Scotland is a beautiful destination known as the Land of Legends. This small region has a complex history, rich cultural heritage, and lush and spectacular scenery. Scotland is also a perfect place for those who love adventure. Visit the place that inspired the epic movie Braveheart while you travel to Scotland that leaves a big impact on all who pass through. Explore the numerous castles that dot the landscape. Here are ten of the most important attractions Scotland has to offer.
Melrose Abbey
Founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks on the request of Scottish King David I, Melrose Abbey is one of the most significant architectural structures in Scotland when it comes to historical importance. This is a grand ruin with lavish Masonic decoration. Melrose Abbey is thought to hold the embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce, one of the most famous kings of Scotland. It is truly a place of legends.
Broch of Mousa
This impressive defensive structure is one of the most prestigious and well-deserved brochs in the Shetland Islands. It is also the only broch which is complete right to the top, including the original intramural stair. Built around 100 BC, it is a rotund tower lined with stone internally and externally to provide the optimum strength as a defensive structure.
Cuillin Hills
The beauty of the Cuillin Hills is simply incredible. Located on the most northern island of Skye, these hills are made up of two diverse formations. The Red Cuillins are a red granite formation. They are softer and more appealing in appearance. The Black Cuillins, on the other hand, have sharp, jagged peaks of volcanic rock that dominate the skyline. They are harsh in appearance and warn off those who are unwelcome.
Skara Brae
This magnificent Stone Age village is located on the main island of Orkney. Skara Brae is one of the best preserved and most famous Stone Age villages in Europe. For hundreds of years, this village was covered by a sand dune until a great storm exposed the site in 1850. The dwellings were filled by sand immediately after the site was abandoned by its dweller. That is why the stone walls are relatively very well preserved. Skara Brae is thought to be older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. It is also called the Scottish Pompeii because of its outstanding preservation.
Stirling Castle
Located high up on the vertical rock mass of Castle Hill, Stirling Castle is one of the most magnificent castles in Scotland. This spectacular castle is defensively positioned along the steep surrounding cliffs. To experience the art, culture, and status that encompassed 16th century in Scotland, history lovers in particular must not miss this popular tourist attraction in Scotland.
Luskentyre Beach
This spectacular beach is located on the stunning west coast of South Harris in the Outer Hebrides. The peaceful and timeless Luskentyre Beach has been voted as the best beach of Great Britain. The beach is situated on the most beautiful color-washed coastal areas of Scotland. The blue-green seas, the creamy sands, and the lively green hillside have made this beach one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland.
Loch Ness
Loch Ness is one of the most famous lakes in the world. It is the second largest loch in Scotland, but the largest by volume due to its great depth which is about a mile aide at most places. It holds the legend of the most infamous mythical creature called Nessie. With an air of mystery, the mythical creature and the beautiful scenery altogether have made it a popular tourist destination in the region.
Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is the highest summit of Scotland as well as the British Isle. It is located deep into the famous highlands of Scotland. Ben Nevis is famous for its stunningly spectacular views and historical malice. It attracts hikers, climbers, adventurers, and viewers on the whole to rejoice the tranquillity of the surrounding nature. The mountain is accessible through a man-made path. It zig zags up the mountain’s south westerly face. The rock face on the north west of the mountain, however, is strictly for experienced mountaineers only.
Eilean Donan
Located in Loch Duich in the western Highlands of Scotland, Eilean Donan is a small island. It is connected to the mainland by a footbridge. The island is famous for a picturesque medieval castle that was built in the early 13th century to provide defence against the Vikings. Today, this popular castle is one of the most photographed monuments in Scotland. It is also a very popular venue for weddings and film locations. The castle has appeared in many famous films, such as Highlander and The World Is Not Enough.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most famous and the most visited tourist attractions in Scotland. Edinburgh Castle located on the summit of a dormant volcano is visible for miles in every direction. Edinburgh Castle is an example of Scottish architecture, ideology, and political activity. It served as a royal residence and a very strong military stronghold. The Scottish utilized this mighty castle for all their major battles and struggle for independence. It is a strong symbol of pride, perseverance and struggle for independence for the Scottish. It has been one of the most iconic and most famous tourist attractions in Scotland.