The Real Scotland: Ancient Traditions, Secret Valleys, and Why You Shouldn’t Cut Your Haggis with Andy McAlindon

Are you craving an adventure that’ll connect you deeper to Scotland’s wild places, warm people, and timeless legends? 

Andy McAlindon, better known as Andy the Highlander, is a Scottish tour guide, author, actor, and storyteller whose passion for Scotland’s history and culture has captivated millions online. From learning to sword fight on the set of Outlander to guiding travelers through hidden villages and ancient rituals, Andy’s journey is all about bringing Scotland’s living traditions to life. 

In this episode, we explore Andy’s transformation from electrician to beloved Highland guide and content creator, and his best advice for experiencing Scotland beyond the tourist traps. 

Andy shares the raw story of how he found purpose through grief, what he learned about work and resilience from his dad, and how stepping into the Highlander role helped him fall deeper in love with his homeland. We dig into the lesser-known places to go, local festivals to plan around, cultural traditions you’ll want to bring home, and the magic of slowing down to connect with real people. Whether you’re planning your first trip or just want to daydream about wild glens and cozy pubs, you’ll come away with practical tips and a new perspective on what travel in Scotland can really mean. 

What’s one local tradition you’d love to borrow from Scottish culture and weave into your own life? I'd love to hear what they are, and I hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. 

Tune In To Learn: 

• Why Andy swapped a career as an electrician to become Scotland’s most recognizable Highlander 

• How a tragic loss unexpectedly led him to the stage and ultimately to the screen  

• What it was like sword fighting for Outlander and how that shaped his tours 

• The lesser-known places that need to be on your Scotland list 

• How Andy balances sharing Scotland’s hidden gems while protecting them from overtourism 

• Advice on hiking the West Highland Way without the rookie mistakes  

• Why staying in a bothy or croft helps you experience Scotland like a local 

• How handfasting ceremonies and sharing a ‘quake’ cup reveal the heart of Scottish connection 

• What local foods, drinks, and live music spots make your trip unforgettable 

• How to support local communities and keep Scotland’s spirit alive when you visit 

• And so much more 

Resources: 

• Sign up for our FREE newsletter 

• Highlander Tours 

• Lochs and Legends book 

• Andy the Highlander on Instagram 

• TikTok 

• YouTube 

Want More? 

• Hiking the West Highland Way in Scotland with Lynne Nieman 

• Bike-Packing Scotland and Breaking Free of Cultural Expectations with C.D. Seventeen 

• Lessons From Running Every Street In Glasgow, Scotland w/ Michael Shanks 

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