10 magical hidden gems in Scotland

Scotland welcomes millions of visitors every year, all of them eager to experience its magnificent castles, mysterious lakes, world-famous whisky, and Highland history.

The country is well-known for its top tourist attractions. Most travellers’ bucket lists include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, the edgy city of Glasgow or the infamous Loch Ness.

But what if I told you that there’s more magic and beauty to be found in Scotland beyond bustling cities?

Here are 10 hidden gems in Scotland that are certainly worth a visit!

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1. Smoo Cave

Best for: Geological tours, boat rides, and cave exploration

One of Scotland’s lesser-known natural wonders, situated on its rugged northwest coast, is a spectacular sea cave called Smoo.

This intriguing name comes from the Norse word ‘smuga’, meaning hole or hiding place.

Stepping foot into its massive 50-foot high and 200-foot long entrance made me feel truly small.

Can you believe that its stunning limestone formations, enchanting streams, and underground waterfalls took millions of years to form?

Taking a guided geo-tour or a thrilling boat ride will complete your Smoo experience. It’s the only cave of its kind, not just in Scotland, but in the entire UK, so it deserves a spot on your itinerary!

2. Sandwood Bay

Best for: Sightseeing, birdwatching, and beach activities

Sandwood Bay has a reputation for being the most remote beach in the United Kingdom.

But its pink-sand shores, dramatic cliffs, and towering sea stacks are also among the most magnificent. 

The 4-mile hike to this seaside paradise will be well worth it when you catch a glimpse of its raw beauty. Behind the bay’s large dunes, lies a lovely freshwater loch (the Scottish word for lake!).

Sandwood is also home to the rare Great Yellow bumblebee and various species of seabirds.

I’d recommend Sandwood as an ideal place for getting away from the crowds and enjoying a fantastic day by the seaside.

Discover more charming seaside towns in Scotland.

3. The Hermitage

Best for: Hiking, connecting with nature and wildlife

Breathe in the earthy scent of woodland and pine needles as you wander through The Hermitage.

It’s a stretch of magical Perthshire forest designed as far back as the 18th century. Here, you’ll come across countless towering Douglas firs, the tallest trees in Britain.

Fascinating flora and fauna abound, from native bluebells and beavers to red squirrels and leaping salmon.

At the heart of the forest is the thunderous Black Linn Waterfall. Overlooking the falls is Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors, a Scottish folly and my favourite spot for taking in the grandeur of the landscape.

4. Fingal’s Cave

Best for: Island-hopping, wild swimming, and marine life

Also known as the ‘cave of melody,’ Fingal’s Cave is famous for its natural acoustics, with eerie echoes and mystical sounds produced by crashing ocean waves. 

Located on the uninhabited island of Staffa, this extraordinary sea cave is formed by majestic basalt columns, with 72-foot high walls, and an arching roof that give it a cathedral-like beauty.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Swim Fingal’s Cave tour allows you to swim or snorkel into the cave.

This allows you to gaze up at the stunning basalt pillars or dip down to see the vast marine life.

5. Fairy Pools in the Isle of Skye

Best for: Picnics, photography, and pool viewing

The Fairy Pools are an enchanting collection of rocky pools and natural waterfalls. You’ll find it at the foot of the Black Cuillin Mountains in the Scottish Highlands. 

Its aqua-blue waters are incredibly crystal clear – you’ll be able to see the rocks and pebbles at the bottom.

The pools are open for swimming if you’re willing to face the freezing temperatures (if so, you’re braver than me!).

The surrounding mountains and lush greenery of the Glen Brittle forest create a mesmerising sight, making the place perfect for sightseeing and photography.

The Isle of Skye has other locations associated with fairies, including the Fairy Bridges and Fairy Glen.

6. St Abbs

Best for: Scuba diving, fishing, and seabird spotting

Picture rows of fisherman’s cottages and bobbing boats beside the sea. Surrounded by jagged cliffs, the ruggedly beautiful fishing village of St Abbs looks like it’s taken out of a storybook.

Nestled on the Berwickshire coast just north of Eyemouth, this pocket-sized and picturesque town has spectacular sea views and diverse marine life.

It’s particularly popular among scuba divers.

The St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve is nearby, with over 200 acres of wild coastline, a carpet of wildflowers, and numerous seabird colonies, earning it the nickname ‘seabird city.’

7. Dunure

Best for: Castle viewing, coastal walks, and quirky attractions

Remote but beautiful, the pretty little village of Dunure dates back to the 19th century.

Its most notable landmark is Dunure Castle, a ruined medieval castle set on a dramatic cliff by the sea.

Not far from the castle, you’ll find a small plant maze called the Dunure Labyrinth, which is well worth a visit.

Just south of the village is an unusual attraction, the Electric Brae. This optical illusion makes it look like you’re going up the cliffside road when you’re actually going down, and vice versa.

Some travellers will put a ball in the middle of the road and watch in amazement as it rolls uphill!

Discover more epic castles in Scotland.

8. Lunan Bay

Best for: Family picnics, seaside fun, and collecting agates

Overlooked by the ruins of Red Castle, Lunan Bay is a magnificent sweep of golden sands backed by lovely dunes and framed by low cliffs, a cave, and an arch.

It’s a stunning yet secluded haven on the Angus coastline, perfect for family picnics and a day of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the seaside.

The bay is also popular with surfers, although there are strong currents to watch out for.

After a storm, the pristine sands of Lunan Bay sometimes yield agates and precious gemstones, glimmering in the sunlight! That’s one more reason to visit its stunning shores.

9. Puck’s Glen

Best for: Scenic walking trails, forest adventure, and Scottish legends

Puck’s Glen is a river-formed ravine, with a magical trail that takes you through a deep, woodland gorge that’s said to be home to mischievous spirits. 

Along the way, you’ll pass cascading waterfalls, shallow rock pools, and giant Douglas firs, while stepping through a walkway that was first laid out in Victorian times.

The trail has a cool and refreshing atmosphere, almost as if you’re in a tropical rainforest!

Heavily hung mosses and the shadow of dense trees add an air of darkness and mystery to this enchanting forest path.

10. Isle of Eigg

Best for: Sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and stargazing

Although it is only 10 miles off the west coast of Scotland and five hours away from Glasgow, time seems to stand still on the peaceful and picturesque Isle of Eigg.

This off-the-grid summer escape holds the title ‘the emerald of the Inner Hebrides’ and surprisingly, has a population of around a hundred residents.

The island is diverse, with rugged plains, woodland, miles of coastline, and white sandy beaches.

During the day, I‘d recommend visiting the quartz Singing Sands that squeak beneath your feet or climb An Sgurr, Britain’s biggest pitchstone ridge.

At night, the complete lack of light pollution allows for some unforgettable stargazing on Eigg.

Can you suggest any more amazing hidden gems in Scotland? Let me know in the comments below!

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