Scotland’s Luskentyre Bay has been named one the UK’s most beauitful beaches (Image: Getty)
When one thinks of bonnie Scotland, many things come to mind – it’s rightly famous for its , bonkers bagpipes, wild weather and
However, the fact this country is home to hundreds of glorious beaches comes as a surprise to many who haven’t travelled north of the border.
And the revelation that dozens of them resemble the Caribbean – with – will leave some jaws agape.
Of course, when it comes to water temperatures, in Scotland really is for the brave.
But the hardy souls who decide to go for a dip in the UK’s most northern nation will be rewarded with beaches that are as empty as they are beautiful.
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Scotland’s west coast has hundreds of glorious beaches (Image: Getty)
Some of these most stunning stretches of sea and sand are on the archipelagoes that surround Scotland. The islands of Harris and Lewis in the , off Scotland’s northwest coast, is home to some of the
Sometimes known as the Western Isles, these are mysterious lands. These islands are home to the of Callenish, which is believed to have been built at least 5,000 years ago – making them older than the
While this archaeology will be a big draw for some visitors, others are attracted by its beautiful beaches. Indeed, Luskentyre Sands on Harris was named one of the UK’s best beaches in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.
Luskentyre Sands was named one the UK’s beast beaches (Image: Getty)
But you don’t have to leave the mainland to find beautiful beaches. If you turn left at Ben Nevis and – and head west towards the setting sun – you’ll find the Silver Sands of Morar.
These incredible beaches are actually on a river inlet that links to the wild expanse of the . While they are popular with walkers, the beaches are all accessible from the road – and can be enjoyed individually or as a trail.
They have spectacular views out towards the Small Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Canna. This archipelago is south of the – which is also home to some celebrated stretches of sand and sea.
The Silver Sands of Morar are on the mainland (Image: Getty)
Unlike Harris and Lewis, Skye is connected to the mainland by a bridge – which makes it much more accessible. Its other-worldly landscapes – such as its and the stony spire – make it one of Scotland’s most visited regions.
However, the island is also home to some 800 miles away at the other end of the country.
The Aird of Sleat – also known as Camas Daraich – is a pristine beach in the southwest of Skye. Like the Silver Sands of Moran, it boasts white sands, turquoise waters – and great views of the mountains of Rum and Eigg.
Point of Sleat is the southernmost point of Skye (Image: Getty)
Over in the southeast of Skye, Elgol Beach is one of the island’s most atmospheric beaches. It is home to – and magical views of the Small Isles.
It’s also reputed to be one of the best places to watch a Skye sunset. However, the island’s most famous beach is arguably found in the Skye’s opposite corner.
Claigan’s Coral Beach, in the northwest of Skye, is made from tiny fragments of sun-bleached coral-like seaweed. This makes the water look totally tropical and the sands – which are visited by Highland cattle – a brilliant white.
Claigan Coral Beach (Image: Getty)
It’s not just Scotland’s western coast and islands that are home to sensational beaches. Over in the northeast of the mainland, the harbour at is flanked by two stunning beaches.
To the east are sand dunes and long stretches of white sand, with views across to the harbour town. The west is somewhat wilder, and offers up views of Covesea Lighthouse.
Lossiemouth itself a lovely seaside town – and the area is a popular surfing spot. It’s also home to bottlenose dolphins and other wonderful wildlife.
Lossiemouth has two wonderful beaches (Image: Getty)