Welcome to DesBNet - Scotland

No. of Visits 20+ - Last Visited 2001

General

Beautiful scenery featuring rugged mountains & crystal clear streams are some of the hallmarks of this charismatic country. The rich scenery is complimented by many species of wildlife, which are no longer found in other parts of the British Isles. A wonderful place to 'recharge the batteries', Scotland's charm which begins with the warm hospitality of it's people. Legends abound, to add more colours to the backdrop of Castles, Lochs, & Forests.

Geography

Scotland covers the northern parts of the British Isles, including the Hebredian, Orkney & Shetland Islands. The flat Lowlands lie south of both Glasgow & Edinburgh and provide rich farmland. North of these two cities is the picturesque Highland region, which hosts the cities of Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen & Inverness.

Climate

Warm, waterproof clothing is advisable for visits to Scotland (at any time of the year), however, don't let the weather put you off. Snow is a regular feature of the higher grounds during the winter months.

History

Scotland's past features many high & low points. From its Roman origins, this land has been savagely fought over in previous centuries, Politics & Religion being the main precipitants. Fierce battles have taken place on the soils of Culloden, Bannockburn, & Glencoe. The ancient Clan system based around local communities has had a huge bearing on Scottish heritage, though past rivalries have since quelled. The well documented parts played by Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, William Wallace, & Rob Roy McGregor in Scotland's past still invoke a sense of national pride among Scottish people, as do the inventions of William Baird (Television), Alexander Graham Bell (Telephone), & George Stevenson (Steam Locomotive).

Language & Culture

English is widely spoken; however, Gaelic still remains common in some of the Island communities. Scotland's recently (1999) formed parliament sits in Edinburgh, at Holyrood House, a former Royal Palace.

Accommodation

Top class Hotels can be found in and around the major cities. Some of the more sumptuous accommodation, however, is located in the Highlands, within reach of fishing beats & shooting moors. High quality guesthouses and Bed & Breakfast establishments are easily found throughout Scotland, these can be booked in advance through the Scottish Tourist Board.

Sight Seeing

Many activities including Salmon & Trout fishing, Skiing, Golf, Mountaineering & hill walking are popular in the Highlands. Visits to the many historic Castles and Whisky distilleries also feature highly on many people's agenda. A journey from Inverness to Glasgow via 'The Great Glen' gives the opportunity to see some of the beautiful landscape on offer, including Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Rannoch Moor & Loch Lomond. Edinburgh Castle proudly overlooks the elegant City below. Both Glasgow & Edinburgh contain some fine examples of Georgian, and indeed older architecture. Various events are staged throughout the summer including, in Edinburgh, the Military Tattoo & Festival. Further afield, a trip to one of the many Highland Gatherings provides an enjoyable day out.

Beaches

Beaches are few & far between, though the coastline of Scotland provides interests of it's own, from Fishing Ports, to dramatic rocky inlets. Ferries can transport you to a variety of the outlying Islands, where time seems to stand still.

Local Transport

Travelling around Scotland can be achieved by a variety of methods including Train, Bus, Ferry, & Aircraft. The major cities host comprehensive bus networks & Glasgow has it's own underground railway, known locally as 'The Magic Roundabout'.

Night Life

Extensive entertainment can be found in the major cities, however, outside of these, nightlife is severely restricted.

Restaurants

The top quality of the local produce is well reflected in the better eateries of Scotland. The Fish, Game meats & Beef are rightly lauded as being among the finest in the world, and even cooked simply, can provide an exquisite culinary experience.  Fresh Summer Fruits also abound to make delicious desserts. The Highland Hotels provide some of the best restaurants available.

Shopping

The City centres of Glasgow & Edinburgh host an array of major department stores and nationwide chains, as well as independent retailers selling more unique goods. Woollens, Tartans, and Outdoor specialists are all well represented.

Car Hire

To get the best from this beautiful country, a car is essential! All of the Major Car Rental firms have outlets at the Airports & City Centres.

Getting There

Airports include Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness & Aberdeen, which can be accessed from both London and further afield. Scotland can also be easily reached via Coach & Train from London & many other U.K. Towns & Cities.