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  1. Home
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  4. Spring & Easter
  5. May breaks in Scotland

May breaks in Scotland

Springtime in Scotland is nothing short of magical. Longer days stretch into golden evenings, landscapes burst into bloom, and the calendar brims with festivals and outdoor adventures. May is the perfect month to explore Scotland’s wild beauty and fascinating culture. From whisky celebrations and wildflower walks to island escapes and music festivals, spring is a lovely season to visit Scotland.

A Motorhome Parked By A Beach Near Port Ellen On The Isle Of Islay

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Raise a glass in Argyll & The Isles

Aray Bridge and Loch Fyne from Inveraray

May is Whisky Month in Scotland, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Argyll’s rugged coastline. This region is home to some of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries, where smoky single malts meet stunning sea views.

If you’re bound for Islay, Scotland’s legendary whisky island, plan ahead and book your Kennacraig ferry early. CalMac Ferries operates its summer timetable from late March to October, with amended sailings around Fèis Ìle, Islay’s famous whisky festival at the end of May. Why not pair a dram with some coastal adventures? Explore the ancient ruins of Dunollie Castle near Oban, stroll the serene sands of Calgary Bay on Mull, or uncover the mysteries of Kilmartin Glen with its prehistoric standing stones. For seafood lovers, the area around Loch Fyne offers world-class dining in a picturesque setting.

Looking to the Isle of Iona from the Isle of Mull

Things to do in Argyll & The Isles:

Whisky Coast distillery tours

Follow the famous whisky coast from Oban to Islay. Discover smoky single malts like Laphroaig and Lagavulin, meet master distillers, and hear the fascinating stories behind Scotland’s national drink.
Plan your whisky adventure today

Island hop to Mull and Iona

Take the ferry to Mull for wildlife spotting, then cross to Iona for peace and history. Look out for puffins and seals along the way.
Book your island escape now

Corryvreckan Whirlpool wildlife tour

Spring tides make May the perfect time to see Scotland’s legendary west coast whirlpool. Spot dolphins and seabirds on a thrilling boat trip.
Join a Corryvreckan adventure this May

Punk on the Peninsula

Dunoon hosts this high-energy music festival (22–24 May 2026), celebrating its 10th year with over 50 bands across multiple stages. Expect punk, ska, and alternative sounds framed by Argyll’s dramatic coastal scenery.
Let your hair down at a gig this May

Explore more things to do in Argyll & The Isles

Argyll & The Isles

Head to the west coast and discover things to do in Argyll & The Isles.

Isle of Islay

The island of Islay sits off the west coast of Scotland. It's known for it's many whisky distilleries.

Scottish islands & island hopping

Explore some of the 700+ islands off Scotland's coast and experience their unique cultures and stunning landscapes.

What's on in Argyll and the Isles

Visit the Wild About Argyll website to find current events

Forests, railways & whisky trails in the Highlands

Cawdor Castle and Gardens

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

The Highlands burst into life in May, offering endless outdoor adventures and cultural highlights. From the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival to scenic rail journeys and wildlife encounters, this region is a springtime favourite.

Explore ancient ruins like Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness, wander through the colourful gardens of Cawdor Castle, or head to the Cairngorms for sightings of red deer and golden eagles. History buffs can step back in time at Culloden Battlefield for a poignant glimpse into Scotland’s past.

The Caledonian Canal

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

Things to do in the Highlands:

Canoe the Caledonian Canal

Glide along one of Scotland’s most iconic waterways, linking Inverness to Fort William through a chain of lochs including the legendary Loch Ness. In May, wildflowers bloom along the banks, and long daylight hours make it a sweet spot for multi-day canoe trips.
Journey along the Caledonian Canal this spring

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

Five days of tastings, tours, and ceilidhs across Speyside (29 April – 4 May 2026). Perfect for whisky lovers and curious beginners alike. Tickets go live in late February, with hundreds of experiences on offer.
Secure your festival tickets today

Hike Glen Affric

One of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, alive with atmospheric forests and quiet lochs. Ideal for family walks and picnics. Mix short waymarked routes at Dog Falls with the longer Loch Affric circuit.
Explore Glen Affric this spring

Ride the Strathspey Steam Railway

Step back in time on a scenic rail journey through awe-inspiring Cairngorm landscapes. A treat for all ages – especially railway enthusiasts!
Book your steam train experience

Explore more things to do in the Highlands

The Scottish Highlands

Head north for a weekend break or longer holiday in the Highlands, and discover ancient castles, peaceful lochs, and unforgettable views.

12 Amazing activities & things to do in Inverness

Discover a range of attractions, activities, tours, and more in Inverness, offering something for every interest.

9 of the best things to see & do on Skye

An island of epic landscapes, Skye is a place full of magical experiences just waiting to happen at every corner.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Perthshire in bloom

Drummond Gardens and Castle

Perthshire is a classic Scottish spring destination, where ancient woodlands glow with carpets of bluebells and rivers glint in the sunlight. Explore the enchanting gardens of Drummond Castle, one of Europe’s finest formal landscapes, or enjoy the Victorian charm of Pitlochry with its boutique shops and riverside walks. For nature lovers, Loch Tay offers serene views framed by snow-dusted peaks, while adventure seekers can tackle invigorating mountain trails.

The Hermitage, Dunkeld

Things to do in Perthshire:

The Hermitage woodland walk

Stroll under towering Douglas firs, watch the River Braan tumble through the gorge, and enjoy the sight of Bluebells filling the forest in May.
Discover the Hermitage trail

Feed lambs at a working farm

Get hands-on with a lovely spring tradition. Perfect for kids and a great way to connect with rural life.
Find a farm experience near you

Perth Museum & Mary Queen of Scots Letter

Step into history and see the last letter written by Scotland’s tragic queen. A fascinating family day out.
Visit Perth Museum this May

Perthshire Beer Festival & Rugby Sevens

The North Inch in Perth hosts this lively weekend of craft beers, cider, BBQ, live music, and raucous sevens matches (8–9 May 2026).
Beer and rugby fun guaranteed

Explore more things to do in Perthshire

Perthshire

Enjoy the perfect holiday in Perthshire with plenty of things to do, including family-friendly days out or adrenaline fuelled outdoor activities.

Things to see & do in Perthshire - 3 day itinerary

Perthshire is a glorious location filled to the brim with things to do, featuring acres of forests, incredible attractions, and city gems to explore.

Perth: UNESCO City of Craft & Folk Art

Within just a short stroll, you can enjoy a unique combination of culture experiences and countryside life.

7 Amazing day trips from Perth

Discover amazing day trips from Perth which can be accessed by public transport.

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Category: Travel & planning

Spring holidays & breaks in Scotland

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Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

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Autumn breaks

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Winter & Christmas breaks

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Events & festivals in Scotland

Category: Things to do

Things to see & do in Scotland

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Day trips & days out in Scotland

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Tours of Scotland

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March breaks in Scotland

Category: Travel & planning

April breaks in Scotland

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