Travelers stories

The charisma and aura of the European country Scotland is unknown to none. It is the land, which was a surface to numerous significant historical battles, is the mother of cherished sport golf and is globally appreciated for its Balmoral Castle (a vacation spot for Queen Elizabeth and her family) and Scotch whisky. Scotland is blessed with a rich history, culture and scenic splendor. It is one amongst the most admired places on the globe today. Geographically, Scotland is bifurcated into three regions- Southern Uplands, Central Lowlands and Highlands. These regions adjoin different places and comprise of different landforms for instance by way of river valleys the Southern Uplands act as a link between the country’s central plain and England border.

 Scottish  Activities

Since time memorial golf is an immensely crucial activity in Scotland. Infact the golf sport originated from this very European country. The Highlands region of Scotland nestles some of the prominent golf courses in the world. There are around 540 golf courses in Scotland. These are variously scattered in Northeast, Southeast, Southwest, Historic Heartland and Central areas of Scotland.

Cycling and bike riding is another cherished pastime in Scotland. The enthusiasm for cycling is such that many tourists hire bikes to explore this divinely beautiful place. The Glencoe, Galloway region and the Isle of Skye are perfect spectacular riding places. 

 The exclusive Scotland attractions are the Heavy and Light Athletics. Heavy Athletics includes games that demand muscle. These games are stone, weight and hammer throwing, sheaf tossing and so forth. Dancing, sprinting, running and jumping are the light athletics sports that basically require an impregnable stamina.

City LookThe capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is a perfect blend of contemporary and archaic Scotland. The traditional Scotland is reflected from the ancient Edinburgh castles and buildings. While the marvelously constructed hotels, restaurants and thrilling nightlife are the emblems of present-day Scotland. Edinburgh is swarming with people every year for more than one reason. The foremost attractions are the museums of this place. The Royal Museum that houses the first cloned sheep named Dolly, the National Gallery of Scotland along with quite a few national museums are paradigmatic cases in point. Next there are the famous Edinburgh castle, the Royal Mile Street that conjoins this castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the garden of medicinal plants i.e. the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Princes Street, worldwide famous for shopping.

If you want to experience the mind-boggling Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, the city of Glasgow is a place ideal for that. Apart from being a home for some of the most noteworthy Scot museums such as St. Mungo Museum Religious Life, the largely acclaimed Museum of Transport and the Scotland Street School Museum; Glasgow is endowed with ample of other lures to woo its visitors. For instance there are primitive constructions like The Pollock House, the Country Black, the Glasgow Cathedral and the Bothwel Castle. These places hold immense significance not just as tokens of an abundant history but also in incurring tourist wealth. Not to forget are Glasgow’s eminent pedestrian shopping streets- Sauchiehall Street, Buchanan Street etc.

Some nitty-gritties

The best feature of Scotland is an easy access to it. Americans can throng this place without any passport. April to September are the ideal months to visit Scotland. So make sure that you get your reservations done beforehand. Scotland does not accept Euro currency. The visitors must get it exchanged prior to their visit.

This article was written by Hamish Mctavish

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Scotland is a country much loved for its whisky, its golf courses, its spectacular scenery and its unique sense of itself. Known as the Home of Golf and renowned for its hospitality, Scotland is deep rooted in the history of the game and its courses are revered the world over. This is a country positively bursting with fantastic golf courses, many with scenery and views that will live long in your memory many years after you have taken on their challenge.

Courses vary in level but there is an option for all ages and abilities from the scenic highland courses to world famous centres such as Gleneagles. There are more golf courses in Scotland for her population than any other country. You can even book a tee time online for some courses. The more famous golf courses include St. Andrews, Turnberry, Royal Dornoch, Gleneagles and Carnoustie.

The two main airports in Scotland are Glasgow Airport and Edinburgh Airport, while the other international airports are located at Prestwick, Inverness and Aberdeen. Travel to the highlands is recommended to play on some of the most strikingly beautiful golf courses in the country.

