Get Ready For Epic Adventures In Scotland!
Located in the northern part of the UK, Scotland is a captivating and buzzing country known for numerous things. When you think of Scotland, haggis, tartan, scotch whiskey, bagpipes and kilts should come to mind. Aside from that, Scotland also boasts stunning picturesque landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty.
There are many STUNNING locations to visit within Scotland. In this blog, I’ve chosen six destinations for you to explore. If you want to spend a few weeks exploring Scotland, check out the North Coast 500 route, an unforgettable route with scenic views and the perfect wind-down relaxation getaway. Just WOW, what a route.
If you are looking to take a solo trip but are unsure where to start, the Female Solo Travel Ebook covers all the info you need to have an epic solo adventure!
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Lingo & Currency In Scotland
Language: The official language is English; however, Scotland also has its own language, Scots. Additionally, Scotland has a rich Gaelic heritage. A small percentage of people speak Scottish Gaelic, but it is still taught in some schools and cultural centres.
Monies: Scotland uses the Great British Pound (GBP) like England. So, there is no need to swap your cash! While the pound is the official currency, Scotland has its own banknotes issued by three Scottish banks: Royal Bank of Scotland, Bank of Scotland, and Clydesdale Bank.
Edinburgh: Kilts & Castles
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a vibrant city known for its captivating blend of medieval charm and modern touches. Standing proudly atop an extinct volcano overlooking the city is Edinburgh Castle, an iconic skyline.
Edinburgh is like no other, with its cobbled streets, ancient landmarks, and impressive architecture reflecting its history. Beyond its historic appeal, Edinburgh offers an impressive cultural scene with world-class festivals, theatres, galleries and an overly buzzing nightlife.
Inside the National Museum of Scotland
Finding Your Edinburgh Sanctuary
Old Town. The Old Town is a popular area as it’s the heart of Edinburgh and home to Edinburgh Castle and other great landmarks. Staying in this location allows you to access major attractions, which are all within walking distance. You’ll find boutique hotels and apartments to choose from.
New Town. This location is also a great choice as it boasts elegant architecture, spacious squares, and a wealth of stylish shops, restaurants, and cafes. Contrary to its name, ‘New Town,’ it’s a well-preserved Georgian area dating back to the 18th century. This is a great location if you’re looking for a more sophisticated stay, with plenty of hotels available.
Stockbridge. Staying in Stockbridge offers a charming, trendy neighbourhood known for its bohemian vibe, independent shops, and artisanal food markets. Stockbridge is a quieter location in which to stay. Although quiet, it’s perfect for those who want a local experience and a good location as it’s still within walking distance of the city centre. A range of accomodation options are available, from boutique hotels to guesthouses.
Leith. Located near the waterfront, Leith offers a trendy and upbeat environment in which to hang out. The atmosphere is electric and perfect for those who are all about the vibes. It boasts various restaurants, bars and galleries and is an excellent choice for foodies and those interested in contemporary arts. You can find beautiful hotels with waterfront views here.
My Hotel Picks:
Castle, Views & Hopping Around: Things To Do In Edinburgh
Glasgow: Green City, Great Fun!
Glasgow isn’t your average city. This vibrant metropolis is where history meets hipsters, and tradition gets a modern makeover. It’s Scotland’s biggest and boldest, with a fascinating past whispering from its grand Victorian buildings and iconic landmarks.
But Glasgow isn’t stuck in the past! This city is a powerhouse of contemporary art, electrifying music, and a cultural scene that bursts with creativity. No wonder it’s a top pick for travellers – especially solo adventurers!
View of the Glasgow Cathedral
Spoilt For Choice For Stays In Glasgow
City Centre. Staying in the city centre puts you in the heart of the action and bustling streets. You can enjoy the vibrant urban atmosphere here. It’s great if you prefer easy walking access to amenities, shopping centres, nightlife activities and attractions. You’ll be close to major attractions like the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. There are hotels, serviced apartments, and boutique lodgings to choose from.
