Eldean WalterThe Scottish Highlands are a realm of towering peaks, glassy lochs, and misty moorlands—but beyond the famed landscapes lies a quieter, more mysterious charm: hidden villages untouched by mass tourism. These remote havens are where time slows down, nature thrives, and tradition lingers in stone cottages, Gaelic signs, and old crofts. Perfect for walkers, photographers, solitude-seekers, and culture lovers, these places promise an authentic Highland experience far from crowds. Whether nestled beside a loch or tucked into a glen, each village tells a story of resilience, heritage, and breathtaking beauty. This list of hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list reveals secret corners of the country that few ever find, but all who visit remember forever. From winding single-track roads to ferry crossings, getting there is part of the adventure—and the reward is peace, scenery, and a slice of real Highland life.
Top 30 Hidden Highland Villages in Scotland to Add to Your Bucket List
1. Struy, Inverness-shire
Struy is a remote village in Glen Strathfarrar, surrounded by rivers and thick forests in the heart of the Highlands. Its seclusion makes it a haven for walkers and wildlife lovers, with red deer and golden eagles commonly sighted. The nearby Glen Strathfarrar is a private glen requiring a special pass to access its 30-kilometre road—perfect for scenic cycling or hiking. The village itself has traditional stone houses and is ideal for those looking to disconnect. To reach Struy, take the A831 west from Beauly, just north of Inverness, and follow signs through the peaceful countryside. The journey offers uninterrupted views of wooded glens and rivers, and the final leg is along a quiet single-track road. Struy’s quiet beauty and rich natural heritage make it one of the best hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
2. Shieldaig, Wester Ross
Tucked along the shores of Loch Shieldaig, this fishing village is framed by mountains and sea. Shieldaig is part of the North Coast 500 route but often overlooked in favour of nearby Torridon. With whitewashed cottages, a peaceful harbour, and views of Shieldaig Island—a sanctuary for nesting sea eagles—the village offers calm and coastal charm. Seafood lovers will enjoy the local eateries serving fresh catch. The lochside walks and kayaking routes are serene and uncrowded. From Inverness, drive west on the A832 to Kinlochewe, then turn south on the single-track road to Shieldaig. Despite its remoteness, Shieldaig is easily accessible by car and feels like stepping into another world. Its tranquil scenery, rich birdlife, and charming character secure its place as a must-see among hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
3. Glenelg, Lochalsh
Glenelg lies across from the Isle of Skye, offering views that rival Skye itself but without the crowds. The road to Glenelg is one of the most scenic in Scotland, crossing over the dramatic Mam Ratagan Pass. The village boasts ancient brochs (circular stone towers), a sandy bay, and a seasonal community-run ferry to Skye—the last of its kind. Glenelg is rich in Gaelic heritage, and its tiny school and local inn keep the village spirit alive. To get there, follow the A87 from Invergarry to Shiel Bridge, then turn left onto the single-track road to Glenelg. The dramatic mountain scenery and twisting descent make the journey unforgettable. Glenelg’s charm, history, and isolation make it one of the most authentic hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
4. Plockton, Wester Ross
Often dubbed the “Jewel of the Highlands,” Plockton is a coastal village with an unexpected twist—palm trees, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Nestled on Loch Carron, it has a tranquil harbour, pastel-coloured cottages, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it feel more Mediterranean than Scottish. The surrounding hills offer fantastic walks, and boat trips reveal seals and porpoises offshore. Despite its beauty, Plockton is still under-the-radar compared to nearby tourist hotspots. You can reach it via the A890 from Kyle of Lochalsh, taking the scenic route through Duncraig and along the water’s edge. Its unique blend of Highland tradition and coastal calm secures its reputation as one of the most picturesque hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
5. Badachro, Gairloch Peninsula
Badachro is a tiny fishing village nestled around a sheltered bay near Gairloch. Surrounded by rugged hills and dotted with boats, it’s the perfect place to relax with a dram and watch the tides. The local inn is a gem, serving fresh seafood with lochside views. Just offshore is a scattering of uninhabited islands, and the nearby Fairy Lochs hold a haunting WWII plane wreck site. To get here, take the A832 past Gairloch and turn off onto a narrow road that winds its way to the village. With no through traffic and a sleepy harbour, Badachro remains wonderfully peaceful. It’s a perfect escape and truly one of the most charming hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
6. Ardgour, Lochaber
Ardgour is a peaceful village located just across Loch Linnhe from Fort William, yet it feels worlds away. Surrounded by towering peaks and quiet lochs, Ardgour offers an untouched slice of Highland life. The village is home to Ardgour House and several old stone cottages, with dramatic views across the water. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the endless walking trails and the nearby Loch Shiel. To get here, take the Corran Ferry from the A82, a short crossing that adds to the remote feel of the journey. The ferry runs frequently and is a gateway to some of the Highlands’ most unspoiled areas. Ardgour’s calm, dramatic beauty and easy access make it a hidden gem among Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
