In Scotland, other than the popular ones, there are other places which cater well for visitors and are accessible so you can realistically enjoy seeing them for yourself. The typical visitor “does” Edinburgh, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye. But there are so many other places which are a little off the tourist trail.
So here are some of my personal favorites.
Stirling is a gem of a city with cobbled streets a spectacular castle; possibly even more interesting and just as visually compelling as Edinburgh’s. What’s more, just outside Stirling is Bannockburn where there was a major battle in 1314 between the Scots King Robert the Bruce and King Edward of England. (Spoiler – the Scots won). Well worth a visit
Everyone goes to Loch Lomond and Loch Ness, but even more attractive is Loch Tay in central Scotland. This has a very interesting crannog, a reconstructed dwelling showing how people lived 2,500 years ago in houses built on stilts in the Loch. It’s very atmospheric, and well worth a trip.
If you want somewhere even more remote, then head for the fjord-like Loch Morar near Mallaig, which is spectacular. There are no facilities at Loch Morar, but you can eat or stay at the nearby Arisaig with its breathtaking beach or the port of Mallaig on your journey to Skye.
What’s more, you can go to my ultimate favorite place in the whole of Scotland – Iona. I could wax lyrical for hours about Iona (but will save this for another answer if anyone cares to ask me.) Iona is small, stunningly beautiful and has the most amazing history. That Celtic cross was standing when the Vikings raided.
The Cairngorm Mountains get a lot of visitors. However, fewer reach the stunningly beautiful Torridon Mountains on the West Coast. This is Liathach – only one of the stunning peaks in the area. Be warned, these hills are treacherous for walkers no matter what time of year you visit. Go prepared and stay safe.
Last for now, here’s the lovely village of Melrose in the Scottish Borders. Easily accessible by train from Edinburgh (nearest station Tweedbank). Melrose is really pretty village with great pubs, interesting shops and a spectacular ruined Abbey.
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