Scotland is the perfect destination for creating lasting memories, one of the best countries to visit with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends, or a family vacation, Scotland has something to offer everyone. From its breathtaking landscapes and rolling hills to its vibrant cities and endless cultural activities, Scotland provides a unique experience that will be remembered for years to come. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Scotland is the ideal destination for making lasting memories and provide some tips on how to make the most of your time there.
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The beauty of the Scottish countryside
Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and stunning views. From rugged mountain peaks to lush rolling hills, the country offers a diverse range of natural beauty. Scotland’s stunning coasts are dotted with quaint fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Whether you’re exploring the remote Isle of Skye or the bustling Highlands, Scotland has something special to offer to everyone. There is no better way to truly appreciate Scotland’s natural beauty than to spend time in the great outdoors. With miles of walking trails, wildlife watching, camping, and cycling, there’s plenty of ways to explore and make memories that will last a lifetime.
The rich history and culture of Scotland
Scotland is full of amazing historical sites and cultural attractions that visitors can explore. From its proud capital, Edinburgh, to the quaint coastal towns and villages, Scotland is full of fascinating stories from its past. From the Mediaeval walls of Stirling Castle to the standing stones at Callanish on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland has a long and storied history that is sure to leave you in awe. The culture of Scotland is also incredibly rich, with a thriving music scene, traditional sports like curling and caber tossing, and renowned literature from Robert Burns to JK Rowling. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, Scotland has something for everyone.
The friendly people of Scotland
Scotland is known for its friendly people and its warm hospitality. From the locals in the cities to the small-town pubs, you will find yourself surrounded by wonderful people who are happy to help and share their stories. A fun fact about the Scottish people is that they actually have their own national anthem called “Flower of Scotland” which was written in the late 18th century. This song is often sung during traditional gatherings and has become an integral part of Scottish culture. The Scottish people are known for their welcoming nature and their willingness to share a laugh or two. Whether you’re looking for a friendly conversation or just some local advice, you’ll find a smiling face in Scotland.
The delicious food of Scotland
Scotland is home to a wide array of culinary delights. From traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis and whisky to the more modern take on British cuisine, Scotland offers something for every palate. From cosy pubs serving up classic Scottish fare to fine-dining restaurants with stunning views, there is no shortage of gastronomic adventures to be had. You’ll find the freshest seafood, warm and hearty soups, and traditional desserts like shortbread. For those looking to experience Scotland’s unique cuisine without the hassle of shopping and cooking, many vacation packages in Scotland offer culinary tours that allow you to sample some of Scotland’s best dishes.
Now that we have seen enough reasons to visit Scotland, let’s look into some of the top things to do in Scotland that are simply breathtaking and mesmerising.
Top things to do in Scotland
Relax on the Luskentyre Beach
Luskentyre Beach is one of the largest and most scenic beaches in South Harris in Northern Scotland. The island of Taransay is also located on this beach. It is famous as the sets of “Castaway”.
You can do a hillwalking, cycling or just take long walks on the beach here which consists of miles and miles of fine white sand along an impressive blue-green water of the sea that is sure to remind you of the tropical islands like the Andaman and Phuket or Maldives. And sometimes you will also encounter sand dunes here right on the beach.
Near the beach you can enjoy a lovely meal at Waterside Café in Tarbert.
Even the grassland on one side of Luskentyre Beach is very beautiful. No wonder it features in many pictures of the beach. In sprint and summer, it is often covered in beautiful wild flowers of different colors. And even the grass is of different shades of green – a sight to behold.
Visit the Isle of Skye & fairy pools
The Isle of Skye is a world in itself. I guess, it is one of the most famous places to visit in Scotland. It is one of the most picturesque northern Islands of Scotland, connected with the mainland via a bridge. It consists of several small and beautiful villages, fairytale like waterfalls (and hence the name “fairy pools”), beautiful landscapes and grasslands and much more. In short, Isle of Skye is a total feast to the eyes of the nature lovers.
