The UK boasts several unique areas that benefit from balmy microclimates, and luckily for Brits, it is entirely possible to get a taste of the Caribbean without setting foot on a flight.

One such holiday destination is nestled in the Scottish Highlands – a seaside village complete with palm trees and tropical plants that exude the feel of the Caribbean but without the jetlag. 

Established in 1801 as a fishing village on the northern shores of Loch Carron, Plockton manages to escape the persistent harsh winds, and, together with the North Atlantic Drift, gives a mild climate despite its northerly location. 

This allows Cordyline australis cabbage trees, endemic to New Zealand, to prosper along Harbour Street since the 1960s.

Sat below the Wester Ross mountains, Plockton has served as a Scottish paradise in several television shows, including the 90s comedy Hamish Macbeth and the Inspector Alleyn Mysteries.

Most of the land around Plockton is within the Balmacara Estate, owned by the National Trust for Scotland.

Having been named “arguably the prettiest village in the highlands” by Barry Shelby in the 2009 Scotland for Dummies book, the village has developed into a tourist resort, often welcoming many overnight visitors and day-trippers in peak season. 

In the summer, temperatures often reach above 17C, though the record high of 27.7C was recorded in May 2016. Even in the winter, temperatures remain above freezing on average. 

The village houses a small general store with a cafe, a takeaway, restaurant, newsagent and craft shop, as well as three hotels with pubs, numerous B&Bs, a library and a village hall which often holds community events and art exhibitions. 

One-hour seal-spotting boat trips also depart from Plockton into the waters of Loch Carron. These trips offer fascinating insights into the local wildlife—including otters and seabirds—and the area’s history. 

The village is served by Plockton railway station, on the Kyle of Lochalsh Line, and the short Plockton Airfield, operated by the Highland Council, is for light aircraft and microlights.

The award-winning Plockton Hotel offers rooms for £170 per night with bed and breakfast. It boasts Loch Carron views and serves seafood in its restaurant.

For those wishing to explore the wider area, the 19th-century Duncraig Castle sits nearby. 

Several lucky visitors to Plockton have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor. One wrote: “Plockton really is a gem of a place, with palm trees thriving because it sits on the gulf stream. Beautiful scenery to die for and crystal clear waters make it a beautiful place to come if you are looking for a peaceful, calm and lazy holiday. Callum’s boat trips to see the seals are an absolute must – even just for his very funny commentary! 

“If I could I would live here in a minute. Can’t wait to go back.”

Another wrote: “Beautiful and friendly town which has a really special harbour that is simply stunning. One of the prettiest places I have been.”