FIVE MUST-SEE PLACES IN SCOTTLAND
Scotland is one of the most visited countries in Europe due to its stunning landscapes and rich history. Scotland has something to offer everyone, whether you want to lose yourself in the quaintness of a rural Scottish village or marvel at the majesty of a castle.
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, consider visiting these five locations.
SHETLAND ISLANDS
There is no place on Earth like the Shetland Islands. These 100 windswept islands form an archipelago between mainland Scotland and Norway. They are the northernmost point of the United Kingdom.
The islands were previously part of Denmark, yet they are considerably older than the Vikings and the Picts combined. The earliest known sites date to around 2500 BC.
Rent a car in Lerwick, Shetland’s lovely capital, and drive around the islands. The Shetlands Islands are known for their breathtaking rock scenery and proximity to the ocean.
In the summer, the sky is bright and clear, and in the winter, when the sky is black for longer, you can see the stars more clearly.
EDINBURGH
Many visitors to Scotland will make Edinburgh their first stop. Edinburgh Castle, located in the center of the city, is a symbol of not just Scotland’s proud past but also its bright future.
The fortress played an important role in Scotland’s turbulent history, and it was built high above the city on top of an extinct volcano.
The Stone of Destiny, used to crown ancient monarchs in Scotland, is kept in the castle’s collection of crown jewels. American prisoners of war were held in the castle dungeons during the Revolutionary War.
The Scottish National War Memorial, erected to honor Scots killed in World War I, is now one of the most moving parts of the castle.
Spend some time exploring the Old Town’s Royal Mile, and then stop by the Royal Museum and Museum of Scotland, which are conveniently located next to each other on Chambers Street.
ISLES OF MULL AND IONA
Visit the Isle of Mull if you want to get away from it all. This little island in the Inner Hebrides is home to kilometers of breathtaking shoreline, quaint little fishing settlements, and an abundance of rare and beautiful birds.
Puffins are a possibility, too. Tobermory is a beautiful town that you should visit. Take the ferry across to adjacent Iona to check out Fingal’s Cave and the Iona Abbey and Nunnery.
LOCH NESS
For good cause, Loch Ness is the most well-known tourist attraction in all of Scotland. The Loch Ness Monster is arguably the most legendary native of Scotland. There have been over a thousand confirmed sightings of this mysterious animal since its 1933 debut.
Actually, nobody has a clue. We do know that this area of the Highlands is well-known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks (like as castles and lighthouses), and exciting outdoor activities.
ISLE OF SKYE
The Isle of Skye, off the west coast of Scotland, is a great place to experience some of Scotland’s fascinating folklore and traditions. The island’s natural features—tumbling waterfalls, towering mountains, and storied fortresses—make it ideal for tall tales.
Skye Fairies are the subject of numerous well-known tales, and tourists love to visit picturesque island places in search of them. The Fairy Pools of Glenbrittle are not to be missed.
The Fairy Pools are a popular destination on the Isle of Skye due to its stunning blue-green color and the foggy mountains that surround them.
Numerous fairy tales surround Dunvegan Castle, located on the island’s northwest shore. The legendary Fairy Bridge may be seen after a trip to the ancient castle where the stories were first told.
The Fairy Glen in the northern Trotternish Peninsula of the Isle of Skye is another not-to-be-missed attraction.
Every corner of Scotland has something magical to offer.
