Tourist Attractions & Monuments Scotland

Popular with children, families and birding enthusiasts in general, the Seabird Centre is a benchmark in Britain for its realistic approach to the world of seabirds. Several webcams provide live views of colonies in their everyday lives on nearby islands, including Bass Rock, which is unique in its kind and populated by some 100,000 Northern Gannets. The very helpful staff and the many children's games make things quite clear and playful. The most passionate will be able to treat themselves to a trip at sea.

Built in 1905 for Baron de Palmer, Manderston House is a sumptuous example of Edwardian style. When John Kinross, the architect, asked what his budget was, he was told that it didn't matter.... The result is there to prove it: this luxurious residence is just as luxurious as its gardens are charming. Don't miss the ballroom, the marble floors, the very advanced kitchen fittings, and the world's only silver staircase. The formal gardens (56 ha) are also superb and worth a stroll.

Formed by a series of volcanic eruptions 400 million years ago, the cliffs of St Abb's are the most romantic in the region. The nature reserve managed by the National Trust has dedicated 78 hectares of unspoilt nature to the cliffs, where you can wander the coastal paths and meet many birds. A total of 30,000 guillemots nest in their rocks, including penguins, cormorants and fulmars. The views are spectacular and the luckiest may catch a glimpse of a dolphin or whale. The information centre at the reception desk teaches you a lot about the flora and fauna of the area, where you can also see many flowers and butterflies. There is also a small café. We recommend a detour to the tiny port of St Abb's on the way, for its postcard setting.

Walking : Several discovery trails, from 30 minutes to 1h15 are easily accessible and practicable, to fully enjoy the place.

Diving : The area is a well known diving spot in Scotland and beyond, for the richness of its underwater life. It is considered one of the best for diving below 30m in the UK and Europe. Several companies offer it on site, with dives of all levels: Dive St Abbs or St Abbs Diving, for example.

Sailing : Discover the cliffs from the water by boat. These are mostly the same companies that offer diving.

A Palladian villa from the 1750s, Dumfries House was built by the famous John and Robert Adam, with interiors decorated by Thomas Chippendale. Some rooms have been estimated at £4 million! Originally commissioned for William Dalrymple, Earl of Dumfries, it passed into the hands of the Marquesses of Bute in 1814. When the 7th Marquis decided to sell the house in 2007, his fate and that of its remarkable furniture was more than uncertain. Prince Charles himself, Duke of Rothesay, mobilized for its preservation and its opening to the public. Some of his watercolours can be seen in one of the salons. Since 2008, four different visits (all in English) have been organised to this symbolic building of the Scottish Enlightenment, which also includes 200 hectares of the original park, with promenades and an enclosed garden.

Special Favourite: The Dumfries House café is a must for a snack, as it is served in the old stables, with tables set in the stables where the horses used to be. Their names can still be read.

Park side: You can spend a whole day here, between the house and the huge park. Families will enjoy the children's adventure park and the educational farm. Garden lovers will stroll through the Chinese-inspired garden (with its bridge), the arboretum, the Rothesay gardens and the Queen Elisabeth Walled Garden.

Staying at Dumfries House: 22 magnificent guest rooms are now available for overnight stays, (B&B from £170/night).

Nicknamed the Iona of the East, this abbey is located on an island in the Firth of Forth. Inchcolm Abbey was founded as a priory in 1215 by David I, but Alexander I before him had already dreamed of building a place of worship there after taking refuge there during a storm. Surprisingly well preserved, it is one of the best preserved monastic buildings in Scotland. Remarkable objects include a humpbacked tombstone dating from the 10th century, a superb fresco of a funeral procession and an octagonal chapter house (1200s), as well as remarkable stone screens. The cloister is the most complete of its kind in Scotland, creating a moving atmosphere conducive to meditation. From the 14th to the 16th centuries, there were numerous English raids during the various Anglo-Scottish wars. In 1560, the Reformation put an end to its religious activity but the site remained occupied, particularly militarily. The island is also famous for its wildlife, seals and tusks from the First and Second World Wars

One of the most beautiful views is probably the one you get from the water, when the boat docks.

Practical info: Inchcolm Abbey can be visited by ferry from South Queensferry. Two companies serve the island and offer cruises, with or without a stopover on the island: Forth Boat Tours and Maid of the Forth. Count a 3-hour excursion for about £15 per adult, plus the cost of the site visit. Guided tours are available, as well as a quiz to make it more fun.

