The Isle of Skye

Skye was recently voted the 4^th most popular island in the world by readers of National Geographic magazine…and with good reason. This jewel in Scotland’s crown is known to be a place of extremes; towering cliffs border beaches which range from black volcanic sand through to white coral sand. Rocky caves and hidden coves await discovery around the edge of Skye whilst inland there is stunning countryside, deep and mysterious lochs and quaint villages with craft shops and some well known restaurants.

Skye is also home to the historic Dunvegan Castle and the famous MacCrimmon Pipers; steeped in myth and legend, the area is synonymous with faeries, ghosts and tales of heroic Scotsmen and women. This is a special place which many people fall in love with and return to again and again. The people of Skye are renowned for their excellent hospitality and their good food!

Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK by New Orleans Bankruptcy Lawyer

The Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran has long been one of Scotland’s most popular destinations and no wonder; this most Southerly of Scottish islands has all that a visitor might expect of Scottish landscapes at their very best. Rugged mountains are juxtaposed with stunning beaches and the southerly part of the island boasts some amazing countryside in the shape of woodlands and rolling green hills – see here.

Arran is only 19 miles long but there’s a lot packed in to those 19 miles and with a number of quaint villages to visit, visitors will find that there are plenty of amenities in addition to quiet countryside locations. The largest village is Brodick which has a ferry terminal as well as a number of shops, restaurants and hotels. Here you will also find the lovely Brodick Castle with its walled gardens and nature trails.

Arran is a wonderful destination for families or for those without children who would like to revel in Scotland’s lovely scenery and perhaps indulge in a spot of fishing or golf.

Glen Rosa, Isle of Arran, Scotland, UK by uplandaccess

The Isle of Mull

Mull is the second largest of the Hebridean Islands and has lots to offer in terms of lovely beaches and an amazing, rocky coastline studded with interesting caves and rocks. One of the loveliest beaches here is Calgary Bay which boasts pale sand and a vast array of protected birds. Here you will also find a number of haunting deserted and abandoned villages. Mull is atmospheric and magical; its closeness to nature and to myth and legend come together to create a place of not only great beauty but also of peace.

Duart Castle, Isle of Mull, Scotland, UK by *pascal*

The Isle of North Uist

This tiny Hebridean Island is only 13 miles long but it remains the favourite haunt of Prince Charles when he is in Scotland. The white sandy beaches and the proliferation of beautiful seabirds make this a very special place to visit. There is another island close to Uist, that of Vallay; Vallay can be reached from Uist at low tide and is home to an amazing deserted mansion.

Isle of North Uist, Scotland, UK by Lews Castle UHI

The Isle of Colonsay

This Hebridean gem is no more than ten miles by two miles and yet it is admired by all who visit. With a wealth of outstanding landscape features and some fascinating archaeological sites, Colonsay is a Mecca for those who love the natural environment and history. Stunning beaches border the island and there are a number of arts based festivals here every year.

Isle of Colonsay, Scotland, UK by dun_deagh

The Scottish islands are many in number and they all have something to offer; because some are physically very close to one another it is possible to visit many in one trip. Scotland is unique and each of its islands has its own personality and gifts to offer. Visitors to Scotland’s islands remember the great beauty of the landscape for a long time and with good reason. The views are unmistakable and individual to this special part of the world.

Derek Devlin is a travel writer and lover of his native Scotland and has written a number of articles on the countryside and has even gone on coach tours with https://www.lochsandglens.com/coach-holidays/ of the wee nation.

The post Scotland’s Best Islands for Tourists appeared first on Europe Explored.

Wastwater lake in the Lake District / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Barry

Best Places to Visit

Some of the best places to visit in the UK include regions like the Lake District’s Winster Valley, an isolated location that offers great mountain, fell and lake views. Travellers seek out solitude for a romantic getaway should also consider the Ardfern Peninsular in Oban in Scotland as well as the West Coast of Scotland for more general quiet. Couples wanting to be a little bit closer to London should consider Sussex and the Cotswolds.

