Articles Tagged with: Scotland

For dramatic scenery, lush green countryside and places to truly get away from it all, few places on Earth can compare to the Scottish Highlands in summertime. Whether you venture up into the Grampian Mountains or continue beyond Great Glen and into the Northwest Highlands, you are guaranteed a spectacular experience every time you visit this unique area of Britain.

Highland holidays are best experienced in spring and summer, given that the climate and weather conditions can be less than hospitable during winter. During the warmer months, green travellers flock from all over the UK to holiday cottages in Scotland, nestling themselves in the countryside to enjoy the huge range of activities available to anyone who chooses a good old British summer over an expensive flight to foreign lands.

Highland cottages are the perfect place to spend the summer, offering you a home from home in even the most remote Highland destinations. You can find out for yourself what it would be like to live in one of Britain’s northern-most towns in Thurso, or you could head west to the idyllic Scottish islands of Skye and Mull. There is even a metropolitan centre in Inverness, where you can contrast the wilds of the Grampians with a visit to the capital of the Highlands.

Many visitors to the Highlands go there for an adrenaline rush. There are many ways to achieve this kind of buzz in the Highlands – and most of them are wonderfully eco-friendly!

Hill walking is perhaps the most popular outdoor pursuit amongst Highland tourists. Walks over and around hills and mountains like the Munros, the Corbetts and the Grahams are hugely popular with leisurely walkers and serious trekkers alike. Many people aim to ‘bag’ a range of mountains by climbing them all. Since the late 1980s, the Munros have been a major draw for ambitious walkers who wish to become ‘compleaters’ by summiting all 283 of them.

Those who prefer to move a little quicker can indulge in a spot of kayaking on the many rivers that run through the Highlands, or even climb the snowy peaks to plummet back down on skis!

If you’d rather keep your heart rate slow and steady, perhaps a tour of the many ancient castles and monuments dotted around the Highlands will be more your style – finished off with a soothing tipple at one of the legendary Scottish whisky distilleries!

A stay in the Scottish Highlands is one of the most varied and rewarding holidays you can ever have – the fantastic views and scenery are among the best in the world. But if you’re looking for a more active holiday, the Highlands certainly won’t disappoint. The mountains, crags, rivers and lochs of the Highlands offer a fantastic choice of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or thrilling outdoor adventure, here are some ideas for holidays in the Highlands.

Walk the West Highlands Way

Scotland’s first official long distance footpath travels a distance of 154km (96 miles) and takes travellers through some of the most stunning scenery you’re ever likely to see.

The path winds through Mugdock Country Park, along the banks of Loch Lomond, passes through Ben Lomond, crosses Rannoch Moor and continues past Buachaille Etive Mor to the head of Glencoe, climbs the Devil’s Staircase and descends to cross the River Leven at the head of Loch Leven before entering Lairigmor and Glen Nevis.

Of course you don’t have to walk the entire path. Many holidaymakers choose to walk sections and staying in a holiday cottage near to the route means you can soak up the views at your own pace. Several holiday operators offer packages which include accommodation, a guide and transport for your bags – an attractive option if you’re not good at packing light!

Ski the Cairngorms

With its high mountains, pine forests and dramatic river valley setting, Aviemore and the Cairngorms area is a distinctive Highland setting. The Cairngorms National Park is the biggest in Britain, covering a massive 3800 sq km.

Cairngorm Mountain near Aviemore is the most popular of the ski and snowboard resorts in the National Park – and the highest too. Skiers and snowboarders are usually rewarded with good snow throughout the season, making this resort a draw for some of Britain’s best snowboarders.

Choosing a cottage in the Aviemore area means you’ll be spoilt for choice for activities off the slopes – other popular activities include walking, hiking and even visiting a herd of free range reindeer!

Cruise the Caledonian Canal

Built by the famous Scot Thomas Telford and opened in 1822, the Caledonian Canal is one of the most fascinating waterways in Europe. Running for some 100km (60 miles), cruising the canal from east to west takes around 3 days, making it an excellent way in which to spend a week soaking up the views.

Cruising the Caledonian Canal is one of the most relaxing means by which to enjoy the sights of the Highlands. Among the sights you will see while afloat are Ben Nevis, Dochfour House and the picturesque Aldourie Castle on the banks of Loch Ness.

