Mysterious runes inscribed with Celtic symbols; bagpipes skirling, played by a burly man in McDonald tartan; bracken covered castles hidden behind acres of forestland. This is Scotland, a country that, despite being steeped in modernity, has never lost sight of its rich cultural history.
It’s the perfect place for anyone itching to return to simpler times, while also safe in the knowledge that Edinburgh or Glasgow (the cultural heartlands of Scotland) are only a few hours away.
With shows like Game of Thrones earning viewing figures of millions, the rugged landscapes of Scotland have become increasingly popular.
But let’s get beyond the Romantic clichés and look at Scotland as it in the present day. If you’re a holidaymaker searching for old sights and modern thrills, where should you visit?
Life at the Loch
For a mythical creature, Nessie has injected an impress amount of cash into the Scottish economy. Loch Ness attracts millions of visitors to its shores, many who can’t wait to start searching the murky depths for a sign of the famed monster of the Loch.
Loch Ness Monster sightings have been thin on the ground, and all have been easily debunked (mythical is the keyword here), but the fun of searching for the beast is bolstered by the beauty of the surrounding area.
A cruise along the Loch’s shores will treat you to sights of country manors, loch-side restaurants, dense forestlands and long stretches of grassland that will blow you away. Moreover, the surrounding area is filled with plenty of eateries and hotels to help you enjoy a luxury stay.
Wild nights at the West End
The West End of Glasgow is arguably the centre of Scotland when it comes to artists and culture. A bustling, affluent section of the city, Glasgow’s West End contains hip gig venues, quiet restaurants, upmarket art galleries and bookshops brimming with vintage hardbacks.
For great food and the coolest music, we’d recommend The Hug and Pint, Glasgow’s latest gig venue to present visitors with a varied (and vegan) menu. That’s only the tip of the iceberg in the area, so be sure to travel its back alleys and lanes to find the coolest establishments.
Nevis Nevis Land
Ditch your urban areas and tourist traps – it’s time to fetch your hiking boots and see the best view in all of Scotland.
Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom and, as such, the most satisfying climb. And once you reach the summit, all those Romantic ideas and dreams about Scotland will be fulfilled, in a view untouched by the hands of modernity. Who could ask for more form a Scottish holiday?
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