Scotland...Top Must See: Royal Yacht Britannia One of Scotlands biggest tourist attractions is the former Royal Yacht Britannia . She was the British royal familys floating home during their foreign travels from the time of her launch in 1953 until her decommissioning in 1997, and is now moored permanently in front of Ocean Terminal. Edinburgh Castle Looming from its craggy perch atop an ancient volcano, this iconic castle dates back to the 11th century and defines the citys skyline even today. Take in a royal view of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside from its battlements, and see storied treasures such as the Honours of Scotland—the crown, scepter, and sword that once graced the Scottish monarch. Glencoe In this dramatic region of countryside between rugged mountains and rolling valleys, the Campbell clan massacred the MacDonald clan under English orders in 1692. Besides rich local history and chilling wild beauty, Glencoe has superb hiking and climbing. Isle of Skye With the misty Cuillin Mountains and aged stone crofts, Skye is a place to linger over sunsets, explore meadows of heather, and savor fresh-caught seafood. The islands romantic past is linked to the saga of Bonnie Prince Charlie. On your way, visit the most famous of Scottish castles, Eilean Donan. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Sparkling clear water, lush woodlands, jagged mountains, and open skies make Loch Lomond a coveted—and easily accessible from Glasgow and Edinburgh—weekend retreat for visitors and locals alike. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, Scotlands first national park, is ideal for hiking, biking, and more. St. Andrews Famous first for its golf course and second for its university, the town of St. Andrews is also historic, prosperous, and charming. The ruined castle and cathedral are atmospheric, and this is a perfect destination for an idyllic stroll by the shore or in town, with its adorable shops and bakeries and restaurants. Mackintosh Trail In the late 19th century, architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh turned pompous Victorian style on its head with sleekly distinctive designs influenced by the art nouveau style. Glasgow is the best place to see his enticing designs such as the Glasgow School of Art. Floors Castle Sweeping turrets and fanciful towers distinguish palatial Floors, built in 1721 for the duke of Roxburghe and now Scotlands largest inhabited castle. Sprawling along the banks of the River Tweed, the castle has magnificent interiors and grounds to explore. Melrose Abbey Scotlands ruined abbeys recall the countrys brilliant but turbulent monastic past. Melrose, an elegant but commanding red-sandstone structure, was begun in the 12th century. The abbeys ruins retain their power in well-preserved decorative carvings including a bagpipe-playing pig.
Posted on: Fri, 31 Jan 2014 13:00:01 +0000
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