Tourist Attractions & Monuments Scotland

Created in 1862 by Osgood Mackenzie, this garden is a festival of colors on 20 hectares which will delight the amateurs of the kind. It is in itself a feat, because it was born on desert land, where nothing (or so little) was supposed to grow. It is a garden both surprising by its location and of an almost unequalled richness... Passion obliges! One can admire rhododendrons from the Himalayas, eucalyptus from Tasmania and a vast collection of plants from New Zealand, Chile and South Africa. These rare varieties from all over the world thrive in a microclimate provided by the Gulf Stream. In addition, you can see Scotland's iconic wildlife: red squirrels, deer, otters, seals and golden eagles. With a bit of luck, the sea eagle will also be there! This subtropical garden is not to be missed.

Inverawe House: 5 minutes walk from the Visitor Centre, this house is a museum space that will plunge you into the middle of the ^20th century, with objects to touch and experiments to conduct. Very interactive, it has won awards for its original and playful approach.

Sawyer Gallery: The site hosts artists in residence, it is also a place of contemporary art and therefore exhibitions, with new items every year, and also meetings with the creators.

To eat: Inverawe Garden also has a restaurant and a café(Bothy café). Everything is fresh and local, imported "from field to fork": a good excuse to stay a little longer in this corner of paradise!

Dunrobin Castle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and its style is particularly rare and refined. Some even see it as the country's most accomplished nobleman's residence. It was the seat of the Earls of Sutherland and the Sutherland clan, and traces its origins to the Middle Ages, but suffered much deterioration, notably at the hands of the Jacobites in the 18th century, so that the building we see today was largely shaped between 1835 and 1850. Charles Barry was the architect and was not at his trial run, since the prodigy already had the Parliament of Westminster on his CV. He set about making it into a palace worthy of the name and it is now the largest castle in the Northern Highlands, with some 189 rooms. Its appearance is reminiscent of the work of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc and the gardens of the estate are based on the French model and were inspired by Versailles. The interiors were badly damaged in a fire in 1915 and it was Robert Lorimier who took it upon himself to bring them back to life, which he did with undeniable good taste. A museum part exhibits safari trophies brought back by the family on their travels, but also archaeological relics from the Pictish period.

Its gardens, of all beauty, are to be discovered, all the more so as they offer the most beautiful view of the castle. From April to September, you can enjoy bird of prey shows in these same gardens. This is included in the entrance ticket. They take place at 11.30 am and 2.30 pm.

Completed in 1953, the Royal Yacht Britannia is the last of a long line of 83 royal ships dating back to Charles II in 1660, built at Clydebank, near Glasgow, and is 126 metres long with a capacity for 250 guests and 240 crew. In service from 1954 to 1997, it was a floating embassy for the Royal Family, which travelled some 2,014,278 km during 696 visits abroad and 272 to the United Kingdom. After 44 years of good and loyal service on the seas, he is demobilized and moored in the port of Leith. He is not ordered a replacement and the mastodon becomes one of Edinburgh's flagship attractions. On the programme: the highlights of the ship's history, the control room, the admiral's apartments, Her Majesty's bedroom and her Rolls Royce, which she took everywhere. One also immerses oneself in the underside of diplomacy and protocol, walking through the many lounges and reception rooms, but also the terraces where the Queen liked to relax.

The Royal Yacht Britannia was recently awarded a prize as one of Scotland's top tourist and cultural attractions, according to the National Tourist Board's website. No doubt this is due to the historical and cultural interest, but also to the possibility - oh so attractive for admirers of British royalty - of having tea in the "Royal Deck Tea Room" ... You can also spend a night in the luxury hotel located in the nearby ship, the Fringal.

Home of the Dukes of Argyll, this romantic neo-gothic castle is the fruit of the genius of William Adam and Roger Morris. Built between 1745 and 1790, it stands on 6.5 hectares of gardens in the centre of a 24,000 hectare estate. Its great beauty earned it the right to serve as the setting for an episode of the Downtown Abbey series. In addition to its finely furnished and ornamented rooms, it contains more than 1,300 weapons. You will admire the rich State Dining Room and the Tapestry Drawing Room. Stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy a snack in the elegant, traditional tearoom.

This botanical garden is a perfect outing in good weather and rainy weather, as you can enjoy a tropical climate in the greenhouses. Lovers of plants or neophytes, everyone will find, in the rarity, multiplicity and beauty of the specimens presented material to be amazed. It is still one of the most beautiful collections in the world! Guided tours are available and explanatory panels provide a wealth of fascinating information, both on amazing natural phenomena and on conservation work.

Glasshouses are a visit in the tour. Their access is not free, unlike the rest of the park, but they are worth discovering. There are 10 of them, each corresponding to a climatic zone and specific species. 10 rooms, 10 climates (hot!), 10 floristic universes! We discover with happiness, a splendid garden of water lilies, an incredible collection of orchids, carnivorous plants, succulent plants... The design of the premises is also interesting, since the greenhouses were built between 1834, in a pre-Victorian style, and 1967, with a more classical and wise simplicity.