Golfing in Scotland and championship links courses are synonymous - except for the truly wonderful Loch Lomond Golf Course. One thing that makes the golf courses in Scotland different than the courses found in the rest of the world is the speed of play. Weekend breaks in Scotland are possibly the most popular leisure travel product in the UK.

If you’re thinking about playing golf in Scotland, book your trip immediately, with or without your friends. If I had to give one piece of advice, however, it would be that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy golfing in Scotland. If golf is in your blood, then golfing in Scotland is probably on your list of dream trips. But beware, it is addictive and one trip just might not be enough.

This article was written by John Gatens who can be found at Golfing In Scotland

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The town of Oban is the unofficial capital of the West Highlands know as the Gateway to the Isles. Oban itself literally means little bay, derived from the Gaelic An Ob. the largest town between Helensburgh and Fort William

It is a busy working port. As fishing goes their main catch is prawns, scallops clams, crabs and lobsters. About 75 percent of the catch goes to France, Spain and Italy.

The Harbour is the real heart of this West High land town. The Corran Esplanade is great for walking a long, simply to enjoy the sea air or watch the boats and ferries come. Ferries leave Oban habour for the following islands Islay, Colonsay, Coll, Tiree, Mull, Lismore, Barra and South Uist.

Ganavan Sands is Obans beach it has a clean sandy beach overlooking Loch Linnheor the sandy beach at Tralee.

Oban has been a popular tourist destination since the Victorian era, with a steam ship bringing visitors from Glasgow as early as 1812.

George Street, is the main shopping area of the town and Argyll Square with its attractive floral display and lined with even more shops and cafes.

Oban comes alive at night and especially during the summer when the town is buzzing with visitors. A multitude of pubs, night clubs and restaurants cater for all tastes and age groups. Excellent local bands are a regular attraction in the town and many of the pubs.

The town grew up around the distillery and since its foundation in 1794 it has played an important role in local life. Oban has enjoyed been a single malt since the 1880’s. The distillery is bang in the centre of town and is located just off George Street.

Obans most famous landmark is McCaigs Tower built at the end of the 19th Century, it is a copy of the Coliseum in Rome. The work on the tower stopped after Mr McCaigs death in 1902. The empty shell of the tower dominates the Oban sky line, and is now a public garden.

Oban Rare Breeds Farm Park Set on a thirty-five acre working livestock farm home to Australian Black Swans, geese and ducks.

Dunstaffnage Castle is where The Stone of Destiny was brought over from Ireland via Iona. It was a MacDougall stronghold until 1309, it was seized by Robert the Bruce. The castle is said to have a ghost in a green dress, apparently a glaistig, a fairy woman.

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As the county town of Perthshire, Perth is also known as St John’s Town or the Fair City.

It was the capital of Scotland up until the mid 1450’s when James I moved the capital to Edinburgh.

Although a compact and flat city, which makes for easy navigation, the city has a lot to offer including excellent shopping, eating out, entertainment, culture, leisure and sport all within easy reach of the city centre.

Being as it is in the heart of Perthshire, Perth also makes for a great base from which to explore the surrounding countryside and attractions. Situated, as it is in the centre of Scotland it remains a major transport hub for journeys by car and rail throughout the rest of Scotland.

There is also a small airport; This is located at New Scone, 7 km north east of the city. There are no commercial flights in or out of this airport, instead the focus is on private flights and flying lessons.

There are a number of popular architectural and historical attractions throughout the city and the surrounding countryside, most notably Scone Palace and St. John’s Kirk. The regimental Black Watch also has their base here on Dunkeld Road and their museum is located inside Balhousie Castle.

Of the surrounding hills, Kinnoull Hill and Craigie Hill, feature some spectacular forest walks and some great views of the city.

Also within a short distance of the city you can find Huntingtower Castle, which is open all year round and Elcho Castle, which is open during the summer months. Both of these historic buildings are excellent examples of late medieval Scottish tower-houses and very popular venues for weddings.

There may be a wealth of historical attractions in the area but this is also a modern city.

‘The Perth Festival of the Arts’ is an annual presentation of art, theatre, opera and classical music throughout the city. The festival is held in May and generally lasts for a couple of weeks. In more recent years, the festival has broadened its appeal by adding comedy and popular music acts to the entertainment.

