10 Must See Water Attractions in the Highlands this Summer

This summer is looking to be a hot one, so why not head out to the Scottish watersides and cool off on the beach or paddle your way through the lochs? Take some well deserved time away from the grind and enjoy all that our Highland waters have to offer - you won't want to miss out on these spectacular experiences!

Loch Insh Activity Centre

Founded in 1969 as the Cairngorm Canoeing and Sailing School, the beloved Loch Insh Outdoor Centre has grown in strength and popularity with both locals and tourists alike. Offering activities and courses all year round makes this attraction an exciting adventure for people of all ages and provides its customers with the chance to try out new hobbies. The centre is best known for its watersports activities such as kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and so much more. Loch Insh Activity Centre also offers activities on the shore, like archery and snowboarding. You can even take a break from the crowds and go for a hike around the stunning loch and admire both the beautiful waterside landscape and its inhabitants.

Rothiemurcus Estate

Home to the largest natural forest in Britain, the Rothiemurcus Estate sits at the heart of the Cairngorm National Park and hosts a huge variety of water and land activities that everyone can enjoy. Whether you enjoy strolling through charming Scottish landscapes and admiring the tranquil waters of Loch an Eilein, or you are in the mood for gorge walking and fast-paced river rafting, Rothiemurcus Estate makes for an incredible waterside day out. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on our Cairngorm Mountains tour to see if you can spot any adventurers exploring the Rothiemurcus Estate…by foot or by kayak!

Swim Wild

If you are brave enough to tackle the chilly Scottish water temperatures then Swim Wild open water swimming is an experience not to be missed. Founded in 2018 by Alice Goodridge, Swim Wild offers its clients the chance to safely dive into the Scottish lochs and open waters at any time of the year. When you take our Cairngorm Mountains tour you will see where many Swim Wild retreats and water adventures happen even throughout the winter months like their Cairngorm Winter Retreat. This experience is not for the faint of heart but Alice Goodridge is well equipped with years of knowledge, certificates and experience to prepare you for this icy, revitalising step into the natural Scottish waters.

Kilt Rock

Immerse yourself in all that Skye has to offer on our Isle of Skye tour and be sure to see the stunning Kilt Rock. Measuring up to 90 meters high, this natural water feature looks over the deep waters of the Sound of Raasay which is a popular spot for aquatic wildlife like Common Dolphins, Harbour Porpoise and even Killer Whales. Be sure to bring your binoculars and your patience. This stunning viewpoint is perfect for appreciating the natural landscape of Skye, it is said the rock columns of the Kilt Rock cliff-face resemble the pleats of a Scottish Kilt and even have hints of red throughout much like our traditional Scottish tartan. Interested in exploring all that Skye has to offer? Book yourself on one of our Isle Of Skye tours and let our Happy Tours team guide you through this incredible island filled with history and culture.

Beastie Boats

For those who love the water and enjoy a smidge of adrenaline with their history, Beastie Boats tours are the perfect solution. Climb aboard their 12-seater RIB at Dockgarroch Lock and experience the stunning Loch Ness up close and at high speed. Take in the Highland landscape and historic attractions with traditional Scottish music and stories about the famous waterside landmarks. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the loch’s most famous inhabitant. This 80-minute speed boat tour is an amazing way to experience all that the waters of Loch Ness have to offer and learn about the rich cultural heritage behind the remarkable monuments. Fancy pairing this water tour with a shoreside tour? Explore some of the in-land landmarks surrounding Loch Ness with our Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness tour.

You Fish Scotland

Based in Inverness, You Fish Scotland is a family-owned business and run by the knowledgeable and dedicated Wes and Roz. You Fish Scotland specialise in both fly and lure fishing, and offer experiences for anglers of any level as long as you are keen to learn and have your waders ready. Striving to provide the very best of expertise in trout, salmon, and pike fishing the You Fish Scotland team have years of wisdom to help you with any questions and tips you may need while out on the water. This peaceful and serene experience is not to be missed especially when surrounded by such breathtaking scenery.

Explore Highland

Much like Happy Tours, Explore Highland is an Inverness based company that offers bespoke kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddleboarding experiences in the tranquil Highland of Scotland waters. These waterway activities are led by local expert Donald Macpherson who puts his years of experience and knowledge to good use to provides everyone with a safe, fun and memorable experience. You can even book a 4-day canoe trip down the River Spey which is one of the breathtaking rivers we journey alongside in Happy Tours‘ private 8-seater minibus on our Speyside Whisky Tour.

Fairy Pools

If you are travelling on your own Private Tour on our luxury 8-seater minibus through Skye then a stop at the Fairy Pools is a must. These remarkable crystal blue pools are some of the most photographed natural water features in Scotland and it easy to see why. The first main waterfall is just a short walk from the car park and the views along the way spectacularly show off The Cuillins which we happen to stop by on our Isle Of Skye tour. The Fairy Pools are stunning places to unwind and take a swim in but be warned they are a little on the chilly side. For the bravest of us, the Fairy Pools have incredible jumping-off points which can measure up to 10 meters high and drop straight into the pools.

Rosemarkie Beach

Nestled between Happy Tours main pick-up areas in Inverness and Invergordon is one of the most popular beaches in the Highlands, Rosemarkie beach, open year-round for all visitors to enjoy. Although it is hugely popular with people strolling on the sandy shore and collecting seashells, the beach is never overcrowded as it stretches through to the Lighthouse at Chanory Point. Surrounded by local cafes and restaurants, this beach makes the perfect day trip for the whole family or as a relaxing break to have some well deserved alone time. If you are really lucky and really patient, you may even spot the local dolphin celebrities diving past the Chanory Lighthouse.

Loch Morlich

Loch Morlich is visually breathtaking and perfect for relaxing walks along the waterside or photographing the local wildlife. Visitors can also hire out equipment and head straight out into the centre of it all. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are all available for you to hire and for anyone unsure of going out into the water, there are also private lessons or group trips available so you can explore this tranquil water safely and peacefully. Enjoy a trek around Loch Morlich and the surrounding forest area with easy to follow designated pathways and see all that this beautiful area has to offer. Curious to explore more of the Cairngorms and surrounding areas? Check out our Cairngorms Mountains tour and book one of our luxury 8-seater minibuses to take you there.

Get In Touch

With so much to explore this summer, why not take the stress of planning away and relax on a Happy Tours minibus travelling to a range of destinations throughout the Scottish Highlands. Get in touch with our friendly experts for more information at tours@happy-tours.biz or give us a call on +44(0)7828 154 683.