Scotlands scenery is as varied as it is beautiful. Rugged mountain peaks sweep down to breathtaking lochs glistening in remote glens like Glen Affric near Inverness and Loch Trool in Galloway. A straggling coastline, with white sandy beaches, sheltered bays and rocky cliffs looks out to the remote islands of the Atlantic. To the south, the rolling hills of the Borders, lush lowland pastures and extensive woodlands present a softer beauty.
Scotlands capital, Edinburgh, is among the outstanding cities of the world, where the Medieval Old Town contrasts with the elegant Georgian New Town. Other towns, notably Glasgow, display a wealth of Victorian architecture. Everywhere youll find ancient castles and houses, prehistoric forts, stone circles and burial mounds, particularly at the Neolithic Heart of Orkney, Scotlands latest World Heritage Site.
Scotlands rich musical heritage has feet tapping to bagpipes, fiddles and accordions. The best Celtic music can be heard at either the
Girvan Traditional Folk Festival in May or the
Newcastleton Festival in July. Scotland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Play golf on the worlds most famous course at St Andrews. Go fishing, sailing, diving, or join the walkers, cyclists and climbers on the hills, in woodlands and on deserted country lanes. Finally, at the end of the day, relax with Scotlands greatest export, a dram of fine malt
whisky.