Scotland has so much to offer visitors with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history and culture. Here are 5 great reasons why you should plan a visit this year.
1. Magnificent Scenery and Landscapes
Scotland’s diverse landscapes are a huge draw for travellers. The Highlands in the north of Scotland offer dramatic mountain scenery with rolling hills, tranquil lochs and gorgeous glens. Highlights include the Isle of Skye with its rugged mountains and fairy pools, Loch Ness which is home to the mythical Loch Ness Monster, and Glencoe Valley which boasts epic mountain vistas. The Cairngorms National Park provides excellent hiking whilst the northwest Highlands are more remote and unspoilt.
Scotland’s coastline also impresses with lovely beaches, towering cliffs and picturesque fishing villages.
2. Vibrant and Historic Cities
Scotland’s cities boast a great combination of history, culture and liveliness. Edinburgh, the capital, is a hugely popular destination with its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town. Top attractions include Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, National Museum of Scotland and lively festivals throughout the year. Glasgow offers fantastic shopping, galleries, museums and a buzzing music scene.
Other highlights are Aberdeen, known as the ‘Granite City’, Perth with its independent shops and cafes, and Stirling which is steeped in history.
3. Fascinating History and Culture
From ancient castles, stately homes and abbeys to battlefields, museums and distilleries, Scotland has a rich history waiting to be uncovered. Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness are magnificent medieval fortresses whilst grand stately homes like Floors Castle and Culzean Castle are architectural gems.
Places like Glenfinnan and Culloden Battlefield tell tales from the Jacobite rebellions. For whisky lovers, touring the distilleries along Scotland’s Malt Whisky Trail is a bucket list experience. The country also has a vibrant arts scene, particularly during the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Scotland’s spectacular landscape lends itself perfectly to outdoor activities. Hiking in the Cairngorms or the Scottish Highlands, kayaking on scenic lochs, mountain biking around Fort William, skiing at Glenshee or Glencoe – the options are endless. Water sports like sailing, fishing and whale watching are popular along the coastline.
You can even try outdoor activities like gold panning in the Southern Uplands or hunting for fossils on the Isle of Skye. With so many natural wonders, Scotland promises an adventurous time outdoors.
5. Delicious Food and Drink
Scottish cuisine makes the most of excellent fresh, seasonal produce. Look out for smoked salmon, haggis, Scotch lamb, Aberdeen Angus beef, fresh seafood and fruit puddings like cranachan. Wash it down with iconic Scottish drinks like whisky or craft beer. Scotland’s whisky regions like Speyside and Islay are renowned for their distinct styles.
Scottish gins are also gaining popularity with brands like Edinburgh Gin and Isle of Harris Gin. From fine dining restaurants to lively gastro pubs, Scotland’s exciting food and drink scene is thriving.
Now that we’ve persuaded you to visit, book a boutique bed and breakfast and start planning your break. A boutique guest house in Melrose, for example, is a wonderful way to enjoy a relaxing holiday. Hotels in Melrose Scotland are perfect for couples and families wanting a quiet, scenic holiday.
With its stunning natural scenery, iconic cities, rich heritage, adventures and delicious food, Scotland has so much to enchant visitors. The diversity across this compact country means there is something for every traveller. Whether you are road tripping through the Highlands, exploring castles, hiking the hills or enjoying the culture and nightlife of the cities, Scotland will undoubtedly leave you wanting more.