A Frenchwoman living in Edinburgh after an instant love affair with the city, Sarah takes you on a guided tour of her beloved capital in French. It offers different tours, to be taken in private or public groups: "On the Tracks of Harry Potter in Edinburgh", "The must-see in Edinburgh", an aperitif-walk, a "Crimes and Punishment" tour and tailor-made tours, according to the participants' requests. She will also be happy to give you her good addresses to have a drink, eat well or discover the hidden jewels of the city.

The V&A Dundee finally opened its doors on September 15, 2018. Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kum, the building blends seamlessly into the cityscape and is not unlike the cliffs of the East End. The museum showcases the best of Scottish design, from fashion to furniture to architecture, in its diverse "Scottish design" gallery. It includes a reproduction of a room designed by the interior designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Temporary exhibitions complete the offer and the space.

This luxurious stately home was designed by the famous Scottish architect William Adam, in a Palladian style at the height of elegance and refinement. The house, which is over 400 years old, has many stories to tell and each room is filled with historical anecdotes. For example, the Queen's Bedroomis named after Queen Victoria who stayed here in 1857. Works of art are omnipresent here, thanks to an invaluable collection of paintings by Victorian painter James Giles. Don't leave without admiring the beautiful formal gardens.

Here is a site where you can easily spend a whole day with your family without getting bored. Lovers of castles, lovers of gardens, this site will delight you by all its aspects. This sublime 400 year old castle is located between Forres and Dyke, in the Moray region.

The Castle : This magnificent 1567 castle was built in the shape of a "Z" for the Brodie clan, of which it is the historic seat. Renovated in the 1830s and 1840s, it has been transformed from its medieval garb into the gleaming noble residence it is today. Every room, every corridor, contains treasures of antiques and Victorian elegance, with paintings by masters, French furniture and china.

The Gardens: 71 acres of gardens surround it to continue the outdoor fun and soak up a little more of this alluring place. When it was created, it had a collection of 400 varieties of daffodils. Now it has 1,160 - impressive, right?

The Playful garden: open in 2019, this playful garden featuring the castle's iconic rabbit (you'll know why when you visit) is reminiscent of an Alice in Wonderland-like world. Children will enjoy the many facilities, as well as the indoor games if the weather is not good. Another playground is located behind the castle, in the woods.

The cafes: one is located in the Playful garden, the other at the back of the castle, in the old kitchens. Here is a place with an incredible charm, and moreover, we eat well there!

Sitting in the shadow of Goat Fell, Brodick Castle is a must-see when visiting Arran. The fortification of the site dates back to the^5th century, when the Gaels extended their kingdom there from the Irish region of Antrim. In the ^10th century, it was the turn of the Norwegians to take over the place, before the island became part of the Kingdom of Mann & the Isles in the middle of the ^13th century. At the beginning of the ^14th century, it had been attached to the Scottish crown and had already experienced the wars of independence. The Earls of Arran began to build the building we see today in 1510. The War of the Three Kingdoms did not spare it and it passed from family to family according to conflicts and allegiances.

Castle. The interiors are the epitome of Victorian splendor and contain rooms and decorative elements of great value. The grand entrance hall with its hunting trophies is a reminder of the activities of the aristocracy of the time, while the bedrooms and the dining room are extremely elegant. An interactive visit of the castle, with actors in costume, sound and lighting effects is now in place, for a more playful discovery.

Park. The gardens are also worth a visit and are particularly pleasant in good weather. French gardens, they offer a peaceful escape between waterfalls, ponds and wooded paths.

Activities for children. They will love the Isle Be Wild playground and the Fairies & Legends Trail.

This estate offers many attractions, especially if you love nature and have a soft spot for landscape art. It has been the learning site of the Heritage Gardening School since 1960, which allows it to present topiary art in all its forms and inspirations, from the most classical to the most modern, including a rose garden, a rock garden and a walled garden. The site is also a wonderful nature reserve: you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Galloway hills and the Dee valley, and you can observe ospreys, peregrine falcons, wading birds, geese... The star of the place is quite different: it is the bats! Indeed, they are at home here, in a protected area. Eight species of bats live here and can be observed during guided walks.

