A trip to Scotland offers an unforgettable experience thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and its rich history. Discover the Highlands, the wild soul of the country, or stroll through the historic streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Isle of Skye and Fort William will delight nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Themed stays allow you to immerse yourself in fascinating stories like that of Rob Roy, or to follow in the footsteps of the heroes from the Outlander series. Explore legendary castles, including those in the Highlands, or step back in time in the Orkney archipelago.

To prepare for your trip, know that the formalities are simple and that *the budget* can accommodate all wallets. The climate is often changeable, but the beauty of the places more than compensates for this small inconvenience. In terms of health and safety, Scotland remains a reliable and welcoming destination.

In terms of activities, don’t miss Blair Castle, Dunnottar Castle, the Cuillin Hills, and the Glen Coe valley. The mysteries of Loch Ness continue to fascinate, just like the Orkney and Shetland islands. Immerse yourself in Scottish traditions and culture for a complete experience.

Our destinations in Scotland

Highlands

The Highlands are the wild jewel of Scotland. Imagine majestic mountains, mysterious glens, and sparkling lochs. It is a place where nature reigns supreme and where every view seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK, dominates this region. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless trails offering breathtaking views. Don’t miss Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films, and immerse yourself in history at Culloden Battlefield.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is a city full of charm and mystery. Its castle, perched on a volcanic rock, offers stunning views of the city. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, where every stone tells a story. Edinburgh is also a festival city, with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world. Literature lovers will enjoy following in the footsteps of J.K. Rowling or Arthur Conan Doyle in this city that has inspired so many writers.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a dynamic and creative city that surprises with its vibrancy. Known for its Victorian architecture and modern buildings, Glasgow offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, explore the artistic district of the West End, or attend a concert in one of the many renowned performance venues. The Glasgow Science Centre will delight young and old with its interactive exhibits.

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is a true natural paradise. Its dramatic and wild landscapes make it a favored destination for photographers and nature lovers. Discover the picturesque Quiraing, Fairy Pools, and the spectacular cliffs of Kilt Rock. History enthusiasts can visit Dunvegan Castle, the oldest inhabited fortress in Scotland. Skye is also famous for its local products, especially its refined whiskies that you can taste in local distilleries.

Fort William

Located at the foot of the majestic Ben Nevis, Fort William is often regarded as the outdoor capital of the UK. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or water sports, Fort William has everything to please adventurers. The region is also famous for the spectacular steam train ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, often dubbed the “Hogwarts Express.” For history buffs, a must-visit is the West Highland Museum for a dive into the rich and turbulent past of the region.

Don’t hesitate to dive into these Scottish wonders!

Themed stays in Scotland

In the footsteps of Rob Roy

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Rob Roy MacGregor, legendary hero of Scotland. This tour takes you through the Trossachs, an area often called “the miniature Highlands.” Discover Loch Katrine, where Rob Roy carried out his exploits, and visit his birthplace in Glengyle. This stay allows you to explore iconic sites while reliving the adventures of this famous Scottish outlaw.

Edinburgh and the west of Scotland

Combine the cultural richness of Edinburgh with the wild landscapes of the west of Scotland. Start by exploring the capital, with its historic monuments like the Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Head west to discover natural wonders such as Loch Lomond, the largest lake in the UK, and the beautiful Hebrides islands. This stay offers a perfect balance between urban culture and wild nature.

Scotland, land of castles

Scotland is a land of majestic and mysterious castles. Set off to discover these fortresses that dot the Scottish landscape. Visit famous castles like Stirling Castle, which played a key role in Scottish history, or the romantic Eilean Donan Castle, often photographed for its spectacular beauty. Each castle tells a unique story, from medieval battles to royal intrigues.

The Orkney archipelago, millennia of history

The Orkney archipelago is a must-visit destination for ancient history enthusiasts. These islands are home to some of the best-preserved prehistoric sites in Europe, such as the Neolithic village of Skara Brae and the mysterious stone circle of Stenness. The Orkneys are also rich in flora and fauna, offering unmatched opportunities to observe seabirds and seals in their natural habitat.

Castle route of the Highlands

Follow an itinerary dedicated to the most beautiful castles of the Highlands. Start with the monumental Urquhart Castle, on the shores of the mysterious Loch Ness, then head to the picturesque Dunrobin Castle, with its gardens inspired by Versailles. Don’t miss the mythical Inveraray Castle, residence of the chief of Clan Campbell. This itinerary will plunge you into the heart of Scottish history while admiring breathtaking panoramas.

In the footsteps of Outlander in Scotland

Relive the exciting adventures of the Outlander series by visiting the iconic filming locations in Scotland. From Doune Castle, which embodies Castle Leoch in the series, to the quaint little town of Falkland, known as Inverness in Outlander, each stop brings you closer to the world of Claire and Jamie Fraser. This themed stay is perfect for fans wanting to explore the natural and historical beauty of Scotland while following their favorite heroes.