Most of the visitors exploring the Isle of Skye make the town of Portree as their base. Several tours operate around the region from here.
Learn Scotish history at the Highland Folk Museum
The Highland Folk Museum is an open air museum at Newtonmore, very near to the Isle of Skye. It is a perfect place to understand the folk history of Scotland. There are 2100 interesting artifacts, collected from across the highland. And then exhibited in this museum. These include old style furniture used in the highland, cooking equipments, farming tools, pottery tools, musical instruments and even sports equipments used in the bygone days in the highlands.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the secluded village of Torridon
A picture perfect small village in Northern Scotland, Torridon is a base that attracts many hikers, trekkers, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers all round the year. The village now bustles with several hotels and youth hostels to accommodate the tourists inflow.
Soak in the beauty of Loch Ness
A “loch” in Scottish means a lake or a water inlet from the sea. Loch Ness is a large fresh water lake in Scotland that is very scenic and beautiful. It gets its name from the River Ness. However, apart from it’s natural beauty, the Loch Ness is best known for spottings of a very special creature, the Nessie or the Loch Ness Monster. Although scientists claim the sightings as hoax and not real, it definitely enthuses an interest to try one’s luck to site this animal at the Loch.
Visit the Cairngorms National Park
Cairngorms National Park is the largest National Park of United Kingdom. With towering mountains, beautiful grasslands, several waterbodies and forests, Cairngorms National Park has it all. It has several walking trails, picnic spots, old castles and nature reserves. For family and friends alike the National Park provides several options to enjoy for days at a stretch. There are several stay options here, including pitching your own tent. Self catering cottages, logs, cabins and hostels also abound.
These National Parks are also home to some of the exotic bird species including the Ptarmigan, Dotterel and Snow Bunting. So, if you are an enthusiastic bird watcher, it is one of the perfect places for you to visit when in Scotland. Exploring Cairngorms National Park is one of the best things to do in Scotland for families.
Scale the high mountains of Ben Navis
Ben Navis is one of the highest mountains in Scotland. Over the year, it attracts several climbers and trekkers, challenging them at all levels to scale the submit which is about 4400 ft high. Scaling Ben Navis is one of the most popular things to do in Scotland.
Visit Buachaille Etive Mòr
A unique pyramid shaped mountain with a nearly 5 miles ridge, the Buachaille Etive Mòr is a must visit scenic location in the northern highlands of Scotland. It is a prime attraction on the list of photographers. In fact, photo shoot at Buachaille Etive Mòr is one of the most popular things to do in Scotland.
See the interesting Museum Of Scottish Lighthouses
The museum of Scottish Lighthouses is located in fishing port of Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire. Through it’s artifacts, the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses tells the story of the engineers who built the ancient lighthouses across Scotland and the keepers who maintained them. In fact, one can even try the keeper’s costume in this light house!! Definitely, playing a character in a museum would be one of the most interesting things to do in Scotland.
Marvel at the architectural wonders & Golf courses of St. Andrews
St. Andrews is a dreamy small town located on the east coast of Scotland. It is best known for the ruins of St. Andrews Castle and it’s battle dungeons. And also the many golf courses that dot the landscape of St. Andrews. There are a plathora of things to do in Scotland, right at the heart of St. Andrews. Some of these include – a guided walking tour to understand the history of Golf and St. Andrews Golf Courses, a guided tour through the ruins of the castle, a ghost walking tour organised at night, a city walking tour with all highlights included and so on.
Explore the historical Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle, Stirling is not only one of the largest castles of Scotland but also one of the most significant castles of Scotland. It is one of the most strategically located castles in the world. Sitting atop a hill and surrounded by 3 steep cliffs. It is a combination of a palace and a fortress. And untill the unification of UK, it was used as a frequent resident of the royal families of Scotland. Built in fourteenth and fifteenth century, it’s architecture is something to marvel upon.