Several operators and holiday companies offer cruise holidays on the Caledonian Canal – why not combine a trip with a stay in a cosy holiday cottage in Scotland for a really relaxing Highlands holiday?

Visitors to Scotland are spoilt for choice. This fascinating country draws masses of holidaymakers from all over the world and it’s easy to see why. Scotland boasts some of the most stunning scenery to be found anywhere in Europe, fascinating culture and history, warm and welcoming people and endless things to see and do. Oh and there’s the whisky too…..

Read on for some of the best things to do and see in Scotland:

Meet William Wallace

The William Wallace monument stands tall outside the city of Stirling, towering proudly above the site of Scotland’s victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. A fascinating selection of exhibitions and displays tell the story of the Guardian of Scotland, who has been drawing visitors to this world-famous landmark for over 140 years.

Get Lost in Edinburgh

In an age of identikit cities and town centres, Edinburgh really stands out from the crowd. Majestic Edinburgh Castle towers above the old town, providing a fitting backdrop to this captivating capital city. Spend a few hours (or days) perusing the shops and pubs of the Royal Mile and pay a visit to Holyrood Palace or Edinburgh Zoo.

Sample a Dram in the Glenmorangie Distillery

Visiting a whisky distillery is almost obligatory while on holiday in Scotland and the Glenmorangie distillery is considered by many to be the cream of the crop. Located just outside Tain, around 26 miles north of Inverness, the distillery and visitor centre give a fascinating insight into how Scotland’s most famous tipple is produced. And of course, the chance to sample a dram or two.

Play Golf with a View

Scotland regards itself as the home of golf and few could argue there’s a more scenic setting for a relaxing round of golf Scotland. From the historic Old Course at St Andrews to the elegant course at Gleneagles, Scotland boasts world class golf courses with stunning views.

Watch Wildlife in the Caingorms

The Caingorms National Park is home to a fantastic array of wildlife including red squirrels, red deer and even wild cats. Loch Garten is the place to stay for a chance to watch ospreys during the summer months, while the Abernethy RSPB reserve is popular with nature lovers all year round.

Walk the West Highland Way

Starting in the town of Milngavie in East Dunbartonshire, this famous footpath takes walkers along 95 miles of unspoiled scenery. The path winds along the banks of bonnie Loch Lomond and all the way to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, with lots of attractive villages to visit along the way. Several tour companies offer packages with accomodation along the way, or take a tent and camp to get closer to nature.

Eat Seafood in Oban

Scotland’s seafood is second to none and there’s no better place to try it than the Seafood Capital, Oban. Situated on the West Coast (around 3 hours from Edinburgh or Glasgow), Oban is a bustling fishing port and attractive little town. Look out for fresh crab, lobster and of course, Scottish smoked salmon.

When it comes to stunning scenery, Scotland packs a serious punch. Whether you’re looking for urban attractions or memorable views, here are ten of the best things to see in Scotland:-

1. Edinburgh

When it comes to capital cities, Edinburgh’s skyline is hard to beat. From the castle and crag to imposing spires, gazing over this city is something you’ll never become tired of. Climb up Calton Hill for views of the castle, new town and Holyrood, or scale the rocky vista of Arthur’s Seat.

2. The Isle of Skye

The ‘Misty Isle’ has enchanted visitors for hundreds of years. With dramatic mountain ranges seemingly rising straight up from the sea, the Isle of Skye and West Coast Inner Hebrides is one of the most scenic areas anywhere in Scotland.

3. Ben Nevis

Britain’s highest mountain is best viewed from Fort William, Scotland’s “Outdoor Capital”. Ben Nevis isn’t the only peak worth viewing – several other dramatic peaks can be seen from here.

4. Glen Coe

One of Scotland’s best known Highland glens, this spectacular valley is rich in history as well as picture-perfect views. Glen Coe makes a great base for a holiday in the highlands, including mountaineering and walking trips.

5. Loch Ness

No visit to Scotland would be complete without some time spent monster-spotting at Loch Ness. Even if the world’s most famous monster doesn’t make an appearance, you won’t get fed up of admiring the view.

