It is said that the famous Outlander series has increased tourism in Scotland. It’s a fact that you can’t separate the Outlander series from Scotland. However, whether it is your fascination with the most famous TV series Outlander or your desire to explore the world that has incited you to visit Scotland, Scotland is literally heaven on earth. Or what they call in Gaelic-Bonnie Scotland. From picturesque and breathtaking natural scenery to the rock-solid, standing high with pride antique and fascinating castles, Scotland does take you to a fairyland you have ever dreamt of. If your fascination is the Outlander series, then your itinerary would be different and include various castles and Inverness and Glenfinnan Monument and everything past. However, if you are visiting Scotland for the sake of Scotland, then here is a list of the most visited top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland.
Before continuing, I must say that choosing the top 10 destinations in Scotland is indeed a hard task. Because there is a lot to discover in Scotland. From the spectacular Isle of Skye which is a paradise for photographers to Dumfries and Galloways for stargazing, to the West Highland Way for hiking, to Edinburgh for your historical and cultural appetite, there’s a lot to do. And it’s hard where to start from.
Although, once you have decided on the time of the year, don’t forget to pack your gear and some rainproof (because it rains a lot in Scotland).
From Highlands to Islands—Discovering Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Scotland:
1. Edinburgh
Scotland is a land well knitted to its roots, cultures, language, traditions, and history like its famous kilts. And Edinburgh is the exact representation of Scotland’s extremely rich and well-rooted nation. From Edinburgh Castle to the National Museum of Scotland, the city is filled with unique attractions that are sure to fascinate visitors.
Edinburgh will continue to amaze you every hour of the day and every day of the year. With its clear blue skies, blooming flowers in spring and summer and when the rain falls on the cobblestone pavements in winter creating a mesmerizing ambience. Or you can have every sight of Edinburgh city captured in your memories from Arthur’s seat. Have a panoramic view from Edinburgh Castle and feel close to nature, Scottish history and God.
Edinburgh bus tours of the magnificent city are something literally worth your time and money. Either have a romantic stroll around the city or book yourself a bus tour and embark yourself on the most charming tour you have ever had.
There’s the Scottish National Gallery, laden with the fascinating history of Scotland, where you will find relics of the world wars, highlanders rebellion, Jacobites, the impact of wars and the traces of sacrifices of the proud Scottish.
There is also another attraction: Edinburgh Zoo to entertain yourself with rare animal species. There’s the famous Greyfriars Kirkyard to satisfy your Gaelic/spooky cravings. Not forgetting St Giles’ Cathedral, one of the most famous features of Edinburgh’s skyline. Hence, Edinburgh is surely one of the top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland.
2. West Highland Way
Your visit to Scotland is meaningless if you don’t inhale its authenticity, breathe the fresh air in its meadows and wander around exploring its life. So, make sure you don’t miss the West Highland Way. Stretching 96 miles across Scotland, from Glasgow to Fort William (a place having immense historical value) this walking trail takes you through stunning scenery and past ancient landmarks.
Besides there are short woodland strolls through which you will have a delightful meeting with the peaks towering over lochs and sea cliffs. It’s the perfect way to experience Scotland’s natural beauty and culture. This stroll will also allow you to capture the world’s most mesmerizing views stretching as far as Ireland. However, if you are not very much into trekking, you can opt for a tour by transport (Loch Lomond Waterbus or Rail).
3. Isle of Skye
Scotland-where everything, let it be man-made or nature-made is exceptionally gorgeous, the Isle of Skye being the crown jewel. This place is an all-in-one package, with scenic routes, landscape and the cherry on top, incredible food places. You will regret it if you don’t add the Isle of Skye as one of the top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland.
If your appetite is not satisfied with the dazzling views then this place is best to literally satisfy it with top seafood restaurants and life-filled pubs.
There are various destinations to enjoy scenic views, traditional cuisines, socialize and entertain yourself. There is Old Man Storr, Quiraing, Portree, Trotternish and Dunvegan.
4. North Coast 500
One thing is certain in Scotland and that is there is no shortage of breathtaking views. I’m afraid it may strain your neck to keep taking in the stunning views blending into the sky’s hues. If you are not a fan of trekking but can’t have enough of the gorgeous views of Scotland then this is the best place for a scenic road trip. This place has one of the very best scenic views in Europe.
This notorious road starts and ends in Inverness (where all the magic in the Outlander series happens). But this scenic route will let you capture many amazing landscapes like dunes, lochs, golf courses, beaches of Cape Wrath and remote cliffs.
