July 16, 2017

Weather and Wonders of Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

WT Adventurer Explores the Wonders of Scotland’s Highlands and Island in the Mist and Rain.

The Highlands and the western islands of Scotland are a part of the world that really should be seen in rain and mist—this is the kind of weather that shows the countryside at its best. While the occasional partly sunny day on our trip was welcome, hill-walking in light rain and cool weather was very pleasant—especially so after we learned from our wonderful guide, Gordon Anderson, that most of the rocks in this part of Scotland maintain their grip even when wet! Gordon kept us going at a pace that allowed us to enjoy our surroundings but still cover plenty of ground. From the beautiful forest and hills of Glen Affric, to the surprising turquoise waters of Luskentyre Beach on Harris, to the dramatic rocks of the Black Cuillin, it is hard to pick a favorite among all the hikes on our WT adventure to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

When we weren’t on the trails, our congenial group enjoyed lingering by quirky garden decorations, identifying Scottish flora, and visiting historical sites. We learned about local traditions from a master tweed weaver on Harris, sampled products at an artisanal distillery, and savored wonderful locally sourced meals throughout our journey. This trip is a wonderful introduction to the many delights of this magical corner of the world. Here are some of our favorite photos from the adventure.

A scenic view of a lake surrounded by hills and dense trees at twilight, with a purple and pink sky in the background, reminiscent of Scotland's Highlands.
Sunset from Glencoe House
Four hikers in colorful outdoor gear walk through Scotland's Highlands, navigating a lush green, mountainous landscape with rolling hills and a cloudy sky.
Hiking near the Quiraing
A bay with multiple boats anchored on calm water, surrounded by green hills and a partially cloudy blue sky in the background, reminiscent of Scotland's Highlands.
The view across Portree Harbour
A large standing stone circle with numerous tall, weathered rocks arranged in a grassy area under Scotland's Highlands and Islands' cloudy sky.
Callanish standing stones, Isle of Lewis
An artist paints a landscape of a castle by a tranquil lake in the Scottish Highlands, with majestic mountains in the background, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers.
Painter at Eilean Donan Castle
A serene beach scene with turquoise water, sandy shores, and waves gently rolling in. Foggy mountains rise in the background, reminiscent of Scotland's Highlands and Islands. The foreground features green grass and yellow flowers, presenting one of nature's wonders.
Luskentyre beach, Isle of Harris
A dimly lit room with a stone wall and a small window reminiscent of Scotland's Highlands and Islands. A wooden table holds a ceramic pitcher, a bowl, a jug, and an open book. A cup sits on the windowsill.
Blackhouse Museum
A person stands on a grassy area near an ancient, partially collapsed stone structure with a cloudy sky and the rolling Highlands of Scotland in the background.
Iron Age Broch, Dun Carloway, Isle of Lewis
A person sits on a grassy hill near an old stone ruin, with the rolling green hills and ever-changing weather of Scotland's Highlands creating a picturesque backdrop under the cloudy sky.
Snack break, Isle of Scalpay
Three hikers with backpacks stand on a hillside trail, overlooking the wonders of Scotland's Highlands and Islands, with green hills and a coastline in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.
A pause on a hike, Isle of Skye
Black Cuillin, Isle of Skye
Quiraing hike

-Photos by WT Adventurers Brian and Sheila Murphy, text by Sheila Murphy, Highlands and Islands of Scotland.