Manor House : The baronial mansion is also a highlight of the visit. Threave House has been partially restored as a museum, bringing back to life the decor of what was a Victorian hunting lodge. Guided tours are available for more information.

Walking tour: If you want to extend your stay in this beautiful estate, be aware that several walking tours, from 1h30 to 2h, are available on site or downloadable on the Internet. Snacks: Threave's Terrace Café, renovated in winter 2018, is a destination in its own right, with homemade cakes and dishes and no new, ultra-designed interior crafted with recycled materials. Or stop in the center of the garden at Stables café.

The Culzean Castle is an architectural marvel that stands proudly on the cliffs overlooking the Firth of Clyde. A stronghold of the Kennedy family since the 14th century, it was completely remodelled between 1770 and 1792 by the dazzling Robert Adam. The transformation had to reflect the wealth of its owner, who did not skimp on the means involved. Unfortunately, neither he nor the architect survived to see the work completed. Yet the building's place in Scottish heritage is such that it is even found on some £5 notes. One easily spends the day walking around its rooms and its 260-hectare park, which includes an orangery, an enclosed garden, greenhouses, a lake, a park with deer, cliffs, beaches and even a cave. General and American President Eisenhower himself stayed here several times and was offered apartments for life, for his decisive role in the Second World War. During your visit, don't miss the splendid oval staircase, the armoury with its collection of military pistols and swords and the Round Drawing Room.

With children: There should be two playgrounds for them: Adventure Cove and Wild Woodland. Cabins, slides, maze, climbing, adventure in the trees: they'll want more!

Park only: It is also possible, depending on the time you have available, to visit only the estate's park. You will then benefit from a reduced rate (£3/adult)

A member of the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, this garden is home to rare and magnificent species, just like its southern neighbours: Logan and Dawyck gardens. On its 121 hectares of protected land, you can admire some 300 species of rhododendrons, gigantic giant redwoods and some trees that are more than 150 years old. Bhutan, Chile and Tasmania have real small enclaves of their flora here, and there is also a coffee shop on site.

For information on the national park.

Four hours at least are necessary to reach the top of this mountain which offers a spectacular view on the loch. The route is well marked and the gradient, a little steep at the beginning, evolves then more gently, until the 974 m of the summit. The hike is accessible and very popular, and among the classics to climb for Munros collectors. However, caution is advised: the summit can be very windy and rainy, and therefore slippery and dangerous. Only attempt the climb with good equipment and in good physical condition!

At the foot of the Balmoral and next to the Princes Mall, this tourist office, called here Edinbugh iCentre, provides a very useful amount of information about the city, but also about the whole country. The brochures are numerous and complete, by theme or region. You will find turnkey programs for an excursion to scare yourself, to marvel, to taste local specialities or to dance. We'll also tell you about the best things to do in the city!

60 metres high, inaugurated in 1844, it is Edinburgh's tribute to one of its greatest men: Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832). A total of 68 statues cover him and represent characters from his works. During his lifetime, his novels were best-sellers that were shipped from the port of Leith to London, where they were then distributed throughout Europe. Among the winners are Ivanhoe, Quentin Durward, Waverley, Rob Roy and l'Antiquaire. To get to the top, you'll have to climb 287 steps. His house is visible at 25 George Square.

The impressive fortress of Caerlaverock seems impregnable, with its triangular structure in the middle of the water. Yet it was captured twice and one of the sieges lasted thirteen weeks. Built in the 13th century, it was the stronghold of the Maxwell family until they abandoned the place in the 17th century. The site, partly in ruins, retains considerable historical interest for its innovative architecture and its role in the wars against England. What appeals beyond history? Its enchanting and romantic aspect!

The Drumlanrig Castle is a unique example of 17th century architecture. Built between 1679 and 1689, it was commissioned by William Douglas, the Duke of Queensberry. Its beautiful pink sandstone facades support 120 rooms, 17 turrets and four towers. Some precious works of art can be seen here, such as Rembrandt's Old Woman Reading and Leonardo da Vinci's Madonna with Spindles. Visits take place exclusively in the summer, and for a guided tour you must be on site at 11am (and plan to book in advance).