These themed stays offer a deep immersion into different fascinating aspects of Scotland, each promising a unique and memorable experience.

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Practical information for traveling in Scotland

Formalities and necessary documents

To enter Scotland, citizens of the European Union must have a valid passport. Since Brexit, the identity card is no longer sufficient. Tourists can stay up to 6 months without a visa. Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay. For other nationalities, check specific requirements on the official UK government website.

Time difference and duration of direct flight

Scotland is in the GMT+0 time zone during winter and GMT+1 during summer (British Summer Time). Compared to France, there is a one-hour time difference less. A direct flight between Paris and Edinburgh takes about 1h45. Direct flights are also available from other major European cities to the main Scottish airports such as Glasgow and Aberdeen.

Currency and budget

The currency used in Scotland is the pound sterling (GBP). It is recommended to exchange some money before departure or to use the ATMs available almost everywhere. The cost of living varies by region, but here is an estimate:

• Meal in a restaurant: 10-20 GBP
• Night in a 3-star hotel: 60-120 GBP
• Local transport (bus/tram): 2-4 GBP per trip

For a comfortable stay, plan an average daily budget of 70 to 100 GBP per person.

Climate and weather

The Scottish climate is oceanic and can be changeable. Summers are mild with temperatures around 15-20°C, while winters are cool with temperatures ranging from 0 to 7°C. Rain is frequent throughout the year, so it is advisable to bring waterproof clothing and several layers to quickly adapt to weather variations.

Health and safety

Scotland has an excellent health system. European visitors should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public health care. For other nationalities, travel insurance covering medical expenses is recommended. In terms of safety, Scotland is a safe destination with a low crime rate. As everywhere, it is always best to remain vigilant in tourist areas and not leave personal belongings unattended.

This practical information will help you prepare your trip to Scotland under the best conditions, allowing you to fully enjoy this beautiful destination.

Activities and must-see sites in Scotland

Blair Castle and Dunnottar Castle

Visiting Blair Castle and Dunnottar Castle is a fascinating dive into Scottish history. Blair Castle, located in the Highlands, is a beautiful white castle surrounded by lush gardens. Explore its richly decorated rooms and discover the history of the Murray clan. Dunnottar Castle, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the North Sea, offers spectacular views and a mysterious atmosphere. This site was the scene of many significant historical events.

Cuillin Hills and Glen Coe

The Cuillin Hills and Glen Coe are paradise for hiking and nature lovers. The Cuillin Hills, located on the Isle of Skye, feature steep peaks and breathtaking landscapes. Glen Coe, known as the valley of tears, is famous for its dramatic panoramas and its tragic history linked to the massacre of the MacDonald clan. These places offer hiking trails for all levels, allowing visitors to explore wild and stunning landscapes.

Loch Ness and its mysteries

Loch Ness is undoubtedly one of the most famous sites in Scotland due to its mysterious monster, Nessie. This large deep lake located in the Highlands attracts thousands of visitors each year, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the legendary creature. Enjoy a cruise on the lake to admire the surrounding landscapes and visit the Loch Ness exhibition center to learn more about its fascinating myths and legends 😊.

Orkney and Shetland Islands

The Orkney and Shetland Islands are ideal destinations for those looking to escape the crowds. These archipelagos offer wild landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a rich history ranging from prehistory to the Vikings. On Orkney, explore the Neolithic village of Skara Brae or witness the stunning natural displays such as the northern lights in winter. The Shetland Islands are famous for their unique cultural festivals such as Up Helly Aa, a fire festival celebrating Viking heritage.

Scottish traditions and culture

Scotland is proud of its rich traditions and culture. Attend a céilidh, an ordinary evening with folk music, dance and friendliness. Don’t miss the Highland games competitions where you can see kilted men throwing tree trunks! Scottish cuisine is also to be discovered with emblematic dishes like haggis, accompanied by a good local whisky. The Scots are warm and welcoming, ready to share their cultural heritage enthusiastically.

These activities and must-see sites make Scotland a unique destination, rich in natural and cultural discoveries that will surely amaze you.

Set off to discover Scotland

Scotland awaits you with its varied landscapes, its majestic castles, and its rich culture. From the wild Highlands to the urban vibrancy of Edinburgh and Glasgow, every corner of this country offers a new adventure. Whether you are passionate about history, a nature lover, or curious about local legends, Scotland has something to offer everyone.

Dive into the fascinating tales of Rob Roy and the Scottish clans, explore prehistoric sites in Orkney, or follow in the footsteps of iconic characters from Outlander. Prepare your trip with peace of mind thanks to practical information on formalities, climate, and budget.

Activities abound: hikes in the Cuillin Hills, cruises on Loch Ness, or visits to iconic castles like Blair Castle and Dunnottar Castle. Immerse yourself in local traditions at a céilidh or by enjoying a good whisky.

Scotland is a destination that inspires and amazes. So pack your bags and set off to discover this enchanting land where every day is a new adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions