Destination Guide to Central Scotland
Scotland is a land like no other. Small in stature but brimming with a distinct character, fewer countries can offer as many globally recognized national icons, whether it be the tartan kilt, the highland cow, the scotch thistle, the haunting tune of the bagpipes or a dram of finest malt whisky.
Her geography is equally iconic, a beguiling blend of barren highlands, heather strewn glens and misty lochs where wildlife thrives and landscapes are studded with ancient castles and enshrouded in myth. To experience Scotland is to enjoy an unforgettable feast for the senses.The Scots, with their thick (and sometimes unintelligible) accent are renowned for being stern, dour and fiercely patriotic, but behind this facade they hide a sharp, dry wit and offer an unrivalled and welcoming hospitality. Food and drink play an important role in thishospitality; in Scotland you’ll enjoy hearty offerings such as the finest Aberdeen Angus beef, warming Scotch broth, or the national delicacy, Haggis. To be followed up, of course, with a dram or two of the finest scotch whisky (or “Water of Life”) distilled locally but renowned internationally. The Scots love their sport, whether it be the raw energy of a Highland Games event or a more refined pursuit such as 18 holes at the spiritual home of golf in St Andrews. The pinnacle of Scottish culture, however, must be the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Festival, a world-famous and truly enchanting celebration of Scottish heritage.
Physically, Scotland is a vast wilderness waiting to be discovered. Accounting for over a third of Britain’s land area, but less than 10% of her population, vast swathes of Scotland remain untouched and largely uninhabited leaving them for nature to shape at her will. Often overlooked by visitors, the lowlands provide stunning vistas of undulating hills and lush valleys punctuated with historic border castles and Abbey ruins; a land which inspired many works of national poet Robert Burns. It is, however, the untamed Highlands and Islands which offer the more dramatic and spectacular of Scotland’s landscapes. Awe-inspiring in their rugged beauty the Highlands and Islands are home to sweeping, deserted bays, craggy cliff faces, heather-swept moors, towering mountain ranges, thick forests and shimmering lochs not to mention Britain’s tallest peak (Ben Nevis) and deepest lake (Loch Ness). Wildlife thrives in these isolated regionsfrom deer and an array of birdlife inland to whales, dolphins and seals off the coastlines. Feeling the fresh, clean air fill your lungs, taking in nature in its rawest forms and glimpsingwildlife in its most natural habitat is an experience to behold.
Scotland’s cityscapes can be equally impressive. The Scottish capital’s skyline is iconic, Edinburgh is dominated by her castle perched high above the city overlooking the romanticPrinces Street Gardens, the Royal Mile and the city’s Old and New Towns both of which are designated as World Heritage sites. Whilst history and tradition resound, contemporary politics and culture are alive and kicking, Edinburgh is home to the Scottish Parliament and one of Europe’s largest cultural events at the annual Military Tattoo and International Festival. Glasgow, however is hot on her heels, with a larger population than Edinburgh, a long history and a resurgence in recent years, Glasgow is home to stunning architecture, a thriving commercial scene and vibrant, urban nightlife. Also not to be missed are historic Stirling, Aberdeen’s “granite city” and capital of the highlands, Inverness.
Whether you visit Scotland for the historic city-life, to enjoy her glorious Highland panoramas or simply to soak-up an utterly unique culture and heritage, your experience will be truly unforgettable.