Exhibitions are also presented in free access, in the building that hosts you. You will be able to discover photo exhibitions, artists' exhibitions and interactive playgrounds working to raise awareness of the environment. Finally, the Garden offers regular thematic activities throughout the year.

King George II started the construction of this gigantic fort to quell any future uprising. The buildings of its garrisons, its artillery and its weapons plunge into an extraordinary martial atmosphere, on this splendid citadel inspired by Vauban. Still occupied by the army to this day, the 1km long rampart surrounding the fortifications, the historic barracks, one of the only two dog military cemeteries in the country, and the Highlanders Museum, one of the oldest regiments in Scotland, are all worth a visit.

Its rectangular silhouette has dominated Loch Dunvegan since the 14th century and its beautiful walls were rebuilt between the 17th and 18th centuries. Seat of the MacLeod clan, it is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the country. A visit is a must to appreciate its elegant interiors. The gardens surrounding the building are magnificent. Take advantage of your visit for a "seal trip" and embark on a seal watching cruise or a short observation cruise.

Founded in 1794, this distillery is one of the only ones you will find in the city centre of a very touristic destination, which makes it a must-see during a visit to Oban. Its production site has never really expanded for lack of space and the techniques are faithful to the principles of this fascinating industry. The £12 tour is particularly complete and informative and includes a first tasting of the whisky, directly from the cask, and a second one, once the product is bottled. You will discover the 14 year old, which goes remarkably well with ginger and dark chocolate. This single malt no longer has any followers in the world, thanks to an identity between sea and land, which is found in its iodized, fruity and slightly smoky flavours. Two other visits are proposed to the most passionate: the "Exclusive Distillery Tour" of 2 hours, with discovery of the warehouses and tastings, and the "Distillery Manager's Tour & Tasting" with the site manager.

The site is also very pleasant to visit even without a guided tour, with a shop where you can bottle an exclusive whisky yourself, and engrave your bottle to make it unique. Upstairs, the bar area offers an exhibition on the history of Oban and its distillery, and plunges you into the atmosphere of an old rigging. Here you can taste the Oban whisky of your choice or try the cocktails. Why not the old fashioned Oban: Oban 14, syrup, bitter and ice cubes? Or the Oban Hot Toddy: Oban 14, honey, spices, hot orange juice?

It is probably the most spectacular castle in the area. Depending on your desires and budget, you can take a simple tour of the gardens, as well as access the tea room for a snack in the old kitchens. The landscaped park and the view of the building are an enchantment in themselves. Of course, a visit to the castle - guided tour or self-guided tour with documentation - is recommended, as its interiors are superb and reveal fascinating stories.

Completed in 1224, this historic cathedral dedicated to the Holy Trinity did not suffer from the wars of independence, but was damaged by fire in 1270, 1390 and 1402. Its influence on the region was immense and its architecture among the most elaborate in the country. Now largely in ruins, its splendid west façade, the Stone Bishop statue in the nave, the Pictish cross and the largest tombstone in Scotland, five metres high and dedicated to the Anderson family, can still be appreciated today. Guided tours take place in July and August.

The remains of this noble cathedral bear witness to a much larger building, which was the epicentre of Catholic Scotland in the Middle Ages. Abandoned after the Reformation, it fell into disrepair and ruin, so that many of its stones were reused for other buildings. It was not until 1826 that some attention was paid to its preservation and attempts were made to perpetuate it. The St Rule's Tower at its heart is older than it is and was part of the early 12th century church that preceded it.

Lovers of literature, history and fine stone will all find themselves here in the splendid gothic house that Sir Walter Scott fashioned in his own image. As Sheriff of Selkirkshire, he had to spend time near the Selkirk court when he was not living in Edinburgh. For a time he was content to rent a house from a cousin in Ashestiel. In 1811, he bought a small farm near Melrose. He renamed it Abbotsford and began converting the place to his liking. To begin with, the idea was not to build a gigantic palace, but simply to enlarge the existing building and acquire more land. In a few years, with the money from his success, he went from 44 hectares to 567 and planted many trees. From 1817 onwards, he called upon several architect, designer and artist friends to create more and more new pieces. George Bullock, James Skene, Edward Blore were among them, but it was the very famous William Atkinson who made the biggest contribution. Scott quickly revised his plans upwards and took advantage of a long visit to London, between 1819 and 1820, to discuss with him the destruction of the original farmhouse, in favor of the colossus that we see today. By 1824, the bulk of the work was completed and David Ramsay Hay, who later redecorated the Palace of Holyroodhouse for Queen Victoria, was responsible for the magnificent interiors. Three new walled gardens were also created. The author saw them as chapters in a novel and defined them as his antidote to long hours at his desk. After his death in 1832, Abbotsford was opened to the public. A modern visitor center traces the life and work of the genius writer, before you can walk in his footsteps to his writing room, library, drawing room, armory, reception room and chapel.

As French-speaking visitors, you will be delighted to find audio guides in French (at no extra charge): each room has its own terminals and its own set of explanations, always striking and astonishing... which will allow you to grasp all the magic of this "castle of enigmas", as Walter Scott had named and conceived it.

Not to be missed when visiting the Borders!

