Scotland is a country within the United Kingdom which encompasses a third of the northern side of Great Britain. It is ringed by the Atlantic Ocean and shares a border with England to the south. Scotland has a mainland as well as 790 other islands including the Hebrides and the Northern Isles. But Scotland is also UK’s northernmost county of mountain wastelands such as the Northwest Highlands and the Cairngorms sprinkled with lakes and glacial valleys. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city of an iconic Highland castle while the city of Glasgow is famous for its dynamic cultural scene. Scotland is also noted for its bagpipes and kilts, two items identified with Scottish culture.
Food and drink
Scottish food and drink is the very essence of Scotland’s economy and culture, so much so that the year 2015 was declared as Year of Food and Drink. It is a year-long celebration of everything that Scotland has to offer. Scotland’s fertile lands, crystal clear waters and undulating rural landscape, produce some of the finest and sought after local food in the world. There are the ambrosial Aberdeen Angus steak and the globally acclaimed seafood delicacies such as oysters, wild trout, langoustines and salmon. Scotland’s whisky is one of the world’s finest and even its cheese could compare to French cheeses.
When visitors shop in Scotland, they are virtually capturing their very own piece of Scotland. From the dazzling high street stores and fabulous designer boutique shops to the innovative independent stores, a shopping devotee will surely find whatever it is that he/she is looking for. Whether it is a smashing work of art or painting, a delectable treat or a one of a kind piece of clothing, tourists will surely find a wealth of options that will surely make shopping an unforgettable experience. The city centres have their big department stores, but the Scottish towns and villages boast of independent boutiques that carry Scottish products that are take-home favourites such as Scottish pottery, unique jewellery, priceless antiques, pottery, designer labels and even Harris Tweed
Where to stay
There is no shortage of places to stay in Scotland. In fact, the choices for accommodation is almost inexhaustible, from the conventional to the unusual. Of course, there are hotels of all classification, from luxury spa hotels, boutique hotels, elegant chains, resort hotels, mid-priced independently owned hotels, budget hotels, B&Bs to serviced apartments either in the city centre or the rural areas.
There is also special accommodation for the adventurous like isolated lighthouses, converted churches as well as Yurts and Tipis. For guests who prefer to keep in touch with nature, there are eco-friendly camping sites in some spectacular locations such as in the middle of the forest or the banks of lochs (lakes). There are also boats offered as an accommodation to those who prefer to be on the waters. Presently, guests can even stay in an ancient broch, but are now completely modernised for a cosy evening and for those who desire a taste of the grand life, why not stay in restored castles and medieval fortresses.
Things to do
Since Scotland is one of the most beautiful places on earth with its heart-stopping scenery, incomparable castles and different science and art museums, it is only logical that the county/country have a million and one things to do and see for tourists. The question is where to start and how to proceeds. Scotland and its numerous attraction are best explored by hiring a self-drive van rental to make moving around easy. Discovering the majestic landscape with a visit to grand castles following the Great Glen Way could be a good start. The Great Glen Way crosses the Highlands of Scotland from the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea and in the process passes through some of the most beautiful Scotland scenery. Island hopping and coastal forays are also popular preoccupations in Scotland so are visiting museums and art galleries. Mountain hikers and climbers will have a field day climbing the many Scottish mountains and hills while literary types will find excitement in following the literary trail. How about a visit to Scotland’s whisky distilleries? But a visit to Scotland won’t be complete without a visit to Edinburgh Castle.
