Scotland’s Hidden Paradise

Looks like the Caribbean, feels like the Outer Hebrides

"Nowhere else in the world have I seen such beaches—pure, clean, and utterly remote." — Herbert Ponting, British explorer and photographer (early 20th century)

Today’s email presented by

Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

View of Luskentyre Beach from Seilebost, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland - Shutterstock

---

In today’s email:-

• Scotland’s Hidden Paradise

• 7 Places You’ll Really Want to Visit!

• Around the Web: From Sand to Standing Stones; Seafood and Seabirds at North Berwick; Glasgow to the Isles and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Could you trade the noise for the quiet of the coast?

• Scottish Food You Will Love: How to Make LORNE SQUARE SAUSAGE

• Coo Wee: The MOST BEAUTIFUL Beaches In Scotland!

---

Scotland’s Hidden Paradise

Luskentyre Beach, on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, is often called the best beach in Scotland. Its soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and views of the Harris hills create a scene that feels almost tropical. The beach stretches for miles, perfect for walking, relaxing, or spotting seals. With no buildings or crowds, it’s a peaceful, wild escape where nature takes centre stage.

Other stunning beaches across Scotland include Seilebost, just across from Luskentyre, offering quiet views and calm waters. Sandwood Bay in Sutherland is known for its pink-hued sands and dramatic sea stack, but it’s only reachable by a 4-mile walk. Sanna Bay in Ardnamurchan has volcanic rock and island views. On the east coast, Elie Beach in Fife and Gullane Beach near Edinburgh are popular for swimming, windsurfing, and family days out. Each beach has its own charm, history, and wild beauty.

Sandy beaches of Luskentyre from Seilebost on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland - Shutterstock

7 Places You’ll Really Want to Visit!

Exploring hidden gems guarantees an authentic Scottish experience, far from the bustling tourist hotspots. Whether you're captivated by ancient history, enchanted by natural beauty, or seeking moments of quiet reflection, these locations offer a perfect escape. As we say in Scotland, "Lang may yer lum reek"—may you enjoy these adventures for many years to come!

Smoo Cave in Sutherland, Scotland - Shutterstock

Around The Web

From Sand to Standing Stones

Just a short drive from Luskentyre, explore the ancient Callanish Standing Stones—older than Stonehenge and full of mystery. These towering stones are perfectly aligned with lunar cycles and are one of Scotland’s most important prehistoric sites. Callanish and Calanais refer to the same famous standing stones on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland—but the difference lies in the language.

Seafood and Seabirds at North Berwick

Near Gullane Beach, this charming seaside town offers fresh lobster rolls, boat trips to Bass Rock (home to thousands of gannets), and a scenic climb up Berwick Law. Visit the Scottish Seabird Centre for hands-on exhibits and live cameras of local birdlife.

The Pink Sands and the Loch

Close to Sandwood Bay, visit Kinlochbervie, a quiet fishing village. Watch fishing boats come and go, and enjoy peaceful views over the loch surrounded by rugged hills and ancient peatlands.

Volcanic Views from Ardnamurchan Lighthouse

From Sanna Bay, follow the winding road to the UK’s most westerly point at Ardnamurchan Lighthouse. There’s a small museum inside, and on a clear day, you can see as far as the Outer Hebrides.

Tides and Tales at St Monans

Near Elie Beach, wander the Fife Coastal Path to this historic fishing village. Don’t miss the remains of the old salt pans and windmill—reminders of the town’s coastal industry in centuries past.

Glasgow to the Isles

Few rail journeys match the drama, beauty, and heritage of the West Highland Line. Winding its way from the heart of Glasgow to the sea-swept harbour of Mallaig, this iconic route passes through misty glens, over ancient moors, and beside deep lochs. It’s a moving window into the soul of Scotland — a land shaped by history, wilderness, and the people who call it home. The line has inspired artists, writers, and filmmakers for over a century, and continues to capture the imagination of travellers from around the world.

Two Highland coos chilling out in Loch Archay in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park - Love to Visit Scotland

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

---

🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

---

From Social Media

Could you trade the noise for the quiet of the coast?

Scottish Food You Will Love

How to Make LORNE SQUARE SAUSAGE

Coo Wee

The MOST BEAUTIFUL Beaches In Scotland!

---

Thank you for reading Love Scotland— your support allows us to keep doing this work. If you enjoy Love Scotland, it would mean the world to us if you invited friends to and read with us. If you refer friends, you will receive benefits that give you special access to Love Scotland.