You can now stay in Abbotsford. The Hope Scott Wing has opened and offers 7 rooms for up to 15 people, and activities to live a few days in the manner of the great Scottish writer!

This colourful house in the Royal Mile is unmistakable with its red and ochre facade. A visit to Scotland's capital city only takes on more meaning once you open the doors. Edinburgh's past is revealed here from prehistoric times to the present day, through models, descriptions, mannequins and objects of yesteryear. We discover the capital in all its facets: a city of art, culture and ideas, power, trade, contrasts, pomp, history and stories. We can understand the dark hours of the city, between politics, religion, war and alcohol issues; but also its pride: its prosperity, its architecture and its great figures. Lovers of history and rare objects will also appreciate the medieval relics, the numerous porcelains, the beautifully chiselled silverware - including specifically Scottish pieces such as a quaich or thistle-cups -, the pottery with their reconstructed workshop, or the original manifesto of the Covenantaires. Each district is detailed, from Old Town, where Canongate formed a separate village, to New Town, where the original plans of architect James Craig can be seen. An important section is devoted to the port of Leith, a veritable highway of the colonies and the Orient. Petit Futé 's "coup de coeur" goes to the curiosity cabinet, a reminder that fan devotions are not just for pop stars. Amongst other things, we discover a piece of oatcake cooked by Robert Burns' wife, a golf ball that once belonged to Robert Louis Stevenson...

Founded in 1138 by David I, Jedburgh Abbey is one of the four great abbeys built in the Borders in the Middle Ages. It is also one of the best preserved and its influence was such that it owned as many as twenty churches in the surrounding area. Its location close to the border, however, did not bring it luck and it was a prime target during the many conflicts with England, such as the wars of independence. We still appreciate the quality of its Romanesque and Gothic architecture despite the damage of time.

Historic residence of the Baron of Cawdor, this castle is particularly known to the general public thanks to the character of Cawdor's thane, present in Shakespeare's famous play Macbeth. The events in the story, however, predate the construction of the building, which dates back to the end of the 14th century. It passed into the hands of the Campbell clan in the 16th century and was subsequently renovated and enlarged. The tour reveals its rich interiors, filled with precious decorative elements and beautiful paintings. The surrounding gardens are also beautiful.

The Real Mary King's Close is a collection of alleys and underground dwellings that were in the heart of Old Town in the 17th century. They took the name of one of the daughters of the lawyer Alexander Close who owned several properties there. In the 18th century, they were partially demolished and buried during the construction of the City Chambers. It was from that moment, in the bowels of the city, that the maze entered into the darkest mysteries and legends of Edinburgh; and this, for 400 years. Archaeologists' research has made it possible to understand how some poor families have found refuge there in the face of the capital's overpopulation. It was also here that the plague patients were isolated so that they would die hidden from everyone. The evocation of the disease is then an opportunity to disentangle the true from the false and to fight many preconceived ideas. Ghost stories are legendary, such as that of a little girl named Annie who was seen by a medium and to whom many visitors still bring gifts today, or those of the many victims of the legendary murderers Burke and Hare, whom they reportedly hid before selling them to hospitals. Reopened to the public in 2003, The Real Mary King's Close lifts the veil on dark hours and cursed destinies, in a gloomy universe that does not leave anyone indifferent. The visit lasts one hour and makes sense thanks to actors in costumes for a successful immersion.

Opened in its current form in 2006 by merging older collections, the National Museum of Scotland houses 16 galleries, 8,000 objects and a complex whose architecture is both Victorian and ultra-modern. Here, as in any general museum, you will find the traditional sections devoted to anthropology, world cultures through time and natural history: Egyptian priest's sarcophagus and mummy, Assyrian mural fresco, dinosaur skeleton and stuffed animals, a few sculptures, paintings and many others... Science and technology also have a voice with the oldest colour television on the planet and the body of Dolly the Sheep.

The most fascinating part of the tour is undoubtedly the one that presents in an exciting way the whole history of Scotland, from its origins to the present day. The visitor's aesthetic pleasure and imaginary escapades into the past are encouraged by the scenography of the plays and their didactic approach. With many treasures of national heritage, one travels alongside the country's first inhabitants, the Picts, the Vikings, the Scots, many anonymous people, but also Scottish heroes, such as Mary Stuart, whose superb harp and a replica of the tomb can be discovered; Robert Burns, a renowned poet, whose handwritten letters can be read; and Bonnie Prince Charlie, the accursed prince of the Stuart cause, whose travel silver can be admired.

From the Scottish Dene meaning deep valley, Dean Village, first known as Water of Leith Village, was a community of millers first mentioned in 1128. At the beginning of the 18th century, eleven mills were maintained here and the baxters of the bakers' guild conducted a flourishing trade. Nowadays, the district is appreciated for its setting below the city. Follow the Water of Leith Walkway or join the Gallery of Modern Art via the Dean Path, cutting through the picturesque Dean Cemetery.

This is a great place to discover whisky. Several tours are available, in 50 min, 90 min and 90 min + dinner. In addition to the guided tour, there are one or more commented tastings. You will learn to savour and identify the contents of your dram, the traditional whisky unit, in a room housing the world's largest private collection. No less than 3,400 different bottles are pampered there and it is a delight to walk through it to contemplate its old labels.