7. Scourie, Sutherland
Set on the rugged northwest coast, Scourie is a tiny village surrounded by wild landscapes and coastal views. Known for its remote beaches and birdlife, including puffins and sea eagles, it’s a paradise for nature watchers. The village offers a quiet hotel, a small shop, and dramatic sunsets over the Atlantic. A short drive takes you to the famous Handa Island nature reserve. Scourie is reached by driving north from Ullapool on the A894, a spectacular road that hugs lochs and mountains. With few visitors and an abundance of natural beauty, Scourie is a peaceful and scenic destination that truly belongs on the list of hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
8. Clachtoll, Assynt
Clachtoll is a small crofting village perched beside a white sandy beach and framed by jagged hills. The turquoise waters of the bay are perfect for wild swimming, and ancient ruins dot the landscape, including a restored broch just above the shore. This area of Assynt is geologically rich, with unique rock formations and walking routes. Clachtoll is located northwest of Lochinver; take the single-track B869 road for an unforgettable drive with sea and mountain views. The beachside campsite and scattered cottages give it a timeless, back-to-nature feel. Clachtoll’s mix of history, scenery, and solitude makes it one of the most atmospheric hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
9. Kinlochleven, Lochaber
Kinlochleven sits at the head of Loch Leven, surrounded by steep, dramatic mountains. Once a major aluminium smelting town, it’s now a base for hikers on the West Highland Way. The village has reinvented itself with walking routes, ice climbing centres, and peaceful lochside views. Waterfalls tumble down hillsides and the village’s remote vibe makes it ideal for peaceful exploration. From Glencoe, follow the B863 along the lochside to reach Kinlochleven. Despite being close to major routes, it remains uncrowded and full of Highland charm. Its mix of history, wilderness, and quiet makes it a must-visit among hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
10. Inverie, Knoydart Peninsula
Only accessible by boat or a long hike, Inverie is one of the most remote villages in mainland Britain. Located on the Knoydart Peninsula, it offers rugged mountains, empty beaches, and the UK’s most remote pub. The sense of isolation is part of the charm, attracting walkers, kayakers, and peace-seekers. You can take a ferry from Mallaig to Inverie, a scenic 45-minute journey across Loch Nevis. With no road access, it’s a true escape from modern life. Inverie’s remoteness, wild beauty, and community spirit make it one of the most unforgettable hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
11. Lochinver, Sutherland
Lochinver is a working fishing village tucked between mountains and the sea. Its crescent-shaped harbour is lively yet peaceful, offering views over the Minch to the Outer Hebrides. The surrounding Assynt area features surreal landscapes, including the towering peak of Suilven. Lochinver’s bakery is famous across the Highlands, and the quiet beaches nearby are untouched. Drive north from Ullapool on the A837 to reach Lochinver, passing through wild scenery all the way. With dramatic views, good food, and solitude, Lochinver deserves a place on your list of hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
12. Applecross, Wester Ross
Applecross feels like the edge of the world, reached via the jaw-dropping Bealach na Bà mountain pass, one of the highest roads in the UK. The journey is worth it: Applecross offers sweeping coastal views, excellent seafood, and a welcoming community. The village looks out across the Inner Sound to Skye, with wildlife including seals and otters in the waters below. Alternatively, take the longer coastal road around the peninsula for a gentler approach. Applecross’s remote charm and stunning scenery make it one of the most remarkable hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
13. Nedd, Assynt
Nedd is a tiny hamlet tucked between the sea and mountains near the village of Drumbeg. This peaceful spot is known for its views over Loch Nedd and the surrounding moorland, with plenty of space to roam. The drive to Nedd along the B869 is winding and narrow, offering incredible views at every turn. Nearby, you’ll find hidden beaches and ancient ruins. It’s the kind of place where silence is only broken by birdsong and the occasional breeze. Nedd’s unspoiled charm and sense of deep stillness make it a quiet highlight among hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
14. Lochbuie, Isle of Mull
Located on the southeast corner of Mull, Lochbuie is a secluded village known for its lochside scenery and historic sites, including Moy Castle. The village is surrounded by forests and hills and has a quiet beach ideal for picnics and sea views. A small shop and honesty box café add to the community charm. Reach Lochbuie by taking a ferry to Craignure, then driving south along narrow country roads. The final stretch is rough but manageable and adds to the sense of seclusion. Lochbuie’s mix of history, nature, and serenity makes it a standout among hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
15. Achiltibuie, Coigach Peninsula
Achiltibuie is a scattered coastal village offering panoramic views over the Summer Isles. Known for its tranquillity, this village is ideal for those looking to escape. There are quiet beaches, hill walks, and one of Scotland’s most scenic roads leading there. The single-track road from Ullapool to Achiltibuie via the A835 and B869 provides an epic journey through moor and mountain. Its distance from busy routes ensures a peaceful atmosphere year-round. Achiltibuie’s coastal beauty, remoteness, and friendly vibe make it a hidden Highland treasure and one to add to your Scottish bucket list.
