Hidden Scotland (Hidden Secrets - Countries or Regions)

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Many people drive right by Cluanie in favour of reaching Eilean Donan Castle or the Isle of Skye without realising this hidden gem. West Lothian isn’t known as a tourist hotspot, however, it offers plenty of non-touristy things to do in Scotland, including many interesting historical attractions. It was fought over between the Scottish and the English during the Wars of Independence [1296-1356] and again in the sixteenth century. As a result it suffered a lot of damage. The ruin gives an insight into just how remarkable this abbey would have been.

Camban bothy offer shelter on the Cape Wrath Trail in the Cluanie to Morvich section 3. Cairnpapple Hill, West Lothian

The Balmoral Cairns

The Neolithic village of Skara Brae is widely regarded as one of the most remarkable and impressive prehistoric landmarks in all of Europe. Take time to learn about the impressive and important history of Skara Brae and the fables and tales to match. Skara Brae is one of Scotland’s most hidden places and is waiting to be explored! #6. Isle of Jura

The bothy is equipped with one bedroom that sleeps up to 6, and a common area with a fireplace.There are abundant wild camping opportunities outside too. Although Shetland is away from the mainland it is certainly worth a visit and its the epitome of beautiful British coasts. Although island life is far from that of the tropics, life on Shetland is slower and more relaxed than that of mainland Scotland and the residents of St Ninian’s Isle are warm and welcoming. Abundant in wild flowers and grasses along the sandy dunes St Ninian’s Isle sweeping beaches have soft white sands and crystal clear blue waters…if a little chilly though! #3. Smoo Cave The ruins of Findlater Castle, on the NE250 road route near Cullen. Photograph: John Bracegirdle/Alamy This idyllic forest area is perfect for mountain bikers and hikers a like and is the perfect spot to appreciate Scotland in all its glory. Sunsets at Glentrool are second to none so be sure to stay late and enjoy the colourful spectacle. #10. Isle of May While there aren’t any standing stones here, the henge is nevertheless enthralling. The best time to visit Cairnpapple Hill is during March- October so you can see inside the cairn.

The effort is worth it however. There are some fabulous bothies throughout Scotland, but the location of Glencoul bothy makes it all the more special, nestled between craggy mountains with some of the best views of Loch Glencoul at sunset. Morning visit to a specialist rare and native breed farm for a wonderful tour of their land, accompanied by one of their Shetland ponies to provide delicious refreshments.You will get a fascinating insight into how the land was cultivated and used in ancient times with outstanding views of the Tay valley and up to the enigmatic “fairy mountain” – Shiehallion, one of Scotland’s best known Munros. On the St Ninian’s Isle in the Shetland Island in the very north of Scotland can be found the 500m long shandy St Ninian’s Tombolo which is certainly one of Scotland’s best kept secrets. This beautiful active sand Tombolo is the largest of its kind in the UK and is a truly unique geographic feature that is photogenic and memorable. Imitate the magnificent trees that speak no words of their rapture, but breathe largely the luminous breeze.” A plaque commemorating the mighty Scottish King marks its burial. Alexander II of Scotland is also buried here.

The Isle of Jura is a landscape photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. The Paps of Jura is the most popular area for ramblers and the island offers unlimited freedom to roam and wander which is a truly wonderful and unique experience and an opportunity too good to miss. Jura’s distillery opens its doors to visitors by appointment and certainly does not disappoint. Loch Glencoul and the bothy that sits at its head is one of my favourite secret places in Scotland. You can gaze out to the loch from the parking area at Kylesku bridge, but the best views of the loch are from Glencoul bothy. From the modest parking lot, it is a short walk to reach the hill, which has lovely views of Edinburgh and on a clear day you may even spot the Isle of Arran. I spent a weekend at Loch Ossia n with a girlfriend where we went hiking and had some much needed time to disconnect from our phones and be in nature. Loch Ossian itself is surrounded by munros and hiking trails suitable for all levels, making it the perfect base for lovers of the outdoors. Then travel to a secret garden for a delicious lunch in their amazing glasshouse.We will then have a tour around the gardens with the owner, who will explain how using the organic herbs grown there has fined tuned their award winning gins. He willexplain the properties of the herbs used in the gin and why they change colour when you add tonic water! We also visit the drying room, the smell is simply divine in there! The gardens are set within 7.5 by a stream and a very enjoyable place to wander around at your leisure.Then on to your stylish accommodation and evening at your leisure, maybe with a tot of gin!There’s a reason that over 15 million tourists visit Scotland each year*. Home to mountains, lochs, beaches, forests and spectacular views galore, Scotland offers holidaymakers a variety of exciting locations to choose from for the perfect log cabin holiday. There are also a huge number of attractions and activities, walking and cycling routes, opportunities for fishing, climbing and water sports, plus fantastic wildlife. Log cabins are available in locations across the country, so whether you fancy being close to a loch or surrounded by forests, you’ll be able to find just the setting you’re looking for. Now proceeded by a sheer glass housing Sueno’s Stone is steeped in history and local residents are proud to have it housed where it belongs in rural Forres. Sueno’s Stone weighs over seven tonnes and it a vital and pivotal part of Scotland’s rich heritage. Cottage Gems A fabulous collection of luxury, stylish and 5 star holiday properties in the UK and Ireland. When we think of the Glens we think of the Scottish Highlands but don’t be fooled there are beautiful Glens that can be found further a field an none so pretty as Glentrool and Galloway Forest Park.

All that exists in the area is the Corrour Station House, the UK’s remotest restaurant which also offers accommodation, directly next to the train station; an award-winning eco-hostel located at the bottom of the loch, and the Corrour Shooting Lodge which offers luxury accommodation.Jedburgh Abbey is a spectacular abbey that was often fought over due to its ties to royalty and proximity. It served the royal castle in Jedburgh; part of the abbey church where Alexander III of Scotland and Yolande de Dreux were married survives to this day. Staying in a log cabin offers something a little extra special for your get-away-from-it-all break. Wake up in breathtaking natural surroundings with easy access to all the countryside has to offer. No matter whether you’re searching for log cabins to suit couples, families, or a large group, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can opt for a contemporary luxury log cabin, something a bit more rustic, a remote romantic hideaway, or even an environmentally responsible eco-cabin. Discover wonderful wildlife tours to book and experience in Scotland, including bird watching safaris, whale watching, farm tours and much more! A trip to Glencoul bothy is suited to the adventurous. To get to the bothy you need to hike from Inchnadamph or Kylesku through some of Scotland’s roughest unmarked terrain. If you go via Inchnadamph you’ll have the chance to see Britain’s highest waterfall, Eas a’ Chual Aluinn. You can also reach the bothy by sea kayak or boat [ Kylesku Boat Tours have a tour of this area].