Glen Coe: the object of all reveries and the showcase of Scotland to the world, the Glen Coe Valley has not finished marvelling. Of volcanic origin, its biscornuous mountains make it a magnificent region, often considered, rightly, as the most beautiful glen of the country. It stretches for 16 km and is entirely covered by the A82. To the east, it is preceded by the immense Moor Rannoch and its endless moorland expanses. To the west, it flows into Loch Leven, in the small village of Glencoe. It is a sanctuary adored by nature, hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. Much of the area is owned by the National Trust and it is recommended that you drop by the visitor centre or visit their website (www.nts.org.uk) for route ideas, or even guided walks organised by localrangers. The West Highland Way passes through here and climbs the famous Devil's Staircase, one of the most eagerly awaited moments for hikers for its great beauty, but also its challenge. Further west, the Three Sisters are among the most photographed peaks in the country: Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach, and Aonach Dubh. Stop at the parking lots for breathtaking views. However, it hasn't always been time to party in the glen, far from it. The year 1692 is forever remembered as the darkest day in its history. At the end of the Glorious Revolution, the MacDonalds of Glencoe, who were devout Jacobites, were slow to swear the new oath to King William, but they did so anyway. Some time later, while they were billeted with men of the Campbell clan under Scottish hospitality, they received royal orders to execute their hosts. On the morning of February 13 and after several days at their table, they slaughtered 38 of the MacDonalds and left 40 women and children to freeze to death after burning down their homes. This dark event became a major fact of Scottish history and clan culture.

Glen Etive: South of Glen Coe, the huge Glen Etive is less well known than its neighbour, but this tends to change since its appearance in the final scenes of James Bond: Skyfall. It can be reached before the eastern entrance to Glen Coe from the A82. Almost 20 km long, it offers the best of Lochaber: magnificent mountains, waterfalls, forests, beautiful wildlife, a few hiking trails, before ending on the banks of the romantic Loch Etive, which flows to the outskirts of Oban.

Not every capital city in the world can boast of having a volcano right in the city centre. Edinburgh has two. While Castle Rock is less impressive and has been covered by the castle, Arthur's Seat is a 251-metre giant that gives a real highland flavour to anyone who climbs it. The origin of its name is a mystery and many like to think that it is linked to the legendary Celtic king, although this remains unlikely. At its feet, the vast plateau that ends in 46-metre cliffs facing Queen's Drive is called Salisbury Crags. Together they form Holyrood Park, a 260-hectare park created in 1541 by James V on the grounds of a former royal hunting reserve. The most direct route to conquer Arthur's Seat is on its eastern slope, but the most popular trail is probably the Radical Road trail from the west, a few steps from Holyrood Palace. Built on the initiative of the writer Walter Scott, this small construction site was intended to give work to idle weavers and to make walkers appreciate the natural and heritage heritage heritage of the site. Along the way, one can see St. Margaret's Loch, an artificial lake where geese and ducks paddle, and the ruins of St. Antony's Chapel. Once up there, the view is spectacular. At one glance, one embraces Old Town, New Town, the Firth of Forth and the Lothian. Allow about 2 hours for the hike, good shoes and enough to cover yourself.

St. Giles' Cathedral has become an icon of the Edinburgh skyline because of its crown-shaped bell tower. The first stones still visible were laid in the 12th century, but most of the building dates from the 15th century. It is the most important place of worship of the Church of Scotland in its capital. It is dedicated to Saint Giles, a Greek hermit who lived mainly in France between the 7th and 8th centuries. Protector of lepers and the lame, he was particularly popular in the Middle Ages, so much so that he became the patron saint of Edinburgh. Inside, don't miss the central pillars, the oldest witnesses of the place, nor the stained glass windows which are impressive. Also worth seeing are the stained glass window dedicated to the poet Robert Burns, the statue of John Knox and the quotation that sums up the character's commitment: "Give me Scotland or I die", the authors' "corner" and the organ. The Thistle Chapel, built in 1911, has a richly decorated ceiling and carved woodwork of great aesthetic quality. For example, an angel can be seen playing the bagpipes. It is also possible to gain height with paying guided tours on the roof (beware, they are quickly sold out!). Volunteer guides are also present to tell you all about the secrets and beauties of the building. Masses are always celebrated in the building (on Sundays at 8, 10, 11.30 and 8 pm) and concerts are regularly organised.

This 1620 church is not only famous for its monument to the Covenanters, the Scottish Presbyterians who fought against the imposition of the Anglican faith. Its mysterious cemetery, dotted with moss and old stones, is the final resting place of the most devoted dog in Scottish culture: Greyfriars Bobby. After the death of his owner, a policeman named John Gray, this little Skye Terrier came to sleep next to his master's remains for 14 years, until his own death in 1872. Today, the two friends are buried side by side and a statue honors the memory of faithful Bobby on George IV Bridge. More recently, other graves have been recorded as having inspired J. K. Rowling as she wrote regularly from the nearby Elephant House café. Potterheads and the curious will find the poet William McGonagall, the Potter family, and Thomas Riddell, who is believed to be the origin of Voldemort's birth name. Since the latter is often the most sought-after, we'll save you some time: once in the cemetery, go around the church and into a walled annex to George Heriot's School. The grave is at the far right.