Estate and Gardens: Visitors can also enjoy 16 hectares of gardens and 48,000 hectares of parkland throughout the Queensberry Estate. There are a number of footpaths and site rangers also lead guided walks through the gardens. Bicycles can be hired on site. There are many walking and hiking routes from or through the estate.

Playground: Entrance to the adventure playground is included in the park entrance, leaving the children with hours of fun, while the parents enjoy the sumptuous setting.

Village and craft shops: Drumlanrig castle is home to a community of creative craftsmen, who have their shop in this privileged location. It is in this same space, with its village spirit, that you can rent a mountain bike to go hiking in the mountains.

Tearoom: In the former kitchens of the castle, local products are served, some even coming from the vegetable garden. Sweet or savoury palate, you will find something to eat

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the village of New Lanark was founded in 1786 by David Dale, who established a cotton mill and housing there. By 1799, the site had already become Scotland's largest cotton producer and one of the largest industrial groups in the world, with 2000 employees. He relied on the river Clyde to provide his energy. In 1800, Robert Owen, Dale's stepson, became its manager. This Welsh philanthropist was greatly influenced by the reformist movements and was one of the great defenders of Utopian Socialism, of which Owenism is a current. He established a very advanced social model in New Lanark to help the 2,500 people who lived there. He took special care of the children, for whom he opened the first nursery school in Britain in 1817. The great economic success of New Lanark helped to make it a model throughout Europe, so many thinkers and decision-makers went there to see that another reality was possible. In 1825, the Walker family took control of production. Starting in 1881, several businesses followed one another until the plant closed down in 1968, as it was no longer profitable. Today, admission gives access to the visitor centre, which traces the epic history of the village, Owen's house, the workers' houses in the 1820s and 1930s, the school and the workshops. There is also a period shop and a café.

This magnificent monument, built from 1699 to 1701 by Sir William Bruce, has since been substantially extended by an architect, William Adam. Robert and John, his sons, also architects, took care of the luxurious interior. Hopetoun House has remained unchanged since then, both in its high level of refinement and in its Georgian attributes.

The drawing rooms and the view from the roof are a must, as is the impressive staircase with its trompe l'oeil paintings. The park and the English gardens are also magnificent and the deer are happily roaming around. The family of the Marquis of Linlithgow still lives here, but an association is in charge of preserving the heritage of the place. Many works of art and sumptuous decorations are to be discovered and it is also the occasion to take a tea in the enchanting tea room or to buy some good products from the farm of the domain. Notice to families: Children will love the place, since several areas and activities are dedicated to them. They can walk along a path specially designed to facilitate their visit to the house, dress as they did in the past in Butler's panty, go on a bug hunt, try a treasure hunt (geocaching) or an orienteering race (extra charge of £2), or have fun in the park games.

Practical information : During your visit, depending on your desires or your budget, you can choose to visit the gardens alone (half price) or gardens + house. The parking is free.

Sometimes a retreat for kings in peacetime, sometimes a refuge for Catholics in wartime, the Stuart de Traquair family has always been faithful to the cause of Mary Queen of Scots and the Jacobites. At Traquair House, we discover nearly a thousand years of history. The wooded park is ideal for strolling or adventures in its maze of more than 2,000 m². The plus: the brewery that existed until the 18th century restarted production in 1965 and the products can be tasted. And, uh... The establishment also does B&B, for a night in an extraordinary setting!

Mercat Tours offers several different tours about the history and ghosts of the city. Coupled towers with the castle are possible. An option is available in French: "Fossoyeur d'Histoire". The ghost tour reputed to be the scariest in the city. It takes place entirely under the cobblestones of the old town. Within the dark and damp walls, one witnesses stories staged with a creepy realism. For a challenging exploration of the bowels of the old city, this is the place to be.

William Adam is at the origin of this seductive witness of 18th century Scottish architecture. Begun in 1725, the construction of Mellerstain House was completed by his son, Robert Adams. The interiors are elegant and harmonious, thanks to a very accomplished Georgian décor and several works by great painters, such as Aikman, Gainsborough, Ramsay and Van Dyck. The beautifully landscaped gardens offer pleasant views of the lake and the Cheviot Hills. A contemporary sculpture park offers another dimension to the ensemble. Superb!

