Close
Articles by Year

<<     >>

Articles by Category
Close
Book a Call
Flag

Activities

Selected Trips

    Locations

    Selected Trips

      Themed Travel

      FAQs

      Iconic Scotland

      Discover the Icons of Scotland

      Iconic, emblematic, rich in myth and tradition. On this page, discover Scotland’s best icons, reflecting both the extraordinary and the everyday. Here, legends of Nessie mingle with the poetry of Robert Burns, while humble dishes like haggis sit alongside celebrations of strength at the Highland Games. Even the infamous midge has clawed its way into the ensemble of Scotland’s most memorable characters.

      Iconic Scottish Creatures

      Real or mythical, adorable or notorious, discover some of Scotland’s more intriguing and iconic beasts. Why is the unicorn Scotland’s national animal? Where can you find Highland cows? How bad are midges really? Nessie is real, right?

      Keep reading to find out more. 

       

      Highland Cows – Scotland’s Hairy Icons

      With their ginger fringes and gentle eyes, these shaggy beauties are arguably Scotland’s most picturesque creatures. Highland cows embody the wild charm of the Highlands—from misty glens to windswept moors. Their presence brings warmth, character and a dose of wonder to every landscape.

      Learn more about these hardy, adorable animals here.

      Discover More

      The Unicorn – Scotland’s National Animal

      Scotland’s national animal isn’t fierce or feathered but the mythical unicorn. Once thought to be real and revered for its strength and purity, the unicorn became the perfect emblem of Scotland’s spirit. You’ll still find this fantastical creature adorning coins, tapestries, and coats of arms.

      Discover More

      The Notorious Highland Midge

      Small yet mighty, experiencing Scotland’s midges is all part of the adventure (and local ecosystem). These little insects thrive in the Highlands’ damp, wild landscapes, making their mark on summer evenings. An integral part of the ecosystem, midges are easy to live with once you know the tricks.

      Discover More

      The Infamous Loch Ness Monster

      Nessie the Loch Ness Monster – fact or fiction? Appearing on many a travel bucket list, countless curious individuals flock to the shores of Loch Ness each year in search of that very answer (and monster). Immerse yourself in the myth and the watery landscapes that inspire it on a visit to this iconic corner of Scotland.

      Dive into the myths and mysteries of Scotland’s most famous loch.

      Discover More

      Iconic Scottish Traditions

      Kilts and caber tossing, bagpipes and haggis, castles and poets. Scottish culture has some of the most fascinating traditions. Discover some of the nation’s most iconic experiences below. 

      Scotland’s Flag

      The bright blue St Andrew’s Cross is one of the oldest flags in the world – though it’s not the only flag you’ll see flying in Scotland. Less well known, the yellow and red “Lion Rampant” is the royal banner of the Royal Arms of Scotland. Learn the story behind Scotland’s cheerful flags.

      Discover More

      The Highland Games

      Bagpipes, kilts, and feats of strength – the Highland Games capture the heart of Scottish tradition. From caber tossing to tug of war, these lively summer gatherings celebrate community, culture, and friendly competition, all proudly performed in tartan.

      Discover More

      Burns Night – Celebrating Scotland’s Poetry

      Each January, Scotland raises a glass to beloved poet Robert Burns with an evening of song, poetry, and feasting. Famous for “Auld Lang Syne,“ Burns inspired a tradition that has warmed hearts and spirits for over two centuries.

      Discover More

      Haggis – Scotland’s Famous Food

      Haggis is Scotland’s most famous – and its most misunderstood – food. What is haggis, where does it come from, and why is it a Scottish tradition? Get the real story of haggis and why it’s worth a try the next time you’re in Scotland. Read more in our haggis guide below.

      Discover More

      Iconic Destinations in Scotland

      When it comes to unforgettable journeys, Scotland has them all. From long distance trails that wind through majestic glens to epic driving routes along wild coasts, every road and path leads to something extraordinary. Explore the Highlands and islands, vibrant cities and colourful villages – destinations that have inspired artists, storytellers and filmmakers for generations. Whether on foot, by bike, boat or behind the wheel, Scotland invites you to discover landscapes that feel straight out of legend.  

      West Highland Way

      Winding from the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond to the soaring slopes of Ben Nevis, the West Highland Way is Scotland’s most iconic long distance trail. Meandering through glens, moors, and mountains, hiking the West Highland Way is the perfect way to experience the wild beauty and spirit of the Highlands.

      Discover More

      North Coast 500

      Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the North Coast 500 loops around the country’s far north, revealing rugged coastlines, white-sand beaches, and castle-studded landscapes. This epic route is perfect for road trippers and cyclists, offering an unforgettable way to discover Scotland’s wild heart and dramatic scenery.

      Discover More

      Further Reading

      Guide to Scottish Culture

      Guide to Scottish History

      UNESCO Sites in Scotland

      Scottish Ancestry

      Scottish Wool & Textiles

      All About the Scots Language

      Travel With Us

      Wilderness Walking

      Wilderness Walking – Outer Hebrides and Skye

      View Trip Details
      Sea Kayaking

      Sea Kayaking – The Scottish Highlands

      View Trip Details
      Wilderness Walking

      Wilderness Walking – Glencoe and the Highlands

      View Trip Details
      Wilderness Walking

      Wilderness Walking – The Isle of Skye

      View Trip Details
      Wilderness Walking

      The West Highland Way

      View Trip Details
      Wilderness Retreat

      Wilderness Retreat – The Highlands

      View Trip Details
      Wilderness Walking

      Wilderness Walking – Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside

      View Trip Details
      Luxury & Deluxe

      Luxury Walking – The Isle of Skye

      View Trip Details
      Luxury & Deluxe

      Luxury Walking – Highlights of the Highlands

      View Trip Details
      Gravel Biking

      Highland Gravel Trail

      View Trip Details
      Culture & Heritage

      Royal & Ancient Scotland

      View Trip Details
      Culture & Heritage

      Legends of Scotland

      View Trip Details

      Our holidays reviewed
      in your own words

      Highly recommend and in the words of our tour guide "haste ye back" and I will be.

      Gill Davis
      Wilderness Walking - Argyll & the Isles
      Reviewed on 15/10/2019

      Rated 4.90 out of 5 based on 8,704 reviews

      Read More Reviews

      Award-Winning Journeys

      adventure
      Best Adventure
      Travel Companies
      gtbs
      Green Tourism
      Gold Approved
      Pure
      High-End
      Experiential Travel
      wta
      Leading Green
      Tour Operator
      traveler
      50 tours
      of a lifetime
      mail

      Want more Wilderness in your life?

      Be the first to hear about new trips, locations and activities with our monthly newsletter

      We’re Not Online Just Now

      Our Highland-based team is here to help—schedule a call at a time that suits you.

      Book a Call