The Beauty of Scotland
With travel restrictions now lifted, many of us are still choosing a staycation in Scotland. What’s more, with a surge in people taking on a dog over since the start of the pandemic, lots of new pet owners have chosen a holiday that the whole family – pets included – can go on!
The beaches here in Scotland are some of the most beautiful in the world – they are unspoilt and within easy access to bars and restaurants full of local fare. In fact the beaches in Harris have been voted among the best in the world for 2022. There are a range of parks, castles and local attractions to give the whole family a holiday to enjoy. So, whether you like walking, sightseeing, wildlife watching or simply relaxing against a backdrop of stunning scenery, these are some of the best holiday destinations Scotland has to offer. There are many more but these should give you a flavour of the wonderful country we live in.
Islay
This is a beautiful island and home to no less than eight whisky distilleries! The island is vast and open and offers exceptional beaches, wildlife and hospitality. There are plenty of B&Bs, holiday homes and guest houses to choose from with the Port Charlotte Hotel or the Old Excise House.
The Moray Coast has an incredible array of marine life and you can take a horuse ride at Machrie Bay. Portnahaven is a must and An Tigh Seinne serves hot pub food and you can even watch the seals in the harbour.
Arisaig and the Road to the Isles
You could spend a whole week here and never get bored! This village is one of Scotland’s most inviting and interesting places, with views out towards Eigg, Muck and Rum. You can take a boat trip from the Marine for the day and one of the most iconic landmarks, the Gelnfinnan Monument is at the head of Loch Shiel where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised the standard in 1745. You can also see The Jacobite steam train that takes you to Mallaig, which is also worth a visit. However, an absolute must is a day at the Silver Sands of Morar, a stunning beach that is other worldly.
Stirling
Stirling is so entrenched in history but because it’s not on the coast, it’s often overlooked as a holiday destination. With its cobbled, winding streets of the old town you will really experience the historic attraction of the city. Stirling Castle is high up over the city on dramatic volcanic rock. You can also visit the many farm parks and attractions aimed at children, and the National Wallace Monument is well worth a visit.
Loch Lomond and Trossachs
Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park feature many small, pretty towns such as Aberfoyle and Callendar located amongst lochs, mountains and forests. You can leave the car and go on some incredible walks and cycle rides. Explore The Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and you can spend a wonderful afternoon at the Sir Walter Scott steamship on Loch Katrine.
The bonnie banks of Loch Lomond is something to behold – there really is so much to see and do with water sports all along the coast, boat trips and beautiful inns and pubs to while away the afternoon. For a special treat head up to Cameron House.
The Moray Coastal Trail
The sun shines here more than anywhere else in Scotland and with warmer temperatures and long sandy beaches it has become a popular holiday destination. In fact, the National Geographic named the coastal stretch between Inverness and Peterhead as one of the best in the world. Take a trip to Burghead Bay, a beautiful curved bay stretching 11 miles from Findhorn beach to Burghead and discover the many fine spots along the coast. Sailing is a way of life here so there’s nowhere better to do this whilst spotting the vast population of bottlenose dolphins and Minke whales. You can also take a boat tour to Nairn, Troup Head and Hopeman to see them. Hopeman is well known for its brightly painted beach huts – perfect ice cream on the beach!
Outer Hebrides
With its sparkling blue sea and white sand this is a place to rival the Caribbean when the sun is shining. Take a trip on the ferry from Oban to Barra, Uist, Harris and Lewis before sailing back to Ullapool. You can also do a spot of kayaking in Bara and visit Kisimul Castle, the only surviving medieval castle in the area. Luskentyre beach on Harris is famed for its unspoiled beauty.
Clyde Property is a leading independent, multiple award-winning estate and letting agent with more than 30 years’ experience in selling and letting property in Scotland. Just call your local Clyde Property branch today for friendly, impartial advice on finding your next dream home.
