The top ten things you MUST see when in Scotland – Scotland’s Essentials.
Imagine you only had one opportunity ever to come to Scotland. Some experiences can then simply not be left out when touring the country. Here are our 10 essential Scotland stops. And what’s in a name? If you choose to drive the Scotland Essentials Road Trip, you will get to see all of these highlights.
10. Visit a whisky distillery
To the Scottish whisky is not just a drink: it’s their way of life and part of their identity. There is hardly anything that the Scottish people can be so passionate about as whisky. This comes as no surprise when you know that the word whisky derives from the Gaelic uisge bagh (life’s water). Most distilleries will provide tours and explain why their whisky is better than all the rest.
Explore our 5 favourite distillery tours here.
9. Aberfeldy
Although there is nothing exceptionally impressive about this picturesque little town, Aberfeldy always gives us such a nice feeling of genuine Scottish hospitality, set in a beautiful mountainous scene. A lively town with the river Tay meandering through, Aberfeldy is well worth a stop along your road trip.
8. Loch Ness
Most appealing to all you ‘Nessie-searchers’ out there, but also an attractive sight to those who are not looking to spot the legendary creature. The (known) maximum depth is a stunning 230m (755ft) as a result of tectonic movement. This one loch holds more fresh water then all English and Welsh lakes combined! But for tourists Loch Ness is especially good to visit for its ruins and castles along the shores, as well as its beautiful nature. With the highland capital Inverness nearby, the loch has historically always played a vital role for the local rulers and clans.
7. Eilean Donan Castle
Not the largest, but definitely our favourite castle to visit. Originally built in the sea centuries ago to defend its lands against Viking expeditions, it was wonderfully restored in the 20th century. Buying a ticket will get you onto the footbridge across the tidal waters and gets you into the medieval world that once was on the tiny island. Our sons have been wanting to become knights ever since!
6. Ben Nevis
The tallest Ben in all of Great Britain! This massive mountain range never fails to impress. On one face rounded off and looking friendly, on the other side jagged and cliffy. A challenging day’s hike takes you from Glen Nevis to the summit at 1344m (4406 ft). Practical information on the hike can be found here. For those of you who do not have the time to walk up Ben Nevis: there is a gondola going up the neighbouring mountain, Aonach Mor.
5. Loch Lomond
Bonny Loch Lomond has so much to offer. The national park is the second largest of the country, and extends well beyond the loch alone. On and around Loch Lomond tourists can choose to enjoy small, cosy villages (Luss, Balmaha), hike parts of the West Highland Way on the eastern shores, enjoy the best views from Ben Lomond or Conic Hill, take a boat ride out to the uninhabited islands on the loch, or explore the smaller lakes east of Loch Lomond (the Trossachs). No matter what you decide to do: you will feel the soul of Scotland on and around the whole of Loch Lomond.
4. Glen Affric
We could say that Glen Affric is one of the best preserved nature reserves in the country. We could let you know that it is the home to the oldest ancient forest in the whole of the UK. Or we could say its dead-end road prevents cars ruining the landscape. But there is nothing we could say that makes you experience its true beauty. Glen Affric is so impressive that you just have to get in to feel it. The view point that can be reached after a short walk from the Dog Falls car park arguably provides the best view of all of Scotland – don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park!
3. The Isle of Skye
Proclaimed to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world by National Geographic, and it’s no wonder why! The dashing scenery and steep cliffs offer the most impressive views you can imagine. Although the summer season draws many tourists nowadays, Isle of Skye is still worth a visit any time of the year. Traveling round the island you will get a wide variety of heavenly blue rivers, a massive mountain range, sea battered cliffs with picturesque lighthouses, a whisky distillery and a cosy small town. In short: the Isle of Skye has all the best that Scotland has to offer gathered on one island!
2. Edinburgh
The nations capital boasts a wide range of entertainment. The city is is a lively, vibrant collection of pubs, shops, and museums. On the Royal Mile – that stretches from the impressive city castle down to the Hollyrood Palace – medieval times come to live: narrow and steep alleys wind down castle hill in the perfectly preserved Old Town. On the other side of the main railway station, Edinburgh Waverley, the city takes a whole new shape. The New Town (designed in the 18th century) is a perfectly symmetrical highlight of Georgian architecture, packed with bars and shops.
Want to go hiking? All of the city centre can best be seen from atop Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that provides a brilliant view from 250m (822ft) high: there is something not every city can boast!
1. Glen Coe
This is Scotland! The most famous and recognizable glen of all. Many films were shot in Glen Coe for its impressive scenery. Created millions of years ago by volcanic activity, the Bens stand proud on either side of the wide glen. If you like, you can hike parts of the West Highland Way, walk the Devil’s Staircase, but to be honoust, just driving through the valley already is an impressive activity on its own. Our absolute number 1 must see once you get to Scotland!
