hiGHLAND GAMES

Aspects of the modern day Highland Games have been recorded throughout Scottish history. Both the Celtic tribes and the Clans displayed warfare skills at annual competitions. Using items such as river stones for shott-putts and Caledonian Pine tree trunks for cabers, they showed who were the strongest, fittest and bravest and who should become the Chief's bodyguards and best fighters. However they also involved poets, bards and musicians competing against one another.

The modern day Highland Games have evolved from these competitions, mainly thanks to Queen Victoria! They include a wide range of activities displaying strength, fitness, music and dancing. Visitors can normally take part in the light events such as running and tug-o-war. These are the main events included in most Highland Games:

• Hammer throwing
• Tossing the caber
• Shott-Putt
• Tug-o-war
• Running events
• Highland dancing
• Piping competitions

With crowds cheering the competitors on and pipe bands playing, an amazing atmosphere is created. One not to be missed!

If one of our tours stumbles into a Highland Games, generally we will stop as long as everyone on the tour is interested. However if you would like to visit a Highland Games whilst on a Wild in Scotland tour, we have selected some dates and tours that fit well with available Highland Games.

If you are short on time our 2 Day Loch Ness & Highlands tour has several dates to pick from.
If you have more time and want to see more Scotland, check out our 5 Day Skye & Highlands tour which has a couple of dates to pick from.