The Beauty of Scotland

Scotland has it all; dramatic coastlines, breath-taking mountains and valleys, culturally rich cities and quaint villages, all making the northern nation a top destination.

From city life to countryside, Scotland offers a lot as a holiday destination, and there is always so much to see and do.

DESIblitz has all you need to know about the beauty of Scotland, what places to visit and what attractions are a must. So if you are looking for the perfect holiday destination in the UK, start planning your trip to Scotland.

Urban Playground

Glasgow is one of the most visited cities in the UK. While its shopping isn’t second to none (London still wins the number one spot in the UK because of its sheer mass and variety), it does have a fantastic array of shops.

If you like a shopping treasure hunt, you’ll love the Barras. Scotland’s largest indoor market at the Barras is packed with history and bargains. One of the best things about Glasgow is that it is incredibly pedestrian friendly.

All of the top attractions are all right together in the centre. Between the gorgeous architecture of the medieval city neighbourhood and the late night hotspots of Merchant City, it’ll take a good three days to take in the whole city.

Edinburgh was officially voted the most desirable city to live in the UK a few years back and it’s easy to see why. It’s beautiful and packed with great galleries and museums.

If you can visit in August, be sure to check out the Fringe Festival. When the world’s largest arts festival opens up in the city, it’s an experience unlike any other.

Heavenly Highlands

Few places in the UK are as picturesque as the Scottish Highlands. If you are looking for a great outdoor excursion, there is no better place to be. Go kayaking, cycling, fishing, golfing or travel up there during the winter to hit the slopes.

The Highland Games are held throughout the course of the entire year so it’s easy to find a time to watch at least one event. Learn a little bit about Scottish and Celtic history while you cheer on the top athletes and performers.

Go for the caber toss, listen to the pipe bands, or watch the World Highland Dancing Championship. If you are there during September, be sure to join the royals at the Braemar Gathering.

Island Hopping

TripAdvisor recently voted Lewis and Harris as the top island in Europe. In fact, it beat out the islands of Thailand and Chile to make it into the prestigious list of the world’s top five islands.

Millions of fellow travellers can’t be wrong so forget about Greece or the Canary Islands and head north!

Located in in the Outer Hebrides, Lewis and Harris is Scotland’s largest island. What it lacks in tropical drinks and palm trees, it more than makes up for rugged landscapes dotted with golden beaches.

Book a bed and breakfast, talk a walk along Luskentyre beach and go visit the historical Callanish Standing Stones. If you have the time, don’t limit yourself to just Lewis and Harris. There is a great ferry network running throughout the Inner Hebrides.

Oban is known as the Gateway to the Isles and is the perfect starting point. From there, head over to Mull. Mull has relics from as far back as the bronze age and is the ideal place to take in local history. If you want to learn more about Scotland’s spiritual history, take a trip over to Iona to visit the serene Iona Abbey.

Climb to the Top

Located on Loch Linnhe, Fort William has been dubbed the ‘Outdoor Capital of the U.K.’ and for good reason. It is home to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. At 1,344 metres high, Ben Nevis offers some of the most breath-taking views you will ever see.

If you are an experienced climber, there is no better place to be. If you are a novice, don’t be intimidated! The Ben Nevis Tourist Path (also called the Mountain Track) is a relatively easy trek. It is a total of four mile each way so do plan an afternoon for it but it’s a straight, flat path.

The climb at Ben Nevis should be safely reserved for late spring through early autumn. If you plan to visit in the winter, head to the Nevis Range. It’s the perfect place for skiing, snowboarding, and winter climbing.

If you really want to get your heart rate up, plan a paragliding trip over the mountain range. It’s a local favourite and will offer you fantastic views.

Take in the Local Lore

Whether or not you believe that you will be able to get a glimpse of Nessie, Loch Ness is well worth a visit. The legendary lake is more than 20 miles long and reaches depth of 700 feet. It’s not all about finding the infamous Loch Ness monster though.

Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus are two quaint villages than can easily make the trip worthwhile. The area is also home to some of the nation’s best golf courses and the gorgeous Urquhart Castle. If you visit during good weather, be sure to take in one of the open-air Shakespearean plays.

Scotland is an amazing year-round destination. Spring and summer are considered the best times to visit but autumn can offer a break from the usual crowds while saving you a bit of money.

Bear in mind, however, that Scotland is one of the world’s greenest nations because it is also one of the rainiest spots. Check the forecast and plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to avoid disappointment.