Close your eyes. What comes to mind when you hear the word Scotland? Mist, lochs, castles, the sound of bagpipes, the taste of whisky, men in kilts, a thick accent... Scotland, a land of clichés, is mysterious, proud, rebellious and clannish. It can be experienced and discovered from the inside, and is well worth a visit, especially as there is something to suit almost every taste. There are countless castles, palaces, noble residences, abbeys, keeps, standing stones and prehistoric sites. These sites are set in magnificent landscapes, some of them untouched by human hands , to be discovered in our selection of Scotland's 17 most beautiful villages to visit. Last but not least, take the time to sample a single malt, or to re-read the books of Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson, to soak up the authenticity and charm of these unique places....
1. Tobermory and the famous Tobermory Distillery
Tobermory, a picturesque little village on the west coast of the Isle of Mull, is often considered one of the most beautiful in Scotland. Its pastel-faced houses are beautifully reflected in the water, offering an enchanting visual spectacle. Its adorable little multicolored port exudes an undeniable charm. You'll also find some great pubs and restaurants, perfect for savoring the local atmosphere after a day of exploring. The village is also home to the famous Tobermory Distillery, whose visit willend with a tasting of Tobermory 10 Year Old, subtle and maritime, lightly smoked thanks to the water of the island lochs.
Good to know: Tobermory is an ideal base from which to explore the whole of the Isle of Mull, one of Scotland's most beautiful islands to visit. If you'd like to opt for a customized travel itinerary to Indonesia, we recommend you request your free quote right here. A tailor-made, responsible trip, direct with the best local agencies, awaits you!
2. St Andrews, the kingdom of golf
The town of St. Andrews will appeal to golf enthusiasts with its legendary course. If golf isn't your cup of tea (although tea is ubiquitous!), explore the ruins of the cathedral, which was the epicenter of Catholic Scotland in the Middle Ages, and those of St. Andrews Castle. After so much sightseeing, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation on the beach. Although swimming is not recommended due to the temperatures, it's an ideal place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
To book: We recommend this guided tour on the origins of golf and the history of the course with former caddie Richard Falconer.
Read more: What to do in Scotland 17 must-sees
3. Glenfinnan, a charming Scottish village
Does Glenfinnan exude magic? Well, it should! Nestled on the shores of Loch Shiel and surrounded by majestic mountains, this place is famous for its picturesque setting. What really draws visitors' attention is the railway viaduct, made famous by the passage of the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter saga. You could almost expect to see Harry, Ron and Hermione appear at any moment! Children will love it (and many adults too, no doubt!).
The village is also home to the Glenfinnan Monument, a column dedicated to the Jacobite cause, offering panoramic views from its summit. To round off a day rich in emotions, don't hesitate to take a cruise on Loch Shiel. You'll discover its crystal-clear waters and mysterious islands!
To book : We recommend a day trip to Glenfinnanfort William and Glencoe from Edinburgh, where you'll see breathtaking scenery and several Harry Potter filming locations. An unforgettable day out guaranteed!
Read more: 10 Harry Potter film locations to discover
4. North Berwick, one of Scotland's most beautiful villages
North Berwick is without doubt Lothian's most charming coastal town. Its seafront location is made all the more special by Bass Rock, a bell-shaped island home to a huge colony of gannets. Founded in the 12th century, the port added the prefix "North" to distinguish itself from its neighbor to the south, Berwick-upon-Tweed. It's an ideal base from which to explore the region, with its castles and fine museums. The more adventurous can take advantage of its beautiful beach for a swim, with a section set aside as a protected pool for children.
Good to know: From Edinburgh, it takes around 35 minutes by train to reach North Berwick. Take the opportunity to read our articles What to see and do in Edinburgh? The 17 must-sees and What to do and see in Edinburgh in 2 or 3 days? Itinerary tips.
