10 off-the off the beaten track and ‘remote’ destinations in Scotland

Off the beaten track Scotland – North Scotland

Head to the Highlands for some of the most spectacular off the beaten track Scotland destinations.

1. Assynt, Sutherland

Located in the far northwestern part of Scotland, Assynt is known for its stunning and rugged landscapes and incredible mountains. Explore the otherworldly beauty of the Assynt Geopark, climb the incredible Suilven and Stac Pollaidh, see the puffins on Handa Island and enjoy the solitude of beaches like Achmelvich and Clachtoll. Plus this he more off the beaten track Scotland destination is just off the NC500!

Read more: visit Assynt, how to climb Suilivan, how to climb Stac Pollaidh, visit Handa Island.

Where to stay in Assynt:

• Batbox Lochinver, a quirky cabin near Lochinver
• West Coast Hideaways, glamping cabins with terraces and sea views
• B&B Philosophy, a gorgeous B&B near Drumbeg
• Summer Isles Hotel an iconic hotel with views across the gorgous Summer Isle,
• Acheninver Hostel, a fabulous hostel in a location which needs to be seen to be believed!

2. Kinloch Hourne and The Knoydart Peninsula

In a country the size of Scotland, it’s surprising that there are still parts of the country it can take days to get to them. Described as ‘Britain’s last wilderness’, this is definatley one off the beaten track Scotland destinations which can be called ‘remote’ – Knoydart is only accessible by boat or a 16-mile (26 km) walk in from Kinloch Hourn. From Lochhournhead a old coastal path takes you out alongside Loch Hourn to Barrisdale Bay and onwards to Inverie, the main settlement on the peninsula.

Read more: How to visit Kinloch Hourn and check out Visit Knoydart for more accommodation on the peninsula.

Where to stay at Kinloch Hourne and Knoydart:

• No.1 Old Cottage, Kinloch Hourne
• Kinlochhourn B&B
• Rokeby Manor, a beautifully refurbished hotel with great Indian food,
• Ardgary Farm
• Invergarry Hotel

3. The Isle of Jura

Nestled in the Inner Hebrides of the coast of Islay, the Isle of Jura is a hidden gem with magnificent landscapes and abundant wildlife. Why not hike the Paps of Jura, and visit the Jura Distillery to savour its famous whisky? Catch the ferry from Port Askaig on Islay to Feolin on Jura and explore this lovely island home to 180 people and 5000 deer. 

Read more: visit Islay and Jura

Where to stay on Islay and Jura: 

• On Jura book into the self catering Mrs Leonard’s Cottage, or Braeside Craighouse Jura or the Jura Hotel.
• If you are looking for a hotel on Islay, check out The Bridgend Hotel or the Port Charlotte Hotel.
• For luxury B&Bs – Glenegedale House is fabulous as is Skerrols House and No. 1 Charlotte Street
• Golfers will love the Machrie Hotel & Golf Links
• If you prefer self catering on Islay stay at Kilmeny or Kilchoman

5. The Isle of Harris and Lewis

The Isle of Harris and Lewis, located in the Outer Hebrides, offers rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. The largest of the Outer Hebrides 15 inhabited islands, Lewis and Harris are actually the largest islands in the UK. Explore the stunning Luskentyre Beach, visit the famous Callanish Standing Stones, and immerse yourself in Gaelic culture.

The Outer Hebrides are 24 miles off the coast of north west Scotland, and getting there is half the fun… Choose between flights to Stornoway, Barra and Benbecula from Manchester Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness. You can even land Traigh Mhor Beach on Barra. Or Caledonian MacBrayne (Calmac) sail four routes to the Outer Hebrides: Ullapool to Lewis (Stornoway) Oban to Barra (Castlebay) and South Uist (Lochboisdale) Skye to Harris (Tarbert) and North Uist (Lochmaddy) and Tiree to Barra (Castlebay, summer only).

Read more: how to visit the Outer Hebrides

Where to stay on Harris and Lewis:

• Kirklea Island Suites
• Grimisdale Guest House
• the Old Post Office
• An Lochan
• Otter Cottage

6. Glen Affric

Considered one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, Glen Affric is absolutely gorgeous. Enjoy hiking through the glen’s remnant ancient Caledonian pine forests, spot wildlife, and appreciate the tranquillity of Loch Affric. The 44 mile Affric to Kintail Way runs through the glen.

Read more: how to visit Glen Affric 

Where to stay near Glen Affric:

• families will love Glen Affric Holiday Park
• book a chalet at Caledonian Glamping
• stay at Foyers House
• book Bearnock Lodge for a big group.

7. Sandwood Bay

Located in the far northwest of Scotland, Sandwood Bay is a remote and untouched beach accessible via a 4-mile walk. Enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery, the pristine beach, and the sense of solitude. One of the best destinations on the famous North Coast 500, a popular drive and destination in Scotland. 

8. Cairngorms National Park (the off the beaten path areas)

While the Cairngorms National Park is very well-known and a popular destination in Scotland, there are still off-the-radar areas to explore. Visit the lesser-known glens like Glen Feshie or Glen Einich for stunning hikes and wildlife encounters.

Read more: how to visit the Cairngorms National Park

Where to stay:

• If you dream of retreating to a tiny log cabin in the woods, the Lazy Duck is a little piece of off-grid heaven.
• If you prefer a B&B, deep in the Drumochter Pass in the Cairngorm National Park is Balsporran B&B. Upstairs are four simple, but luxurious, guest bedrooms.

Off the beaten track Scotland – the Lowlands

Here are my favourite off the beaten track Scotland destinations in the Lowlands:

9. The Aberdeenshire Coast

While the city of Aberdeen is well-known, the surrounding Aberdeenshire Coast offers picturesque fishing villages, rugged cliffs, and beautiful sandy beaches. Discover the charming towns of Stonehaven and Pennan, and explore the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle.

Read more: how to visit Aberdeenshire 

Where to stay in Aberdeenshire:

• Meldrum House Hotel, a luxury country house hotel
• The Queens Hut, Aboyne a gorgous luxury self-catering cabin.