Hang on! This is not all. It’s one of the top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland we are talking about, so you will also be able to experience the unforgettable warmth of Highland hospitality since the place is studded with rural villages and local pubs.
5. Loch Lomond–Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Scotland
A half an hour’s drive from the bustle of Scotland’s capital Glasgow will take you to the peaceful Loch Lomond. This place has several reasons to be famous and a tourist attraction. Whether you are looking for a lakeside hike, a scenic national park or the fjords or summits, this place has an immortal combination.
Loch Lomond is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, ospreys, and otters. It’s a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to explore Scotland’s unique landscape. From broad islands to shores and woods and trenches, you are going to envision every idyllic landscape in Loch Lomond.
6. Glasgow
If you enjoy the atmosphere of a lively city more than a natural and scenic one, Glasgow will inspire you in unexpected ways.
It has a riverside museum which makes it among the top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland. The music sits on the River Clyde and it has various transportation objects on display. But this is not all, this place is perfect for live music, pubs, fun and art galleries.
Contrary to the natural elegance of Edinburgh, Glasgow is more of a modern and contemporary city.
Various bars here offer the world’s greatest live music scenes. Sub Club, Barrowland, Clutha Bar, and Nice N Sleazy are a few but top ones to mention here.
7. One of the Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Scotland “Stirling”
Stirling has its namesake castle-Stirling Castle (as in Castle Leoch of the Mackenzie clan in the Outlander series) is the finest and best preserved Renaissance building in the whole UK. This place was the most favoured residence of various Scotland’s kings and queens. Not only the castle but Stirling itself is also one of the best-preserved towns in UK.
This place has witnessed several wars, uprisings, and sieges but has managed to survive.
Today, this castle is one of the greatest tourist and family attractions with cobbled streets stretching to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and thrilling history.
8. Glenfinnan Monument
Built to honour the fallen Jacobite Clansmen, the Glenfinnan Monument is a remarkable reminder of the history and sacrifices of the Highlanders for the independence of Scotland from the Crown.
It’s one of the top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland amidst Scotland’s spectacular landscape. Overlooking Loch Shiel, the Glenfinnan Monument is surrounded by the world-renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct.
9. St. Andrews
When talking about Scotland it’s hard not to talk about its national game “Golf”. Scotland is the inventor of golf. Scottish superstitions are well-known, since St. Andrews is considered the spiritual home of golf.
This place has lush green machair-a perfect place for golf.
Besides there are other attractions like medieval ruins, idyllic white sands, state university buildings and great restaurants and guesthouses.
10. Skara Brae
This place is the most atmospheric Neolithic settlement you will ever find. If you are a lover of ancient history, this place should be in your top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland.
While visiting ancient places, it becomes hard to form a connection with the people who built and lived there. But in Scotlands, the ruins are so well-preserved that you will have a perfect glimpse of the stone age while visiting Skara Brae in Orkney. There you will find so beautifully preserved water cisterns, beds, cupboards and fireplaces.
This Neolithic village is at least 5000 years old but they are so perfect that it still feels that you will see their inhabitants roaming around.
Conclusion
In a land where towering castles meet unending waves and lush meadows meet gigantic stone structures there’s a lot to explore in Scotland. Scotland is a treasure trove of Scottish culture, history and towering castles. It has rich clan history, faithful and friendly people and world’s best whisky. Besides it also has one of the modern tourist attractions like art galleries and live music pubs.
This short list of top 10 destinations to visit in Scotland couldn’t do justice to the immensely enchanting beauty Scotland beholds. Therefore, whenever you plan to visit Scotland, make sure you have more days to explore the idyllic beauty of Scotland. Hence, from contemporary to ancient and urban to rural, there are gorgeous destinations to meet everyone’s choices.
FAQ’s
- What is the best time to visit Scotland?
May, June, September and October are the best times to visit Scotland. Apart from the long days, these times of the year serve with the best weather and temperature making it ideal to visit and spare you the harsh, wet and extremely rainy winters.
- What is Scotland’s most popular food?
Haggies is one of the most popular foods in Scotland. It’s a combination of meat, oatmeal, onion, salt and other spices.
- What are the most interesting facts about Scotland?
- The official name of Scotland is the Unicorn.
- Scotland has the tallest waterfall in Britain, named Eas a’ Chual Aluinn.
- Scotland has 790 Islands.
- Scotland is the home of the oldest tree in Europe.
- Edinburgh was the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade.
1 Comment
Such a dreamy depiction of Scotland, definitely gonna visit.