16. Torridon, Wester Ross
Torridon is a remote village surrounded by some of Scotland’s most impressive mountains, including Liathach and Beinn Eighe. Though known to climbers, the village remains quiet and untouched. A small inn, visitor centre, and walking routes make it a perfect base for outdoor adventures. The shores of Loch Torridon offer dramatic photo opportunities and peaceful picnic spots. To get here, take the A896 off the North Coast 500 route. The journey winds past lochs and mountains, offering unforgettable views. Torridon’s stunning landscapes and secluded feel ensure its place on the list of hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
17. Boat of Garten, Cairngorms
Known as the “Osprey Village,” Boat of Garten lies in the Cairngorms National Park and is a peaceful spot for wildlife lovers and cyclists. It’s near the River Spey and features a quaint steam railway station, local galleries, and birdwatching trails. The nearby RSPB reserve offers excellent osprey viewing in spring and summer. From Aviemore, follow the B970 southeast, and you’ll arrive in this peaceful woodland-fringed village. Despite its natural assets, it’s often missed by travellers heading to bigger towns. Boat of Garten’s wildlife, scenery, and quiet charm make it one of the most rewarding hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
18. Tomich, Inverness-shire
Tomich is a postcard-perfect village with rows of old stone cottages and leafy lanes. Once part of a Victorian estate, it still holds the atmosphere of a bygone era. The village is close to the Falls of Glomach, one of the highest waterfalls in Britain, and sits on the edge of Glen Affric—considered one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland. From Inverness, follow the A831 through Cannich, then take a local road to reach Tomich. The drive itself is full of sweeping views. Tomich’s tranquil beauty and proximity to natural wonders make it a perfect entry in your list of hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
19. Cromarty, Black Isle
At the tip of the Black Isle peninsula lies Cromarty, a charming and historic village with cobbled streets and old fishermen’s cottages. Once a major port, it now offers art galleries, local cafés, and striking views across the Cromarty Firth. The pace is slow, and the architecture beautifully preserved. A drive north from Inverness along the A9, then east onto the A832 and A833, takes you to this quiet coastal haven. Cromarty is one of the few Highland villages where history, culture, and peace coexist. Its timeless charm earns it a place among hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
20. Glenfinnan, Lochaber
While Glenfinnan is famous for its viaduct and Jacobite monument, the village itself is often overlooked. Nestled between mountains and Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan is rich in history and beauty. It’s also the starting point for some spectacular hikes, including routes up to nearby peaks. The train station and visitor centre offer insight into the area’s Jacobite past. From Fort William, take the A830 west until you reach the lochside village. Early mornings or evenings offer the quietest and most magical experience. Glenfinnan’s majestic setting and heritage make it a unique addition to the list of hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
21. Bettyhill, Sutherland
Bettyhill is a peaceful coastal village on Scotland’s far north coast, offering sweeping views of Torrisdale Bay and golden sandy beaches. Despite being on the North Coast 500 route, it remains tranquil and lightly visited. The village is home to the fascinating Strathnaver Museum, which tells the story of the Highland Clearances, and the surrounding area is ideal for quiet walks and stargazing. To get here, follow the A836 west from Thurso. The drive hugs the northern coastline and is incredibly scenic. With its dramatic sea views, fascinating history, and wild Highland setting, Bettyhill is a quiet treasure among hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
22. Acharacle, Ardnamurchan
Acharacle sits where Loch Shiel meets the River Shiel, nestled at the foot of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula. It’s a remote village surrounded by hills, forests, and lochs, offering excellent walking, fishing, and birdwatching. The village has a friendly atmosphere with a shop, café, and post office, and it serves as a base for exploring the wild landscapes of the west coast. To reach Acharacle, take the A861 from Fort William, which winds through thick forests and over remote hills. The sense of isolation is profound. Acharacle’s raw natural beauty and peaceful setting make it one of the finest hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
23. Carrbridge, Cairngorms
