Sam Heughan’s Scotland: The Outlander star’s favourite places to escape, eat and explore

Braemar – Aberdeenshire

“Braemar is home to the Highland Games. I like to stay at the Fife Arms Hotel, and ride my motorbike past Balmoral Castle and into the hills and glens beyond.”

Braemar is Highland Scotland at its most cinematic: pine forests, heather-clad hills, rushing rivers and roads that seem designed for grand entrances. It’s easy to see why Sam returns here for wide-open scenery and escape.

He recommends staying at the wonderfully eccentric Fife Arms Hotel, where world-class art hangs beside roaring fires and muddy boots are still welcome. From there, follow his lead and take to the road past Balmoral, into the hills and glens beyond.

Time a visit with the famous Braemar Gathering and you’ll catch one of Scotland’s most iconic Highland Games events. In winter, ski slopes are nearby; in summer, there are hikes, bike trails and red deer to spot. Braemar feels like adventure in every direction.

 Mossyard – Galloway

“Mossyard Beach is a stunning beach, perfect for swimming or having a barbecue on the sand as the sun goes down, with views across the Solway Firth and over towards Ireland. You can also pop over to Crafty Distillery for a fun gin or whisky tasting.”

Once you see Mossyard Beach, you’ll understand why Sam loves it. This broad sweep of sand on the Solway Coast has huge skies, peaceful waters and glorious sunset views towards Ireland.

This corner of Dumfries & Galloway is sometimes called Scotland’s Riviera thanks to its milder climate, with a softer, gentler feel than many northern coastlines. Nearby Gatehouse of Fleet is ideal for cafés, galleries and stocking up for a beach day.

The region is also part of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, highlighting its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Food lovers can explore local produce, while Sam's distillery offers insight into Scotland’s growing craft spirits scene beyond traditional whisky regions.

 Arthur’s Seat – Edinburgh

“Arthur’s Seat offers great views over the city and across to Fife, and it’s somewhere I used to run and hike as a teenager. Afterwards, you can walk down to Duddingston and visit the Sheep’s Heid Inn, the oldest pub in Scotland, for a beer.”