5. Kelso, considered by Walter Scott to be the most beautiful village in Scotland
Walter Scott considered Kelso the most beautiful village in Scotland. Founded around its 12th-century abbey, which was very influential in the Middle Ages before being destroyed by English troops in the 16th century, Kelso is indeed a real gem. The central square, The Square, is the heart of the village and features charming Georgian houses. People come here for the gentle way of life and a rich heritage, embodied by Floors Castle, Smailholm Tower or the remains of Roxburgh Castle and its golf course.
Worth knowing to get to Kelso, there are several options : the Borders Buses 52 from Edinburgh (2 hours), the Perrymans 67 from Galashiels or Melrose (50 minutes), and the Peter Hogg 20 from Jedburgh (25 minutes).
6. Crail, a picturesque fishing village
The south-east coast of the Kingdom of Fife bears the poetic name of East Neuk, which means "the corner" in Scottish. This region offers a delightful coastline and a number of picturesque fishing villages, where red bricks blend harmoniously with white walls on the water's edge. Crail is perhaps the most attractive, but Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monans and Elie are also charming picture-postcard settings, with their beaches and sailing boats.
Worth knowing: by following the A917, you can discover all these villages, making this a pleasant getaway from St Andrews. Alternatively, book a day trip from Edinburgh to discover the charming fishing villages of Fife.
7. Pittenweem, one of Scotland's most beautiful villages to visit
Pittenweem is famous for Saint Fillian's Cave, where the missionary Saint Fillian is reputed to have preached. A sacred spring still flows here, and religious ceremonies are regularly held. The staircase used by the smuggler monks to bring their wares up into the church garden is still in good condition. A few miles inland, Kellie Castleis a fine example of 16th and 17th century bourgeois architecture, although the oldest part dates back to 1320. The castle is surrounded bya Victorian garden planted with rare vegetables.
8. Fort Augustus, a picturesque village with undeniable charm
Located at the western tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is crossed by the Caledonian Canal, which links Loch Lochy and Fort William. After the Jacobite movement of 1715, fortifications were erected here, giving the village its name. Fort Augustus is a picturesque place of undeniable charm. Although much frequented by visitors to Loch Ness, it offers a pleasant, soothing atmosphere. If you want to reach Inverness and prefer wilderness to Nessie attractions, follow the loch along its southern shore. If you opt for the north shore, stop off at Invermoriston.
To book: Discover the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a guided tour you can book right here to Loch Ness, Glencoe and Pitlochry. You'll stop for lunch at Fort Augustus.
Read more: What to do and see in Inverness The 11 must-sees
9. Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye and one of Scotland's most beautiful villages
Portree is the capital of the Isle of Skye, and its largest and most dynamic village. This small port with its historic charm is lined with colorful cottages reflected in Loch Portree and the Sound of Raasay. Fishing boats and pleasure craft still ply the waters. You'll find a number of restaurants and the region's main tourist office, making Portree a must-see. The accommodation on offer is of a high standard, with hotels, B&Bs and inns. Staying here has the advantage of proximity to amenities and numerous tourist attractions, as Portree is virtually in the center of the island.
What to book: Discover the best of the Isle of Skye by booking this day trip from Inverness. You'll see the island's capital, Portree, explore Lealt Falls and admire Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle along the way.
Read also: What to do, what to visit in the Highlands? The 15 most beautiful places
10. Durness, an enchanting end-of-the-world atmosphere
Durness, at the north-western tip of Scotland, exudes an enchanting end-of-the-world atmosphere. Its famous Smoo Cave is just one aspect of the region's magnificent coastline, dotted with impressive cliffs and beautiful beaches. Sango Bay, right in the center, is one example, but Balnakeil Bay, further west, is even more spectacular. The road to Tongue reveals further wonders and truly immerses you in the unique charm of this remote land. If you have time, don't miss a detour to Cape Wrath, one of Scotland's most bewitching coastal landscapes, with its end-of-the-world ambience.
There's no doubt about it, Scotland deserves its place in our top 10 destinations for a romantic weekend in Europe.
