Visit Scotland - Land of Bravehearts

Sights that will take your breath away and remain etched on your memory for the rest of your years. Our beautiful hills and glens have been photographed many times, and no wonder when you look at the image shown on the right of Glen Orchy.

However, a holiday should be more than just admiring views, no matter how stunning. There are lots of activities that you can take part in, many of which are featured by activity holidays. These are specifically tailored to allow you to take part in activities such as sailing and yachting, waterskiing, fishing, falconry, mountain biking and many more. Perhaps you want something more relaxing. Then try out photography, watercolour painting, golf tuition, walking and patchwork and quilting.

Aberdeen - aka the "Granite City" and The Dallas of the North"
This is Scotland's oil capital, and is a busy port supplying many of the offshore oil rigs. It is a city with a well known university, lots of museums, public gardens, stunning architecture and wonderful beaches. Add to this a lively nightlife scene and you have the perfect place to spend a short break, or as a stopover on a longer tour of the highlands.

Dundee - aka "The City of Discovery"
Home to the "Discovery", Captain Scott's ship used on his famous polar expedition. Dundee is a city full of ancient history and modern architecture. Why not visit the Dundee Rep Theatre and then on to the DCA (Dundee Contemporary Arts) for an after theatre cocktail. Afterwards, visit Dundee's cultural quarter full of bars and galleries.

Edinburgh - aka "The Capital City"
Home to the Castle, the Scottish Parliament, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the best Hogmanay Party in the world. Edinburgh also has more than its fair share of museums, art galleries, theatres and historic buildings. With direct flights to many worldwide destinations, and an excellent rail link with London, getting to Edinburgh could not be any easier. The city also has some of the world's premier hotels, and many bed and breakfast establishments, which make it an ideal place to stay when visiting Scotland.

Glasgow - aka "The City of Culture"
Glasgow is now the UK's top shopping destination after London, with stores such as Ralph Lauren, Armani and Boss to name but a few. There are many museums, art galleries and theatres to visit. Also boasting an international airport and excellent rail links, Glasgow is an excellent jump off point when touring the highlands.

Inverness - aka "The Highland City"
Whatever else you do here (and there's plenty to occupy you), go to Loch Ness and see if you can bag a monster. After a busy day chasing "Nessie", head into the city to enjoy yourself. There are plenty of excellent restaurants to enjoy, as well as museums, theatres and galleries. If you are a lover of snow, there are plenty of opportunities to take part in skiing and snowboarding.

Stirling - aka "Braveheart"
A visit to the Wallace Monument is a must for all visitors. Here you will learn the real truth behind one of Scotland's greatest heroes. Then go onto the castle to learn more about our history. Visit the many museums, galleries and theatres and don't forget a trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park.

Whisky
Of course, I have to mention the "water of life" or uisge-beatha as we say in the Gaelic. There are many variations of whisky produced in Scotland, and it is important to remember that Scotch whisky is a legally defined term. There are 5 categories of whisky,
1. Single malt
2. Single grain
3. Blended
4. Blended malt
5. Blended grain.
What one is best is a matter of personal taste, but my favourite and the one I highly recommend, is the single malt. There's no finer treat than to relax with a dram of Glenmorangie, Glenfiddich or a Balvenie. Glenmorangie is a Highland malt whilst the other two are Speyside malts. I've never came across a malt that I didn't like, but these three are definitely my favourites.
Golf
Scotland is the birthplace of golf and has some of the best courses in the world. Golf started in the Kingdom of Fife in the 15th century and rapidly became a national game. This is a game played by royalty throughout our long history. King Charles the first introduced the game to England and Mary, Queen of Scots, took the game to France. It is here that the term caddie came from after the Queen's assistants on the course who were French soldiers known as cadets.
There are some 550 golf courses in Scotland, more than enough to keep any golfer happy. Some of these courses are world famous and include Carnoustie, Turnberry, Royal Troon and of course St Andrews.