Floors Castle is a flagship of Scottish heritage and is also currently the largest castle still inhabited. Built in 1721 by William Adam for the Duke of Roxburghe, it was embellished by William Playfair in the 18th century. To say the least, the two renowned architects have done an admirable job. Everything here is an ode to greatness and good taste. For more than 40 years, visitors have been admiring the rich 17th and 18th century French furniture, 17th century Belgian tapestries, but also Gobelins tapestries, refined porcelain and fine art pieces of all kinds... Lovers of master paintings will love to come across two paintings by Henri Matisse, one by Augustus John and one by Pierre Bonnard. On the literary side, an original by the poet Robert Burns is also kept here. In all, there are 154 rooms, the most beautiful of which can be visited, and no less than 365 windows: one for each day of the year. The walled garden is also very attractive. Indeed, it contains one of the most beautiful Victorian vegetable gardens, and the floral spaces are regularly recomposed, thus offering landscape paintings by masters, varying according to the seasons and topiary inspirations. You will no doubt also be charmed by the summer pavilion, named Queen's House, following the visit of Queen Victoria in 1867. Finally, you will have to treat yourself to a lunch or an afternoon tea in this superb setting! Exactly, two nice cafés are there for that...

This magnificent fortress-like building was built as a prison in 1823, on the site of an old castle destroyed in 1409. Prisoners lived here until it was closed in 1868. Here you can learn about prison life in the 19th century and the history of the convicts who had to endure it. Some claimed that it was the most comfortable penitentiary in Scotland... In its centre, the small historical museum tells the story of the town's past, its people and its traditions.

Dunnottar castle is undoubtedly one of the most photogenic and impressive castles. Its ruins awaken all the fantasies of terrifying ghosts or epic medieval scenes. Home of the Counts of Marischal, he was visited by the greatest historical figures: Marie Stuart, William Wallace and the future King Charles II. Through its discovery, the whole history of Scotland is explored, from the Picts. Why not continue the excursion on the surrounding trails to the War Memorial? The view is breathtaking.

The Crathes estate offers many attractions. If you are travelling with your family, plan to spend a day there. The castle dates from the 16th century and takes the form of a maze of turrets, for an interior decoration of great richness, both aesthetic and historical. The gardens are beautiful and invite you to stroll among sculpted topiaries and hedges of yew trees several hundred years old. A Go Ape tree climbing centre and a Wild Wood play area will entertain adventurers of all ages.

Moat Brae is the birthplace of Peter Pan... We'd like to write that all is said and done! Opened in 2019, it is the national centre for children's literature and children's stories: a place where imagination is the queen of virtues, where creativity and play are at the heart of everything. The place celebrates Peter Pan and his creator, J.M. Barrie. You will explore Neverland's garden with its pirate ship and Mermaid Lagoon, see the Tinkerbell fairy who inspired the fairy tale. Animations and exhibitions are regularly organised.

It is difficult not to succumb to the charm of this so familiar distillery. Its discovery during a guided tour invites you to discover the secrets of the making of this world-famous whisky. The stills are certainly what impresses the most, by their size as well as by their beauty. The visit, even the simplest, ends with a commented tasting in the reserved area. The immediate surroundings of the site, with the breathtaking view of the Dornoch Firth, a protected area for bird watching, are also an undeniable asset of the visit.

Ballindaloch Castle was founded around 1546 by the MacPherson-Grants family... and it is still the same family that lives there. Originally a fortified tower, the building was transformed in the Victorian era to assume the splendour we know today. In the castle you will admire an important collection of Spanish paintings and one of the most beautiful private libraries in the country, among others. The gardens, with its centuries-old trees, are an enchantment.

This ultra-modern distillery is the novelty of the Speyside to see. The place is absolutely sumptuous and whether you are sensitive or not to contemporary architecture, this site seduces every time, for its incredible originality and aestheticism. In addition to the visits (please remember to book), stop here to see the exhibition retracing the history of Macallan and presenting exceptional decanters and bottles. It is free and freely accessible. Brasserie and bar will be a must, with a very appreciable quality-price ratio.

Dunfermline Abbey is the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce and the burial place of 11 kings and queens of Scotland. Founded as a priory, Dunfermline was transformed into an abbey by David I and later became a royal mausoleum. Its nave is particularly impressive and its Romanesque architecture of great beauty. You can take a walk in the monks' refectory and admire the breathtaking view of the valley from the palace's windows.