The recently opened state of the art Horsecross concert hall cost around 20 million and it presents entertainment in various forms including theatre, music and comedy.

Perth is the perfect place for a special day out or stay. Walking around the city is a joy. As a consistent ‘Britain in Bloom’ winner the city’s streets and public gardens are filled with colour from Easter to Autumn.

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Scotland is an incredibly beautiful country, which is rich in both history and culture. If you are planning to travel through Scotland in the near future there are plenty of things that you should put on your itinerary. Charming villages, monster myths and world famous castles are just the beginning of what Scotland has to offer. Whether you are traveling solo or with a group, Scotland has something for everyone. As an added bonus, the train system is Scotland is very convenient and reliable. Take advantage of the mass transit, it may take a little more time, but you will save tons of money and meet really interesting people.

For either the history buff or wannabe princess in your group, check out some of Scotland’s many famous castles. Palace of Holyroodhouse which has a rich history and a humble beginning, founded as a monastery in 1128. This was also the home of Mary Queen of Scots for a short period in the mid sixteenth century. If you are looking for a fairy-tale take in Crathes Castle which has everything that is expected of a castle including a turrets and walled garden. And of course Edinburgh Castle which has been home to numerous Scottish Kings and Queens. This is where the Scottish crown jewels are housed. Be sure to take in some of the most breathtaking view of the city from the Castle. If your travel plans only allow you to visit one castle, make it this one.

If you are more interested in Cathedrals and Abby’s than Scotland is sure to please. Include Glasgow Cathedral in your travel plans though Glasgow. There is little doubt that this medieval cathedral will not only please the history buffs in your family, but everyone. For the freemason in your group or for anyone who has read The Da Vinci Code, The Rosslyn Chapel is a must see. If the sorted history and myths that surrounds the chapel are not enough to excite you, the architecture should be more than enough to lure you. Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit Loch Ness. Not only will you be able to visit a charming town, but you may even catch a glimpse of Nessie. If you have a couple of shoppers in travel your travel group, plan a couple of days in the capital city of Edinburgh. With world class shopping and eatery’s it is a great place to wrap up your perfect Scotland vacation.

With a little planning you will be able to make your trip to Scotland, the vacation of a lifetime.

This article was written by Sean Revell

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This article was written on behalf of Turnberry Holiday Park, Caravans for Sale Scotland and Static Caravans Scotland

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This is one of those vacations that has “plan ahead” written all over it, and then we will stress it on your mind again, “plan ahead”. With that said let’s get into to fun part, planning the trip of this historic dream vacation. This is where it all started, The Links Trust maintains six courses and golf has been played her since 1547, imagine the thrill of playing any of these courses.

The busiest time of the year to visit Scotland is the summer and it is also the time of year that you can hit the best weather, now that doesn’t say good weather, just the chances for the best weather. Scotland has the reputation for having the worst golfing climates in Europe. The least crowded months of the year are May or September, however, no matter when you go be sure and pack weather appropriate attire - waterproof, windproof and lots of layers.

Now let’s get back to the “plan ahead” suggestion, some courses you need to reserve tee time 18 months ahead of time, of course this does depend on the time of the year. But be prepared for the need to book a good amount of time ahead, this is not a last minute idea, of lets jet off to Scotland to golf this weekend. Plan on a two week vacation at least, to take in a good amount of the golf courses and the traveling to them, you will definitely need a car.

Do your homework on the course, past and future championships, famous moments and amusing anecdotes. Just incase you need to charm you way into a better tee time or to converse with the locals to make your vacation more fun.

Carts are not allowed on the course except for the disabled, so it is suggested you hire a caddy and most of the courses have a minimum-handicap requirement so keep these things in mind when you book your tee time.

Also there are some other Scotland golfing restriction one being that playing the Old Course is considered a privilege and tee times are booked many months in advance and assigned by ballot AND you are required to play at lease one of the other courses first, so like we said “plan ahead”.

