The Fluffiest Residents of the Highlands, Here to Steal Your Heart (and Maybe Your Snacks)
Scottish Highland Cows, affectionately known as “Hairy Coos,” are one of Scotland’s most iconic symbols. These rugged, long-haired cattle are instantly recognizable by their flowing coats, curved horns, and gentle eyes. With origins dating back to the Scottish Highlands in the 6th century, they are celebrated for their striking appearance and their resilience to Scotland’s often harsh weather.
Highland cows are as much a part of the Scottish landscape as the rolling hills and lochs they inhabit, making them a favorite sight for locals and travelers alike. Renowned for their friendly nature, they add a touch of charm to Scotland’s wild beauty, offering a memorable encounter in every scenic setting.
Here’s a detailed guide to each location where you can see Highland cows in Scotland:
Glencoe
- Location: Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, off the A82 road.
- Best Spots: Look along the roadsides, particularly around the Glencoe Valley and Loch Achtriochtan. Cows often graze freely, and they might wander near parking areas or walking paths.
- Other Highlights: Explore stunning hiking trails in Glencoe, including the Lost Valley and Buachaille Etive Mòr. The area also offers a rich history, like the Glencoe Massacre site.
- Pro Tip: The best times to see the cows are early morning or late afternoon when they are most active.
The Isle of Skye
- Location: Off the west coast of Scotland, accessible by bridge or ferry.
- Best Spots: Highland cows can be spotted near the Trotternish Peninsula, Dunvegan Castle, and the scenic Quiraing. The cows often roam free along the roadside, making it easy to spot them.
- Other Highlights: Explore the Old Man of Storr, Fairy Pools, and Neist Point Lighthouse. These locations offer dramatic landscapes that are often shared with the Highland cattle.
- Pro Tip: Drive slowly on single-track roads. You may find Highland cows crossing or resting by the road, perfect for a photo opportunity.
Cairngorms National Park
- Location: Central Highlands, covering areas like Aviemore and Braemar.
- Best Spots: Head to Rothiemurchus Estate, where organized tours provide close encounters with the cattle. The estate is a prime location, offering guided safaris and free-roaming Highland cows in the surrounding meadows.
- Other Highlights: The park boasts majestic mountains, beautiful lochs, and activities like skiing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Visit the Highland Wildlife Park for more wildlife adventures.
- Pro Tip: The Rothiemurchus Estate’s Highland Cattle Experience tour is a great way to get close to the cows while learning about their history and care.
Edinburgh
- Location: Scotland’s capital city, in the southeast.
- Best Spots: Visit Gorgie City Farm, located in the city center, which has a small number of Highland cows and other farm animals. If you’re visiting in June, check out the Royal Highland Show at Ingliston, where Highland cattle are often showcased.
- Other Highlights: While in Edinburgh, explore iconic attractions like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat.
- Pro Tip: Gorgie City Farm is a family-friendly spot for kids to interact with the cows and learn about their unique traits.
Aberfeldy (Highland Safaris)
- Location: Central Scotland, located near Pitlochry.
- Best Spots: Highland Safaris offers a dedicated Highland cow experience. Visitors can get up close and personal with the cows, feed them, and take photos. This experience is set against the beautiful backdrop of the surrounding hills.
- Other Highlights: Explore the Birks of Aberfeldy, a picturesque nature walk, or visit Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery to try some whisky.
- Pro Tip: Book the Highland cow safari in advance, as it’s a popular attraction. They also offer an informative talk about the breed and its history in Scotland.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
- Location: Spanning central Scotland, located near Stirling.
- Best Spots: Highland cows grazing near Balmaha village, West Highland Way, and Conic Hill’s lower slopes. These cows roam free in several areas, so watch as you explore the park.
- Other Highlights: Enjoy a cruise on Loch Lomond, hike Conic Hill for panoramic views, or visit the Falls of Falloch.
- Pro Tip: For a closer encounter, stroll through the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail in Luss, where Highland cows are often nearby.
Did you know?
Highland cows are surprisingly maternal—they’re known to be exceptionally protective and nurturing not just with their own calves but with the entire herd. If one calf strays too far, another cow will often guide it back, acting as an “auntie” to keep the young ones safe. This tight-knit, community-oriented behavior sets them apart from many other cattle breeds!
A little history:
Highland cows have a rich history that dates back over 1,200 years to the rugged landscapes of Scotland. They were first brought to the Highlands by early Celtic settlers around the 6th century. Originally, there were two distinct types of Highland cattle: a smaller, mostly black variety that lived on the western islands and a larger, reddish-brown version found in the Highlands. Over time, selective breeding in the 19th century merged these variations into the familiar, red-coated cattle we know today.
Known for their hardiness, Highland cows have easily evolved to thrive in Scotland’s harsh weather conditions, enduring cold temperatures, rain, and even snow. Their long, thick coats are not just for show—they provide warmth and waterproofing, making these cows perfectly adapted to survive in the Highlands’ challenging terrain. Traditionally, they played a crucial role in Scottish agriculture, providing milk, meat, and even leather for local communities.
Highland cattle gained international recognition in the 19th century when Queen Victoria fell in love with them during her visits to the Highlands. Her admiration helped to boost their popularity and establish them as a symbol of Scotland’s pastoral charm. Today, they are bred worldwide for their beef, which is leaner and richer in flavor due to the slow-growing nature of the breed, but they are still most beloved as the “gentle giants” of the Highlands, embodying Scotland’s rugged yet warm-hearted spirit.