Carrbridge is a picturesque village best known for its photogenic packhorse bridge, built in 1717. Located within the Cairngorms National Park, it offers stunning scenery, forest walks, and a peaceful Highland vibe. The village is surrounded by ancient pinewoods and wildlife such as red squirrels and capercaillie. Carrbridge also has a small art gallery, cafes, and easy access to outdoor activities. From Aviemore, it’s a short drive north on the A95. Despite its proximity to popular destinations, Carrbridge retains a quiet charm that makes it one of the most beautiful hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
24. Durness, Sutherland
Perched on the northwestern tip of Scotland, Durness is one of the most remote villages in the Highlands, surrounded by cliffs, beaches, and dramatic seascapes. The area is known for Smoo Cave, a massive sea cave with a waterfall inside, and Balnakeil Beach, a vast stretch of white sand. The village has a few local shops and a laid-back atmosphere. To get there, take the A838 from Lairg or Tongue through some of the wildest landscapes in the country. Durness’s isolation, natural wonders, and sheer beauty make it a remarkable hidden Highland village to add to your bucket list.
25. Foyers, Loch Ness
Foyers is a quiet village on the less-travelled southeastern shore of Loch Ness. Famous for the Falls of Foyers, a dramatic 140-foot waterfall that inspired poets like Robert Burns, the village also offers tranquil lochside walks and a sense of deep calm. The drive from Inverness along the B862 and B852 is scenic, with forested roads and sweeping views of Loch Ness. Few visitors reach this side of the loch, making it ideal for peaceful retreats. Foyers is a magical place to experience the mystery of Loch Ness in solitude, earning its place among the hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
26. Elphin, Assynt
Elphin is a small crofting community in the heart of Assynt, surrounded by rugged mountains and ancient geological formations. The nearby Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve offers insight into the area’s unique landscape, and walkers can enjoy trails with incredible views of Suilven and Cul Mor. Elphin has a community-run tearoom and hostel, and its peacefulness is unmatched. From Ullapool, take the A835 north, then continue on the A837 through open moorland to reach the village. Its unspoiled setting and dramatic views make Elphin a perfect example of a hidden Highland village in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
27. Strontian, Ardnamurchan
Strontian lies at the head of Loch Sunart and is the gateway to the wild Ardnamurchan Peninsula. It’s known for its historic lead mines, where the element strontium was first discovered. Today, it’s a peaceful village with beautiful woodland walks, quiet lochside views, and a welcoming community. There’s a small café, shop, and several cosy guesthouses. To get there, take the Corran Ferry from the A82 and drive west along the A861. The journey is remote and rewarding. Strontian’s natural setting and sense of history make it one of the most intriguing hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
28. Cannich, Glen Affric
Cannich is the nearest village to Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. With its pinewoods, waterfalls, and mountain trails, Glen Affric is a nature lover’s paradise, and Cannich offers a quiet place to stay at its doorstep. The village has a small shop, café, and several self-catering cottages. It’s an ideal base for hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the stillness of the Highlands. To reach Cannich, drive from Inverness via Beauly, then follow the A831 along the River Glass. Cannich’s peacefulness and proximity to Glen Affric make it one of the best hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
29. Kinlochewe, Wester Ross
Kinlochewe is a small, friendly village located near the entrance to Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Surrounded by towering mountains, it offers exceptional access to hiking trails, lochs, and Highland wildlife. The village has a hotel, petrol station, and visitor centre, yet remains quiet even during the summer. From Inverness, take the A832 west through Glen Docherty—a breathtaking drive. Kinlochewe is ideal for walkers, photographers, and those seeking peace in dramatic landscapes. Its location near world-class natural sites ensures its place among the hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
30. Glenlivet, Moray
Glenlivet is more than just a whisky name—it’s a secluded Highland village nestled in the rolling hills of the Cairngorms. Surrounded by heather moorlands, forests, and rivers, Glenlivet offers tranquility and scenic beauty. The area is part of the Glenlivet Estate, with waymarked trails for walking and cycling. It’s also a great base for exploring the whisky trail, with nearby distilleries and historic sites. From Grantown-on-Spey, take the B9008 south through peaceful countryside to reach Glenlivet. The blend of natural charm, Highland traditions, and whisky heritage make Glenlivet a must-see hidden Highland village in Scotland to add to your bucket list.
