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Scottish Holidays With A Twist

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Here in the UK we’ve got some of the most spectacular scenery in the world so it’s no surprise that more families are opting to spend their holidays exploring corners of the British Isles rather than flying abroad to the sun. Part of the fun of being on holiday is staying somewhere completely different, and if you opt to spend your holidays in Scotland, there are some unique properties to choose from.

Castles

Photograph of Culzean Castle by Andrew Horne Via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Photograph of Culzean Castle by Andrew Horne Via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

If you’ve always liked the idea of living in splendor like a lord, then a castle holiday will be right up your street. There are lots of castles in Scotland which have been converted to provide self-catering apartments, such as Culzean Castle in Ayrshire which has a variety of different sizes of accommodation to suit all needs. Many hotels have been converted into hotels or guest houses if you like the idea of someone else doing the washing up, and if you really fancy pushing the boat out and booking something grand, Balfour Castle on the isle of Shapinsay in the Orkney islands is available for exclusive use.

Lighthouse

Photograph of Mull of Galloway Lighthouse by Paul Stevenson Via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Photograph of Mull of Galloway Lighthouse by Paul Stevenson Via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

The National Trust for Scotland owns several lighthouses which it lets to holidaymakers, and if you love nothing better than the sound of the waves crashing then a lighthouse can’t be beaten. Mull of Galloway lighthouse is at the far south western tip of Scotland, and as well as views over to Northern Ireland on a clear day, the area boasts nature reserves, unspoilt beaches and pretty fishing villages just waiting to be explored. Lighthouses are by definition remote, so don’t go on this sort of holiday expecting to be in the centre of a town or to have a hypermarket just along the road.

Monastery

Photograph of Fort Augustus Abbey by Lee-Anne Inglis Via Picasa (CC BY-ND 3.0)

Photograph of Fort Augustus Abbey by Lee-Anne Inglis Via Picasa (CC BY-ND 3.0)

Overlooking the famous Loch Ness is the monastery at Fort Augustus, which has been converted into luxury apartments for self-catering holidays. Many original features have been retained in the apartments, and the emphasis is on quality with oak living furniture, luxury kitchens and beautiful soft furnishings. As you’re right on the banks of the Loch, it’s the ideal spot for all sorts of watersports, or even just sitting in the grounds with a picnic trying to catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness monster. If the weather’s not pleasant, there’s an indoor pool and games room to keep kids of all ages occupied.

Earth-House

The outer Hebrides have some of the best beaches in the UK and even on a summer’s afternoon you’re likely to have the white sands to yourself. The “earth houses” in South Uist have been designed so that they are built into the hillside using local materials. They are warm, very well insulated and blend in perfectly with the landscape. Inside you’ll find all the mod cons, and the emphasis is firmly on rest and relaxation. If you’re a nature fan, you can expect to see lots of sea birds, and seals, whales and porpoises are often seen close to the shore. If you’re really lucky you may even see a basking shark or an elusive otter.

Being Scottish, guest blogger Morag Peers always tries to encourage visitors to her magnificent country. If you wish to recreate the stunning interiors of some of these properties you can find rustic oak living furniture online at National Furniture UK.

Love, Magic and Edinburgh

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If you are tired of getting burned out because of the stress you encounter in your everyday life, well, it is time for you to give yourself a pat in the back and experience travel and luxury like never before. Go pack your things and bring your partner with you as Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, will surely cater to all your romantic needs.

Edinburgh has its own way of spicing up the word ‘romance’ as this city definitely offers tourists the chance to fall in love over and over again. This historical city does not only have genuinely preserved buildings and establishments as there are also a lot of things you and your partner could do to savor its beauty.

All is WELL

Situated just around 15 minutes away from the City Centre is the infamous St. Bernard’s Well. Spelling romance could never be this sweet as this temple, inspired by the Romans is also well-known for its miraculous water. So, if you are planning to propose, maybe a miracle is all you need! Enjoy St. Bernard’s Well and experience the magic and the many wonders of eternal love.

Walk Your Hearts Out

There is no better way of really experiencing the beauty of the culture of Edinburgh than walking in the streets of the Royal Mile. Feel like queens and kings by strolling into the city’s historical landmarks and enjoy the dramatic effects prepared by the various companies of Edinburgh. The roads are well-maintained and the locals’ friendliness will surely make you feel like you are in your own castle of love.

Yacht El Royale

Seated at the Leith Docks is the yacht of all royalty, the Royal Yacht Brittanica. Visit this elegant ship and brace yourselves for a red-carpet experience. The area is also surrounded by many well-known restaurants so if you are still hungry for royalty, grab a bite at one of the town’s seafood restaurants.