More hidden, you will also find Sirius Black, Slughorn and Alastor Moody. If you wish, there are 100% Harry Potter tours! This is the most famous cemetery in Scotland.

People have been coming here since 1835 to admire Edinburgh through the lorgnette of a periscope whose panoramas are projected onto a large table-screen. This visit is particularly popular with children, who appreciate the fun aspect. On six floors, a maze of attractions and exhibitions also provides a whole world of optical illusions and curiosities based on sounds, lights, mirrors and tunnels, for fans of the genre. At the top, the Outlook Tower also offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the castle, which is just across the street.

The Cuillin Mountains are among the most breathtaking and unmistakable in the country. Their spectacular ascent is often a consecration but requires rigorous preparation, excellent orientation and considerable effort. There is no real path to climb there, so that some passages are almost like climbing. However, some routes are easier to climb if you have the will and a good map.

It is up there, in this Scottish Wild West, that you find the soul of the Highlands. You won't necessarily have time to do the whole itinerary, but choose at least one section to capture the infinite grandeur of this small country. You are free to shorten them, cross them or modify them. Some are much longer than others and will probably require to be cut in two days. In any case, a good map will be the key to your success.

From Kyle of Lochalsh to Loch Torridon: the first stop is Plockton, an idyllic little village where pretty houses are lined up facing a bewitching and wooded bay. It announces the beginning of Loch Carron, which the road follows until the village of Lochcarron, a long open street on the banks, where beautiful photos can be taken. The road then climbs on the heights, to reach Ardarroch and plunge into the heart of the Appelcross peninsula, as beautiful as wild. At Tornapress, you can cut off towards Shieldaig and cross sublime and deserted stretches of wide open spaces, surrounded by peaks, or continue towards Applecross via the Bealach na Ba pass. The scenery will be all the more magnificent as you climb. Don't hesitate to turn around and look back as you gain altitude over Loch Kishorn in the foreground and Loch Carron in the background. You will then enter an absolutely fairy-tale-like place with the threat of a canyon, while the road winds its way to a breathtaking view of the Cuillin of Skye. It then descends to the coast, along high moorland covered plateaus. The rest of the route to Torridon follows the charming coastline, which has only the island of Raasay and the Trotternish Peninsula as neighbors.

Loch Torridon to Gairloch: Loch Torridon (split between Loch Torridon and Upper Loch Torridon) is definitely one of the most beautiful and amazing in the country. But the powerful Glen Torridon which follows reminds us that we are in the Highlands, with its imposing walls of black mountains, as beautiful as dramatic. The road forks at Kinlochewe to follow the admirable Loch Maree, which is full of charm and strangely shaped landforms. The area is a nature reserve and you will find the Beinn Eighe Visitor Centre just before the loch (www.nnr.scot), then a parking lot on its shores with self-service documentation on possible walks in the area. The path then continues quietly to Gairloch.

From Gairloch to Lochinver : the section towards Poolewe is quite typical of the west coast but it is on the heights of Loch Ewe that the show is perfectly dazzling. The panorama on this small sea and Ewe Island is unforgettable, especially at sunset. The Guinard Bay to follow is also very romantic and the Little Loch Broom has impressive waterfalls at the Ardessie Waterfalls. The road then leaves the coastline and announces a return to the heart of the Hilghlands, once again entering deep glens . Before turning onto the A835 for Loch Broom and Ullapool, you may want to stop at the Falls of Measach. You then have two options for getting to Lochinver: the coast and the land. The coastal route turns at Drumrunie and follows two lochs, passing close to Stac Pollaidh (613 meters), a curious mountain with a Wild West feel. It then zigzags to its destination between water and rock. The path across the land remains on the main road, the A835/37. It is just as sumptuous and has the advantage of gaining more altitude, between the plains and the northern behemoths, such as Suilven (731 m), Quinag (808 m) and Cul Mor (849 m), in the distant shadow of the colossal Ben More Assynt (998 m). Just before turning onto Loch Assynt, it crosses the very photogenic ruins of Ardvreck Castle. If you are short of time, you don't have to make the detour to Lochinver and you can go north without passing by the coast.

From Lochinver to Durness: you can either retrace your steps to catch up with the A894 or follow the coastline along the B869. If you choose the latter, you can eventually pass by the Point of Stoer and hike to its impressive stack, the Old Man of Stoer. You will catch up with the main road shortly before Unapool and Eas a' Chual Aluinn, the highest waterfall in Britain (200 m) is not far from here, but requires a long and tough 10 km round trip walk from Loch na Gainmich. You will then walk along the beautiful waterfront dotted with lochans (small lochs), via the small bay of Scourie and Laxford Bridge. The final stretch between Rhioconich and Durness is delightful with its vast meadows bordered by mountains to the east. In this area, if you have some time, don't miss the enchanting Sandwood Bay, which is often on the list of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. You'll need to take the B801 west to Blairmore, where a small parking lot and toilets mark the start of the path. It's a 13 kilometers walk there and back, to reach a breathtakingly beautiful beach, whose white sands are encircled by cliffs and watched over by a majestic stack to the south (www.johnmuirtrust.org).

