So, you have a spare weekend free and you fancy going somewhere for a little mini-break. Do you choose somewhere on the south coast, where there is the best chance of sunshine? Do you opt for a theme park resort, where you and the kids can go wild? Or would you prefer to head somewhere where you can see things you’ve never seen before, and appreciate natural beauty at its best? If the third one sounds like your idea of a perfect weekend, consider Scotland. It has something for everyone, from bustling cities to sleepy villages and everything inbetween. Take a look at these five places that you should add to your Scottish itinerary, and let the bonnie adventure begin!
Edinburgh
Its capital city is a great place to start. Spend a day exploring the history, architecture and culture and enjoy an evening sampling the nightlife, the food and the live entertainment. Edinburgh Castle is a must if you’d like to immerse yourself in the history of the city, while a leisurely hike to Arthur’s Seat would reward you with incredible panoramic views. If you’re travelling in August, don’t forget that the Edinburgh Fringe will be in full swing, so if you’re booking into a Travelodge in Edinburgh, make sure you book in advance so that you don’t risk missing out on a room.
Loch Lomond
As the largest lake in the country, Loch Lomond attracts hoards of holidaymakers looking for the perfect spot to relax in. Whether you choose to stay here for a day, or more, a little piece of tranquillity can go a long way. It can be found in the heart of the Trossachs National Park and is a picture of serenity.
Oban
If you like your seafood, Oban is the place to be. This Highland town is home to some of the best seafood in the UK and is often considered to be the seafood capital of Scotland. Not only that, but the views are spectacular, and it’s also the base point if you’re hoping to head over to the Inner and Outer Hebrides.
Glasgow
While Glasgow and Edinburgh are two of the densest urban centres in the UK, their characters are very different, which is why it would be worth seeing both if you have the time. Glasgow has been transformed over recent years, and its culture nowadays is second to none; as are the shopping opportunities!
The Islands
If you have the time, the Scottish islands, such as Skye, Mull, Iona and Orkney, all have something to offer the habitual tourist. Orkney and Shetland have a rich Norse heritage to explore, while Skye is one of the most visited islands but still well worth a look. Mull is peaceful and beautiful, and home to Tobermory that is the sort of village that adorns picture-perfect postcards.
Wherever you choose to add to your Scottish itinerary, you’ll come away wishing for more. There’s so much to see and do across the country – you’ll need a return visit to tick everything off your to-do list!
Made possible by Travelodge.
We love Scotland and have a holiday home over on the Isle of Arran right on the beach! We have been to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Loch Lomond and Oban so that we have visited all five! And I agree with you – all five are fab!