Reasons Why They Are the Hidden Highland Villages in Scotland to Add to Your Bucket List
1. Remote locations
Many of these villages are tucked away in hard-to-reach corners of the Scottish Highlands, accessed only by single-track roads, ferries, or long scenic drives. Their remoteness keeps them off the radar of typical tourists, preserving their authenticity and quiet charm.
2. Untouched natural beauty
These villages are surrounded by some of Scotland’s most striking landscapes—rugged coastlines, dramatic mountains, peaceful lochs, and ancient woodlands. Their beauty remains largely untouched by modern development, offering raw and unfiltered scenery.
3. Limited tourist infrastructure
Unlike more popular destinations, hidden Highland villages tend to lack large hotels, tour buses, and crowds. This gives them a more intimate, community-driven feel, where local life continues uninterrupted and genuine experiences are easier to find.
4. Strong Gaelic and Highland culture
These villages often preserve traditions, languages, and stories that are slowly disappearing elsewhere. Gaelic names, Highland hospitality, and centuries-old customs are still part of daily life, offering visitors a deeper connection to Scottish heritage.
5. Wildlife and nature access
Surrounded by wilderness, many of these villages are ideal for spotting rare birds, red deer, seals, otters, and even golden eagles. Their location in nature reserves or along the coast makes them perfect for walking, kayaking, and nature watching.
6. Historical significance
From Iron Age brochs to Jacobite battlefields and ancient churches, many of these villages hold deep historical roots. Their pasts are woven into the landscape, allowing visitors to uncover stories often ignored by mainstream travel routes.
7. Photographic and artistic inspiration
With dramatic backdrops and ever-changing Highland weather, these villages are a dream for photographers, painters, and writers. Their quiet streets and stunning vistas offer creative inspiration that is hard to match anywhere else in the country.
Benefits of Visiting Those Hidden Highland Villages in Scotland to Add to Your Bucket List
1. True peace and quiet
Visiting these villages gives you the rare chance to disconnect from modern noise. The only sounds are wind through the heather, waves hitting the shore, or birds calling across the hills—a welcome change from the busyness of everyday life.
2. Fewer crowds, more space
Unlike the tourist-heavy towns and cities, these hidden villages offer open space, quiet trails, and unspoiled views. You can explore freely without queues or crowds, which makes the experience feel personal and unrushed.
3. Deeper cultural experiences
Staying in small communities allows you to interact directly with locals. Whether it’s chatting with someone in a café or learning about local traditions, your visit supports and connects you with authentic Highland culture.
4. Support for local economies
Visiting these remote areas brings much-needed income to family-run guesthouses, craft shops, and local restaurants. Your presence helps preserve these communities and the unique way of life they represent.
5. Opportunity for slow travel
These villages encourage slow, mindful exploration. Instead of rushing through a checklist, you get to walk, rest, and absorb the natural beauty at your own pace, creating a more meaningful and memorable trip.
6. Unique accommodations
From cosy crofts to off-grid cabins, these villages offer accommodations that feel personal and immersive. Waking up to mountain views or lochside sunrises is part of the everyday experience here.
7. Connection to nature
The proximity to wild landscapes gives visitors a chance to feel grounded. Whether hiking in the hills or watching stars without light pollution, the connection to nature brings a sense of calm and restoration that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Conclusion
The hidden Highland villages in Scotland to add to your bucket list offer more than just scenic escapes—they are gateways into a quieter, more authentic version of Scotland. Each village tells its own story, wrapped in ancient traditions, rugged beauty, and peaceful isolation. While they may require more effort to reach, the rewards are worth every mile. In a world that moves too fast, these villages invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with nature and heritage. Whether you’re seeking solitude, inspiration, or adventure, these off-the-beaten-path Highland gems promise unforgettable experiences. Add them to your journey—and discover the Scotland few ever get to see.