The Highlands are not precisely defined, but essentially, they are the Gaelic-speaking area that lies north and west of a geological feature known as the Highland Boundary Fault. There, craggy mountains are scoured by rushing, peat-stained streams. The Scottish great outdoors has always been a magnet for Americans, thanks to world-class grouse shooting and deer hunting. Today, Scotland’s cultural heritage is ever more accessible, and it would be possible to spend months in the Highlands and still not visit every castle, notable garden or whisky distillery that is open and welcoming visitors.

To the south and east, the Highlands begin relatively gently, especially in the lovely county of Perthshire, famous for its rich agricultural land and fruit orchards. The northeast Highlands are dominated by the majestic Cairngorms mountains. The Spey River remains one of Scotland’s more productive salmon fisheries, and surrounding Speyside is the heartland of the Scottish whisky industry. The most dramatic scenery in Scotland is to be found in the western Highlands, especially in glorious Wester Ross. Off the coast are the lovely and romantic islands of the Inner and Outer Hebrides. The Isle of Skye is famous for its majestic landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles. Farther south, the Isle of Islay is a center of whisky production, with no fewer than nine distilleries, including famous names like Laphroaig and Bruichladdich. There is something particularly appealing about being in the lap of luxury, savoring delicious food, while surrounded by wild and remote terrain. The Scottish Highlands consistently provide this alluring combination.