Walk through its heathery glens and onto moorlands that are snow-covered. Climb through stairways of scree onto summits that showcase intricate splendour. Take to the shimmering waters of sea lochs, then cruise the horizon to whaleback islands and cetacean-circled archipelagoes that uphold cultures and histories of their own. Retreat back into the cities, where contemporary art, architecture, design, music and cuisine forge ahead.
Half close your eyes and it doesn’t take much to think of Scotland. It’s inexplicably rich with history and wild geography, folklore and modern swagger. And whether you come for sparkling city life in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, or Aberdeen, or are motivated by outdoor pursuits or something calmer from gateway capitals Inverness, Fort William, Oban, or St Andrews, it’s always one of the world’s most rewarding destinations.
Read our reviews of the best luxury hotels in Scotland
Current travel restrictions and entry requirements
All travel restrictions to Scotland ended on Friday 18 March 2022. No proof of vaccination, recovery or testing is required for entry and the country has scrapped all mask wearing and social distancing requirements.
Best time to go
Scotland’s carousel of weather is like a misbehaving drunk, changing character and mood at whim, meaning the four-seasons-in-one-day cliche is truly tried and tested here. So the short answer is pack a waterproof, sturdy shoes and sunglasses and you’ll fit right in whatever the forecast.
But that’s not to say Scotland doesn’t dazzle in other ways. In January, Glasgow hosts Celtic Connections, the largest winter music festival in Europe, while Burns Night on 25 January and Up Helly Aa, Shetland’s Viking fire festival, continue the festive hangover through until March. May is Whisky Month, when Scotland and Speyside, in particular, turn into one-long dramathon, before summer brings hordes of midges and tourists. Mainly, they swarm in for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts gathering, and Highland Games season; the most regal takes place in September in Braemar next to Balmoral Castle.
Read more on Scotland travel:
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