Cross the border from England or Wales, and you’re immediately into a different country – a country of stunning panoramas, rugged coastlines, and unique cultural traditions and history. In fact, we think Scotland has some of the most spectacular scenery in the world! That’s what makes towing your caravan to Scotland such a rewarding and satisfying adventure.
So, let’s explore just a handful of those glorious opportunities.
Climb the highest peak
If there’s a single vista that best sums up all that you expect Scotland to be it is probably one sketched by stunning hills and mountains – landscapes that are among the most captivating in the world.
If you’re after a personal record, of course, the highest mountain in Scotland – and the whole of the UK for that matter – is Ben Nevis in the Cairngorm range. Its summit is an impressive 4,413ft (1345m) above sea level.
But there is a very wide selection of hills and peaks in this most mountainous part of the UK. There are no fewer than 282 mountains more than 3,000ft high – and charmingly called “Munros”. Other classifications of hills and mountains include Corbetts, The Fionas, Donalds, and Marilyns.
Beaches
Once you’ve scaled the heights it’s time to return to sea-level, of course. And in Scotland, that invites you to explore some of the loveliest, sandy, sheltered, and unpopulated beaches in the world.
These are the stretches of coastline where you can truly relax – just wandering along the shoreline, leaving just your footprints as a fleeting reminder in the pristine white sands.
Just to whet your appetite, the Scottish tourist authorities have published a selection of some of the country’s finest beaches but you’ll almost certainly lose no time in discovering your own favourites, such as:
- East Beach, Lossiemouth
In the north eastern part of the mainland, the harbour at ‘Lossie’ is bordered by two magnificent beaches to the east and west. The eastern beach features charming sand dunes and extensive stretches of white sand, providing a delightful setting for walking the dog or simply taking a leisurely stroll with scenic views overlooking the harbour town.
Alternatively, consider exploring the Covesea Lighthouse located on the western side.
- Rockcliffe Beach, Rockcliffe
Rockcliffe is a picturesque Scottish beach offering a delightful coastal experience. Embark on a leisurely stroll during the morning or afternoon along the wooded coastal pathway spanning approximately 5 km between the villages of Kippford and Rockcliffe.
Along the way, you’ll encounter charming houses, vibrant flora, and playful squirrels darting about. At Rockcliffe, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Rough Island, a bird sanctuary accessible on foot during low tide throughout the year, except for May and June when the birds claim the island as their own.
Perched atop the hilltop lies the ancient citadel, Mote of Mark, believed to date back to the 5th or 6th century.
Woodland walks
Wellness and wellbeing are a pair of terms very much in fashion these days. And the many Scottish woodlands offer the perfect backdrop to calming both mind and spirit in an almost ethereal way.
Scottish woodlands are truly places of wonder. Stroll beneath the leafy canopy or simply while away an hour or two as you rest upon a moss-covered stone – and you’ll come away refreshed and rejuvenated.
· Rothiemurchus Forest, Cairngorms National Park
Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore, this forest offers a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife, as well as numerous activities to enjoy.
Explore the enchanting surroundings amidst native Caledonian pine trees, with opportunities for lochside strolls, cycling, hiking, horseback riding, tree-top adventures, clay pigeon shooting, and watersports ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
The forest provides convenient amenities such as caravan and campsites and a reindeer centre. Serving as the gateway to the Cairngorm Ski Centre, it’s a must-visit destination if you find yourself in the Highlands.
- Ariundle Oakwoods, Sunart, North Highlands
Ariundle is a captivating destination to explore year-round, boasting an abundance of primitive plants, diverse wildlife, and breath-taking scenery.
This serene nature reserve stands as a precious remnant of the once-extensive native woodlands that adorned Europe’s Atlantic coastline.
Within this verdant sanctuary, a rich tapestry of mosses, lichens, and liverworts thrives alongside a remarkable assortment of wildlife and insects, including the rare the northern Emerald Dragonfly and the Chequered Skipper butterfly. Keep your eyes peeled for Ariundle’s more elusive inhabitants, such as otters, pine martens and wildcats, who may grace you with a fleeting glimpse.
Visitors can enjoy facilities such as woodland and nature trails, adorned with interpretation boards detailing the area’s history, culture, and wildlife.
History
Scotland boasts a fascinating history and vibrant culture, with ancient castles, historic cities, and traditional festivals waiting to be discovered. Explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, visit the medieval Stirling Castle, or experience the vibrant music and dance scene at a Highland Games.
There are places where the land itself seems to have soaked up some of the drama and stored it up for you to witness still today. Feel that history in your very bones as you spend an hour or two on the windswept fields of Culloden retracing the final footsteps of the Jacobite uprising in 1746 as the rebel Scots met their match at the hands of the English army.
Alternatively, feel the eery and enveloping doom of betrayal among the clans as you wander the looming mists of Glen Coe.
Castles
If the landscape fails to paint vivid enough pictures of Scotland’s rich history, its treasure trove of castles will do more than fill any gap. Indeed, you’ll be spoilt for choice because it has been estimated that there are more than 1,500 castles dotted about the country’s rugged landscape.
Since the earliest remaining monuments date back to the 12th century, it is hardly surprising that some lie in ruins. Yet equally surprising is the fine state of repair of some of the best known and majestic of Scotland’s castles – from the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the late Queen’s favourite at Balmoral, from Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire to the home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll at Inveraray Castle.
Visit a distillery
If you have some time left after cramming so much in to your Scottish adventure, why not visit a distillery? Scotland is renowned for its whisky, and no visit would be complete without a tour of a traditional distillery. Learn about the whisky-making process, sample a variety of single malts, and immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich whisky heritage.
We hope this brief blog has given you some ideas of where to visit in Scotland.
This beautiful country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, outdoor adventure, and warm hospitality that makes it a must-visit destination in the UK.