6 Fairy-Tale Small Towns In Scotland
In a land intertwined with legends and myth, Scotland has long inspired the work of artists, poets, and authors alike. Here, ancient castles emerge from rolling green hills, and mystic lochs hold secrets of long ago. Being home to the iconic Loch Ness Monster legend, Scotland is filled with magic and intrigue, making it a perfect spot for adventure. Every town holds a tale of enchantment, inviting visitors into a fairy tale that is waiting to be written and experienced.
Fort William
Amazing landscapes filled with natural beauty are waiting for exploration in the ‘outdoor capital of the United Kingdom,’ Fort William. The town is home to the second-highest waterfall in Scotland, the Steall Waterfall. At 120 meters tall, this breathtaking tiered waterfall is surrounded by trails that lead through the trees, revealing mountain peaks.
On the banks of the River Lochy, sits the old Inverlochy Castle, where connected boardwalks grant access to scenic views and food shops. This 13th-century ruined castle was once the backdrop of the legendary battles of Inverlochy. Hope on the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola that takes you up to the mountain resort, a venue where visitors can go biking and skiing, as well as engage in tree climbing courses.
Linlithgow
Go back in time by visiting the town of Linlithgow, where the ruins of castles and an ancient palace take center stage. A 15th-century fortress, known as Blackness Castle, takes on a ship-like form, offering stunning views over the Firth of Forth. The castle also hosts various exhibitions, such as "Traces of Empire," which explores the exploration of imperial histories.
Watch in awe as herds of highland cattle and red deer run across the vast parkland of Beecraigs County Park, which features a wide range of recreation and leisure activities. With a fishing lake and a visitors’ center, this stunning park offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking opportunities. Sitting amid an enchanting parkland is Linlithgow Palace, a historical landmark and the medieval birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Oban
The resort town of Oban, Scotland, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning countryside and stroll along miles of picturesque coastline. A historical landmark in the area, the McCraig's Tower and Battery Hill, is an open stone tower that dates back to the late 1800s, where visitors can stroll through a lush inner garden amid panoramic views of Oban Bay.
There is nothing more calming and majestic than spending the day at a botanical garden. The Arduaine Garden boasts an array of exotic plants from around the world, set against stunning coastal views, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts. Walk around castle ruins and woodlands at the Dunollie Museum, Castle, and Grounds, the MacDougall ancestral home, which also consists of a gift shop, café, and museum.
Kelso
Towers, parks, and museums are just some of the things that make the town of Kelso special. Feel like royalty at Floors Castle, a 17th-century castle with stunning interiors that are lavishly furnished and draped with art. The historic castle offers fantastic views of both the Cheviot Hills and the River Tweed, while also providing access to the Millennium Garden and Floors Castle Park.
Another great location to explore is the Smailholm Tower, a 4-story stone tower from the 1400s that sits atop the hillside, featuring kitchen foundations and a ruined outer hall. Make your time at Kelso an enchanted one by staying at the SCHLOSS Roxburgh, a stunning 5-star hotel that the Duke of Roxburghe once owned.
Anstruther
Anstruther, Scotland, is a town where anything can happen, with the captivating landscape leaving a lasting impression. Head through the gates of St. Fillan’s Cave, a natural cavern thought to have been carved thousands of years ago by an underground river, and is attributed to the Miracle-working of missionary Saint Fillan.
Book a cruise trip on the May Princess, where you can head out to the Isle of May National Nature Reserve, a picturesque island on the Firth of Forth, where seabirds and seals come to nest on the cliffs. For an ‘out of this world’ experience, step into an accurate scale model of the sun, the eight planets, and dwarf planets at the Anstruther Model Solar System exhibit, consisting of 11 bronze plates to represent distance.
Drumnadrochit
On the western shore of Loch Ness is the small town of Drumnadrochit, Scotland, home to the world-famous Loch Ness Monster. Learn about the geological formation of the Loch Ness, as well as the legendary monster at the Loch Ness Centre, featuring state-of-the-art exhibitions. Spend the day at Nessie Land, a popular tourist attraction that includes caves, static exhibits, display panels, and larger-than-life models of the mysterious and elusive Nessie.
Get an up-close look at the water with Loch Ness Cruises, an hourly boat trip that includes commentary, as well as a large, heated indoor cabin with panoramic windows. Overlooking the Loch is the imposing Urquhart Castle, dating back to the early 1500s. The castle offers tours of the grounds and contains both a café and a visitors’ center.
As glowing lanterns sit along adorable stone pathways and the mist gently settles over serene landscapes, Scotland’s fairy-tale towns hold the hearts and minds of travelers, leaving them spellbound. These storybook places, with sparkling waters, skylines filled with castle shadows, and ancient ruins rich with mystery, create lasting memories that continue long after you leave. Whether you are intrigued by the legends, captivated by the landscapes, or simply seeking moments of wonder, Scotland allows you to take the time to experience its magic.