This distillery is a place of pilgrimage for whisky lovers. After a 523-year hiatus, the copper stills at Lindores Abbey are back in operation. The distillery offers simple tours to understand everything about whiskey making and "apothecary experiments" around the Aqua Vitae, first created in 1494. The welcome center, in a cloister, is another asset of the place, as well as its café and its afternoon teas... whisky and champagne!

The beautiful Glen Brittle Valley is as magical as it is popular. It is also home to the world famous Fairy Pools, a succession of small waterfalls and natural pools with stunningly blue translucent waters. Much appreciated by photographers for their beautiful colours and their tropical aspect, they have become a real must-see during a stay in Skye. Come early enough or late enough to avoid the crowds and the further you go, the less people will come. Count 6-7 km round trip for the whole itinerary.

Erected in 1869, this superb 67m tower is dedicated to none other than the famous national hero of the 13th century: Sir William Wallace. It was made possible thanks to a fund-raising campaign in the midst of the resurgence of Scottish identity. Its elaborate Victorian Gothic style contrasts with the very modern University of Stirling, at the bottom of the hill from which it dominates the surroundings. It is said to have been here that the fierce warrior watched Edward I's army set off before the Battle of Stirling Bridge on 11 September 1297. Climbing the 246 steps to the top offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area. The visit also allows you to see the weapons used in the battle against the English, some busts of great Scottish names and the sword of Wallace himself.

Good to know : Access to the monument (outside) is entirely free. A free parking is available at the bottom of the site and you can go up by following a path that goes through the woods or the small road, only used by the site shuttle. The site alone offers magnificent panoramas.

Guided tours with actors: In high season, guided tours are offered by actors in costume. All year round, conferences and animations are programmed.

Legends Coffee House: To refresh yourself and regain your strength after walking to the monument, let yourself be tempted by the Legends Coffee House. It's cosy and everything is local.

The only distillery on the island to produce "the golden spirit". The Talisker is fruity, hot, spray and, of course, a little smoked, but then very slightly… We fall under the charm of this sea whisky, with a fine and stubborn taste.

Founded in 1446, the Rosslyn Chapel has seen its popularity grow since Dan Brown's novel, The Da Vinci Code. It also (and above all) inspired Walter Scott's poem The Lay of the Last Ministrel. A guide will introduce you to the many treasures of the chapel. You can discover them with the help of explanatory sheets, free sheets or a paid booklet (in French) inviting you to a rich journey. Meet the famous "green man" and many myths. Indoor photos are prohibited, so as not to disturb visitors in large numbers.

The Britannia, Britain's last royal yacht in service from 1953 to 1997, is today a five-star tourist attraction and an exclusive venue for evening events in Edinburgh. Visitors can explore the state apartments, crew quarters and engine room. They can also discover why the Britannia was so special to Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family, and what life was like on board for the crew. The Britannia occupies a special place in maritime history as the latest in a long line of royal yachts. To guarantee entry, it is advisable to book tickets online in advance. The Britannia is also the sister ship of the Fingal Hotel, where guests can extend their stay in one of the luxurious cabins.

The Water of Leith Walkway is over 13 km long, between Balerno in the west and Leith Harbour in the east. This Garden of Eden is a real luxury for such a big city. Ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of the streets, it crosses the lush green Dean Gardens along the river. You will see some of the statues from 6 Times, a project by the artist Antony Gormley, who designed the Angel of the North in Newcastle. Between Miller Row and Saunders Street is St Bernard's Well, a small neo-classical temple dedicated to the health goddess Hygieia.

Its three towers dominate the West End skyline and are visible from many places in Edinburgh, including Princes Street. The different phases of its construction spanned from 1874 to 1917 and the cathedral now has some beautiful neo-Gothic features. It is famous for its Paolozzi stained glass windows, Robert Lorimer's crucifix and massive organs. Its choir is one of the most active and recognized in the country.

Loch Ness has no secrets for this museum, which surfs largely on the wave left behind by the monster, whose fabulous universe it recounts. The visit is very interactive, with films, soundtracks, sets and effects, and tries to adopt a rational and scientific tone. A total of seven plays retrace Nessie's marvellous epic, between hoaxes, mysteries, rumours and certainties. A French version is possible. Preferred with teenagers and adults.

