Despite the fact that parts of Scotland are located near the Arctic Circle and the country is subsequently known for its’ frigid winter temperatures, there are plenty of excellent reasons to visit during the warmer portions of the year. The reasons listed below are only a few reasons to consider stopping by on your next vacation.
Wildlife: Because the country is home to numerous kinds of flora and fauna, travelers can easily witness dolphins and whales playing near shore. Those with a bit of cash to spare can also take a boat ride out to see the puffin colonies on some of the uninhabited islands. Rannoch Moor is likewise a good place to go if you’re hoping to spot land animals such as eagles, mountain goats, and deer instead. However, you might even be one of the rare folks to catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness monster, Nessie, or her sister Morag, who happens to inhabit another Scottish loch.
Scenery: Although the landscape here often exists in people’s minds as a bleak, grey place, Scotland is photogenic enough that most pictures of the country speak for themselves. The island of Skye is particularly well-known for its natural beauty as is the area surrounding the Loch Ness. Fingal’s Cave on Staffa Island is another interesting spot but the hexagonal basalt columns found there are present in other places on the isle. Those that don’t enjoy hiking should instead try riding the Jacobite Express on the West Highland Line, which cuts through some breathtaking parts of the countryside and will be recognizable to Harry Potter fans as the route taken by the Hogwarts Express.
Festivals: The country of Scotland is particularly well known for its lavish festivals. Theatre and music lovers will certainly enjoy the three week long Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August while pyromaniacs might be more interested in the Viking style party, Up Helly Aa, which takes place in Lerwick during the month of January. The New Year’s festival, Hogmany, is also a very popular event. Travelers who are visiting during the summer might additionally be able to catch some of the Highland Game activities that take place in various spots around the country. These events typically range from in nature from Scottish sports like hammer throwing to competitions featuring traditional styles of dance.
Happy Travels!
Sources: EarthPorm; Insider’s Scotland; My Guide Britain; Up Helly Aa