![\"LONDON,](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/0_GettyImages-1477894066.jpg\")
Steve Backshall is a huge fan of Scotland(Image: Tristan Fewings\/Getty Images for BBC Earth Launch)<\/p>\nThe TV presenter and wildlife expert has named his favourite city in Scotland – and it’s not the two biggest urban areas in the countrySteve Backshall is a huge fan of Scotland(Image: Tristan Fewings\/Getty Images for BBC Earth Launch)<\/p>\n
When considering urban getaways in Scotland, most people’s thoughts immediately turn to Glasgow and Edinburgh.<\/p>\n
Situated on either side of the M8, these two largest metropolitan areas in the nation have earned global recognition for what they offer holidaymakers.<\/p>\n
From Edinburgh’s<\/a> haunting Old Town and internationally celebrated festivals, to Glasgow’s buzzing nightlife and excellent retail opportunities, countless visitors never venture beyond the Central Belt.<\/p>\n However, according to wildlife<\/a> expert and television personality Steve Backshall, a considerably smaller city in Scottish Highlands surpasses both major centres, as well as places like Aberdeen and Dundee.<\/p>\n It’s actually Inverness, the Highland capital, that the former Strictly Come Dancing<\/a> participant ranks most highly, reports the Scottish Daily Express<\/a>.<\/p>\n In a recent chat, he described it as “arguably the finest city in the nation”.<\/p>\n So what transforms Inverness into such an appealing destination?<\/p>\n Firstly, it’s perfectly positioned for discovering vast expanses of the untamed Highlands, with virtually every northern route converging on the city.<\/p>\n The legendary Loch Ness<\/a> lies merely miles away and can be discovered by vessel departing from Inverness, whilst the spectacular Beauly and Moray Firths are abundant with wildlife and excellent for dolphin watching.<\/p>\n The striking Black Isle sits just a brief journey over the Kessock Bridge whilst the breathtaking Cairngorms<\/a> and Speyside areas are readily accessible via the A9, Scotland’s most extensive road.<\/p>\n The location played a crucial role in Travel<\/a> and Leisure’s decision to include Inverness among its 50 must-visit destinations for 2025, particularly due to its closeness to the Flow Country in Caithness and Sutherland.<\/p>\n This vast expanse of wetlands and peat bog has earned UNESCO World Heritage status and sits roughly two hours’ drive north from Inverness in Scotland’s remote highlands.<\/p>\n Historic attractions in the vicinity feature Culloden, the site where the final Jacobite uprising met its defeat, alongside the ancient Clava Cairns – a 4,000 year old burial site.<\/p>\n However, Inverness offers considerable appeal beyond simply being well-positioned geographically. Visitors can discover Inverness Castle or browse its retail options combining major chain stores with unique local boutiques.<\/p>\n The charming Ness Islands along the River Ness link together via a series of Victorian-era bridges.<\/p>\n Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!<\/p>\n Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.<\/p>\n You’ll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.<\/p>\n No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.<\/p>\n![\"Reflection](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/0_Inverness.jpg\")
Inverness on thre banks of the River Ness<\/p>\n![\"Ness](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/0_GettyImages-1059771696.jpg\")
The pretty Ness Islands are close to the city centre(Image: Getty)<\/p>\n