'Heart
of the ancient Celtic kingdom'
Scotland’s rugged mountain peaks sweep down to lochs glistening
in remote glens like Glen Affric near Inverness and Loch Trool in
Galloway. The coastline, with white sandy beaches, sheltered bays
and rocky cliffs looks out to the remote islands on the Atlantic.
To the south, the hills of the Borders, lowland pastures and extensive
woodlands present a softer beauty.
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is one of the outstanding cities
of the world, where the Medieval Old Town contrasts with the Georgian
New Town. Other towns, notably Glasgow, display rich Victorian architecture.
Everywhere you’ll find castles and houses, prehistoric forts,
stone circles and burial mounds, particularly at the Neolithic Heart
of Orkney, Scotland’s latest addition to the list of World
Heritage Sites.
Scotland’s musical heritage has feet tapping to bagpipes,
fiddles and accordions. The best Celtic melodies can be heard at
either the Girvan Traditional Folk Festival in May or the Newcastleton
Festival in July. This country is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
One can play golf on the world’s most famous course at St
Andrews or go fishing, sailing, diving, or join the walkers, cyclists
and climbers on the hills, in woodlands and on country lanes. At
the end of the day relax with Scotland’s greatest export,
a dram of fine malt whisky. |
