Scotland is one of my most favourite places in the world. Voted as the most beautiful country in the world by the readers of the “Rough Guide”, beating the likes of Canada, South Africa, Indonesia and Iceland to take the number one slot. It’s a place of diversity as well as rightfully boasting culture. From the epic stories of the Jacobites to the quiet, mysterious landscapes that have us all questioning our druid roots. The scenery certainly speaks to the soul and has a history older than the likes of Stonehenge and even the Pyramids. Weather aside, here are 10 reasons to visit Scotland and make the most out of it even in the rain.
Selfie with a Highland Coo!
Pretty straightforward. These crazy long-haired creatures are awesome and getting a selfie with one is an achievement in itself. They are all over the country and generally speaking are very docile.
Horse Riding
Sure you can do this anywhere in the world but horse riding in Scotland feels like you’re on an adventure. The scenery can be appreciated better on horseback as it doesn’t fly past you like it would in a car and you can see hidden natural areas of Scotland that you wouldn’t otherwise see on the roads.
The Kelpies
Speaking of horses, the most famous pair are the Kelpies. This impressive monument is the world’s largest equine structure and is inspired by the Clydesdale (draught) horses. According to mythical legends, Kelpies are said to haunt rivers and streams, usually in the shape of a horse. These two are certainly not to be missed. https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/the-helix-home-of-the-kelpies-p889261
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
This one on our list can be only done if booked in advance. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an annual series of military tattoos performed by the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands, and artistic performance teams on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. The event is held each August as one of the Edinburgh Festivals. https://www.edintattoo.co.uk/
Glencoe
There is something incredibly eerie about the landscape of Glencoe. A popular filming location for many Hollywood movies, like 007s Skyfall (2012) and Braveheart (1995). Whether in the winter when the hills are sounded in snow, or in the summer where you will witness the warm mists floating slightly above the ground. Just beware of the infamous Scottish midges in the summer. https://www.visitscotland.com/destinations-maps/glencoe/
Loch Ness
No trip to Scotland would be complete without a visit to Loch Ness. It has become one of Scotland’s most popular attractions along with Urquhart Castle. Every year hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to get a glimpse of the legendary loch ness monster that many still claim lives deep within the loch. On average 20 sightings, a year are recorded that the monster has been spotted but we’ll leave it up to you to decide whether or not, you believe in this legend. https://www.visitscotland.com/destinations-maps/loch-ness/
Isle of Skye
There is plenty to do on mainland Scotland but some of the islands deserve their own mention for their beauty and history. The Isle of Skye is one of those islands. Another place of mystery and jaw-dropping landscapes, the Isle of Skye doesn’t need filters or photoshop when photographers visit. Movies such as Star Wars have been filmed here for its unreal beauty and you can also witness the enchanting fairy pools for breathtaking scenery. So if photography is your thing or even if you appreciate the wonders of the world with your own eyes then this is a place you must seek. https://www.isleofskye.com/
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress in which you can see a great view of the city. Old as it may seem, archaeologists have established human occupation of the rock since at least the Iron Age. The Castle itself is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, with a long rich history as a royal residence, military garrison and prison. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
Falkirk Wheel
The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s first and only rotating boat lift, designed and built to connect the Forth & Clyde Canal and the Union Canal which allows coast-to-coast navigation across central Scotland. The magnificent structure stands 115ft tall and requires only the power of eight domestic kettles to sail boats through the air and transfer them between the two canals. The Falkirk Wheel has not only been described as a feat of engineering but as a work of art and is now an iconic Scottish landmark attracting over 500,000 visitors a year. https://www.scottishcanals.co.uk/falkirk-wheel/
Callanish Stones
Release your inner “Outlander” vibe and visit these tall standing stones from the Neolithic era. Just be careful not to touch them, unless the golden age of the Highlander is your thing! According to one tradition, the Callanish Stones were petrified giants who would not convert to Christianity. Located on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, the 5,000 year old Callanish Stones are famous all over the world.