The Love View

Nothing can be more beautiful and romantic than sitting beside your partner and holding his/her hand while waiting for the sun to set at Calton Hill. Climbing this peak will give you a gorgeous view of Edinburgh and a chance to go star gazing at night. Also, this place features exhibits that will truly make your visit worthwhile.

Fly High

Anyone who fancies butterflies will enjoy visiting the Butterfly World with numerous types of these beautiful creatures flying around this tourist spot. So, go on and fly high and experience the wonder of nature with butterflies in and out of your stomach.

About the Author:

Rome Beley is a travel ambassador and blogger from Deck Chair Cruising. They offer deck chair cruising and other services. Despite of her busy schedule, she never forgets to indulge in her wanderlust.

Popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh

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Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, located in the Southeast of the island and is the seat of the Parliament and Government of Scotland. According to statistics, the population of the city as of 2001 was noted to be about 450000 and that made it the second largest city in the country. Most areas of the city centre have an abundance of historical character, while the city is also home to many festivals and other events. Due to this, Edinburgh has been titled the second best tourist city in Great Britain after London and the city attracts over one million foreign visitors every year.

You cannot say you’ve been to Edinburgh unless you’ve seen the Edinburgh Castle. It is known as one of the most excellent castles in the world and is probably one of the top most of the list of things to do in Edinburgh. Hundreds of years ago, the Edinburgh castle was planted at the highest point in Edinburgh’s old town and has ruled the city ever since. Royal Mile is the route you have to take to walk up to the castle and whilst doing that you can absorb the feeling of history. When you are in the castle, the view from any point of the castle is spectacular. The castle also owns a display of the Scottish Crown Jewels and also a huge war memorial with the names of fighters who lost their lives for the country.

Edinburgh is also home to one of the best museums in the world – a masterpiece known as the National Museum of Scotland. In summer 2011, the Museum reopened after detailed refurbishment and is now an even better masterpiece. You can spend an entire day in this museum without getting bored; it also has a lot of activities for the kids. In addition to the wonderful exhibits displayed there, the museum itself is an artwork. If you are standing in the centre of the atrium, just look up and observe, absorb and be amazed by the great Victorian architecture. You can also walk to the place where the old and the new museum is linked and when you look up you will see a fantastic range of different light, shapes and angles bouncing around. For more architectural pleasure, you might choose to visit the Scottish Parliament at the bottom end of the Royal Mile route. The Parliament is open to the public for visits and is a fascinating layout, polar opposite in terms of architecture.

If you are one of those who love the dark and the underworld, you might want to take one of the ghost tours in Edinburgh. The witch’s tour or the ghost and ghouls tour will show you around the old underbelly of the city and will probably scare the pants off you! These historical tours usually begin at the Royal Mile and take you to the Witchery and the St. Giles Cathedral. You could also visit the Edinburgh dungeon where you will find grave-robbers, murderers, witch-hunters, executioners and cannibals.

About the Author: Joanna Robinson is a content writer who loves to share her knowledge among internet users. These days she is writing about travelling, fashion and hand tufted rugs. 

Edinburgh and the Royal Walk

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Out of all our guilty pleasures, most of you would surely agree that travelling is one of the best things we can do to escape our busy and sometimes, cruel world. After long days of work and stress, it is always refreshing to know that the world offers us with a lot of ways to pamper ourselves and just forget that we have obligations and responsibilities at home.

Now, if you are still undecided on where to travel, let me be of valuable help. I’ve always loved travelling and one of the places I could not forget is Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Aside from the fact that you would feel like a royalty when you visit this place, there are so many activities you can do to truly experience an exquisite get-away.

El Royale

I’ll bet my hundred years that you will surely enjoy Edinburgh’s various landmarks. The city is well-known for the Edinburgh castle, which is located atop a volcanic rock. This castle has witnessed a lot of the major Scottish historical events and the good thing about it is that its outer structure has been genuinely reserved by the locals. Aside from this, you may also tour the city’s other architectural structures such as the Scottish Storytelling Centre, the John Knox House and the Scottish Poetry Library.

Eat Your Heart Out

Experiencing Scotland would never be complete without savoring the town’s notorious cuisine. To do this, I assume that you need to know which restaurant to visit. Stac Polly and DubhPrais both offer tourists and locals the town’s local and home-made delicacies. Aside from a guaranteed happy tummy, spending time in these restaurants is also a good way for you to blend in with the locals.

Be Festive

Aside from Edinburgh’s major tourist attractions, the town also holds a yearly festival. There is no better way of experiencing their culture than planning your visit on this day. You can enjoy varying performances of music, dance and opera at their theatre.

