In National Geographic’s Best of the World 2023 destination list the Scottish Highlands was shortlisted in the nature category. It stands side-by-side with the likes of Botswana, Slovenia and Big Bend National Park in Texas, US - picturesque locations that are no small feat to share the spotlight with on such a prestigious list.
Chief Executive of VisitScotland, Malcolm Roughead, commented: “Our landscapes and scenery is one of the top reasons that people visit Scotland and the Highlands is home to some of the country’s most important and special natural assets.
“It is fantastic that National Geographic has recognised the valuable environmental efforts that are being undertaken across the region and are sharing this with audiences across the world.”
In celebration, here are 13 stunning locations from the Scottish Highlands that show why it was recognised by National Geographic’s ‘Best of the World 2023’ list.
9. Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle sits on an island where three great lochs converge making for one of the most postcard-worthy locations in Scotland - it is so picturesque that it inspired the setting for Disney's movie "Brave" as the creators were inspired by its beauty. Photo: dieter uhlig via Canva Pro
10. Glenfinnan Viaduct
This viaduct runs 100ft above the ground and it extends over 1,000ft, it is also the location where the iconic shot of the Hogwarts Express is taken in the Harry Potter movie franchise. If you want to be a part of the magic then you can actually get a ticket for the train that passes by here which is called The Jacobite. Photo: Nicoly via Canva Pro
11. Ardnamurchan
The Ardnamurchan peninsula sits on the west coast of Scotland and boasts incredible wild scenery. Here, you can find the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse which was established in 1849 by Alan Stevenson. Photo: via WikiCommons
12. Lairg
Lairg is a village in Sutherland, it is appropriately known as the ‘great gateway to the wild’ as the location sits on a crossroad to the north west coast and far north of Scotland. It is also one of many Scottish areas to include mysterious standing stones. Photo: snrn on Flickr