get there.
Village Bay
In Village Bay, you can see the ruins of the old settlement where the island’s inhabitants lived until the 1930s. The stone houses and cleits scattered across the landscape tell the story of the island’s human history and its dramatic isolation.
Scottish Dark Sky Park
For stargazers, Europe’s first designated Dark Sky Park in Galloway Forest Park is a must-see. Spanning around 75,000 hectares, it offers some of the clearest night skies in Europe. On a clear night, you can see stars, planets, and even meteors.
The Milky Way is often visible, arching across the sky. For a closer look, visit the observatory in Dalmellington, which has large telescopes for observing the night sky.
Clatteringshaws Loch
Clatteringshaws Loch, within Galloway Forest Park, provides a serene setting for both daytime and nighttime adventures. By day, enjoy the tranquil waters and surrounding woodlands, and by night, marvel at the star-filled sky reflected in the loch’s surface.
The Old Man of Hoy
Rising 450 feet out of the Atlantic Ocean, the Old Man of Hoy is the UK’s tallest sea stack. This red sandstone monolith is located on the island of Hoy in Orkney. Originally an arch with two legs, the Old Man of Hoy was slowly shaped by the erosive forces of sea and wind. It’s a popular spot for rock climbers and can be viewed up close with a hike or from a distance on the Scrabster to Stromness ferry route.
Yesnaby Cliffs
While in Orkney, also visit the Yesnaby Cliffs. These dramatic cliffs offer stunning coastal scenery and are home to rare wildflowers, making them a favorite spot for nature walks and photography.
