Although it is often overlooked by many world travellers who have a UK tourist visa, there is no denying that a Scottish Adventure should be on everybody’s bucket list before they die. Home to spectacular mountain views, deep lakes (that may hold a secret or two) stark landscapes, and some of the warmest and most welcoming people on the planet, you are sure to have an amazing time if you visit Scotland.
If you are planning a trip to the home of the Loch Ness Monster, Rabbie Burns, and fine Scotch whiskey, and you want to ensure that you have a uniquely Scottish adventure, here are some of the best things to add to your itinerary:
7 Ways to Have a Uniquely Scottish Adventure
Take a Microlight Flight
Scotland is known for its rugged terrain which consists of many huge mountains and hills, not to mention stunning lakes, or lochs as they are known locally, which have to be seen to be believed. If you aren’t much of a walker or you have a limited amo9unt of time to explore it all, what not take to the skies in your very own Microlight flight so you can see it all while experiencing the unique feeling of having the wind in your hair as you fly through the air in an open-cockpit.
Flights are available from East Lothian, Cumbernauld, and Kinross, which means you can cover quite a lot of distance and see some of the most beautiful mountains and beaches from a unique vantage point.
Scottish Food and Drink Trail
Although Scotland might not be the first place you think of when you think of the world’s finest culinary experiences, heading off on one of these Scottish Food and Drink Trails may just change your mind.
Whether you’re interested in sampling some of the finest whiskey in the world, you’ve always had a hankering to try haggis or you fancy a traditional British cream tea with locally sourced produce provided just for you, you will not be disappointed with the food on show or the surrounding beauty of Scotland’s sweeping landscapes.
Go Monster Hunting
As you will probably know, Scotland is also home to the famous Loch Ness Monster, a dinosaur-like creature that has been spotted in the stunning lake for many years by many people.
If you fancy getting a glimpse of the beat yourself, the lake is always open for visitors, and at various times of the year, you can take a Nessie tour and even go out in the lake in a small boat to explore the depths for yourself.
Even if you do not manage to get a glimpse of the elusive Nessie, you can have a wonderful time hearing the stories told by the locals and enjoying a picnic by the lake. Just remember to wear something warm.
See the Stars at Galloway Forest Park
The Galloway Forest Park is one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the West, and the only example of such a place in the United Kingdon, so if you’re looking for a truly unique adventure in Scotland, then it is an opportunity you can not pass up.
Dark Sky Parks are places where there is so little artificial light pollution that it is possible to get a very clear view of the stars above, and whatever other phenomena that may be happening in the skies at the time too.
Most of us never get to see a true picture of the sky at night because the artificial light of buildings and streetlamps blocks out view, but this is not the case at Galloway Forest Park. Spend an evening there looking up at the sky and you will leave with a whole new sense of wonder.
Take a Walk to an Island
There aren’t many places where you can literally walk from the mainland to an island, but it is certainly possible to do so when you are in Scotland. St Ninian’s Isle is a stunning example of European sand tombolos, and it is unique in that you can get to it on foot by following a natural sand causeway that will see you safely across.
St Ninian’s isle is home to some of the bluest, unspoiled waters and most pristine sandy beaches on the planet, so although the weather may not be as inviting as it is on the many popular Caribbean Islands, it is nonetheless worth a visit.
Visit the Natural Wonder of Fingal’s Cave
Fingal’s cave is one of those natural wonders that you have to see to believe. Located on the Staffa, which is one of Scotlands many uninhabited islands, located in the Inner Hebrides, Fingal’s Cave is a staggering 72 feet tall and 270 feet deep. As if that wasn’t enough it is actually made by the natural formation of various hexagonal basalt rock columns which give it a unique appearance that is not dissimilar to the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland. While you’re there, be sure to visit the North Shore, which is home to a beautiful colony of Puffins who are always a delight tow tch going about their business.
See the Kelpies in Falkirk
Scotland is a country rich in folklore and the magnificent kelpies, mythical shape-shifting water horses, are a case in point. Although you probably won’t see any real kelpies on your trip, you can certainly see a couple of very impressive monumental kelpies if you take a trip to The Helix, a unique parkland area in Falkirk just by the Rover Forth. Dramatic, mythical, and even a little bit kitsch, the statues are certainly ripe for taking some interesting vacation photos next to, and the adjoining park is always a good place to have a picnic and maybe a wee dram or two, too.
As you can see, there are lots of uniquely Scottish adventures to be had whether you love fine food and drink or time spent taking in the breathtaking beauty of nature, so be sure to add Scotland to your travel bucket list, and be sure to visit a few of these unique attractions too!
