A Scottish Sojourn
A Scottish Sojourn: Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow
Scotland, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has always been a dream destination for many travelers. My recent journey through the heart of this beautiful country, covering Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, was nothing short of magical. In this blog, I’ll share my experiences, insights, and tips to help you plan your own Scottish adventure.
Edinburgh: The Historic Heart
My journey began in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. The city is a perfect amalgamation of ancient and modern, with its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town.
Exploring the Royal Mile
My first stop was the Royal Mile, the bustling thoroughfare of the Old Town. Walking down this historic street, with its cobblestones and narrow alleys (called ‘closes’), was like stepping back in time. Highlights included the stunning St. Giles’ Cathedral and the numerous shops selling Scottish tartans.
Edinburgh Castle
Perched on an extinct volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is the city’s most iconic landmark. The castle’s history is palpable in every stone, and the view of the city from here is breathtaking. Don’t miss the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny!
Arthur’s Seat
For outdoor enthusiasts a hike up to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano, offers panoramic views of the city. It is a moderate hike and absolutely worth it for the stunning scenery.
Harry Potter’s Birth Place
The quaint, cobbled streets and hidden alleys of Edinburgh inspired J.K. Rowling in creating Harry Potter. Walk past the famous Elephant House café where she penned much of the series. You will see tour guides, often clad in wizarding robes, bring to life of the Gothic atmosphere of the city and its rich literary heritage.
Culinary Delights
Scottish cuisine was a revelation. I indulged in traditional dishes like haggis, neeps (turnips or rutabaga), and tatties (potatoes) and enjoyed the cozy ambiance of historic pubs. The Scotch Whisky Experience was a journey through the world of whisky-making and a must for spirit aficionados.
Inverness: The Highland Capital
A scenic train ride took me to Inverness, known as the capital of the Highlands. The city, though small, is steeped in history and surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland.
River Ness flows by Inverness City
Loch Ness
No visit to Inverness is complete without exploring Loch Ness. I took a boat tour hoping for a glimpse of the legendary Nessie. The loch’s mystique coupled with the surrounding natural beauty was mesmerizing.
Eliean Donan Castle
I toured the 13th century Eilean Donan Castle. It has a panoramic view of the surrounding lochs and mountains. Now I appreciate the majestic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands that are treasured by the locals.
Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Duich
Glasgow: The Cultural Powerhouse
My final stop was Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, known for its vibrant culture and impressive architecture.
Exploring the City
Glasgow’s architecture is a mix of the old and new, with stunning Victorian structures alongside modern designs. Glasgow Cathedral and the nearby Necropolis are must-visits.
George Square, Glasglow
The Art Scene
The city is renowned for its art scene. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the modern Riverside Museum are both incredible and free to enter.
Glasgow Street Art
Nightlife
Glasgow’s nightlife is electric, with an array of pubs, bars, and clubs. The West End, in particular, is lively and full of character with excellent dining options.
Tips for Travelers
- Currency: Scotland uses the British Pound. Card payments are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable.
- Language: English is widely spoken and listening to the Scottish accent is a delight in itself!
Join Me on This Incredible Journey!
My tour of Scotland from Edinburgh, Inverness to Glasgow was an unforgettable journey through time, culture, and natural beauty. Each city, with its unique charm and history, offered a different perspective on Scottish life. Scotland’s allure lies not just in its landscapes and history, but in the warmth of its people. I left with memories to cherish and a promise to myself to return. Slàinte mhath (Good health)!
Want to experience this too? Click this link for your Scotland Adventure. Let’s keep exploring this beautiful world together!
Scottish Bagpipes
✨ #Scotlandtravel #WanderlustWithMe #TravelDreams ✨
Recommended Journeys To England & Scotland
Need help planning your next vacation? Save time by choosing one of our curated tours and embark on a magical journey with your own private tour guide and driver. Our tours are fully customizable.
See more in our England & Scotland Tour Page click https://tripcompanion.com/england-and-scotland-tours/
Stonehenge, England
