The Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are in the northern part of Scotland. This area is known for its rolling green hills and tall mountains. Deep lakes called lochs fill the valleys. The Highlands have many old castles and small villages. It is one of the most beautiful parts of the United Kingdom.

Mountains and Lochs

The Highlands are full of mountains called Munros. The tallest one is Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the whole United Kingdom. Long, deep lakes called lochs sit between the mountains. The most famous is Loch Ness. People say a mystery creature named Nessie lives in its dark waters. No one has ever proved Nessie is real.

Highland Culture

The people of the Highlands have their own special traditions. They play music on bagpipes, which make a loud humming sound. Men sometimes wear kilts, which are skirts with checkered patterns called tartan. Each family or clan has its own tartan colors. Every year, the Highland Games are held where people toss heavy logs and dance traditional dances.

Fun Facts

• Ben Nevis stands 4,413 feet tall.
• Loch Ness holds more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined.
• Scotland has more than 900 islands off its coast.

Did You Know?

Some parts of the Scottish Highlands are so empty that you can walk for many miles without seeing another person or building.