Be an Active Traveler

Nothing is more beautiful than the town’s exquisite volcano. If you are up for the thrill, climbing Arthur’s Seat will truly pleasure you as it would give you the chance to enjoy nature and its many wonders.

Walk It Off

Walking will not only save you money, but it will surely give you the chance to know more locals and to appreciate the beauty of Scotland. Built on hilly roads, Edinburgh was magnificently designed and curved for walking. A good idea would also be for you to join the City of the Dead Tours and the Mercat Walking Tours.

Rome Beley is a travel ambassador and blogger from Jurnii’s Rv Rentals. They offer rent rvs california and other services. Despite of her busy schedule, she never forgets to indulge in her wanderlust.

5 Free Day Trips In A Short Drive From Edinburgh

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The Scottish capital city of Edinburgh offers travellers some of the best sights, sounds and tastes the country has to offer. The city is home to stunning architecture and innovative museums and galleries. Visitors are treated to savoury dishes at leading restaurants and pubs, from local specialities to tasty creations from around the world.

Not far from Edinburgh’s city centre are attractive village and historic sites. Within a short drive or train trip, visitors can be treated to beautiful countryside and unforgettable coastal views. Whether by car, rail or bus, day trips from Edinburgh offer visitors a free and entertaining way to explore and experience more of this thrilling part of Scotland.

Dunfermline

Dunfermline Abbey ruins

Once the ancient capital of Scotland, Dunfermline can be reached by the Forth Road Bridge from Edinburgh. Within the medieval town centre is Dunfermline Abbey, the resting place of the storied Robert the Bruce. The historic town in Fife is the birthplace of Andrew Carnegie, one of the history’s richest men and most renowned philanthropists. Carnegie donated Pittencreiff Park to the town’s residents and today it is one of Scotland’s most attractive parks. A museum, well-appointed paths and picnic areas, and gardens can be explored throughout this beautiful park. Each year in August the park hosts the Bruce Festival, featuring battle re-enactments, arts and crafts, and a food fayre.

Aberdour

Aberdour coast

The coastal town of Aberdour is a picturesque place for a day trip. The Fife Coastal Path brings visitors close to the popular Silver Sands beach and the town’s scenic harbour. Welcoming pubs and restaurants line the historic village’s streets, side-by-side with interesting shops and boutiques. The 12-century Aberdour Castle features beautiful gardens, while St. Fillan’s Church is one of Scotland’s best-preserved medieval parish churches. Black Sands beach provides visitors with a peaceful retreat with rock caves and curious sea life. The town is approximately a 20-minute drive north of Edinburgh and can also be reached by regular bus and train services.

Linlithgow

Linlithgow-palace-interior

Linlithgow is the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. The ruins of the Queen’s birthplace still stand at Linlithgow Palace, once a royal palace and today surrounded by a popular public park. The town is also home to the mediaeval St. Michaels Church, honouring the community’s patron saint. The town can be reached by car via the M9 motorway or by train from Waverley or Haymarket stations. For outdoor enthusiasts, Linlithgow is accessible by the Union Canal, a 30-kilometre trail from Edinburgh that is ideal for cyclists. Just 3 miles north-east of Linlithgow is the town of Blackness. Located on the banks of the Forth, the historic port is home to Blackness Castle.

St. Andrews

Cathedral Ruins, St.Andrews

St. Andrews is the home of golf. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club is one of the world’s oldest golf clubs and the Old Course is one of the most famous golf courses in the world. St. Andrews is also home to a stunning cathedral, one of the most important in medieval Scotland. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the cathedral’s striking ruins can be explored free of charge. Founded in 1410, St. Andrews University is the third oldest university in the English-speaking world and the oldest in Scotland. The prestigious university dominates much of the town and is home to stunning buildings, including the elegant St. Salvator’s Chapel. Perched along the seaside and overlooking the town is the 15th century St. Andrews Castle.

Dunbar

Red Rock Cliffs

The coastal community of Dunbar is the birthplace of conservationist John Muir. Muir was a key figure in establishing America’s National Parks system. A museum dedicated to Muir’s life and achievements can be visited free of charge. The town is also home to a kittiwake colony found on the cliffs overlooking the harbour. Rolling green countryside and beautiful coastal views are trademarks of the John Muir Way, a long-distance path running along the town that can be accessed from the harbour and other points in the town. Dunbar is also the venue of the annual Folk Music Festival, held each year in September. Located in East Lothian, Dunbar sits 30 miles south-east of Edinburgh.

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Amy is a travel feature writer working with Alamo car hire UK – a great way to explore the best of the UK at your own pace.

