Scotland, The Land of the Brave, is a natural wonderland, including the landscapes, wildlife, history and a welcoming culture.
Here are some great things to know about Scotland.
1. There are hundreds of castles
Everyone knows that Scotland has castles, but did you know that number reaches almost 1500? Evidence suggests there have been close to 3000 castles in total over the years.
The castles of Edinburgh or Balmoral are on every tourist’s radar, but with so many to see, you’re guaranteed to find some off-the-track gems. If you’re up for it, take on the Castle Trail through Aberdeenshire and see more than 300 castles, mansions and ruins.
2. A vast trails network
Research shows that over 90% of Scotland’s population inhabits 2.3% of the total land area. With so many uninhabited and remote places, the nation is a dream for hikers and runners.
Multi-day walking routes in Scotland are well-established, such as the West Highland Way, and cover the entire country like a spider’s web. There are also many off-the-beaten track hills and mountains to hike.
3. Amazing geology
Scotland is home to some impressive geology and this includes the stunning rock formation, the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye. A 1.5-hour hike leads you to the “OId Man,” that stands approximately 50 metres tall. The Storr is a dominating rocky landscape, perfect for an early-morning run or staring at over some lunch.
4. High waterfalls
Eas a’ Chual Aluinn is three times taller than Niagara Falls and the tallest waterfall in the UK. The boggy hike is perfect for travellers who want a real challenge and don’t mind getting a bit dirty.
Although a cool 10km, the 500m ascent, and rocky route will ensure you break a sweat. Especially during colder months, it’s recommended to bring snow gear and follow the best-known route.
5. Ancient yew tree
Some say he’s as young as 1500 years old, while others claim as old as 9000. Situated in a humble churchyard in Perthshire, the Fortingall Yew is perhaps one of the oldest living things in all of Europe.
No matter the age, this yew is worth a visit. Even though he’s shrunken in the last decades, it’s believed that the tree might last a few more hundred years.
6. Miles of isles
Scotland boasts close to 800 offshore islands, of which only 92 are inhabited, so there are plenty of quiet island paradises to visit.
You can chase the smell of single malt all the way to Jura or Islay or immerse in the natural beauty of Skye, Shetland or St Kilda. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never be able to see them all.
7. Something new in Cairngorms National Park
Cairngorms National Park is a well-known tourist destination and now there is a new Cairngorms Bike Park offering adrenaline-seekers a mountain biking playground. There are over 3km of downhill trails and even conveyor belts to reach the top.
You don’t even need to be a biker to enjoy a day at the bike park. The park supplies regular or electric bike hire and three trail difficulties to choose from (green for beginners, blue for intermediate and red for experts).
8. Dark Sky Park
If you haven’t heard of Dark Sky Parks, you can thank us later. These protected areas have exceptionally dark night skies thanks to very low light pollution. This means you’ll have great stargazing opportunities.
Most head down to Galloway Forest Park, but there are a handful of other gorgeous Dark Sky locations. However, Galloway is considered one of the best places to view the night sky in all of the UK.
Wrapping up…
Are you keen on your Scottish adventure now, or what? If you’re obsessed with nature, wildlife, endless trails and vast untrodden landscapes, Scotland should be your go-to travel destination.
Also, ensure your Scottish adventure remains carefree and fun by using a premium VPN like Surfshark whenever you connect to “Free Wi-Fi” and protecting your passwords with a reliable password manager.
Unfortunately, when enjoying a well-deserved vacation, we’re more susceptible to being hacked than usual. That’s because we’re in the chill-mode and lose our awareness, sometimes. Better to be safe than sorry!
