Why Scotland Should Be at the Top of Your Solo Travel List – Especially for Women
After spending three weeks in Scotland with both solo and on a small group tour organized by The Solo Travel Collection, there’s no doubt in my mind that this country deserves a top spot on any travel bucket list—especially for women exploring the world independently or in small, like-minded groups. It’s not just the safety that makes Scotland shine (though that’s a huge plus); it’s the striking natural beauty, the delicious food, and most of all, the warmth and generosity of its people.
Our group consisted of five women, and while we traveled together, we each had the freedom and space to explore at our own pace. That perfect balance of connection and independence made all the difference.
Let’s start with safety—because that’s often the biggest concern for solo female travelers. From walking the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to catching ferries between remote islands, I felt respected and at ease throughout. Whether I was sipping coffee in Dunkeld, admiring views in Glencoe, or enjoying fresh mussels in Oban, I never once felt out of place. Locals offered help without hesitation, shared stories, and gave travel tips freely. That deep sense of safety and welcome allowed me to truly relax and be present.
But what really surprised me about Scotland was its incredible range of landscapes.
In just a few hours, you can go from the historic buzz of Edinburgh to the dramatic wilderness of Glencoe. I spent days on hiking trails with our group, surrounded by brooding peaks and rushing waterfalls—some of the most breathtaking terrain I’ve ever experienced. Scenic drives took us to the coastal town of Oban, where the seafood was unbelievably fresh, and then onto a boat tour to the Isle of Mull and Lunga.
Mull was wild, windswept, and wonderfully peaceful. We wandered its remote trails and then hopped over to Lunga Isle, home to a thriving puffin colony. Standing on a cliffside with the wind in my hair and seabirds wheeling overhead, I felt that particular brand of freedom that only comes with venturing somewhere truly remote.
Venturing north on my own, I explored the Isle of Skye—rugged, romantic, and cinematic in every way. From jagged cliffs and hidden waterfalls to winding roads that beg for spontaneous stops, Skye became one of the most memorable parts of the trip. It was here, even within the group dynamic, that I had space to reflect and absorb the deep, quiet power of Scotland’s wild places.
From there, I headed to Inverness, a small city full of charm with its riverside walks and proximity to the legendary Loch Ness. We wrapped up the mainland portion of our journey in Aberdeen, with its granite architecture and salty North Sea air. Each stop was unique, but the thread of kindness and connection ran consistently throughout.
Let’s talk food—because it was genuinely unforgettable. From buttery scones in a cozy café in Dunkeld to scallops and mussels in Oban, Scotland’s culinary scene impressed me far beyond expectations. The reputation of bland British fare? Scotland defies it. I would return solely for the seafood—especially the hand-dived scallops and local squid.
Beyond the food and scenery, it was the people who made this trip truly unforgettable. The friendliness I encountered felt authentic and unforced. Locals chatted with us in cafés, offered directions, and recommended secret spots. That kind of hospitality makes traveling feel less like tourism and more like shared experience.
So whether you’re going solo, joining a group like The Solo Travel Collection, or meeting up with fellow female travelers along the way—Scotland is a place where you’ll feel safe, inspired, and entirely at home. Between its dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and genuine hospitality, it offers everything you could want from a solo travel destination.
And if you’re anything like me, you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left.
10 Tips for Traveling in Scotland (Especially as a Solo Female Traveler)
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Pack for all weather – Scotland’s weather changes fast. Layering is essential, and a waterproof jacket is non-negotiable—even in summer.
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Rent a car if you can – While public transport works well in cities, a car gives you access to remote gems like Glencoe, Mull, and Skye.
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Book ferries in advance – If you’re heading to islands like Mull, Skye, or Shetland, reserve ferry tickets ahead of time, especially in high season.
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Stay in small towns – Places like Dunkeld, Portree, and Tobermory offer charm, safety, and a real sense of local life.
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Try the seafood – From scallops in Oban to smoked salmon in Inverness, the quality and freshness are unbeatable.
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Be respectful of nature – Stick to marked trails, carry out your rubbish, and avoid disturbing wildlife, especially during nesting season.
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Download offline maps – Signal can be unreliable in the Highlands and on islands. Apps like Google Maps or Maps.me are lifesavers.
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Talk to locals – Scots are famously friendly. Don’t be shy about asking for recommendations—they often lead to the best hidden gems.
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Stay in B&Bs or guesthouses – These often provide a more personal experience and are great places to meet hosts with deep local knowledge.
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Embrace the slower pace – Don’t try to cram too much in. Leave space for spontaneous stops, long walks, and cozy moments in a pub with a book.
Hired the best Driver – Laura for: Edinburgh – Dunkeld – Oban- Loch Lomond
Rented a vehicle and drove Edinburgh – Glencoe – Plokton – Isle of Skye – Inverness – Aberdeen
The next segment of my journey took me even farther north and off the mainland —to the stunning, windswept Shetland Islands. Stay tuned for the next post, where I’ll share what it’s like to explore this remote part of Scotland and how to navigate it with confidence and curiosity.
