Staying in the Glorious Highlands
The Highlands may have a population of over a quarter of a million people – but they are spread across such a large area, you won’t see many of them – for the Highlands are renowned for having some of the best countryside in Europe. A visit to the Highlands reveals the natural beauty of the mountains, hills and glens. It’s all here for you to enjoy – from fresh springs and running rivers through to snow-capped mountain peaks and sparkling waterfalls. You can lose yourself in an area where you can walk for hours without seeing another person, ankle deep in beautiful heather. Visit once and highland holidays could become a regular date on your holiday schedule.
Lochs and Rivers
You’ll see lochs, their surface so still that they look like huge mirrors reflecting the stunning scenery that surrounds it. You won’t tire of the natural beauty and truly awe-inspiring surroundings of some of them, especially when combined with peace and tranquillity, only broken every now and then by the odd jumping fish or singing bird.
It doesn’t end with walking up mountains and around lochs because Scotland boasts a history like nowhere else. The Highlands Castle Heritage has information on the numerous castles there are to visit in the Highlands and even offers discounted tickets for taking in more than one in a visit. There are the renowed Highland Games – a test of strength, stamina and sheer madness – throwing a tree trunk is no small feat!
History In The Highlands
Brodie Castle is just one example. This imposing building was owned by the Brodie family from the 16th century right through until the 20th century. What makes it interesting is the artwork that charts the 400 year old story of the Brodies taking you through the history of the family heritage. The Castle also features a tea room for you to enjoy lunch or traditional Highland tea in truly impressive surroundings. If you’re in the Highlands for a Christmas visit you can also book a real feast of a Christmas Dinner here.
Excitement In Aviemore
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, then visit Aviemore where you will be able to use one of the many activity companies that specialise in outdoor activities. You’ll be able to go bungee jumping, try out the canyoning and even enjoy white river rafting! You and a small team are led by a professional member of staff through slow winding rivers enjoying the scenery only to be greeted by fast-flowing river rapids that need to be negotiated with the use of frantic paddling. Throw in a few screams at the same time and you’ve got a real adventure on your hands.
You’ll also be able to enjoy other outdoor activities here such as skiing. In Winter, there are few places in the UK better to enjoy this spor. Even if you’ve never done tried to ski before there’s a ski school there that will rent you all the required equipment and teach you the basics.
If you’re looking for somewhere vibrant, then Inverness will certainly tick all the boxes. Its full of its contemporary bars, has a good range of shopping facilities and plenty of activities to enjoy while still being in reach of quiet “out-of-town” locations. Alternatively, if you really want to get back to basics, then there’s the remote Crofting communities and sparsely-populated islands to visit. With a range of holiday cottages in Scotland to stay in, you’ll have the opportunity to really get into the local life. The Highlands are romantic in the real sense of the word – spacious, magnificent and challenging.