West End. This location boasts beautiful green spaces and is home to the University of Glasgow, bringing a lively, youthful atmosphere. It’s a trendy and bohemian neighbourhood known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and bustling cafes. Many accommodation options here include upscale hotels, guesthouses, and stylish apartments.
Merchant City. For an artsy and cultural scene, consider staying in Merchant City, an area with plenty of galleries, theatres, and music venues. This city has a mix of historic buildings and modern developments, making it an excellent choice for travellers interested in cultural experiences. You’ll be close to attractions like the Glasgow City Chambers. There are stylish apartments and modern hotels to choose from.
My Hotel Picks:
Glasgow’s Must-See’s
Aberdeen: The Real Special Location
Aberdeen, known as the ‘Granite City’ of Scotland, is where timeless history meets coastal beauty and vibrant energy. It’s known for its striking grey buildings that sparkle in the sunlight. As you wander in its historic street, you’ll uncover a treasure of medieval landmarks.
On the other hand, Aberdeen also boasts sandy beaches, picturesque coastlines and lush green parks. Aberdeen is a popular location among visitors as it provides many things to explore and is suitable for all preferences.
Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeen
Finding Your Perfect Aberdeen Stay
City Centre. Staying in the city centre allows convenient access to many main attractions and amenities. It’s a perfect location for those who want to explore historic sites and experience Aberdeen’s vibrant cultural urban atmosphere of Aberdeen. You’ll be close to landmarks like Union Street and Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This central location has hotels, serviced apartments, and boutique lodgings.
Aberdeen Beach. This is an excellent place if you prefer coastal scenery. You can enjoy easy access to the sandy beach, the lively Beach Boulevard with its restaurants and cafes, and the nearby amusement park, Codona’s. You’ll find great places for glamping.
West End. West End is the perfect location if you prefer the finer things in life. It is a stylish and trendy neighbourhood known for its elegant architecture, boutique shops, and chic dining options, which give it an upscale and sophisticated vibe. Of course, expect to find upscale hotels in this location.
Rosemount. For a more relaxed environment, a residential area with a village-like feel, Rosemount is a great choice. Charming streets, independent shops, cafes, and restaurants characterize it. You’ll find a range of apartments here.
My Hotel Picks:
Aberdeen’s Top Adventures
Stirling: The Land Of Scenic Views
Stirling is a historic city in central Scotland. It’s known for its rich heritage and picturesque surroundings. The Stirling Castle is perched on a volcanic crag with breathtaking views.
Visitors typically enjoy Stirling for its various characteristics, including its charming architecture, cobbly streets, picturesque landscapes, and alluring atmosphere. It also hosts a vibrant cultural scene, festivals, events, and local arts, a great place for entertainment and exploration.
Dramatic drone aerial view of the Stirling Castle during the sunset
Finding Your Stirling Sleep Spot
Stirling City Centre. The city centre is within walking distance of historic landmarks and attractions such as Stirling Castle and the Old Town Jail. It is also conveniently located near various restaurants, shops, cafes, and cultural venues. This location has many great places to stay, including hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs.
River Forth. This location is perfect if you prefer a more tranquil setting or being close to the city’s outskirts. It provides a peaceful environment and within easy access to the city centre. Here, you’ll find some accommodation with scenic views of Stirling Castle and surrounding areas.
Bridge of Allen. The Bridge of Allen area is a charming suburb of Stirling and a short distance from the city centre. It offers a quieter, more residential atmosphere. It’s known for its Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and Allan Water River. There are hotels and guesthouses in the Bridge of Allan that provide a peaceful retreat while still being close to Stirling’s amenities.
My Hotel Picks:
Explore In Stirling
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
Monster Hunting In Inverness & Loch Ness
Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highland, is a charming and historic city renowned for its picturesque setting at the mouth of Loch Ness and the scenic Moray Firth. Seamlessly, Inverness intertwines the old and the new, resulting in a mix of medieval architecture, modern amenities, and vibrant cultural experiences.
