Scotland offers numerous attractions for tourists to visit, such as its ancient necropolis where famous explorers and writers such as Sir Walter Scott have spoken eulogistically about his visit, the dramatic highlands with their lush grasses, otherworldly lakes, old castles (including one where Sir Walter Scott wrote many of his novels) and grand estates where Sir Walter Scott wrote his classic novels.
When ordering whisky in a bar, remember to sip and enjoy it slowly! Don’t think of it as something to be consumed quickly!
Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre
At Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre, Britain’s last hand-to-hand battle fought during 1746 is brought vividly back to life through authentic character accounts that bring it all back alive. Visitors can witness restoration work that honors both sides’ march lines that fateful day in April 1746; in addition, accounts from genuine characters help visitors follow along the events leading up to and following this pivotal fight.
Near the battlefield is the visitor centre with its immersive 360deg battle immersion theatre and accredited museum displaying weapons and artefacts from both Jacobite and British sides – there’s even a cafe and gift shop!
Join a guided tour led by an expert to gain a thorough understanding of the Battle of Culloden and its effects. Explore its battlefield, learn of key sites of action, visit Leanach Cottage (an 18th-century thatched building restored for restoration purposes), Leanach Cairn (containing 1,500 graves of fallen Jacobite soldiers) or Fort George which was constructed as an answer to rebel forces as well as prehistoric Clava Cairns nearby – you’re in good company!
Glen Coe
Glen Coe is one of Scotland’s premier travel destinations, drawing visitors who come to see its spectacular scenery and explore local culture. Hillwalkers also love this picturesque region; hillwalking opportunities abound here as well as places where mountain climbing enthusiasts can test their skills.
Glencoe village provides an ideal starting point for exploring its surrounding region, boasting hotels and hostels such as the well-rated Glencoe Youth Hostel with both shared and private rooms available for stays. Furthermore, there is also a folk museum in thatched cottages where you can learn about Glen Coe massacre as well as local history and culture.
Touring Glen Coe is the easiest way to experience it as it will allow you to avoid driving Scotland’s treacherous highland roads. There are various tour operators who provide day and multi-day trips that visit Glen Coe. For instance, Edinburgh tours usually depart here or you can book tours that visit from other areas if visiting from outside Scotland – there may even be one specifically dedicated to Glen Coe!
Isle of Skye
Isle of Skye is Scotland’s largest island and a premier tourist destination, boasting stunning scenic attractions and activities that will leave visitors speechless. From majestic mountain peaks to charming villages, this magical land truly has it all.
No visit to Skye would be complete without visiting Dunvegan Castle, once home of the MacLeod clan’s chiefs for 800 years. This charming medieval fortress combines multiple architectural styles while offering breathtaking gardens, lochs and woodlands for visitors to discover.
Fairy Glen is another must-see attraction, appearing to have been designed by fairies themselves. This enchanting site contains strangely symmetrical hills, sparkling streams and emerald pools that will transport visitors back in time.
Claigan Coral Beach offers stunning turquoise water and white sands reminiscent of Thailand or Mauritius; take a stroll here and you may think you are somewhere else entirely! Additionally, be sure to visit Armadale Castle ruins as well as Lealt Falls nearby.
Yesnaby Castle
Yesnaby is one of the main attractions on Orkney’s Western Isles, drawing visitors with its towering sea cliffs home to armies of puffins in early summer and some of the most dramatic scenery found anywhere on Orkney. Additionally, Yesnaby is known for its layers of Lower Devonian red sandstone topped by Lower Stromness flagstones that display evidence of volcanic activity over 300 million years ago – perfect for photography!
From the car park, a coastal path will lead you southwards along Yesnaby Battery; an upland viewpoint with views across rocky inlets towards an elegant sea stack. Continue south to reach Brough of Bigging which features a small cliff-top cairn, broch, and remnants of an ancient fort.
Trail continues past the Bay of Skaill’s rocky beach to Row Head’s rocky headland where there is an amazing effect created when gazing back towards Skaill in an opposite direction. Further along, Yesnaby Castle provides climbers with another opportunity – this 30-foot two-legged sea stack acts like a mini version of Old Man of Hoy and offers stunning coastal views!
Tobermory
Tobermory’s charming harbour village provides something for everyone. Water adventures, hiking and shipwreck exploration abound here! This small town also features an assortment of shops and eateries to satisfy everyone.
One of the top things to do in Tobermory is visit Bruce Peninsula National Park. This picturesque park offers stunning beaches and cliffs straight from Lord of the Rings as well as wildlife-rich wetlands that can be explored.
Diving or snorkeling at Fathom Five National Marine Park is another popular activity in Tobermory, featuring hundreds of shipwrecks and unique formations, along with Padi certified divers who can sign up for tours through this park at the Tobermory visitor centre.
Helicopter tours are another popular Tobermory activity, providing the ideal way to see the vibrant fall colors that make this region so enthralling, plus getting a bird’s-eye view of Flowerpot Island sea stacks and their incredible beach. However, to ensure you experience it fully during its busy summer months without too many crowds around, make sure you book early!
