![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/25\/590x\/secondary\/The-Hermitage-4967767.jpg?r=1695149205678\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Autumn is undoubtedly one of the best times to head to the Scottish highlands. They are in their transitional period, changing from green to golden russets, burnt oranges, and rich red hues.<\/p>\n
The light is also at its most intoxicating – soft and dreamy.\u00a0 Best of all, there are fewer tourists and the midges will have mostly, all flown south for the winter.<\/p>\n
But the hills are alive as it also marks the beginning of stag rutting season so expect to witness some dramatic battles over potential mates.<\/p>\n
Highland\u00a0Perthshire is a top spot for Autumn foliage. It\u2019s known as \u201cBig Tree Country\u201d and it is what it says on the tin – a glorious forest.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The Hermitage is a mystical location containing several species of conifers and some of Scotland’s tallest trees with endless trails to take.<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/25\/590x\/secondary\/Ballater-4967771.jpg?r=1695149205746\")
<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/25\/590x\/secondary\/Urquhart-Castle-4967772.jpg?r=1695149205822\")
<\/p>\n
Perthshire is now part of the Cairngorms National Park and a top spot for Autumnal meanderings.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s also Royal Deeside to explore, home to Balmoral Castle and rugged mountains to stunning Glen Muick which lies in the shadow of peak of Lochnagar.<\/p>\n
Stunning towns such as Grantown on Spey are adorable places to base yourself in and take day trips from.<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/25\/590x\/secondary\/Red-Deer-4967777.jpg?r=1695149205873\")
<\/p>\n
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/25\/590x\/secondary\/Glen-Muick-4967778.jpg?r=1695149205960\")
<\/p>\n
Stop by Carrbridge home to the most incredible packhorse bridge, built in 1717, and is another lively village.<\/p>\n
It’s surrounded by a network of paths taking you through a forest that is home to abundant wildlife including crested tits and red squirrels.\u00a0<\/p>\n
With recent sightings reported of the Loch Ness Monster, you could try your luck as you drive along its beautiful shoreline before hiking through the community-owned Abriachan Forest which offers jaw-dropping views over Loch Ness.\u00a0<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/25\/590x\/secondary\/Grantown-on-Spey-4967775.jpg?r=1695149206031\")
<\/p>\n
Another loch, Loch Affric is surrounded by ancient woodlands and Glen Africc has a little of everything; glistening lochs and haunting moorland.\u00a0<\/p>\n
There are also 30 miles of ancient pinewoods to wander through. So lace up your boots and head to the Highlands to take in some serious Autumnal scenes.<\/p>\n