Scotland is recognised for its stunning lochs, crumbling castles, and mesmerising beauty, in addition to its rich history and traditions. The Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, and the picturesque valleys and peaks of Glencoe have long attracted tourists to the country, but the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow have also contributed to the country’s popularity.
Scotland, which takes up about a third of the island of Great Britain, is sandwiched between the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, with England to the south. As well as offering a long and gorgeous shoreline, it has hundreds of lonely isles to explore, with the Hebrides, Orkneys, and Shetlands counted among its most exquisite archipelagoes. While it is largely recognised for its spectacular lochs, mountains, and valleys, pockets of virgin forests, wind-swept moors, and mirky bogs may be found here and there.
Most tourists, before travelling out to see some of its picturesque landscapes, visit either Edinburgh or Glasgow, its two main cities. The former is known for its fantastic shopping, outstanding museums, and lively nightlife scene, while the latter is home to several of Scotland’s most recognisable sites, including Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat, as well as the world’s biggest arts festival.
Most travellers plan spectacular journeys around legendary landmarks like Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, and Ben Nevis after seeing these two wonderful cities. Others are drawn to the area by the stark beauty of its shoreline or by the amazing ancient “border abbeys” and castles that dot the south. The Cairngorms National Park is famous for its spectacular landscape.
The Orkney and Shetland Islands, as well as the Inner and Outer Hebrides, including the Isle of Skye, St. Kilda, and the Isle of Arran, are great destinations for tourists with more time on their hands. Islay, known as the “Queen of the Hebrides,” also has some fantastic whiskey distilleries and fascinating historical sites.
