Scotland offers a huge range of things to see and do for holidaymakers of all ages, from families with children or groups of friends, to couples or retirees; whether in search of action and adventure, stunning scenery, cosmopolitan cities, fabulous food and drink or excellent shopping, Scotland has something for everyone.
Edinburgh
The beautiful and historic capital city of Edinburgh, home to the renowned arts festival as well as world-class retail and dining opportunities, is well worth a visit. Literature lovers will be inspired by a stroll down the Royal Mile, dotted with statues and libraries celebrating the many authors who lived and wrote in the city. Harry Potter fans will get kick out of a cup of tea at the Elephant House Cafe where J.K Rowling reportedly wrote the first instalment of the wizard’s adventures.
Edinburgh’s famous castle is steeped in history and mystery from great feasts to bloody wars and bids for freedom. Free interactive tours are available and are sure to intrigue visitors of all ages. The proximity of the city and its excellent road and transport links make it an ideal day trip as part of a more extended exploration of the rest of Scotland.
The Trossachs
A short drive out of Edinburgh is the legendary Rob Roy country, the Trossachs National Park, with its distinctive countryside, walking trails teaming with wildlife and the tranquil Loch Lomond. A great way to enjoy the surrounding delights of the Trossachs is to pitch a tent or stay in a caravan. Adventure seekers can enjoy water sports on the Loch; children will be mesmerised by the aquatic inhabitants of the aquarium and those in search of relaxation can lounge on a set of outdoor table and chairs and enjoy the panoramic views.
Looking for adventure?
For a glimpse of the wild side of Scotland, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is a must for animal lovers. Home to a huge range of exotic wildlife, including the only giraffes and elephants in the country, the park is a fun-filled day out for all the visitors. Animal fans will be treated to displays by impressive birds of prey and adorable sea lions, and can watch the exploits of the inhabitants of Chimp Island from a boat!
Whisky
For whisky lovers, a visit to Scotland is something of a pilgrimage. It is home to some of the finest distilleries in the world, including Glenlivet, Glenmorangie and Talisker, which is distilled across the bridge on the gorgeous Isle of Skye. Edradour Distillery, famous for being the smallest in Scotland offers an informative tour explaining the traditional distillation methods still employed today as well as the all-important tasting opportunities and gift shop. Die-hard whisky fans can devise a tour of the distilleries and enjoy the scenery as they pass from one to the next.
Accommodation
Scotland offers plenty of choice in flexible accommodation options and many tourists choose to stay at one of the many camp-sites or holiday parks. They are relaxing places to stay being located in lovely natural surroundings, and some offer fishing in the famous salmon rivers. Eating and drinking al fresco at an outdoor table and chairs is very popular when the weather is kind.
These are just a few of the many very good reasons to visit and stay in beautiful Scotland.