13 of the Best Hidden Gems in Scotland (+ Map)

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Scotland may be known for its iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness (which are absolutely worth visiting), but there’s so much more to explore beyond the the most popular hotspots. If you're the type of traveler who loves hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures, this guide is for you!

I’ve compiled a list of 13 of Scotland's best hidden gems, each offering their own unique experience that will leave you longing for more "undiscovered" Scotland adventures. And trust me, there are a ton of hidden gem locations to explore in this beautiful country, so this is truly just the beginning!

This is exactly what made me fall hard for Scotland during my first trip, and why I've gone back nearly every year since.

From secluded white sand beaches to ancient ruins (castles and standing stones, galore), these secret places in Scotland are just waiting to be discovered. Let's go!

Table of Contents:

Introduction to Scotland Off the Beaten Path
How to Find and Visit Hidden Gems in Scotland
13 Hidden Gem Locations in Scotland

Ardnamurchan Peninsula
Dunrobin Castle
Smoo Cave
Achmelvich Bay
Bealach na Bà, Applecross
St. Kilda, Outer Hebrides
Isle of Kerrera
Loch Awe
Kilmartin Glen
Isle of Iona
Castle Tioram
Falkland, Fife
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

Map of the Best Unique Things to Do in Scotland
Final Thoughts

How to Find and Visit Hidden Gems in Scotland

Step one: you've found this travel guide! We'll dive into the specifics of each location, such as when to go, how to get there, and tips for your visit.

Step two: Planning your route and preparing ahead is crucial. Secret locations and hidden gems in Scotland are often located in remote areas, so make sure to have a reliable map or GPS device on hand. Pack essentials like comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and plenty of snacks and water. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as Scotland’s weather can be wildly unpredictable!

13 of the Best Hidden Gems in Scotland

1. Ardnamurchan Peninsula

Now I might be biased, as this was the very first place that I ever visited in the Scottish Highlands, but the Ardnamurchan Peninsula has to be one of the very best hidden gems in Scotland.

Sanna Bay, located on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, boasts pristine white sands and turquoise waters that rival those of the Caribbean. This remote beach is perfect for a peaceful day of relaxation, beach combing, and spotting sheep or Highland coos grazing in the nearby hills. You can also visit the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse & Cafe, located at the most westerly point of the mainland UK.

To get there, you have two options: from the Isle of Mull or from the mainland. From Mull, you'll take the ferry from Tobermory on the Isle of Mull directly over to the town of Kilchoan.

Or, make the road trip through the scenic single-track roads of the peninsula. From the mainland, you can either take a quick ferry across Loch Linnhe (Fort William area), and then drive all the way to the end of the peninsula. Or, take the slightly longer route through Glenfinnan, down along the coast, and then onto the peninsula (no ferry required).

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is milder and the sea is inviting.

Bonus tip: Stay like royalty during your time on the peninsula at Mingary Castle.

2. Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle, situated near the town of Golspie, is one of Scotland's most fairytale-esque castles. With its enchanting towers and lush gardens, it has a picturesque and French chateau-like setting that feels straight out of a storybook. Explore the castle’s beautiful interiors and learn about its rich history dating back to the 13th century.

Visit during the spring or summer to see the gardens in full bloom! The castle also hosts twice yearly falconry displays that shouldn't be missed.

These guided tours, both leaving from Inverness, include Dunrobin Castle in their itinerary:

>> John O'Groats and the Far North Tour (11 hours, $72 per person)

>> Dunrobin Castle and Easter Ross Day Trip (9 hours, $65 per person)

3. Smoo Cave

Located in Durness at the very tippy top of Scotland, Smoo Cave is an incredible sea cave that you can walk right into. Fun fact: it's actually Britain's largest sea cave. The cave features a towering entrance, a cascading waterfall, underground pools, and even some local tales and legends.

The best time to visit is during low tide when you can fully appreciate the cave's unique features. Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be slippery.

4. Achmelvich Bay

Achmelvich Bay, with its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, is a hidden paradise on the northwest coast of Scotland. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing right on the NC500. The area also offers scenic walking trails with breathtaking coastal views.

Visit in late spring or early summer to avoid the peak tourist season and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Bring a picnic and spend the day soaking up the natural beauty - honestly, you'll never want to leave!

5. Bealach na Bà, Applecross

Bealach na Bà is a winding mountain pass on the Applecross Peninsula, offering some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring views in Scotland. The road, which translates to "Pass of the Cattle," climbs steeply to 2,054 feet, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

The first time I ever drove this road was actually 100% unplanned - whoops! I was navigating around the Applecross Peninsula without cell service, and ended up driving the Bealach na Bà road by complete surprise. Quite a happy accident, though, if you ask me.

Drive carefully, as the single-track road can be challenging if you're not used to this type of drive. The best time to tackle this route is during daylight hours in good weather conditions to ensure a safe, enjoyable and incredibly scenic experience.

6. St. Kilda, Outer Hebrides

St Kilda, an archipelago located in the Outer Hebrides, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rugged, otherworldly beauty and rich wildlife. The islands were once inhabited but are now only home to seabirds, including puffins and gannets. Explore ruins (it’s essentially a ghost town), hike the dramatic cliffs, and take in the remote landscapes. Out of all of the best non-touristy places to visit in Scotland, this might just be number one on the list!

