Imagine going on a summer vacation to Scotland, where you may see historical sites, learn about myths, travel through breathtaking scenery, and interact with the welcoming natives. With a summer vacation to Scotland, you may anticipate all of this and more. Discover Scotland’s top attractions as you continue reading.
1. Isle of Skye
You might already have this at the top of your list of things to do. It is definitely worthwhile to explore the famous Isle of Skye with its untamed mountain peaks, lunar vistas, and stunning coastlines. Here, you may go on hikes to impressive rock formations, have mouthwatering fresh seafood, gaze at waterfalls, and try to locate local wildlife.
Because there are fewer visitors during the shoulder seasons, it is a particularly good one to visit.
2. Fort William
You might want to travel to Fort William in Lochaber in the west if you enjoy hiking. The “Outdoor Capital of the UK” is this Highland town.
Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in Scotland (as well as the UK), sits tucked beneath Fort William. You can engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits here, including kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and more.
3. The Hermitage
You could go on nature walks in the Perthshire region if you are unable to travel very far north. Try taking a stroll around the green Hermitage, a National Trust for Scotland-protected location close to Dunkeld.
The forest was initially planned in the 18th century as a hunting preserve for the Dukes of Atholl. The region is home to some of the largest Douglas fir trees in the UK.
4. Loch Ness
In the summer, the famous Loch Ness makes a nice pit stop. The Loch Ness monster, sometimes known as Nessie, calls this lovely “lake” home.
However, myths aside, Loch Ness is a stunning natural attraction that you can visit on foot along its shores or by boat. Alternatively, you may go see the Urquhart Castle ruins.
5. Stirling
Stirling and the surrounding area are referred to as the “Gateway to the Highlands” due to their convenient location halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Visit the city and its breathtaking surroundings for a combined experience of the cultural highlights and landscape of the Lowlands and Highlands.
The hilltop Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most popular historical landmarks, is located here. You might also visit the adjacent Doune Castle, which has been depicted in a number of movies and television shows like Outlander.
6. Edinburgh
And last but not least is Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. It is worthwhile to visit whether you are passing through on a city break or at the start or finish of your vacation.
Locals claim that the city doubles in size during the summer as people from all over the world come to the capital’s numerous festivals to perform and have fun. Whether or whether that assertion is accurate, you may treat yourself to one (or more) of the 3,000 performances that are presented by festivals throughout the city in August.
7. Scotland’s summertime festivities and events
Scotland’s natural beauty is what makes it so lovely, but there are also many Scottish festivals and events to attend all summer long. With some more traditional festivals held in the Highlands and islands, events are primarily centered around Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Festivals feature a variety of subjects and creative mediums, including bagpipes, literature, theater, and whisky. Alternately, you can view contemporary art, upcoming comedians, and recently released movies. The largest Highland Games in the globe is also an option to see.
Here is a quick summary of the festivals and events taking place throughout Scotland:
- TradFest, Edinburgh: April-May
- Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, Speyside: May
- Royal Highland Show, Edinburgh: June
- Edinburgh International Film Festival, Edinburgh: June
- Hebridean Celtic Festival, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis: July
- Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh: August
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh: August
- The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh: August
- Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh: August
- World Pipe Band Championships, Glasgow: August
- Cowal Highland Gathering, Dunoon, Argyll: August