11. Troon, landscapes from the Outlander series
This port village is a popular seaside resort that can also be visited in autumn. It's particularly lively in summer, with a beautiful esplanade along the beach, a bustling harbor with a renowned fish market, and quirky stores and pubs. The Royal Troon Golf Course is famous for its 18-hole course , which hosts international tournaments. Troon also has the distinction of being the first railway station in Scotland to open its doors to passenger traffic. Built in the 19th century as the coastal station of the very first railroad line, Kilmarnock-Troon, it provided a link with the ferry terminal.
The Little Witty's anecdote: Fans of the Outlander series will recognize the landscapes at the end of season 1.
12. Helmsdale, a peaceful little port
This peaceful little port was once one of Europe's leading herring fishing centers and, like many of its neighbors, was hit hard by clearances. Today, it attracts visitors with its quiet charm on the romantic east coast. The surrounding coastline is beautiful, with long sandy beaches, and the hinterland of the Strath of Kildonan is a verdant valley through which the Helmsdale River flows.
13. Wreck diving in Stromness, one of Scotland's most beautiful villages
The west of the Mainland boasts vast lochs, a magnificent coastline and, above all, a rich prehistoric heritage. Most of the region's must-see tourist attractions can be found here, making West Mainland an essential destination on a holiday to Orkney. Stromness, the region's main village, is second only to Kirkwall in size and is one of Scotland's most beautiful villages. For a unique experience, the Orkney Folklore & Storytelling Centre organizes wakes where local legends are told to music. In addition, Scapa Scuba offers diving sessions to explore the wrecks of Scapa Flow.
14. Wigtown, destination par excellence for book lovers
One of Scotland's most beautiful villages, Wigtown is the ideal destination for book lovers. In 1998, it was officially designated National Book Capital. With over 250,000 books available, there's something for everyone! Take a stroll through the bookshops to find your next favorite. Every autumn, Wigtown hosts the Wigtown Book Festival, a ten-day event featuring over 200 activities. This festival stimulates the desire to read, helps hone writing skills and strengthens the local community. Although little-known, Wigtown will delight artists and literary enthusiasts alike.
15. Inveraray, one of Scotland's most beautiful villages for nature lovers
Cradled by the waters of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is nestled in verdant surroundings, halfway between the Cowal Peninsula and the west coast. This charming port town, with its white-fronted houses, offers a rich palette of cultural and tourist activities. Although famous for its neo-Gothic castle, Inveraray offers many other attractions. In summer, the imposing Inveraray Bell Tower is open to the public. The Inveraray Prison, which has won several awards for the quality and originality of its displays and exhibitions, is also a popular site. Finally, Inveraray is a destination of choice for nature lovers.
Read more: Scotland, nature in all its splendor
16. Dunvegan and its emblematic Clan MacLeod castle
The tranquil village of Dunvegan is most famous for its iconic castle, home of the powerful Clan MacLeod. A Visit Scotland information point is available here for more information on this part of the island. If you're staying nearby, be sure to visit the Giant MacAskill Museum, which highlights local history and culture. For nature lovers, the Duirinish and Waternish peninsulas in the north-west are a must. Duirinish is particularly attractive with Neist Point, a magnificent rocky point topped by a lighthouse, accessible after a short 2 km round-trip walk from Waterstein.
Read also: Top 10 most beautiful castles in Europe
17. Aberfeldy and its famous distillery
Aberfeldy is set in gentle, lush, wooded countryside, close to Loch Tay, Tay Forest Park and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Aberfeldy is famous for dewar's Distillery and was immortalized by national poet Robert Burns in his work "The Birks of Aberfeldy". This delightful loop footpath takes you through the woods to the magnificent Moness Falls. During your ideal visit to Aberfeldy, be sure to discover the famous Fortingall Yew, over 2,000 years old, and experience the thrill of rafting or canyoning by booking your fafting session on the River Tay in Aberfeldy right here !