6. William Wallace Monument

The William Wallace Monument towers above the site of the Battle of Sterling Bridge, just outside the city of Sterling. A visit to the Guardian of Scotland is well worthwhile – the visitor centre has some fascinating exhibitions and displays to educate and entertain.

7. Isle of Iona

Stepping off the boat on the Isle of Iona feels like entering another world. The white sand and crystal clear waters welcome visitors to this peaceful little island which has been a site of pilgrimage for over 1000 years.

8. Stirling Castle

The most magnificent of all Scottish castles, Stirling Castle is well worth a visit at any time of year. Perched on a rocky outcrop in the centre of Sterling, the imposing castle is associated with great figures from Scotland’s past and is a justifiable source of national pride.

9. Loch Lomond

This world-famous loch attracts thousands of visitors who come to admire its stunning shores and islands. Visit in spring to see the bluebells and wild garlic carpet the shores of the lake, or in autumn when the leaves on the trees turn to shimmering gold.

10. Dumfries- Home of Robert Burns

The city of Dumfries is a must for anyone with even a passing interest in Scotland’s most famous son. A brand new Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is set to open in November this year – in the meantime visitors can enjoy the memorial gardens and a beautiful monument celebrating his life and work.

If you are hoping to find cottages in Scotland then you can search for Edinburgh accommodation, Skye accommodation, Fort William accommodation near Ben Nevis, Inverness and Loch Ness accommodation, Loch Lomand accommodation, Sterling accommodation and more at Scottish cottages.

Credit: courtesy Gleneagles

In recognition of its efforts to neutralize or reduce the hotel’s impact on the environment, the Gleneagles Hotel in Pertshire, Scotland has won the Sustainable Business Award.

The prestigious award was presented to the AA Five Red Star resort earlier this month at the Catering in Scotland Excellence Awards in Glasgow, an event that distinguishes the most talented individuals and organizations for their contribution to the Scottish catering and hospitality industry.

A pioneer of environmentally conscious reform in the hotel industry, Gleneagles began revamping their practices in the late 1990s with aims based on five cornerstones: waste, energy and supplier management, their guests and their team members. Since then, they have employed irrigation systems on three of their championship golf courses and used a wood chip biomass boiler to generate heat and hot water – to name a few of their efforts.

Gleneagles’ Risk and Safety Manager Fiona Smith, said “[We are] delighted to receive this industry recognition for our efforts so far and will continue to strive to do all [we] can as a business to protect the environment for future generations.”

So if you’re looking for a luxury getaway that is environmentally friendly and also happens to have some of the best golfing in the world, be sure to check out the Gleneagles Hotel.

St. Andrews boasts some of the best golfing in Scotland, if not the world. Credit: Your Golf Travel

It’s a proud moment when you can boast that you have played a round (or two) of golf in Scotland – the home of golf. So it’s time to head the Highlands, where your passion for the sport is matched only by the over 550 courses on offer. Your Golf Travel can help you pick the best places to indulge in some golf in Scotland.

Scotland’s east and west coasts have some of the most renowned courses with famous names from Open Championship history. If you want to head straight to the true spiritual home of golf then of course you must make a beeline for St. Andrews, where you’ll have seven courses to choose from. You’ll be charmed by the golfing fever that St. Andrews has on tap, but don’t forget that the surrounding Fife also boasts some of the best golf on Scotland’s east coast. Then of course there’s the to-die-for resorts; both Fairmont St Andrews and the Old Course Hotel offer outstanding bases from which to venture forth into the remarkable golfing landscape.

Of course there’s no rule that says you have to go to St. Andrews. Scotland boasts a plethora of superb golfing regions and no one will mind if you choose to head out to the glorious west coast. From the Kintyre Peninsula to the Inner Hebrides, you can combine your golfing holiday with some spectacular coastal sightseeing.  The Kintyre Hotel & Cottages is situated in the heart of Machrihanish and just a few steps from the famous first tee of Machrihanish Golf Club, or you can  head to the renowned Machrie Hotel & Golf Links.

Whether you head east or west or somewhere in between, you’ll be guaranteed superb golfing and first class Scottish hospitality, too.