This is the first time since 1925 that the Scottish capital has redone its single malt. The distillery is housed in a beautiful historic building, some 180 years old, a few steps from Holyrood Park and Old Town. You will discover how whisky and gin are made and will be able to follow different guided tours, according to your wishes: immersion in the distillery, visit and tasting of whisky or gin, masterclass on whisky. Explore also the shop and its selection of rare and vintage whiskies, the "Holyrood Prestige Collection"!

The oval balloon buffs will be right at home here. The stadium of anthology was inaugurated in 1925, when the national team won its first grand slam. It is an integral part of Scotland's heritage and occupies a special place in the imagination of fans around the world. Between 1942 and 1944, it was even requisitioned to serve as a Royal Air Force depot. Although it can now accommodate more than 67,000 spectators, it had a much larger capacity, which had to make way for certain security arrangements. Yet it holds the world record for attendance at a rugby match, with an attendance of 104,000 at a Scotland-Wales match in 1975. U2, James Brown and David Bowie have each filled it, but it is when the players flanked by a thistle on their hearts enter the pitch that the stadium vibrates in unison, singing the famous 'Flower of Scotland'. The visit lasts 1h30 and plunges into the bowels of the enclosure, from the changing rooms to the players' tunnel, including the royal box, the press areas and the TV studios...

You'll visit areas that are usually inaccessible and you'll be told many stories about the history of rugby, Scottish exploits, stadium sights, but also about the sport and the preparation of international matches. Visits can be privatized and adapted on request. Reservations are required as visits are limited in place or may be cancelled depending on current events.

Created in 1898, it is the smallest distillery of Speyside. It reopened in the presence of Prince Charles in 1998, after 15 years of closure. It draws its spring water from the hills behind Forres. You will discover that it is not only the taste that is concerned by whisky, but that its production appeals to the touch, the sight and the ear. The standard visit lasts 1 hour and ends with a 10-year-old dram. There are different options for visits and tastings according to your desires and your knowledge of whisky.

The Trotternish Peninsula is a postcard setting, a picture of the epinal of Scotland as you dream of it. Its reliefs look like the Wild West and erosion has created a spectacle of another world, populated by high rocky plateaus and natural monoliths. It lies to the north of the island, accessible by road, on the A87 and A855, which go around it. Several spots are to be discovered:

The north-west: Fairy Glen is a nice stopover to start your escapade on Trotternish. Follow the "Sheader & Balnaknock" road from the A87 at the southern entrance to Uig, where you will drive 2.5 km through a green valley that bears its name. Further north, Duntulm Castle is situated on the site of the same name. This ruined castle was built in the 14th century and became the seat of the MacDonald of Sleat in the 17th century. Not much remains of it, but it is still very photogenic. A little further up, Rubha Hunish Point is the northern end of the island. A path leads there between Duntulm and Kilmaluag. On the A855, at a phone booth, follow Shulista and park in the small car park. The path starts a little further to the left, just past the cattle gate. It is about 7 km round trip. The closer you get to the coast, the more impressive the view of the cliffs and the Outer Hebrides.

The Quiraing: these magnificent rocky plateaus overlooking Staffin Bay are the result of a landslide of volcanic origin. The Earth has done an extraordinary job there. The best way to enjoy it is to take the signposted Staffin via the Quiraing road from the A855 at the north exit of Uig and climb the peninsula's heights until you reach a small car park where the view is stunning. From here there are several hiking trails along the ridge lines along the Trotternish Ridge.

Kilt Rock: 2.5km south of Staffin on the A855, there is a car park on the coast at a loch. This is the vantage point of Kilt Rock, where the Mealt Falls, a superb waterfall, cascades down from the cliffs into the sea. In the summer, the place is overrun but the spectacle is definitely worth a stop.

The Old Man of Storr: this is the most famous old man in Skye! This 55 m long natural monolith stands proudly at 137 m above sea level. It is the undisputed icon of the island. It can be reached from a car park 11.5 km north of Portree and 16 km south of Staffin on the A855. Count about 4 km for the round trip, via a rather simple and visible route.

Founded in 1824, The Glenlivet Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in the region and the second largest distributor in the world after Glenfiddich. In the early ^19th century, it was the favorite whisky of aristocrats and the king. The tour will take you behind the scenes of this famous whisky: the history of its distillery, the production process, the storage in the warehouse. You can even taste the spirit directly from the barrel. Audioguides in French are available to follow the tour, even if you don't speak the language.

The Harris Tweed & Knitwear exhibition "Clo Mor"(Big Garment in Gaelic) offers an interesting retrospective of the local tweed industry and its journey through time. Between photographs and edutainment spaces, the visit is suitable for all ages. Models present clothing of all types and all eras, showing how Harris Tweed was honoured on the world's catwalks. It is possible to attend weaving demonstrations.

