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The Reasons To Take A Break In The Scottish Highlands

In the north and with no certainty of sunshine, a vacation in Scotland may not be the ideal choice. But for a lot of people, Alba (as it’s known in Gaelic) is a destination that ticks many boxes. For no reason was Scotland among Rough Guides’ must-visit destinations in 2017. The guide picked the country for its “wildlife, whisky and wonderful warm hospitality”. We’re in agreement on these three w’s. We have put together ten compelling reasons to take for a trip to Scotland.

Landscapes with a capital

It doesn’t matter if they’re gorgeous, lonely or simply luscious, Scottish landscapes take scenery to a whole new level. No matter what your love of nature is such as mountains, glens valleys, lochs… – Scotland has them all. And best of all you can explore every single one of them whenever you’re in Scotland.

Curious contrasts

While they are in the most abundance, Scottish landscapes also come with amazing contrasts. Take the white sands on Tiree’s island Tiree for instance. you could almost be on the Caribbean here. And the little isle has some of the most high amounts of sunshine duration in the UK as well. It is also possible to experience the dramatic black depths of Lochs in Scotland. Or admire the bright pink granite of the Angus coast.

Scotland is remote in a way that is unlike any other location within the UK. Cape Wrath on the northwest corner is about as far as you’ll ever get any other place. Except the island located in St Kilda, a good boat ride from the mainland and inaccessible since the 1930s.

Too lonely? Then head for the cities. Glasgow and Edinburgh count as some of the most vibrant and lively cities within the UK with every urban activity you’d want.

Absolutely wild animals

Forget common-all-garden animals like badgers, foxes and rabbits. Scotland also has wildlife like none other within the UK. On the land, it is the home filled with deer, red martens, and otters. Up in the air you’ll see ospreys as well as the ultimate prize for twitchers, golden Eagles. In the waters, Scotland is an absolute paradise for dolphins seals, whales, and the cute puffins. Holidays with Scotland will be wild.

History that is deeply rooted

The UK is brimming with historical monuments and sites but in the history department Scotland is also able to take things to the next level. Beginning with the Neolithic standing stones on Orkney or Orkney’s Abbey on Iona which is where St Columba brought Christianity to Scotland and to those of the Picts This is an area with an ancient past.

Going forward in time towards the Jacobite Revolution, perhaps nowhere in the UK is more hauntingly historic as Glen Coe, a battle site where you could almost feel the ghosts of the killed. Then there are the amazing historic sites in Edinburgh and Glasgow where fine urban architecture also has a long tale to tell.

King of castles

The landscapes of Scotland are dotted with castles and at the time of the count, there are two thousand of them. Some in ruins, some that are still in use, and many castles you can stay in. They’re all part of the landscape. If you’re in Scotland make sure you don’t miss Eilean Donan’s Castle on Skye It’s something you’ve heard of from countless films; Dunnottar Castle perched on a dramatic headland over the North Sea; the medieval fortress of Urquhart Castle near the equally legendary Loch Ness; or Edinburgh Castle with a stunning view from the top of Royal Mile.

Fine festivals

A lengthy (long) calendar of year-round activities also makes Scotland the perfect destination to go on a trip. If it’s sporting, cultural musical, gastronomic or historical, there’s an event for you somewhere in Scotland. Among the most famous are the Highland Games, celebrated between May and September across the country and the event to attend to witness Scottish bagpipes and dancing and locals’ skills at throwing hammers, logs…

Edinburgh puts the spotlight on the world’s stage during August when it hosts their International Festival that includes the famous Fringe Festival. The popular military tattoo also takes place during the Festival and you’ll be able to enjoy one of the top fireworks shows in the UK. If you’re looking for a fire-themed event you’ll love this Up Helly Aa fire festival in Shetland must be on your wish list of events to attend. It’s a Viking holiday of winter is regarded with the world’s most unique celebrations.

Catch it on camera

With its breathtaking landscapes and historical settings Scotland is not surprising to be a top place to film and TV series. Several form the backdrop to scenes in the Harry Potter films and JK Rowling wrote the books at coffee houses in Edinburgh. The movie King Arthur also showcases Scottish scenery as does the well-known TV television series Outlander. One of the most famous British security agent James Bond, has visited Scotland in numerous films.

Hole in one

Scotland is the birthplace of golf. To honor Scotland’s history, it has several golf courses, a majority of which are private. Prestwick Golf Club established the Open Championship and St Andrews is home to the Royal and Ancient Golf Club. The body is responsible for every single aspect that is related to the golf game. Even even if you’re not a professional golfer, you can stroll the courses and appreciate their often stunning settings.

The water of life

There is no list of reasons to travel to Scotland is complete without a significant acknowledgment to whisky, the Scottish drink itself, whisky. Many consider it to be the best liqueur in the world whisky is an essential part of the landscape and lifestyle. Take a trip to at least one distillery while visiting Scotland and don’t forget to enjoy an alcoholic drink after your dinner. The fiery waters of life is not just good it does wonders for digestion!

Vacation in Scotland

In this department too, Scotland moves the bar higher. From fun events to breathtaking places to stay Few places around the globe can compete with the choice of fine self catering lodges Scotland. Explore mansions, castles, palaces and castles each one fit for a king and offering accommodation like none other. Make reservations for your luxurious home and get ready for a trip that will last an entire lifetime.