Scotland is the perfect place to do a round trip. You have the opportunity to arrange your holiday as you like and have the freedom to stay in one place for as long as you like. In addition, there are many places of interest in Scotland sights. That’s why we recommend renting a campervan and exploring this country in complete freedom. Here are 5 reasons why it’s best to see Scotland from the road.
Quick facts about Scotland:
Scotland is one of the four British countries that make up the United Kingdom. These include Wales, England and Northern Ireland. You will learn more about the capital Edinburgh and the largest city Glasgow later.
Now for the five reasons why you should visit and see Scotland:
1. Amazing landscapes
Scotland is world famous for its stunning landscapes. The best way to visit them is to hire a campervan and stop wherever you feel like it.
There is no way around Loch Lomond & The Trossards National Park. Whether it’s a walk through the nature reserve or a picnic by the water, this area has something for everyone: wild scenery, exciting history as well as great food.
The largest loch in the whole of Scotland is a must on any list of places to visit in Scotland. There are 30 small islands in the lake, which you can navigate by small boat. A special feature of the park is the fault that separates the Scottish Highlands from the Lowlands, which explains the great natural diversity. This region is not called “the Highlands in miniature” for nothing.
2. Castles
You have the option of taking a castle route to visit your own choice of the many castles. Three of them are particularly worth mentioning:
- Sterling Castle is considered one of the most beautiful castles. If you want to visit the Highlands, you can’t get past Sterling Castle. The castle has one of the most exciting stories. In the past, even the Scottish kings lived here.
- Dunnottar Castle is very special: it is situated on a 50-metre-high cliff in the north of Scotland. This castle can only be reached from the mainland via a narrow path with 200 steps. The history of the castle goes back to the Picts in the 5th century.
- Eilean Donan Castle in the western Highlands near the Isle of Skye is about 1.5 hours by car from Fort William. The name translates as “Donan’s Island” and refers to a 6th-century Celtic martyr. What makes it special is that it is located in a valley bottom, making it a small island at high tide, accessible only by a stone bridge.
3 Scottish Alcohol
Whisky is THE Scottish drink. For big fans there is the Malt Whisky Trail in Speyside. It is unique in the world and links 7 active distilleries, the fascinating Speyside cooperage and a historic distillery. Speyside is home to almost half of Scotland’s distilleries and makes the best starting point for a whisky route. There are 5 whisky regions in Scotland.
In addition to whisky, there is also local gin, cider and beer.
As everywhere, the same applies here: If you’ve had alcohol, don’t drive!
4. History of Scotland
Scotland’s bloody history is full of intrigue and battles in the struggle for independence. Its origins date back to the year 400 when a Celtic tribe from Ireland called the Scots settled the west coast and the Hebrides.
Two historic sites in Scotland are not to be missed:
- Melrose Abbey is one of the most famous ruins. In today’s museum, many objects are on display that bears witness to the fierce battles between the Scots and the British.
- Rosslyn Chapel is located near Edinburgh and is considered the most mysterious church in the world. There are mysterious figures and signs everywhere and the Holy Grail and the treasure of the Knights Templar are said to lie here.
5. Edinburgh and Glasgow
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital and offers a great variety of history, culture and architecture. As well as the medieval Old Town with Edinburgh Castle and small alleyways, it is worth visiting Carlton Hill for spectacular views of the city. Everywhere in Edinburgh, you can still feel Scotland’s 1300-year-old history.
Glasgow, on the other hand, is the largest city and is known for its music scene, culture and design. Besides many free museums and art galleries, Glasgow is also home to the Scottish Opera.
Both cities are among the top Scotland sights.
In summary, it is well worth renting a motorhome or campervan and visiting Scotland in all its facets. You have the freedom to explore both nature and culture at your leisure, discover exciting history and enjoy local customs.