The Glen Nevis Information Centre is a very useful stop to find out about possible walks in the area - several routes of all levels - including the climb up the Ben. It is strongly recommended that you stop by to check the weather conditions before any ascent, especially outside the summer months, and to get all the information you need for a safe hike. There is on-site parking and a coffee shop.

The Museum of the famous Scottish University is dedicated to the prestigious institution and its powerful heritage. There are three areas to visit: Wardlaw Museum (exhibition on the history of the university), Bell Pettigrew (natural sciences) and the Collection Centre where many valuable objects accumulated over the centuries are on display, such as 15th century ceremonial sceptres, a 16th century astrolabe, an 18th century telescope and many others.

This elegant castle on the other side of Stornoway Bay was built between 1847 and 1857 for Sir James Matheson, who then owned all of Lewis thanks to his fortune built on the Chinese opium trade. Since 2016, following an extension of the site, there is a museum on the history and culture of the Outer Hebrides. It describes its people and their relationship to the land and sea. The Gaelic approach is predominant, but the texts are also translated into English.

It is the main tourist office of the External Hebrides, making it a compulsory passage to Stornoway.

The Old Man of Storr is a unique rock formation located 7 miles north of Portree, via the A855, on the Trotternish Peninsula. It rises among other rocks more than 50 metres above the ground. Legend has it that Storr's old man was a giant who lived here. When he lay on the ridge at the hour of his last breath, his thumb remained raised. The Storr refers to the group of rocks that surround the old man. It is a title derived from a Nordic word meaning "great man". The path leading to the site from the roadside parking lot represents approximately 3.8 km round trip. Allow 1 hour and 15 minutes of walking, without the inevitable breaks to admire the landscape and take pictures. The site is very popular... and very popular.

This lighthouse museum at Kinnaird Head will capture the hearts of lighthouse lovers and absolute neophytes alike. This is Scotland's first lighthouse (built in 1789) and is adjacent to a 450 year old castle. Its location in an exceptional and atypical place, the special life of the keepers whose history has been told here, the engineering developed to save lives, the largest collection of lenses in the world, the tea room in the lighthouse, all play in its favour...

To visit Dunollie is to visit 3 sites. First, Dunollie Castle: its ruins, with a last renovation completed in 2019, offer a superb panoramic view on the Oban bay. Then the house-museum: a house from 1745 where each room has been renovated and fitted out to display old objects (^19th century) testifying to the daily life of its occupants. From the kitchen to the children's rooms, we discover everything about the life of a family in the 1800s. The museum also tells the story of the MacDougall clan and, through their epic story, traces the history of Scotland. Then, the park: its course invites to better understand the various invasions which marked the history of Scotland. It is also an opportunity to learn more about the civilization and mythology of the Vikings.

Regularly during the school vacations, the site offers practical and manual workshops of 1 hour for children (£5), which can be an excellent idea to familiarize them with English. There is also the possibility to follow a guided tour at no extra cost or to organize specific visits: adapted to children, focusing on the discovery of the gardens, taking a closer look at the old textiles..

You can have lunch, a picnic or a snack on the spot, thanks to The Kettle café and its menu, made of home-made products, very tasty and at mini prices.

Nicolas Loisel, your French guide, fell in love with Scotland after a few trips and settled there 10 years ago. With E-City, he becomes your guide and driver (in electric Tesla) to discover, for half a day (for Edinburgh), a day or a whole stay, Scotland in a totally personalized way. It will take you to the most emblematic sites as well as to unsuspected and even more breathtaking sites! He will offer you unusual and original experiences, 100% tailor-made, for a unique stay.

Seven hundred years of history pass by in this superb castle. It is one of the oldest tower houses in the country, as evidenced by the oak trees planted in 1700. Drum Castle is full of secrets, as the tour will reveal. From room to room, the sumptuous decorations follow one another and stun by their beauty. On the top floor, the atmosphere changes: the white walls let the contemporary art express itself. You can also visit the gardens, the oak forest and the chapel.

If you like the Georgian style and the architecture of William Adam, then you can't miss this iconic site. The manor house is simply splendid, seen from the inside and outside, and offers a rich history, from its construction, to royal visits and its use as a prison camp in wartime. It is a place devoted to art, with regular exhibitions in collaboration with the National Galleries of Scotland, a landscaped park of ornamental follies and a superb neo-gothic mausoleum, among others.

750 years of Scottish history, celebrated precisely in 2019, await you here. Dating back to the 13th century, Blair Castlehas undergone many renovations and refurbishments over the years, finally displaying the elegance it enjoys today. Its past is linked to that of Mary Queen of Scots, the Three Kingdoms War, the Jacobite uprisings and even Europe's only legal private army, the Atholl Highlanders, which of course has only a ceremonial role and was authorised by Queen Victoria.

Castle. Inside, you will see sumptuous rooms, exceptional pieces of furniture - Chippendale furniture, for example - and a vast collection of weapons, as well as numerous paintings, especially in the impressive staircase. Raise your head to the ceiling and you'll also see some magnificent decorations. There are a total of 30 rooms in the castle to visit, with exhibitions in the last ones.