This is definitely a golfers dream vacation and if you take anyone along on this vacation they should definitely love golf and be good at it.

This maybe a trip you would like some personal assistance with and a Personal Travel Website would just be the place to do that, you can have personal contact with an actual person.

About the Author

Dale and Bernice have enjoyed extensive travel and on one of their trips said to each other, we should do this for a living. With that said, they are now operating a travel website. They offer full personalized service online 24/7 at b.montz@comcast.net . Let them be your Vacation Specialist Dale and Bernice Travel YTB<a> Dale and Bernice Montz

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It is summer time and for me there is nothing better than loading up the car with my camping gear and heading to a beautiful location,  where I can escape the rat race and for me there is no better county  to go camping  in than Scotland.

For me I like to camp in places which offer outstanding natural beauty and I must stay in  a camp site which has first rate facilities. I’m not one of those back to basics campers that will pitch their tent in the middle of nowhere and dig a hole to use as a toilet. NO THANKS, when you have a family on tow that is just too complicated. I love heading out into the beautiful Scottish countryside to enjoy the natural beauty that my country provides.

I just cant stand those back to basics camp sites which have second rate facilities, as much as I enjoyed the Carry on Camping film, I don’t want to be part of it. I’m living in the 21st century and I demand up to date facilities when I go camping.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and has 100’s of campsites which are situated in beautiful locations, sadly many of them are stuck in the dark ages and the toilet, shower and laundry facilities are a disgrace, I wouldn’t let my dog use many of them, let alone my family!

Here are 5 of my personal Favorite Scottish Camping Locations, which I fell in love with:

1. Grantown on Spey Caravan Park, Seafield Avenue, Grantown on Spey, Highlands, Scotland: A campsite set in a great location, surrounded by wonderful scenery, great toilet and shower facilities. The icing on the cake is that there is only a short walk into the town.

2. Milarrochy Bay Caravan & Campsite, Balmaha, Near Drymen, Glasgow, Scotland: An amazing location on the east shores of Loch Lomond, excellent toilet and shower facilities, great walks and a small beach to relax at. There is only a short walk to Balmaha if you want to escape the camp site.

3. Ballater Caravan Park, Anderson Road Ballater, Aberdeenshire, Scotland: Modern facilities, level pitches and a great location on the outskirts of village with a short walk of 300m to shops, hotels and services.

4. Auchnahillin Caravan Camping Park, Daviot EastInverness-shire, Scotland: Great location, excellent kitchen and shower facilities, a great base for exploring the Highlands.

5. Faichemard Farm Caravan and Camping Site, Invergarry,Highland, Scotland: EXCLUSIVELY FOR ADULTS (18+) site, great if you want a child free camping experience, the facilities are maybe not the most modern in the world, but they are adequate.If you want peace and quiet, fresh air and beautiful surroundings this is the place be.

Camping is a great way for a family, or a couple to bond and spend some quality time together, having fun and enjoying themselves. Pack up your camping gear and go and explore the natural beauty that Scotland has to offer. Camping in Scotland is a fun filled adventure which will enhance your life.

If anybody knows of any more high quality Scottish Camping sites let me know, they must be in an area of outstanding natural beauty and have fantastic facilities?

Further Reading:

1. 10 Must Visit Places In Scotland That Everyone Should Visit

2. 5 Not Quite so Well known, Scottish Places, You Must Visit!

3. 5 Amazing Scottish Beaches That You Must Visit!

4. 11 Amazing Historic Scottish Sites That You Must Visit

5. Great Edinburgh Pubs for Chilling out and Relaxing In

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Scotland is a country which offers travelers, tourists, holiday makers or whatever term you want to use, an abundance of wonderful places to visit. Some places are better known and more  popular than others and as result attract all the attention.

The five not so well known Scottish places, which  I have listed are maybe not well known, but they are all fantastic places, which are worthy of your attention, effort and time.

Nigg Bay & The Balnagask Headland: Aberdeen, a 2.5km walk around Aberdeen’s Balnagask headland gives an insight into the processes that formed the coastal landscape. With breathtaking views, the area is also abundant in a variety of wildlife.

