BEST TIME TO VISIT SCOTLAND
The best time to visit Scotland in our opinion is September!
The Scottish Highlands can prove to be an ideal choice for a little getaway if a peaceful and varied environment is what you’re looking for. Best of all, you don’t have to look far to enjoy the vibrate colours, invigorating wind and picturesque scenery.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT SCOTLAND
This unbelievably beautiful Scottish region is the place to be for anyone wanting to experience high mountain peaks and crystal clear waters. Starting from Fort William and stretching right up the extensive coasts of the isle of Skype, the Scottish Highlands provide some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable. If travelling by foot, bike or car, you would have countless opportunities to witness the big skies, get lost in the history of the many castles, fish in the majestic lochs and even watch dolphins & whales play around the coastline. We’d recommend reading about the Hebridean Whale Trail which you can do off the West Coast of Scotland.
BEST TIME TO VISIT SCOTLAND
September is the best time to visit Scotland as you’ll avoid the peak travel months. What’s more, the summer months in the Highlands can be disturbed by encountering pesky swarms of midges flying around, which you won’t experience as much during autumn. Wildlife flourishes at this time of year, with red deer’s mating season’s grand performances and little grey seal pups that can be observed all around the coastline. Seasonal produce are delicious at this time of year, we recommend trying Scotland’s golden oysters and including a visit to Stranraer Oyster Festival. September is a great time to explore everything Scotland has to offer.
SCOTLAND WEATHER IN SEPTEMBER
BEAUTIFUL SPOTS IN SCOTLAND
KILLIN
Killin, a small and quiet village 73 miles from Edinburgh, is an amazing (and fairly cheap) place to stay during your Scottish gateway. It appears somewhat obsolete, as if time had stopped there, but that’s exactly what makes it a perfect stopover. During the day you can sit by the peaceful falls of Dochart, visit the local bakery or try traditional Scottish haggis at The Courie Inn. In the evening, settle down with a good book and relish in the peacefulness and chirping of birds. Do keep in mind, however, that there is only a small supermarket there and to reach a petrol station you have to drive around 3-4 miles to the Lix Toll Garage.
Nevertheless, the village is an excellent base from where you can travel to pretty much most of the Highlands, access to amazing forest trails and walking distance to Loch Tay – one of the best fishing spots around.
FORT WILLIAM
For any hiking lover out there, Fort William will have you covered. Climb up Ben Nevis (the highest peak in the UK), go skiing in the nearby resort or spot the local wildlife (including red deer, European otter, red squirrel and the golden eagle) in the countless forest trails. History followers should visit the West Highland Museum to immerse themselves fully in the fascinating history of the Scottish Highlands. The Lochaber Geopark, nature’s true playground, offers some of the most inspiring scenery with its unique cliffs, rivers, sandy beaches and a volcano. Go aboard the Jacobite steam train and appreciate the spectacular 84-mile journey that takes you through many impressive destinations. Don’t forget about the Ben Nevis distillery, a must-see for those interested in the craft of whiskey making, where you can get a tasting session, too!
REST AND BE THANKFUL - THE A83
Running between the Central Belt down to Campbell town this famous historical beauty spot is positioned 803 feet above sea level and is a definite must-see. It may not be very easy to find at first, but once you navigate it, it will be worth the trouble. This spot was originally a path travellers would take to get to the Trysts and for farmers to take their cattle down to the trade at cattle markets. The name of the spot comes from the travellers who would rest there during their voyages to be thankful for reaching the top of the climb. And so will you, once you get there. If you want to take your time exploring Scotland, we’d highly recommend reading our Slow Motion Travel tips so you can really enjoy September as the best time to visit Scotland.
GLENCOE
by Anna Mazur
Freelance travel writer
Travel is an essential part of my life. Through travel, you can not only discover new and interesting places, but you can also discover something new about yourself each time.
