Highland cows—affectionately known as “Heilan coos” in Scotland—have gone from being rugged working animals to international celebrities. Today, Highland cow tourism is booming, with travellers around the world seeking out these gentle, shaggy-coated cattle for unforgettable rural experiences. But how exactly did Highland cows become a tourism icon? In this article, we explore their rise to fame, their role in farm tourism, and why they continue to enchant visitors on both sides of the camera.
The Roots of Highland Cow Popularity
The story begins in the Scottish Highlands, where Highland cows have roamed for centuries. Originally bred for their resilience in harsh climates and mountainous terrain, these cattle played a vital role in Scotland’s rural economy. But over time, their appeal expanded beyond farming. By the late 20th century, Highland cows began appearing in postcards, travel brochures, and tourism campaigns. Their distinctive horns, tousled fringe, and peaceful grazing habits became synonymous with the romantic Scottish countryside.
One of the earliest tourism campaigns to feature Highland cows prominently was VisitScotland’s rural promotion in the 1980s. Tourists began to associate the breed with the untouched beauty of Scotland, making Highland cattle almost as iconic as castles and bagpipes.
Social Media and the Viral Rise of Highland Cows
The modern explosion in Highland cow fame can be largely attributed to social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have transformed them from local favourites to global stars. Videos of baby Highland calves nuzzling tourists, cows flipping their fringe in the wind, or simply standing majestically in misty fields have racked up millions of views.
Many viral posts have even coined affectionate hashtags like #highlandcowsoftiktok and #coocontent, building global audiences for Highland cow farms. Several accounts dedicated solely to Highland cattle photography—such as “Highland Cow Daily” on Instagram—now attract followers from every continent.
Farm Visits and Agritourism
Highland cow farm visits have become a staple experience for rural tourism. Visitors can meet the cows up close, feed them, learn about their history, and of course—take lots of selfies. These experiences are especially popular among families and international travellers who want an authentic countryside adventure.
Many farms now offer full-day Highland cow experiences, including walking tours, feeding sessions, and educational talks. For example, Highland Cow Tours in the Scottish Highlands runs small-group farm visits that let guests meet the herd while learning about sustainable cattle care. It’s an unforgettable encounter with one of Scotland’s most photogenic animals.
Why Tourists Love Highland Cows
So what makes Highland cows so appealing to tourists? Part of the charm is their appearance: they look almost cartoonish with their sweeping fringe, soft eyes, and massive horns. But their personality is just as important. Highland cows are calm, docile, and sociable with humans—traits explored in detail in our post on Are Highland Cows Friendly?, and a big reason they’re ideal for interactive tourism.
There’s also a cultural component. For many visitors, especially from outside the UK, Highland cows represent the essence of rural Scotland. Seeing one in person feels like stepping into a storybook or film set. Their image appears on everything from souvenir mugs to calendars and tea towels, reinforcing their identity as a national treasure.
Highland Cows in Photography and Art
Beyond tourism experiences, Highland cows have inspired thousands of artists, photographers, and designers. Their unique appearance makes them popular subjects in both fine art and social media photography. A simple image of a Highland cow in a misty glen can evoke feelings of peace, freedom, and connection to nature.
This visual appeal has made them a best-seller in art prints, wall canvases, and digital decor. If you browse any platform for rural home design or nature photography, you’re bound to come across a Highland cow or two.
Their distinct features also set them apart from other breeds — something we explore in Highland Cows vs Other Breeds.
Where You Can Meet a Highland Cow
Want to meet one for yourself? Here are just a few popular places:
- Scotland: Many farms across the Highlands and islands offer guided visits, including farms near Inverness, Skye, and Glencoe.
- England & Wales: Highland cattle are also kept in National Trust parks, animal sanctuaries, and rewilding sites.
- North America: Highland cows have found a second home in the US and Canada, where they’re used in agritourism and eco-farming projects.
You can also check out listings on platforms like Airbnb Experiences and VisitScotland’s official website to find verified Highland cow farm tours.
The Economic Impact of Highland Cow Tourism
Beyond their charm, Highland cows play a significant economic role in Scotland’s rural tourism industry. According to VisitScotland, agritourism and farm experiences have grown steadily in popularity over the past decade. Highland cattle, as a visual and interactive draw, contribute substantially to the appeal of these experiences. Farms that incorporate Highland cows into their offerings often see a boost in bookings and repeat visits—especially from international tourists.
Tourism boards, local councils, and private farmers have capitalised on the Highland cow’s fame by creating merchandise, hosting seasonal festivals, and even using the breed as mascots in regional branding. Some B&Bs near Glencoe advertise “coo-watching breakfast spots” where guests can enjoy morning coffee while watching Highland cattle graze nearby. This kind of immersion is a major selling point in the competitive ecotourism market.
Their thick coats and weather resistance also reduce management needs, as explained in How Highland Cows Stay Warm in Winter
Highland Cows Abroad: Tourism Ambassadors Worldwide
Interestingly, the appeal of Highland cows isn’t confined to Scotland. The breed has become a global symbol of pastoral beauty, and their adoption in other countries has furthered their reputation as friendly, photogenic animals. In the United States, Highland cows have found homes on ranches in states like Colorado, Oregon, and Texas, where they’re used both for pasture management and public tours.
New Zealand has also embraced the Highland cow in its growing agritourism sector. Farms offering sheepdog shows and sheep shearing demos now regularly include Highland cow interactions due to demand from visitors. In Japan, a small number of Highland cows have even been featured in eco-farming projects and educational exhibits, often drawing large crowds due to their exotic appearance and reputation as gentle animals.
Famous Highland Cow Influencers and Farm Accounts
Some Highland cows have become influencers in their own right. Cattle like Hamish Dùbh and Morag the Moo have amassed tens or even hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram and TikTok. These individual animals have become tourism magnets for their home farms, driving foot traffic, merchandise sales, and even brand partnerships with clothing or pet food companies.
In many cases, a farm’s most-followed social media star is not a person—but a Highland cow. These accounts offer daily updates, behind-the-scenes care routines, and irresistible videos that deepen the emotional bond between followers and the animals. They also serve as powerful marketing tools for attracting tourists to visit in person.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highland Cow Tourism
Are Highland cows safe to interact with during farm visits?
Yes. Highland cows are known for their calm and gentle temperament, which is why they’re often chosen for public-facing farm experiences. Visitors are usually guided by trained handlers and reminded to approach calmly and respectfully. While they are large animals with horns, Highland cows rarely display aggression when properly cared for.
Do Highland cows enjoy being photographed?
While we can’t ask them directly, Highland cows tend to be unfazed by cameras. Their curious nature often leads them to approach visitors out of interest—especially if food is involved. Many photographers report that Highland cows are surprisingly cooperative subjects, making them a favourite in nature and animal photography.
Is Highland cow tourism ethical?
When managed responsibly, Highland cow tourism is considered ethical and even beneficial. It supports small-scale farmers, promotes conservation grazing, and educates the public on animal welfare. The key is choosing experiences that prioritise the animals’ wellbeing and allow for natural behaviour.
Conclusion
From postcard charm to TikTok fame, Highland cows have become a beloved symbol of rural tourism. Their friendly nature, unique looks, and deep ties to Scottish identity make them irresistible to travellers and locals alike. Whether you visit a Highland cow in person or just admire one in a photo, it’s easy to see why they’ve earned their global following.