While many jet off to foreign shores when the holiday season rolls around, Lucy McLaren reminds us of the wonder and beauty right here on our doorstep.
Now this may come as a surprise to many but Scotland has been voted one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Yes Scotland has its down sides for example the “dreich” (wet, dull, gloomy, dismal, and dreary or any combination of these) weather and its negative stereotypes. However many Scots fail to acknowledge the beauty Scotland possesses. For example the majority of the world isn’t able to see the Northern Lights in their home country but Scots have that privilege. Scotland is one of the top 10 countries in the world that allows people to have a spectacular view of the Northern Lights, one of several astronomical phenomena called Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) found in both the northern and southern hemispheres that can be truly awe inspiring. Not a lot of people can say that about their home country.
Scotland is known for its incredible lochs however Loch Ness is said to be one of the most stunning. Loch Ness is world renowned for the Loch Ness Monster known as Nessie- a cryptic that reputedly inhabits Loch Ness- but the area is also famous for its beauty and historic sites such as Urquhart Castle and the Caledonian Canal. Loch Ness is the perfect place to stay at a B&B and the town offers a wide range of activities like boat trips, canoeing, fishing and many more!
Another one of Scotland’s best features are the adorable brown furry beasts known as The Highland Cow (or coo) that originate from the country. The highland cattle are famous for their long haired, fuzzy coats which help the cows to cope with the harsh conditions of the Scottish Highlands. The highland cattle inhabit areas of Scotland close to the Arctic Circle meaning that the cattle have adapted to endure the most uncompromising conditions.
Few people know that Scotland has over 790 offshore islands most of which are divided into four main groups: Shetland, Orkney, and the Hebrides, sub-divided into the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides. Only about 100 of them are permanently inhabited which means the remaining islands offer pristine nature, breathtaking views and unique wildlife. The Hebrides, for example, provide breeding grounds for many important seabird species including the world’s largest colony of northern gannets.
To see stunning proof that Britain has not lost its wildness, two hours North West of Glasgow, Glencoe is a haven of windswept, rocky splendor. Glen Coe is probably Scotland’s most famous and most scenic Highland glen – and deservedly so. Visitors from all over the world visit year after year, inspired by the sheer scale and grandeur of its surrounding mountains and fascinated by the intrigue of its turbulent past. Glencoe has much to offer its visitors, both in summer and in winter, and is indeed a glen for all seasons. The area can be seen as paradise for hill walking lovers as well as the more daredevil among us- skiers and snowboarders. Glencoe is Scotland’s original ski centre dating back to 1956, home to Britain’s steepest black run- the Fly Paper.
Indeed the Capital was beaten only by Paris, Florence and Rome in a Rough Guides poll but believe it or not Edinburgh has been voted the fourth most beautiful city in the world. Famed for its excellent annual festival, historical grace and contemporary elegance the city possesses great beauty which many are unaware of. Head east of the city and make the short walk up Arthur’s Seat, an 823ft-high dormant volcano, to take in views of Scotland’s capital and you won’t need to question why it’s been voted the 4th most beautiful city in the world. Dominating the Edinburgh skyline, Edinburgh Castle sits on Castle Rock, an extinct volcanic plug that elevates the formidable fortress high above the rest of the city. The city caters for all tourists as you don’t need to travel far from the City Centre to escape to the beautiful countryside of the Lothian’s. Stroll along Portobello’s pretty beach which is only a stone throw away from the City Centre or head up to Pentland Hills Regional Park.
So if you’re looking for a country known for its beautiful landscape, intriguing myths and a place where you can choose to roam the highlands for a peaceful day out or visit the country’s stunning capital city then Scotland is the place for you.
by LUCY MCLAREN
