There is no mistaking the wild, elemental nature of the Highlands, as the land rises up and fertile farmland gives way to the rugged hills and heathered glens of this ancient expanse of Scotland’s northern reaches. This is an imposing area to explore but one which rewards the adventurous soul with memories to last a lifetime.

You may choose to take the long road to the isles, winding through the epic vistas of Glencoe before crossing the bridge which now, quite literally, takes travellers over the sea to Skye. Or follow the way of the scenic Great Glen from coast to coast, along the lochs linked by Thomas Telford’s Caledonian Canal.

Alternatively, make straight for the beautiful gateway city of Inverness with its castle, cathedral and crystal-clear river, the perfect base from which to research the monstrous depths of Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle before turning to the far north-west and the towering mountains of the UNESCO Geopark for a journey into the region’s living past.

From there, follow the new North Coast 500 route which will guide you through hidden villages and coastal communities with a plethora of places to stop and take in the views, enjoy fresh local fare and explore the history and heritage of this most ancient of areas, where life is always lived on the edge.