7 reasons why you should make Scotland your next destination.
Magical locations - if you have are a fan of Outlander or Harry Potter, there are opportunities to view filming locations across the country. One of the instantly recognisable locations is Glenfinnan Viaduct. The Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William goes over the Viaduct and passes through some other famous Harry Potter locations. Even if you aren’t a fan of Harry Potter, there are many other ethereal sites in Scotland such as the fairy pools on the Isle of Skye and little further out of the Western Coast on the Isle of Staffa is Fingal’s Cave. This cave has a similar structure to the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland and is certainly worth the journey.
Alcohol - there is nothing the Scots do better than booze. Best known for their whisky, Scotland has over 100 distilleries in the five different whisky regions, each with their own recognisable flavours. Make sure you fit in a visit to one of the distilleries, its the perfect way to warm up on a grey afternoon. Many people don’t know that Scotland also has a world reputation for its gin. It is responsible for over half the gin production in the United Kingdom! If liquor is not your thing, the Scottish beer scene might be! Scotland is now home to over 100 craft breweries.
Breathtaking castles - Scotland’s countryside is filled with many different castles. Some are in ruins, however many are still as they were in the 1500s. Pictured here is Eilean Donan Castle which sits atop an island, with views stretching out towards the Isle of Skye. Another recommendation would be to discover the fairytale setting of Craigievar Castle, which reportedly served as inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Some castles have been turned into accommodation, so you could live like the King/Queen that you are while you are here!
Wildlife - Scotland is home to plenty of different creatures. Deer, highland coos, otters, sea eagles, puffins, red squirrels, seals, whales and dolphins are only some of the native wildlife that you may see on your trip. Many ports around the country have small sea tour boats that allow tourists to learn a bit about the local wildlife and history.
Amazing architecture - From Mackintosh’s Art Deco to Robert Louis Stevenson collection of lighthouses, Scotland has a wide range of architecture. In the cities, you’ll find modern developments, baronial buildings and impressive gothic buildings. Once you venture out of the cities and you will find lighthouses, ancient abbeys, exquisite churches and cathedrals, historical monuments, old ruins, castles and extraordinary bridges.
Events - Scotland has an event for every taste! Dance at a Ceilidh or eat tatties with haggis on Burns Night, sing Auld Lang Syne when the clock strikes 12 at Hogmanay (New Years Eve), take in the some Highland Games while you’re up North or even discover emerging talent at the Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival. In Scotland, you’ll never get the chance to be bored.
Locals - the Scottish people are some of the kindest, funniest and welcoming in the world. If you do anything on this list, I recommend doing as the locals do. Grab a pint and a pie in a local pub and introduce yourself. Hear the amazing stories that Scottish people enjoy telling and ask them what local restaurants/sites you should take in. They won’t steer you wrong!
