Serving as the cultural hub of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is an ancient cathedral city where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth. Its Old Town is clustered with historic buildings and the atmospheric Victorian Market where you can shop for local produce and handicrafts. Delve into Highland history at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery or soak up the photogenic views of Inverness Castle whose red sandstone turrets perch atop a riverside cliff.

Sitting on the edge of the Dornoch Firth, the small historic town of Dornoch boasts a tranquil location, stunning scenery and sunny climate. Take a bracing walk along the town’s beach, which stretches from Dornoch Point heading past Embo beach to the mouth of Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve, before visiting its famed cathedral founded in 1224.

Straddling the Wick River where it meets the North Sea, this former Viking settlement now serves as the main town in Scotland’s far north. It was once the busiest herring port in Europe, with the impressive Wick Heritage Centre bringing to life the old fishing days. Marvel at the Old Castle of Wick that perches atop the nearby cliffs or spot puffins along the spectacular trail that leads to the twin castle ruins of Sinclair and Girnigoe.

Overlooking the Kyle of Tongue, this charming coastal village is one of a series of historic crofting townships in the northwest Scottish Highlands. It serves as the gateway for spectacular hiking along the slopes of Ben Hope and Ben Loyal, as well as exploring the picture-perfect fishing villages on the shores of Tongue Bay. Soak up the views from the clifftop ruins of Castle Varrich before enjoying homestyle highland fare at one of the cosy guesthouses.

Surrounded by more than 200 lochs and backed by the sugarloaf-shaped peak of Caisteal Liath, Lochinver is one of the largest fishing ports in Scotland. It centres around a lively market where the morning’s catch is on display, as well as being home to one of the most renowned potteries in the region, Highland Stoneware. Highlights including hiking to the sandstone peak of Suilven and petting friendly animals at the Highland and Rare Breeds Farm.

Overlooking the shores of Loch Gairloch in the northwest Highlands, this popular summer getaway is a picturesque base for exploring the awe-inspiring landscapes of Wester Ross. Drink in the views towards the Isle of Skye from the sands of Redpoint Beach while keeping your eyes peeled for whales migrating through the waters. Delve into the local history at the Gairloch Heritage Centre, then feast on fish and chips with the locals at one of the characterful pubs.