Exploring the Scottish Highlands offers a blend of breath-taking landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural experiences. Here are eight tourist spots likely to be on your agenda, plus the places to stay and charge your electric vehicle when you visit.

‍

Isle of Skye

Known for its dramatic landscapes, the Isle of Skye offers climbing opportunities in the Cullin range and enchanting sights like the Fairy Pools. As a popular destination in the Highlands, it’s well served for EV owners. VoltShare recently installed into luxury B&Bs in Geary, Culnacnoc, Kingsburgh, and both North Portree and South Portree. Meanwhile there are 13 public charging locations from Staffin in the North East, to Dunvegan in the West and Kyleakin in the East as you cross from the mainland.

‍

Eilean Donan Castle

This iconic castle sits where three lochs converge, offering a magical scene for visitors. Those on the hunt for EV chargers can also benefit from the site at Kyleakin on Skye, as well as two over the water at Kyle of Lochalsh and one close to the castle at Dornie. If travelling up from the South (or returning), there are also two sites at Invershiel, including one with two chargers at the Kintail Lodge Hotel.

‍

Ben Nevis

The UK's tallest mountain, near Fort William, offers climbing opportunities for experienced hikers and stunning views even from the base. There are twelve charging points bunched around Fort William and East towards Roybridge, including the Old Pines Hotel & Restaurant at Spean Bridge.

‍

Glencoe

Famous for its role in "Braveheart," Glencoe offers incredible outdoor activities, from hiking the West Highland Way to kayaking on Loch Leven. South from Ben Nevis, Glencoe benefits from ten EV chargers in the surrounding area, from Inchtree in the West to Kingshouse in the East, with three very close to Glencoe, including at The Clachaig Inn.

‍

Cairngorms National Park

Covering nearly 2,000 square miles, the park is perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to skiing. Visitors travelling in from Inverness could stay at the dog friendly Gask House or the luxury holiday homes at the beautiful Melfort Estate – both of which feature VoltShare EV chargers. Those travelling from Aberdeen could choose the wilderness of a cabin or cottage from Glen Dye, and also benefit from VoltShare charging. Within the National Park itself there are around 30 charging points, with clusters around Aviemore and Ballater.

‍

Loch Shiel and Glenfinnan

Besides Loch Shiel's natural beauty, the Glenfinnan area features the Glenfinnan Monument and historical sites. However, visitors will have to charge at the sites at Fort William since there are no chargers in Glenfinnan itself. One other option is to charge at the Land, Sea & Islands Centre in Arisaig to the West.

‍

Sandwood Bay Beach

Offering a long, beautiful walk to one of Scotland's most stunning beaches, Sandwood Bay is a must-visit for nature lovers. However, such a remote location means EV chargers are few and far between. Kinlochbervie Car Park has three chargers and there are three at Durness, otherwise there are a cluster at Tongue and periodically along the A386 travelling East.

‍

Inverewe Garden and Estate

This subtropical garden thrives in the Scottish climate, showcasing a diverse range of plants from around the world. There are two Tesla chargers at nearby Pool House as well as public chargers at Auchtercairn and Charlestown. Alittle further afield there are a cluster of chargers in Ullapool and then many if you take the drive to Inverness.

‍

Charging Round the Scottish Highlands

Each location provides a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking to soak in breathtaking landscapes, these destinations have something for everyone.

‍

The Scottish Highlands and Islands are getting increasingly well serviced by EV charging options, with many of the forward-thinking B&Bs, hotels and tourist venues recognising the importance of catering for this growing consumer need. However, given the size and rural nature of this part of the world, it makes sense to plan ahead and charge in advance (ideally where you are staying).

‍

We’ll keep this article updated as the network grows, and we hope to shout out a few more VoltShare venues in the future!

‍

‍