Park and gardens. The landscapes are varied around Blair Castle. You will visit the walled garden, called Hercules Garden, restored to its original Georgian design. Pond, Chinese bridge and orchard adorn it. Follow a carved walkway, explore Diana's Grove, a wooded area with some of Scotland's tallest trees, discover the ruins of St Bride's Church, in a site that was already a place of worship in Celtic times. Finally, you will see deer in a large park.

Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see for lovers of art history, esotericism, symbolism, religious enthusiasts and fans of The Da Vinci Code. It will surprise you by the multiplicity of its stories: that of the green man in particular. We learn that the face of the green man is none other than that of Adam, reminding us that we have within us the seeds of good and evil, and that we have the freedom to cultivate them. You will soon understand why the chapel is described as "a poem of stones, erected by the stars" (Thomas Ross) and why Queen Victoria declared it a jewel to be preserved. You will also discover that the place did not only inspire Dan Brown, but that before him, the great Scottish poets had praised it: Sir Walter Scott in The Lay of the Last Ministrel, but also Robert Burns. You will meet the chapel's cat who also has his own story... which will please the children! In fact, they too have their own tour of the chapel with a quiz and dedicated interactive terminals.

The chapel always offers religious services: on Sundays at 10:30 am and, between April and October, masses at 5:15 pm, as well as short prayers at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Warning: Be prepared for crowds, as this is a highly touristy and crowded place. However, the organization and the site are up to the number of visitors: multilingual and interactive visitor center, guided tours, café and store, large free parking.

It is one of the must-see visits for lovers of religion and ancient books. In addition to the history of the house and its famous inhabitants - James Mosmann, royal jeweller, who made the Scottish crown; John Knox, father of the Scottish religion and key figure in history - it tells the story of the Humanities and first impressions. There is a collection of books by great humanists, a bible from 1521 and John Knox's History of the Reformation within the Realme of Scotland. The place also hosts the Scottish Storytelling Association.

This landscape is, for many, one of the most beautiful in Scotland. When you arrive near the lighthouse, you will have to follow the grassy tracks trodden by other visitors to get to the Duncansby stacks, these impressive and majestic rocky peaks. As you cross the meadow, which you'll share with the sheep, and walk along the cliffs, you'll see seagulls and many oystercatchers in their never-ending ballet. You can't miss the stacks (rocks), which will stand in front of you. Plan to be well covered: the wind is blowing very strong here!

Mount Stuart is a remarkable Victorian neo-Gothic palace built between 1879 and 1900. Intended for the Marquis de Bute, it succeeded a 1719 building that went up in smoke during a fire in 1877. It owes its great beauty to the architect Robert Rowand Anderson, who sought to reflect the good taste of its sponsor, a descendant of King Robert the Bruce. The interiors, as mysterious as they are refined, are in keeping with his passion for art, astrology, mythology and religion. However, he did not have time to settle there, his death having occurred just before the house was completed. With the guided tours (mid season) and the free visit (high season: July and August), visitors can enjoy its great architectural and stylistic value. It is difficult not to succumb to the elegance of the chapel, the marble staircase, the drawing room and the intriguing horoscope room. The palace is also an artistic place with contemporary art exhibitions renewed every year.

In addition to the palace, the gardens also have a high artistic value. Made to be explored, they offer many treasures in the form of arboreal and horticultural collections of world importance, with a surprising touch of tropical essences. It must be said that the Bute family was passionate about plants, and you can feel it: landscape art at its best, arboretum and pinetum (800 conifers!).

And if you fancy a snack, the Courtyard Cafe & shop will be perfect with its fresh local produce.

Built in 1856 for Queen Victoria, this superb castle is a very refined example of "Scottish baronial" architecture. Queen Elizabeth used to visit it regularly, but it is not strictly speaking a royal residence. The building does not belong to the crown, but to the family that owns it, as a private property. The visit is interesting, but do not expect to see everything. Only the ballroom and the exhibition space are accessible. Most of the discovery is done outside in the beautiful gardens.

This is the National Aviation Museum in Scotland. It takes place on the former Royal Air Force base in East Fortune. The location is not insignificant, as it was in service for both World Wars and is one of the best preserved in the whole of the United Kingdom. The story of the conquest of the sky is told in the presence of its main witnesses, aircraft of all types and all periods. Several hangars focus on different aspects of the industry with, among others, the famous Spitfire, Meteor, Tornado and Jaguar for the military side; and the Twin Pioneer, Jetstream 31 or Boeing 707 for the civil side. A whole section is also reserved for the famous Concorde, the unfortunate plane of Europe. The museum also explains the mechanisms of flight, construction techniques, the invention of parachutes, and many others. You will also be able to play the role of a jet-setter by discovering the planes in which the stars flew when commercial flights first saw the light of day. Children (and adults alike!) will appreciate the very concrete aspect of the museum, but also its interactive terminals, which invite them to better understand how planes fly, the skills of the pilots, the art of a successful landing... You can even learn how to build an airplane in your house! It's a good opportunity to visit something that is a little different from the heritage of the region and allows you to set foot in a real cockpit.