Created in 1582, it is the fifth oldest English-speaking university on the planet and was at the centre of the Enlightenment movement in Scotland. Charles Darwin, David Hume, Alexander Graham Bell, Sir Conan Doyle, Robert L. Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott have all passed through its walls. Today, the most famous buildings are the Old College (1789) on South Bridge, the New College (1846) on Mound Place and the buildings dividing Bistro Square: the Medical School (1880), McEwan Hall (1897) and Teviot Row House (1889) which is the oldest student union built in history and has no less than six bars. Several museums depend on the university, if three are accessible only by appointment or with limited schedules/dates (anatomy, natural history and geology; see website), two others are open to the public.

Talbot Rice Gallery: this contemporary art gallery offers temporary exhibitions by international artists.

St. Cecilia's Hall: it has one of the largest collections of musical instruments in the world.

The Glasgow Botanic Gardens are a popular meeting place for local residents and a popular meeting place in the West End. On the banks of the Kelvin River, many people come here for pleasant walks, jogging, or even a picnic. There are plants from all over the world, including orchids and begonias, but especially the Kibble Palace. These huge 1873 Victorian greenhouses are among the largest in the kingdom and cover 2,137 m². A brochure will allow you to optimize your visit.

Housed in the former editorial offices of the Glasgow Herald, the Lighthouse building was the first commission for the great Mackintosh in 1893. It is now the home of Scotland's Centre for Architecture & Design, spread over five floors. The Mackintosh Centre is dedicated to the city's leading builder and his work, while the other levels are home to changing and temporary exhibitions. A lookout point at the top offers lovely views of Glasgow. Guided tours are available on Saturdays.

Opened in 1960, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art is the temple of modern and contemporary art in Scotland. It consists of two buildings along Belford Road. Information is available in French and also adapted to families, with activities, installations and workshops designed specifically to introduce young audiences to art. The most "hip" or "connected" will download the dedicated free application: Smartify. By scanning the work, you will read a lot of additional information about the artist, the context of creation...

In Modern One, all the big names from the end of the 19th century to the present day are present: Henri Matisse, Georges Braque, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Louise Bourgeois, Damien Hirst, Douglas Gordon, Anthony Gormley and Bill Viola. The whole on two floors and 22 rooms, with a shop and a small but very popular café.

The Modern Two is dedicated to the surrealists with René Magritte, Salvador Dali or Alberto Giacometti. Another room houses a reproduction of Eduardo Paolozzi's studio and one can admire his famous Vulcan sculpture of more than 7 metres. It is also here that the temporary exhibitions (sometimes paying exhibitions, online programming) can be found, as well as a library and a second café.

The gardens between the two galleries are themselves the work of Charles Jenks and host the works of sculptors such as Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, Rachel Whiteread and Nathan Coley.

The Talisker Distillery is the star of the island and one of its main attractions. Celebrated throughout the world, it was founded in 1830 and was much appreciated by Robert Louis Stevenson. The simple tour lasts about 45 minutes and is very complete, through the entire manufacturing process. It ends with the tasting of the 10-year-old, a single malt with a 45.8% strength and a full-bodied, peaty, spicy and pleasantly iodized character. Another tour combines whisky and chocolate, and a third offers a guided tasting with an expert.

St Magnus is the northernmost cathedral in Britain. Its construction began in 1137 and lasted 300 years. Its Romanesque architecture is one of the most interesting in Scotland. St Magnus, to whom it is dedicated, had a reputation for great kindness. During a raid from Norway against Anglesey, Wales, he refused to take part in the fighting and remained on the ship reciting psalms. King Eystein II granted him part of Orkney, which was then under the authority of his cousin, Hakon, and they ruled together from 1105 to 1114.

The Neolithic dwellings in Barnhouse Village were probably occupied by those who built Maeshowe and the foundations give a good impression of what the houses looked like at the time. 1.5 km further on you will find the very romantic Ring of Brodgar. Its monoliths are said to be between 3,500 and 4,000 years old. Sitting enthroned in the heather, 27 of the original 60 are still visible. Between the two sites, you will pass the Ness of Bodgar, still under excavation.

This 358 m mountain is accessible from the village park. Some 2 hours walk to climb and enjoy a splendid view of this part of Loch Lomond punctuated by many small Wooded islands. A good alternative for who would be intimidated by the climb of Ben Lomond!