Picture wide open spaces with lush green countryside, breathtaking views, crisp clean air, impressive castles rich with history, and you have got to be in the visually refreshing city of Edinburgh, Scotland. One of the most picturesque places in the world, this capital city has a lot to offer to tourists who crave for more than the amazing landscape spread out before them. Ideal for nature walks are places with charming names such as Midlothian, Gullane, Yellowcraigs, Pentland Hills, Beecraigs, and Linlithgow. Various eateries can also be found — the perfect complement to an invigorating nature trek.
A popular tourist activity is a three-day tour of the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. They accept a maximum of 16 people per trip, complete with a knowledgeable driver/guide. You will get to explore the beautiful countryside, as well as visit the enchanting Isle of Skye. The tour also includes sightseeing of other picturesque locations such as Portree, Old Man of Storr, mountainous Quiraing, and the westernmost point of Skye, Neist. The final day of the tour takes you to mysterious-sounding places such as Five Sisters of Kintail, and of course, the famous Loch Ness.
A trip to Edinburgh will not be complete without at least setting eyes on the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. Situated on top of an extinct volcano, the Castle Rock is at the top of the Royal Mile, overlooking the city. This famous fortress has been around for centuries, and is considered a national symbol. During the Middle Ages, it was designated the chief royal castle of Scotland, and had also functioned as an army base. Now, it plays host to the Scottish National War Memorial, the two Scottish Regiments, and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Visitors can also behold the Stone of Destiny, in which the crowning of Scottish Monarchs was held, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and the renowned Scottish Crown Jewels.
At the end of the Royal Mile stands The Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty the Queen. It is set against a lovely background of a group of hills and green highlands that is called Arthur’s Seat, which most people claim just refers to King Arthur himself. In the Palace is the Royal Apartments wherein Her Majesty holds official functions. Rich with an era of history, this palace is probably most remembered as the residence of Mary, Queen of Scots.
The original Empire Palace Theatre, now called The Festival Theatre, is another highly recommended tourist attraction in the city of Edinburgh. Constructed in 1892 by Edward Moss, and conceptualized by architect Frank Matcham, it can seat 3,000 people. To keep up with the modern world, Colin Ross was appointed to oversee its restoration. Celebrated artists such as Anna Pavlova and Charlie Chaplin have appeared here.
The National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland holds some of the country’s most interesting collection of artifacts – Neolithic tools, a representation of a Neolithic village, native costumes, ancient ornaments and sculptures, and an impressive collection of Scottish precious metals of silver and gold. These have been on exhibit since 1891, all made possible by the idiosyncratic 11th Earl of Buchan.
Nature, history, culture, the arts – Edinburgh is truly a feast for the senses and the mind. It is surely a trip worth taking.
Tourist accommodation in and around Edinburgh ranges from large, brand name 5 star hotels such as Hilton and Sheraton to cozy family owned and run Bed and Breakfast establishments.
Which ever type you choose, prices can vary widely between different suppliers, so it is advisable to use a hotel comparison site such as RoomRateCompare.com
This ingenious, simple to use website quickly searches up to 32 different websites for 377 Hotels in Edinburgh at once, to guarantee you the lowest prices for your stay.
