Heading to Scotland soon and want to add some secret spots to your itinerary? I’m here to help!
Scotland is one of my favourite countries in the world. Since I live in Northern England, it’s quite easy for me to visit often and that’s something I’ll never get tired of!
Scotland is wild and the nature is so beautiful. You’ll absolutely love it! But it’s true that some places such as the Isle of Skye can be very crowded.
In this article, I share with you some cool hidden gems in Scotland that you can add to your bucket list.
These places are both beautiful and lesser known which means that you can have them almost for yourself!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!
1. Talisker Bay, Isle of Skye
Skye is the most visited island in Scotland and it can be difficult to find hidden gems around it, yet it’s not impossible.
Talisker Bay is located on the Western Side of the island and is one of the most unique places in the world.
The beach is made of both white and black sand. This is particularly unusual as it’s normally one or another.
Also, the sand mixes in its own way, creating unique designs on the beach. It’s absolutely stunning!
To make the experience even more magical, head there in the evening. It’s a beautiful sunset spot!
You can only get there by car. It’s a single lane and narrow road so take it easy!
Once you arrive at the bay, you can leave your vehicle by the farm and start walking. It takes between 30 and 40 minutes to get to the beach.
It’s an easy and pleasant walk. You will love it!
2. Eilean na Moine, Scotland
Located on Loch Eilt, Eilean na Moine is both a hidden gem and a famous island.
How is that even possible I hear you ask? Well let me explain.
Eilean na Moine is one of the Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland. It was used in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 as Dumbledore’s resting place.
As Harry Potter is one of the most watched movies of all time, that makes the island one of the most famous locations in the world. Yet, most people don’t know it even exists.
The only way you can get there is with your own kayak. It’s not exactly the accessible kind of place.
That said, here is some good news. You can also easily see it from the Jacobite Steam Train (a.k.a Harry Potter train) that goes from Fort William to Mallaig.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to visiting the Harry Potter Bridge in Scotland.
3. Manuela’s Wee Bakery, Scotland
Address: A87, Ardelve/Kyle IV40 8DY
This is the perfect Scottish hidden gem for foodies!
As the name might suggest, Manuela’s Wee Bakery is a small bakery where you can get cakes, snacks, savoury treats and coffees.
The reason why it’s well worth a visit though goes beyond the food. It’s delicious, that’s for sure but the setting is very unique.
It’s one of the most unusual places in the UK and you will love to discover it.
The owners have created a true little fairyland. You will find fairy houses (yes, including the loo!) and a little fairy garden.
It’s also worth mentioning that it’s ideally located 5 minutes drive from the famous Eilean Donan Castle and is an excellent stop on your way to Skye.
4. Iona, Scotland
Iona is a small island located just off the west coast of the Isle of Mull.
It’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland. White sand, crystal clear water… it will make you forget you are in the United-Kingdom for a minute and make you feel like you’ve flown to Australia or Sardinia.
You will also find Iona Abbey which is a gorgeous structure.
You can get to Iona by boat from Fionnphort (Mull). The ferry is only 5 to 10 minutes long and quite cheap (under ÂŁ4 return).
You don’t need to book, it’s turn up and go.
Only passengers and bicycles are allowed on the ferry.
Alternatively, you can choose to be dropped off on Iona by the tour boat going to Staffa.
5. The Devil’s Pulpit
Address: A809 &, B834, Glasgow G63 9QJ
Located near Glasgow, the Devil’s Pulpit is not exactly a secret spot anymore but it’s definitely a hidden UK gem!
It’s a beautiful gorge with red sandstones and an enchanting river and waterfalls.
It was made pretty famous in recent years as it was used as a filming location in Outlander.
Remember in the first season when Dougal brings Claire to the Liar’s Spring? Well that’s the place!
For this reason, it’s not that secret anymore and a lot of people try to visit.
That said, it’s very much considered hidden as you will find no facilities. There isn’t even a car park. This means you have to park your car on the side of the road and it’s not always possible.
Make sure to get there very early and be careful when you walk down as it can be slippery.
Map of the hidden gems in Scotland
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