Scotland should be on your bucket list!
Every aspect of Scotland lends itself to those rare, life-affirming moments. Between the supernatural showcase of scenery and charming cultural idiosyncrasies, here are all the reasons you need to visit Scotland at least once in your lifetime.
The Landscapes
Towering mountains, glittering lochs, thick woodland and miles upon miles of golden beaches - Scotland's landscapes really will take your breath away. Take a walking tour of the rolling hills and lush farmland of the Lowlands and drive through deep glens surrounded by mountains in the Highlands.
The Castles
Scotland is home to an array of breathtaking castles. The castles vary in condition from dilapidated relics to polished museums and even hotels. The majestic Eilean Donan Castle, accessible only by bridge, underwent a 20 year renovation before being opened to the public. It is now one of the most popular destinations on the tourist route to the Isle of Skye. Glamis Castle, Edinburgh Castle, and Culzean Castle are truly impressive castles with diverse histories. Edinburgh Castle is a typical Scottish Castle, designed to be an intimidating military fortress. Anybody can see that it succeeds! These castles dominate the Scottish landscape. From ruins to beautifully maintained structures it is easy to imagine the perfect setting for any romance novel or fairy tale.
The Architecture
From Mackintosh’s Art Deco to Zaha Hadid, Scotland has a celebratory mix of architecture. In the cities, you’ll find modern developments, baronial buildings and striking Gothic buildings. But venture out of the cities and you will find endless lighthouses, ancient abbeys, exquisite churches and cathedrals, historical monuments, old ruins, castles and impressive bridges.
The Culture
Scotland has a unique and distinctive culture. The bagpipes, the kilts, the traditional dancing, and the Highland Games all are notable examples of what has come to symbolise Scottish culture. Scotland also has amazing festivals. For three weeks in August Edinburgh is overtaken by one festival after another celebrating its culture, arts, music, theatre and so much more. Special mentions go to the world renowned Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh Tattoo, both of which see people travelling from all over the world to experience these magical events.
The History
Scotland is steeped in history, much of it in blood and war. The Massacre of Glencoe took place in Glencoe in the Highlands of Scotland on 13 February 1692. The Battle of Bannockburn 24 June 1314 was a significant Scottish victory in the First War of Scottish Independence. A landmark in Scottish history. You can also see prehistoric landmarks around the country such as the Neolithic dwellings of Skara Brae which predate the Egyptian Pyramids, or ancient standing stones like the Ring of Brodgar, or prehistoric burial cairns like Cava Cairns near Culloden battlefield.
The Highlands
The Highlands are not to be missed. Stretching for hundreds of miles, it is one of the most beautiful areas to visit in Scotland. Make sure you visit Cairngorms National Park, see some of the gorgeous little villages and explore the beauty of all the lochs. One of the things you’ll love most about the Highlands is how dramatic the scenery is. It is very different from the landscapes around south-eastern Scotland and makes you feel as though you have been transported to the Norwegian Fjords. It is breathtaking.
The World Famous Loch Ness
The people of Scotland have long reported sightings of a massive beast living in Loch Ness. The stories go back more than 1,500 years when tribes carved pictures of a strange aquatic beast on the stones near the shores. Of course, the modern generation didn’t stumble upon Nessie until 1933, when the Inverness Courier related the first hand tale of a local couple who reportedly saw “an enormous animal rolling and plunging on the surface”.
Scotch Whisky
It is called the "water of life" and is Scotland's national drink. There are more than 100 whisky distilleries in Scotland and the list of the various types and blends seems never-ending. So all that remains to be said is "Slainte Mhath" - a local toast.
Now that we've made it impossible for you not to visit Scotland, book a Tour of Scotland online today!