The only way to get to St Kilda is by boat, and the most common day trips will depart from the Isle of Harris or the Isle of Skye. The best time to visit is during the summer months when birdwatching opportunities (and ideally the weather) are at their peak.

>> Book a day trip to St. Kilda from Skye

>> Book a day trip to St. Kilda from Harris

7. Isle of Kerrera

Just a short ferry ride from Oban, the Isle of Kerrera is a true island escape with gorgeous landscapes and historical sites. Wander through rolling hills, visit the 16th century ruins of Gylen Castle, and enjoy homemade treats at the Kerrera Tea Garden.

The island is car-free, making it perfect for walking and cycling. Visit during the spring or summer to fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty. For more details, check out the full guide: how to spend one day on the Isle of Kerrera.

8. Loch Awe

Loch Awe, Scotland’s longest freshwater loch, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The loch is surrounded by lush forests, ancient castles, and gorgeous mountain landscapes. Don’t miss a visit to Kilchurn Castle for a breathtaking view of the ruins against the backdrop of the loch and the surrounding hills.

While you're in the area, check out St. Conan’s Kirk, which is also on Loch Awe. This charming church is a mix of Norman and Gothic styles, showcasing some amazing architectural creativity. Stroll through the quaint cloisters, appreciate the woodwork, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Explore the loch by kayak or take a leisurely hike along its shores. Bonus: read the full guide on how to visit the best viewpoint of Kilchurn Castle.

9. Kilmartin Glen

Kilmartin Glen, located in Argyll, is one of Scotland’s richest archaeological landscapes, boasting over 800 ancient monuments. Explore standing stones, burial cairns, and rock carvings that date back thousands of years. The Kilmartin Museum offers permanent exhibitions, guided walks and special festivals that celebrate the the area’s fascinating history.

Visit in the spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes to fully explore the sites.

10. Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona, known for its spiritual significance, is a small island off the southwest coast of Mull. It’s home to the Iona Abbey, one of Scotland’s most historic and sacred sites. The island’s stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect retreat. This is another one of Scotland's islands that could nearly pass for the Caribbean, with vibrant blue water and white sandy beaches.

While there are plenty of lovely accommodations on the isle, this island is also a wonderful place to camp - talking from experience! Check out Iona Campsite if that’s your style of travel.

Reach Iona by ferry from the Isle of Mull (the Fionnphort ferry point). Visit during the off-peak seasons to enjoy the tranquility and avoid the summer crowds.

11. Castle Tioram

Castle Tioram, perched on a tidal island in Loch Moidart, is a striking medieval castle ruin with a rich past. Its origins date back to the 13th century, serving as the stronghold of the Clan MacDonald of Clanranald. Legend has it that the castle even played a crucial role during the Jacobite risings.

The castle is fully accessible by foot at low tide, offering a unique adventure for history buffs and photographers alike. Be sure to check tide times before visiting to ensure that you'll be able to access the castle on foot!

12. Falkland, Fife

*Bruce Fountain in the Falkland town square*

Falkland is a charming village in Fife, known for its picturesque streets and historic buildings. Visit the Falkland Palace, a French Renaissance-style castle that was once a hunting lodge for Stuart monarchs (Mary Queen of Scots).

Bonus: Outlander fans will know that Falkland was used as the filming location for Inverness the show! Be sure to spot the iconic Bruce Fountain in the town square, which is where we first see the "ghost" of Jamie looking up at Claire in her hotel window.

Spring and summer are ideal times to visit, as the gardens are in full bloom. Take a leisurely stroll through the village and enjoy the local cafes and shops.

13. Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, located near Wick in Caithness, is a dramatic cliff-top ruin that was once the stronghold of the powerful Sinclair clan. It's actually comprised of two castles, built in the 15th and 17th centuries. The castle offers stunning views over the North Sea and is surrounded by rugged coastal scenery.

Visit during the spring or late autumn for mild weather and less midges. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the uneven terrain, and be aware that the walk from the parking lot to the ruins will take roughly 10-15 minutes.

Map of the Best Unique Things to Do in Scotland

To make your adventure even easier, I've created an interactive map showcasing the locations of these hidden gems and unique things to do. Use it to plan your route, find nearby attractions, and discover even more secret places in Scotland once you're out exploring!

Map from Wanderlog, a vacation planner app on iOS and Android

Final Thoughts

From the peaceful shores of the Isle of Iona to the quaint streets of Falkland, each hidden gem location on this list is so vastly different from the next, and absolutely worth a visit during your next trip to Scotland.

By venturing off the beaten path, you'll find the real heart of Scotland—its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming communities. Be sure to use the interactive map to guide your travels, and make the most of your trip to some of the best hidden gems in Scotland. Happy exploring!

More Scottish Highlands planning guides:

How to Spend One Day on the Isle of Kerrera, Scotland
How to Spend Two Days in Glencoe, Scotland
How to Visit the Kilchurn Castle Panorama Viewpoint on Loch Awe
Top 20 Places to Stay on the Isle of Skye (Hotels, B&Bs, Cabins)
How to visit Craigh na Dun from Outlander
10 Incredible Photography Locations on the Isle of Skye

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13 Best Hidden Gems in Scotland: Location Guide + Map