Things To Do
For Those with Limited Time: Edinburgh
(Pronunciation: edin-bruh or edin-buh-ruh) Edinburgh is Scotland's capital and the main tourist city for a reason. The city is picturesque with imposing gothic architecture and compact layout, it really has so much to offer for anyone, especially those with limited time. Walk up the Royal Mile towards Edinburgh Castle and see the cashmere and tartan shops in the Old Town. Hike to the top of Arthurs Seat - an extinct volcano - and have a picnic overlooking the city. We loved taking the tour at Edinburgh Gin Distillery. There are so many restaurants and cozy pubs to stop by after exploring the streets and parks across Edinburgh that it is hard to recommend just one thing.
For Art and Culture Lovers: Glasgow
(Pronunciation: glaz-go) Duncan's hometown. Glasgow is often overlooked in itineraries for more famous Edinburgh. As Scotland's largest city, there is a little bit of everything here. Architecture, food, parks, and museums make the city a must for anyone visiting. The city's unofficial motto "People Make Glasgow" speaks to friendliness and sense of humor you'll find in most residents. We love to start at the Botanic Gardens and then walk alongside the Kelvin Walkway over to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Head over to Ashton Lane for a pint or go over to trendy Finnieston for food. We will be staying in Glasgow the week before the wedding and would love to meet up with our guest there beforehand!
For History Buffs: Stirling
Lane's favorite wee city. Spend the day roaming the quaint streets filled with local shops and cafes. Visit the imposing Wallace Monument which stands over the city to learn about the real life "Braveheart" or go to Stirling Castle for exhibits on the Jacobites.
For Nature Enthusiasts: The Isle of Skye
One of Scotland's most stunning islands, we took a road trip and camped all over Skye in 2018. There are so many amazing walks and hikes to do on Skye. Here are a few of our favorites: The Fairy Pools The Old Man of Storr Quiraing Neist Point Lighthouse The colorful village of Portree is also a great stop to get fish and chips on the harbor. Another place Lane was particularly fond of were the gardens at Dunvegan Castle, home to Clan MacLeod. On the way to Skye, you'll also pass Castle Eilean Donan off of the A87.
For a Spectacular Roadtrip: Glen Coe
No trip to Scotland is complete without a drive through Glen Coe, an awe inspiring glacial valley in the western highlands. Taking the A82 highway, you'll drive along winding rivers, lochs (lakes), and see waterfalls cascading down the sides of the mountains surrounding the valley. Continuing further north will take you to the dramatic west coast where you can stop in the quaint town of Fort William or further, the Glenfinnan Aqueduct which you may recognize from Harry Potter.