University of Glasgow in Edinbrugh, Scotland. (All photos: Chandni J.)

Journeying through Scotland felt like stepping into a fantasy, wandering Edinburgh’s historic streets, savoring whiskey in the Highlands, and discovering the enchanting Isle of Skye. From castles and ancient legends to Harry Potter landmarks and breathtaking landscapes, every moment was steeped in history, magic, and sheer wonder.

As a lifelong Potterhead, visiting Scotland felt like stepping into the pages of my favorite books. The journey begins in Edinburgh. Strolling through the city, I was reminded of J.K. Rowling and Hogwarts coming to life. Strolling across the sprawling lawns of the University of Glasgow, I could see myself as a young witch, hurrying between classes. Wandering down Victoria Street, with its colorful storefronts and winding charm, I imagined shopping for my wand, spell books, and my own Hedwig in Diagon Alley.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, is a mesmerizing blend of Georgian, Victorian, and Scots Baronial architectural styles. Strolling through the Royal Mile, led us to the majestic and very Scottish Edinburgh Castle— grand architecture, traditional plaids of tartan and kilts, paired with warm hospitality. A surprise pop-up led to the smoothest and sweetest whiskey I had ever tasted.

Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is home to the Stone of Destiny, used for centuries to inaugurate Scottish kings.

St.Margaret’s Chapel, Edinburgh Castle.

We explored Edinburgh Castle’s oldest building, St. Margaret’s Chapel, which still hosts weddings and christenings to this day. A step inside and we had traveled back a thousand years, surrounded by its ancient stone walls and timeless aura.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, I gazed at the Edinburgh Old Town skyline. The silhouette of ancient spires, rugged stone buildings, and towering castles against the twilight sky felt like a scene straight out of a fantasy novel.

Journey Through the Highlands: Scotland’s Own Slice of Heaven

Whiskey tasting at Auchentoshan Distillery.

Our first stop was Auchentoshan, a distillery where we indulged in a whiskey-tasting experience. Stepping inside, we were enveloped by the rich, earthy aroma of aging barrels, mingling with the warm, toasty scent of malted barley. Sampling a variety of whiskeys, one stood out—their Three Wood Single Malt Scotch. Deep, layered complexity with notes of butterscotch sweetness, made it an instant favorite.

Golden-brown and red mountains stretched endlessly through our road trip. We encountered mesmerizing waterfalls and often found ourselves straying from our itinerary, unable to resist soaking in the beauty.

Our real adventure began at the Three Sisters, a trio of towering, similar-shaped mountains often dubbed the Yosemite of Scotland. Driving through the charming Highland villages, we spotted fluffy lambs and Highland cows grazing peacefully.

We made our way to Loch Ness, Scotland’s most famous freshwater loch (“lake” in Gaelic). While its beauty alone is jaw dropping, it’s best known for ‘Nessie’, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Despite keeping a keen eye on the rippling waters, we didn’t spot her!

Urquhat Castle, Loch Ness

Nearby, we explored the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the medieval fortress, Urquhart Castle, which overlooks Loch Ness.

Heading towards our next destination, we had the thrilling experience of crossing the Hogwarts Bridge! Also known as the Glenfinnan Viaduct, this stunning 21-arch railway bridge is an engineering marvel. Towering over the picturesque Glenfinnan Valley, it’s where the Hogwarts Express courses its magical journey in Harry Potter.

A view of the Glenfinnan Viaduct towering over the Glenfinnan Valley in the Scotland Highlands.

Not long after, we crossed Eilean na Moine, a small island in Loch Eilt. Seeing this mist-covered, serene island sent shivers down my spine.

As the sun set early, we drove through the dark toward the Isle of Skye. Our cozy cabin by the lake offered little hint of what surrounded us. The next morning revealed the most breathtaking scenery—rugged cliffs, rolling green hills, and crystal-clear waters.

A Scottish breakfast.

Our trip of the Highlands concluded with a hearty Scottish breakfast, complete with fresh milk from Highland cows—so rich and delicious! 

Cows in the Scotland Highlands.

Next, the Isle of Skye was about to take the Scotland enchantment to an entirely new level.

Isle of Skye: A Land of Legends and Fairy Tales

Our day started hiking at The Old Man of Storr, a breathtaking 55-meter-high pinnacle of basalt rock formed by a 260-million-year-old volcano. Many legends surround this iconic landmark. My favorite is the tale of a kind-hearted farmer who once saved Brownie—a small mythical creature known for helping with household chores.

Of all the places, Fairy Glen was the most memorable. This place felt truly enchanted—straight out of a dream. I imagined this as a perfect setting of fairytales! Locals believe that fairies dwell in places like this, near mystical landscapes with tiny water sources and grassy fields.

The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye.

Further south on the Isle of Skye, we ended our trip at the Fairy Pools, another legendary spot known for its magical allure. It was late autumn, and the landscape was painted in deep copper hues. The rain poured, the wind howled, and the water rushed through the pools with tremendous force. Standing there, I felt the sheer power of Mother Nature—it was wild, untamed, and awe-inspiring. 

“I dreamt of a unicorn, and when I woke up, I was in Scotland! A land so breathtakingly surreal that it almost feels like a dream itself. The unicorn—Scotland’s national animal—is more than just a symbol; it’s a perfect metaphor for the country’s magic, mystery, and sheer unreal beauty.”

Going through the enchanted lands of Scotland and the Isle of Skye made me believe in magic all over again.