Marvel at the Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest and most famous castles in the whole of Scotland. It stands on the castle rock. The Castle rock is believed to have been occupied by human race since the iron age times! So, it makes for an interesting spot which is almost equivalent to the cradle of civilisation. The castle is huge, robust and dominates most of the old town of Edinburgh. A visit to this castle is definitely one of the top things to do in Scotland.
Solve the mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel
A chapel whose architecture is famous among the whole of Scotland, Rosslyn Chapel is also known as “Collegiate Chapel of St Matthew”. It is a 15th Century castle. There are a few very interesting facts about this chapel that make exploring this castle a must do amongst things to do in Scotland. Number one, the original plans of the architecture or layout of this castle were never found. And then there are several carvings and crypts in the chapel of different life forms and symbolic stuff which are very open to interpretation. And hence, anyone visiting the chapel can take a shot at solving it’s mysteries!!
Take it slow at Loch Lomond
A lake in southern Scotland, whose views remind me of the views of Emerald Lake of Ooty, which I witnessed while staying at Destiny Farmstay in Ooty. The Loch Lomond is definitely one of the most picture perfect places that one can visit while in Scotland. Apart from nature enthusiasts, even wildlife enthusiasts are equally drawn to the Loch Lomond and surrounding areas which are famous for inhabiting red deer and oak woodlands apart from few other rare species.
Visit the Isle Of Arran
The Isle of Arran is an island on the western coast of Scotland. Again, these islands have been occupied by human beings since the iron age. Since these islands have been inhabited since such an old time, there are several interesting logic about the name of the island came into being. And also several interesting folklores that you get to hear when you interact with the locals here.
Also there are several interesting structures to witness on these Islands including the Machrie Moor – the famous standing stones since the pre-historic era and a smaller version of the same the Giants’ Graves .
Explore the beaches of Scotland
Scotland has several beaches from north to south to relax and unwind. Some of these are the most picturesque beaches of the world. These beaches exist along the shoreline of Dublin, Kerry, Galway, Dingle Peninsula and many more prominent locations.
Bundoran, Co. Donegal is a beach famous for surfing. And it also hosts the famous sea sessions music festival. The festival is held in June every year.
Keem Beach, Co. Mayo is a favorite for skuba driving and snorkling because of it’s crystal clear waters.
Whiterocks Beach, Portrush, Co. Antrim counts as one of the most scenic beaches of Scotland.
Glanleam Beach, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry has one of the most dramatic views among all beaches of Scotland.
And the list goes on. Definitely some of the beaches of Scotland score amongst the best beaches of the world.
General Information on Visiting Scotland
When is the best time to visit Scotland
Spring (late March to May) and Fall (September to November) see the maximum footfall in Scotland. The weather is nice with warm to cool days and cooler nights. While one can still find snow in mountains and upper highlands. Winters (December to February) are the perfect time to visit Scotland if you want to avoid the rush and enjoy the cold weather. But sometimes, heavy snowfall can disrupt the plans, so be prepared and keep your plans flexible.
How to reach Scotland
Scotland has three major airports – Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. And they have international flights connecting to almost all the major destinations around the world. So, air travel is by far the best way to reach Scotland from other countries.
If you are traveling to Scotland from India, you can take a flight from Mumbai to Edinburg with one or two stops in between via either Air India or British Airways.
Where to stay in Scotland
Scotland has no dreath of places to stay. If you are visiting as per the above plan, you can stay on the pit stops on the way. You will find from luxury hotels to B&Bs , hostels and even campsites on the way where you can pitch in your own tent. Also, you can rent a campervan to explore around Scotland.
How to travel through Scotland
A rented car or campervan is the best way to explore Scotland on your own pace. It also gives you the flexibility to keep your plans flexible. If you are not comfortable with this option, then the next best is to rely on public transport. Buses are abundant and connect all the major routes, so do trains. But in peak season, you will need to book the tickets in advance, particularly if you need to reserve seats for longer duration travel.
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