The iconic lake, Loch Ness, is located near Inverness. You may have heard of Loch Ness for its legendary and elusive inhabitant, the Loch Ness Monster, aka ‘Nessie’. The lake’s mystique and captivating beauty draw visitors from across the globe. It provides a deep, serene backdrop of dark waters, rolling hills, and breathtaking scenery.
As the central cultural hub, Inverness is a great place to start your journey. It also hosts various events, festivals, and traditional music gatherings. With many things to see and do, Inverness is a must-see destination.
Urquhart Castle with Loch Ness in the Background
Stays In Inverness
Inverness City Center. Staying in the city centre of Inverness puts you within walking distance of Inverness Castle and the River Ness. It’s conveniently located beside many restaurants and shops and is a vibrant location for those looking to be in the heart of the action. You can choose from various hotels, guesthouses, and apartments in this area.
Riverside. The Riverside is perfect if you are searching for a quieter location in Inverness. It is a tranquil setting within walking distance of the city centre. Accommodations here offer some of the best views alongside the River Ness.
Culloden & East. Another great location for good accommodation is the Culloden and East area. It’s situated by the Culloden Battlefield, where the Battle of Culloden took place, and is a popular, quieter area to stay whilst still being close to the centre of Inverness. There are hotels and lodges to choose from here.
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Stays In Loch Ness
Drumnadrochit. Located on the western shores of Loch Ness, Drumnadrochit is one of the most popular places for visitors. It offers a range of accommodations, including B&Bs, lodges and hotels. From Drumnadrochit, you can easily access the main attractions and amenities.
Fort Augustus. Situated at the southernmost tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus offers a great selection of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering options. The village is known for its picturesque canals and regularly offers boat tours of Loch Ness.
Foyers. For a quieter stay, stay in Foyers, as it offers a more secluded experience. It’s a small village offering accommodation with stunning views of Loch Ness and its surroundings.
My Hotel Picks:
Must-See Attractions In Inverness & Loch Ness
Waterfront Wonders In Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond, located in the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, is the largest freshwater lake in Great Britain. It’s renowned for its stunning beauty and recreational outdoor activities.
Loch Lomond invites visitors to explore its tranquil shores, embark on leisurely boat trips, and partake in various water activities. Enjoy soaking up amazing landscapes that have inspired poets and artists for generations.
Panoramic aerial view of islands on Loch Lomond in Scotland
Waterfront Views Of Country Charms
Balloch. One of the more popular locations to stay in Loch Lomond is Balloch. It offers a bustling atmosphere and many accommodating options, including hotels, guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. Located on the southern tip of Loch Lomond, it’s a convenient base for exploring popular attractions such as Balloch Castle and is close to many amenities.
Luss. Luss is a popular picturesque location on the western shore of Loch Lomond. It is known for its traditional Scottish charms, well-preserved cottages, and stunning views. It’s a great destination for those seeking a quieter relaxation, with many nearby water sports available. Accommodation options in this part of Loch Lomond include cosy guesthouses and bed and breakfasts.
Tarbert. Tarbert is a great place for hiking and boat trips. It’s also good for the Arrochar Alps, a great starting point for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you’ll be welcomed into the village, with many cool accommodation choices to pick from and many like-minded people to explore with.
Rowardennan Or Balmaha. Another great hiking spot area to stay in is Rowardennan or Balmaha. Both offer great accommodations in a relaxed environment and beautiful views in stunning villages. From Rowardennan, you can access trail access up to Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. From Balmaha, you can access trail access up to the West Highland Way and Conic Hill. You’ll find a variety of guesthouses and cottages in this area of Loch Lomond.
My Hotel Picks:
Loch Lomond’s Top Adventures
That’s A Wrap!
Scotland is a beautiful destination; with plenty to explore, you’ll have options. Scotland has it all, whether you search for relaxation, hiking, sightseeing, or an epic jammed-packed itinerary. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go live your best life, girl.
Looking for places to see in England? Check out The Best 8 Cities to Visit in England.