You will take in spectacular views of Aberdeen harbour, lighthouses, an old fort, and rugged coastline, a pretty shingle beach and much more. At the Balnagask end there is a nice wee pub overlooking the harbour, waiting for you to quench your thirst.

Burn O ‘Vat: Near Dinnet, Aberdeenshire, Situated on low-lying ground, Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve (NNR) consists of extensive Birchwood, wetlands and heather moor. In its centre are two large lochs, Davan and Kinord, which provide a winter home for thousands of geese. To the west, you can find the hidden Vat, a spectacular geological feature famed for concealing the 18th Century outlaw, Gilderoy Macgregor.

There are many fine circular walks through the NNR, passing by such features as abandoned settlements and an ancient Celtic cross. There is an excellent visitor centre at the Burn O’Vat, to help you make the most of your visit.

Craigievar Castle: 6 miles south of Alford. This is an almost fairytale like looking castle which exemplifies Scottish baronial architecture. This great tower stands much like it did when it was built in 1626 by William Forbes.

Craigievar Castle is one of the best preserved tower houses in Scotland and is a great castle to visit and to take the tour of.

Cruden Bay Beach: Cruden Bay, a beautiful 2 mile arc of pink sands that form the bay of Cruden. Access to the superb beach is via a white wooden foot bridge, across the water of Cruden.

There is so much more to Cruden Bay than just the beach, it is a pretty enough village, with a golf course ranked in the top 100 in the world, the internationally know castle Slains Castle, which provided Bram Stoker with the inspiration to write Dracula is a short distance away.

Loch Muick: Lochnagar, This is a very popular walk round Loch Muick, in the shadow of Lochnagar. It is in an area where it is quite common to see large wild red deer.

Most of the walk is on fairly flat ground and part of it may be suitable for the disabled.It follows a route close to the Loch side with good views of the hills all around. After reaching a royal lodge there is a short wooded section. The walk then continues round the western end of the loch and goes past a sandy beach and a cascading stream, before rising slightly on the south-eastern side as it makes its way back to the start.

For those of you that are visiting Scotland and in particular using the Granite City Aberdeen as a holiday base, each of these great places are within about an hour’s drive of Aberdeen.  For those of you thinking about or are heading to Aberdeen, here is my must read article,  Aberdeen, Why Not Visit the Granite City?

I don’t think any country in the world can match Scotland for natural beauty, history and unpredictable weather, but for the truly adventurous that is one of the joys of travel.

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Scotland is a Country of outstanding natural beauty; it has amazing hills, mountains, rivers and countryside that will quite literally take your breath away. It has also got an amazing number of beautiful beaches that in my opinion will equal anything in the world.

Admittedly in Scotland we don’t get the regular warm and sunny weather that many other countries receive. But never the less they are still fantastic beaches where you can have a fantastic time, no matter what the weather is like, as long as it isn’t raining!

For me beaches aren’t just for lazing around in the sun, getting a sun tan or sunburnt! I find them great places for relaxing, just sitting watching the waves, or going for walks, or even indulging in more strenuous activities such as beach games with the kid!

I have put together a list of 5 of my favourite beaches in Scotland:

Balmedie Beach: Balmedie, near Aberdeen. A huge expanse of beautiful golden sands and sand dunes, which stretches for over 23km.

Lunan Bay: Montrose: Is a broad east facing 10km beach of beautiful sand backed by dunes and framed by cliffs to the North and South.

Sanna Bay: Sanna, The Ardnamurchan Peninsula. Located at the most westerly point of Great Britain, it is one of the most isolated beaches in Britain with amazing white sands, dunes and rocks which will truly captivate anybody.

Sandwood Bay: Blairmore, Sutherland. One of Scotland’s best beaches, what makes it even more special is that you have to walk over an hour to reach it, an amazing stretch o 1.6km of golden sands and dunes, there is also an impressive sea stack called Am Buchaille

Scarista Beach: Harris, Western Isles. A fantastic stretch of fine golden sands, which stretches for almost 10km and it never, gets