Are you ready for a journey into the mystical world of Scotland? Look no further than a tour of Scotland’s mythical creatures! With its rich folklore and mythology, Scotland is home to an array of magical creatures that will take your breath away. From Kelpies and Waterhorses to Selkies and Merfolk, there’s something for everyone.
But where do you find these creatures? From the Shetland Islands to the Isle of Skye, from the Cairngorms National Park to Ben Nevis, these creatures are said to be hiding in the depths of those lochs and in the shadow of our stunning mountains. So, put on your adventurer hat and join us as we explore Scotland’s mystical creatures and the regions where they are said to reside.
Kelpies
Kelpies and Waterhorses are two of the most intriguing and captivating creatures found in Scottish folklore. Kelpies are said to be shape-shifting horses that reside in lochs and rivers. They are known to lure unsuspecting travelers and lead them to their doom. Waterhorses, on the other hand, are said to be powerful aquatic creatures that reside in the same bodies of water. Both Kelpies and Waterhorses have been a part of Scottish folklore for centuries, and many legends and stories have been passed down through generations.
One of the most famous legends of Kelpies and Waterhorses is the story of the Kelpie of Loch Ness, a shape-shifting horse that is said to reside in Loch Ness. Many people have claimed to have seen the Kelpie, and some have even claimed to have been lured by its beauty and never returned. Another popular place to spot Kelpies and Waterhorses is Loch Maree, a large loch located in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. This loch is said to be home to many Kelpies and Waterhorses, and many locals claim to have seen these creatures in the loch.
Selkies & Merfolk
Selkies are reputed to be seal-like creatures that can transform into humans when they remove their skin. Merfolk, on the other hand, are said to be half-human, half-fish creatures that reside in the sea. Both Selkies and Merfolk have been a part of Scottish folklore for centuries and many legends and stories have been passed down through generations.
One of the most popular legends of Selkies is the story of the “Selkie Bride” which tells the tale of a young fisherman who falls in love with a Selkie and steals her skin to keep her as his wife. The Selkie is unable to return to the sea without her skin and is forced to live on land with the fisherman.
Merfolk have also been a part of Scottish folklore for centuries and are said to reside in many places around Scotland’s coast. The Shetland Islands and Orkney Islands are particularly famous for their mermaid sightings. Many locals in these islands claim to have seen mermaids and mermen swimming in the sea.
Loch Ness Monster
The first recorded sighting of the Loch Ness Monster was in the 7th century by Irish monk Saint Columba, who is said to have saved a man from being attacked by the creature. Since then, there have been numerous sightings, photographs and even films claiming to prove the existence of the Loch Ness Monster.
The most common description of the Loch Ness Monster is that of a large, long-necked creature with a small head and one or more humps, resembling a plesiosaur, a large aquatic reptile that lived during the Jurassic era. However, some people claim that Nessie is a giant eel or a sturgeon fish.
In addition to the sightings and alleged photographs, the Loch Ness Monster has been the subject of various expeditions, sonar scans and even DNA testing in an effort to prove its existence. However, none of these efforts have provided conclusive evidence of the creature’s existence.
Despite the lack of scientific evidence, the Loch Ness Monster remains an enduring legend and an important part of Scottish folklore. The creature continues to capture the imagination of people from all over the world and inspires countless books, movies and documentaries.
Fairy Folk
These are said to be small, magical beings that live in the forest, hills and glens of Scotland. Fairy Folk have been a part of Scottish folklore for centuries and many legends and stories have been passed down through generations.
Fairy Folk are said to possess magical powers, some of which include the ability to grant wishes, cast spells and curses, and even steal human babies. They are also said to be mischievous and known to play tricks on unsuspecting travelers. However, they are also said to have a protective nature, especially towards children and animals.
The Isle of Skye and the Cairngorms National Park are two of the most popular places in Scotland where Fairy Folk are said to reside. Many locals in these areas claim to have seen fairies, and some have even claimed to have had encounters with them. The Isle of Skye is particularly famous for its fairy folklore, and many legends and stories have been passed down through generations about the fairies that are said to reside there.
Giants and Trolls
Scottish literature and mythology makes many references to these large human-like creatures, often depicted as fierce and powerful, while Trolls are said to be smaller and more mischievous. Both Giants and Trolls have been a part of Scottish folklore for centuries and many legends and stories have been passed down through generations.
One of the most popular legends of Giants is the story of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland. According to the legend, a giant once lived at the summit of the mountain and would throw huge boulders at anyone who dared to climb it. The Grampian Mountains are also known for their giant folklore, with many legends and stories of giant footprints and giant’s homes found in the area.
Trolls, on the other hand, are known to be mischievous and said to play tricks on unsuspecting travelers. They are also said to be protective of their land and will curse those who try to take it from them. They are said to reside in many places throughout Scotland, particularly in the Grampian Mountains.
Many locals in these areas claim to have seen Giants and Trolls and some have even claimed to have had encounters with them. If you’re ever in Scotland, be sure to keep an eye out for these creatures and the many legends and stories associated with them.
Unicorns
Did you know that the Unicorn is Scotland’s national animal? In Scottish traditions Unicorns are often portrayed as wild, mythical creatures that are said to possess healing powers. They are also associated with purity and grace, and are said to be a symbol of good luck and fortune.
One of the most popular legends of unicorns in Scotland is the story of the “Unicorn Tapestries,” a set of seven magnificent tapestries that were created in the late Middle Ages. These tapestries depict a hunting scene of a unicorn, and were said to have been commissioned by King James III of Scotland as a symbol of his power and wealth.
Unicorns are also said to reside in the wild and remote areas of Scotland, such as the Scottish highlands and islands.
Hear About Scottish Myths On Your Vacation
Exploring Scotland and discovering its rich folklore and mythology is an unforgettable experience. From the rugged landscapes of the Highlands to the charming villages and towns, Scotland is a land of mystery and enchantment that is sure to captivate the hearts of all who visit.
To arrange a tour of these mythological locations simply contact Braw Scottish Tours’ itinerary planning specialists using our contact form below.
