Welcome To

Scotland

t Twilight over Eilean Donan Castle on Loch Duich.

Small but spectacular, Scotland is famed for its majestic mountain landscapes, tranquil lochs and windswept moorland, all fringed by thousands of miles of dramatic coastline. The undulating farmlands of Angus, Ayrshire and Aberdeenshire and the verdant sheep pastures of the Borders are a haven of tranquillity, while pocket wildernesses like the Cairngorms, Rannoch Moor and the Trossachs are but a stone’s throw from bustling towns and cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.

This richly varied hinterland is a joy for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vast array of activities from gentle country strolls to long-distance hill walking, rock climbing and whitewater kayaking. Meanwhile, the museums and art galleries of Scotland’s cities are temples to art and culture, and a plethora of bars and clubs serve up a buzzing nightlife comprising live gigs, impromptu folk sessions and comedy. Old-school inns abound, but cool cocktail bars and gastropubs offer an exciting new take on food and drink while still honouring the country’s local produce and culinary tradition.

With so much on offer, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide breaks Scotland down into easily navigable chapters, with detailed itineraries, expert local knowledge and comprehensive maps to help you plan your perfect trip. Whether you’re here for a flying visit or a grand tour, this Eyewitness Travel Guide will ensure that you see the very best the country has to offer. Enjoy the book, enjoy Scotland, and haste ye back.

1 Wild red stag grazing in the frosty moorlands of the Scottish Highlands.

2 Visitors admiring the view from the top of Calton Hill, Edinburgh.