Attractions
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle is quite an impressive sight, resting high on a hill towering 260 feet over the city. When the Romans arrived in Scotland between 80 AD and 139 AD, it was already an essential defensive fort of the Votadini people. During the reign of David I, between the years of 1124 to 1153, the fort was transformed into a royal castle. Beginning in 1296, the castle would change hands numerous times between England and Scotland, a power struggle that lasted over the next 45 years. It was the Stewart dynasty, beginning in 1341, that expanded the castle into the important structure it is today.
The Royal Mile Actually just over a mile, this noted tourist district begins at Edinburgh Castle and meanders east down the hill. At the bottom of the hill the main streets Castlehill, Lawnmarket Street, High Street, and Canongate connect and eventually lead you to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This area is the premiere place to view the true medieval architecture of Edinburgh as you stop into the various boutiques and souvenir shops.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse This palace is the official Scottish residence of The Queen. Many monarchs have used it as a royal residence, providing it with a long and rich history. Mary, Queen of Scots, resided here between the years 1561 and 1567, giving rise to turbulence throughout Scotland. The palace is now used for State ceremonies.
The National Museum of Scotland is a great way to become acquainted with Scotland’s history and culture. The Royal Museum building, one of two in the museum, is a beautiful structure with a contemporary glass ceiling. Its extensive collection contains pieces covering an array of information from science and history to culture and fine art. A tour of the galleries takes you through the topographical beginnings of Scotland to current developments and achievements of the Scottish people.
Parliament House Located in the Old Town of Edinburgh, official use of the Parliament House dates back prior to the Act of Union in 1707 that united England and Scotland. It is now home to the High Court of Justiciary, Scotland’s supreme court.
Inverness
Perthshire is situated between the Lowlands and Highlands, surrounded by lakes, mountains and endless open spaces. The surrounding area has been the center of Scottish crusades and has been associated important figures such as Macbeth, Mary Queen of Scots and Rob Roy Macgregor. You also find treasures such as the Blair Athol Castle and the 18th century Whiskey Distillery.
Blair Athol Castle is set in an inspiring landscape surrounded by the natural majesty of the Highlands. This ancient castle has been the royal residence of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl since the 13th century. For more than 500 years, the castle’s strategic location at the entrance to the Grampian Mountains has withstood countless assaults from intruders.
Whiskey Distillery Scotland is known for its whiskey and this 18th century Whiskey Distillery is the king of them. Its known for its production of Old Single Malt whiskey that has a complex aroma and smooth finish. One of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, on a tour of its facilities learn the secrets behind traditional Scotch whiskey.
Inverness Castle This site was previously the dwelling of Fort George and other castles dating back to the 12th century. Bonnie Price Charlie demolished Fort George during the 17th century. In 1830, the present day Inverness Castle was built. The castle now acts as a courthouse.
Cawdor Castle One of Scotland’s finest castles, this impressive edifice is still home to the Cawdor family. It has lovely gardens to walk through and a rich interior décor. This castle was also home to Shakespeare’s MacBeth.
Western Highlands
Loch Ness Known mostly for its mysterious inhabitant, Nessie, this lake attracts numerous visitors each year. As the largest volume of water in Scotland, this lake stretches over 20 miles and reaches 700 feet deep. Whether you’re attempting to capture the fabled Loch Ness monster on film or admiring the lake’s natural beauty, all are sure to enjoy Loch Ness. Learn more about the famous creature and the amazing efforts to find it during a stop at the Loch Ness 2000 Exhibition.
Isle of Skye This island is sure to please those in search of awe inspiriing scenery. Located off th west coast of the mainland, wildlife flourishes here from the dainty Goldcrest bird to the soaring Golden Eagle. The surrounding waters are home to salmon and playful otters. The rolling landscape of the Cullin Hills, Red Hillls and Blaven are blanketed with wildflowers and are popular among walkers and climbers.
Eilean Donan Castle offers truly a majestic view from its vantage point on an island surrounded by three merging great lakes. This medieval castle was first inhabited in the 6th century, but was fortified sometime in the 13th cenury. Since then, the castle has been rebuilt at least four times due to the feudal history of the area.
Glasgow
Glencoe Visitors are attracted to this historic glen for it scenic views and fascinating surrounding mountains. Adventurers flock here for strenuous mountain hikes or moderate hillls to traverse. Other activities include sailing, fishing and skiing.
Loch Lomond is 24 miles long and five miles wide of fresh water as deep as 600 feet at points. Within its shores are 38 islands, one of which, Inchmurrin, has a hotel.
George Square was first constructed in 1781 and is known for the large homes surrounding it that were built between the 1780s and 1820s. During that time, the square was exclusively used by the surrounding wealthy homeowners. Enraged Glaswegians tore down the square’s gates several times, eventually leading the city council to officially give the park to the public in 1872. The only remaining architectural example of these upper-class dwellings is a hotel located on the square’s north end.
Burrell Collection This impressive collection contains art from every period and culture. In 1944, Sir William Burrell and Lady Burrell donated their personal collection of works to the city of Glasgow. This impressive collection contains over 9,000 pieces from every corner of the world, highlighting top period artists such as Cézanne, Degas and Rodin. The building itself is an admirable structure as pieces of the collection, such as medieval arches, have been built into its architecture.
Gallery of Modern Art Opened in 1996, the Gallery of Modern Art is conveniently located in the heart of Glasgow. The building is a blend of classic and contemporary architecture described as neo-classical. Its eleborate collections and workshops offer an extensive breadth of modern art sure to entertain all visitors.
Stirling Castle A visit to Stirling Castle takes you back into Scotland’s bloody history. Guarding an important crossing point of the River Forth, its walls have seen 16 sieges. Many Kings and Queens of Scotland have been baptised and crowned here. It is open to the public seven days a week year-round.