A Guide To Edinburgh’s Most Important Landmarks

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Edinburgh is one of Scotland’s most beautiful cities. Rich in culture and history plus a majority of the world’s best restaurants and bars, this Scottish city has been entertaining and wowing tourists for years. It gives utmost importance to it’s historical landmarks, making it a place that should be visited and be proud of. A 2 night’s stay won’t be enough for you to see the wonders of Edinburgh, so I suggest that you visit these 5 important landmarks first before going to its other famous places.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a well preserved landmark that stands between the Old Town area. The curve of massive artillery, known as the Half Moon Battery is the castle’s main feature. It was built to defend the eastern side of the fortress which was prone to attack. The castle is also famous for the Palace, which is now used as a popular museum, the statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, which were famous historical figures during Scotland’s fight for freedom, the Mill’s Mount Battery and the Witch’s Memorial, a place were over 300 women were burned in order to punish them for practicing witch craft. It also gives a spectacular view of the town’s key areas such as Old Town and New Town.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is home to the Nelson and the National Monument of Scotland. It is famous for it’s historical significance and the amazing views it gives. It has a reproduction of the Athens’ Parthenon, a greek historical structure, that was built into detail but was never finished due to lack of finances. It gives a full and beautiful view of Edinburgh, including the Firth of Forth and other places. CaltonHillalso hosts to the Beltane Festival, which is celebrated and attended by hundreds of people.

Nelson Monument

As a tribute to Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, the Nelson Monument has provided much attractions to tourists since it was built in 1816. It was designed to be in the shape of Admiral Nelson’s telescope and has a total of 143 steps leading to its highest area. Tourists can enjoy the view of the city’s luscious green fields and other famous places and is indeed worth the effort.

The Royal Mile

As the oldest part of the city, the Royal Mile marks the road running from Edinburgh castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is an important landmark that has reminded the city of it’s history for years as well as it’s past events and status. It also famous for its specialty shops and market that include craft shops, tartan clothing outlets and woolen mills.

West Register House

A beautiful townhouse themed residence, West Register House is indeed an eye catcher for tourists because of its complexity and beauty. It is located between Randolph Place and Charlotte Square and was restored to further emanate it’s historical importance. This building housed the West Search Room of the National Archive of Scotland which contained maps.records, plans and other important government documents and microfilm catalogues. It also displays an interesting exhibition of how the region has been shaped by its citizens over the centuries.

About the Author:

Rome Beley is a travel ambassador and blogger from Deck Chair Cruising. They offer sun princess cruise and other services. Despite of her busy schedule, she never forgets to indulge in her wanderlust.

One Month, One City.. The Edinburgh Festival

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As one of the most exciting and diverse events throughout the globe, Edinburgh Festival has something for everyone! Each summer, the streets of Edinburgh are invaded with artists showcasing their talents, with live shows, plays, comedy, music, and so much more. Edinburgh Festival refers to a combination of several separate events being hosted throughout Edinburgh and with a wide variety of performances, street fairs and workshops, there is something here for everyone.

Only the Best – Edinburgh International Festival

The Edinburgh International Festival was the first established event of the many which now make up Edinburgh Festival. This festival showcases the best of international music, dance, opera and theatre every year. This part of the Edinburgh festival only displays high quality artists from around the world, and also hosts art exhibitions and workshops which anyone can enjoy.

Something for Everyone!

Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world with over 40000 performances and 2500 shows spread across hundreds of venues throughout Edinburgh each August. This is an open festival where anyone from any walk of life can have the opportunity to perform. This month long event has a core focus in comedy and theatre, though dance and music are also featured. In addition to the ticket events, there is a street fair held on the Royal Mile. Many successful comedians and actors started their careers at this event, including Steven Fry, Hugh Laurie, Emma Thompson and several theatre companies. As anyone can be a part of the Festival Fringe, the talent is very mixed, but the atmosphere will always win through every year, guaranteeing an exciting experience.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Located at Edinburgh Castle each summer is a series of military performances from the British Armed Forces, and international military bands and even includes performances from African tribes. It is a very significant part of the Edinburgh Festival – tickets have sold out each year for the past ten years, and it has never been cancelled since it began in 1950. Over 30 countries have been represented at the Military Tattoo. As an exciting part of Edinburgh Festival, this is something that anyone can enjoy.

Along with these events every year, the Edinburgh Festival includes an Art Festival, Book Festival, Music Festivals and much more. At Edinburgh Festival, the culture of the world is there for everyone to experience, and it is an unmissable event. So get yourself there if you can.

John Stevens work for a wedding reception venue in Edinburgh and really looks forward to the Edinburgh Festival every year and recommends you get yourself there.