Further North, the Yorkshire Dales and Whitby are ideal for couples wanting to explore the English countryside. Those wanting to experience rural English living without giving up town shopping and dining can also take advantage of cottages near Bath and Exeter in Somerset and Devon. Island retreats can similarly be found on the Isle of Skye and the Isle of Wight, with the added advantage of combining rural quiet with beaches and sea journeys.

Grasmere seen from near Alcock Tarn, Lake District / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Barry

Retreat Options

Many holiday cottages are ideal for couples because of their intimacy and traditional decor. A one bedroom rural cottage with a large kitchen and dining area can make for a romantic weekend, and can still contain the best modern amenities. Finding the right holiday cottage means looking for one that is both traditional enough to feel like a break, while still providing you with lots of entertainment options.

In the same way, while it is important to find somewhere quiet, couples should consider the benefits of being within walking distance of the nearest town or village, particularly during colder winter months. Moreover, some research should be made into the local area, and whether a romantic meal or activity can be planned near to the cottage. These may need to be booked sometime in advance to avoid disappointment during a rip.

Blaise Rustic Cottage / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by crabchick

Times of Year

The main times of the year to book romantic cottages are usually around Valentine’s Day and Christmas, which might require some significant advanced booking for sought after cottages. Couples willing to go away during off peak season should consult a travel company or cottage owner before securing a date, as there may be times of year when a cottage is being renovated. Opting for weekdays and nights over weekends might also be a good budget option, while longer term planning for honeymoons should always check availability and price comparisons before deciding on a specific cottage or holiday destination.

Habs is a blogger currently reviewing holiday cottages.

The post Romantic Cottages – Perfect For That Special Occasion appeared first on Europe Explored.

Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to explore Europe, as there are so many stunning vistas which can be viewed by car as you make your way through this diverse landscape. The size and proximity of the different nations of Europe means that you can be in a totally different country in a matter of hours. From the rugged coastline of Scotland to the snowy mountains of Germany to the sun soaked villages of Italy, here are a few of the best road trips to enjoy throughout Europe.

Scotland’s Western Highlands

Start from the historic city of Edinburgh and take a 250 mile drive through winding roads and green countryside to the Isle of Skye. There are plenty of great historical sites to stop at on this scenic road trip, such as Linlithgow Place, Eilean Donan Castle, Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument and Fort William’s West Highland Museum. The scenery here is breathtakingly beautiful, from rolling hills to tranquil Lochs to rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops.

If you get hungry along the way you can stop and enjoy some fresh seafood along the coast, such as oysters, scallops and mussels. Keep your eyes peeled because out the window you could spot seals, otters, foxes, deer, and birds.

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland, UK by the Starling 2011

The Alpine Road, Germany

This route starts at the island town of Lindau located on Lake Constance and will take you 300 miles along the edge of the Bavarian Alps. The route twists and turns through picturesque small towns and villages, green alpine meadows, ancient forests, snowy mountain peaks, and fairy-tale castles giving you a fantastic taste of classic European scenery.

Lindau harbor, Lake Constance, Germany by Cody

The Amalfi Coast Road, Italy

This is a stunning drive through one of the most beautiful areas of Europe. Mountains overlook the clear glistening blue sea and stone churches are perched on the hills above villages of brightly coloured houses. The road winds slowly around the coast and takes you through hidden coves and sun soaked lemon groves. Anywhere you stop you will be treated to rich and flavorful Mediterranean food and friendly smiles from the locals, as well as soft sandy beaches. Be sure to take it slow, as you will want to stop multiple times to take the camera out and capture the amazing view.

Amalfi coast, Italy by Jenny

The Transfagarasan Mountain Road, Romania

This road in the mountains of Romania is thought to be one of the most spectacular roads in the world. It is 56 miles long and runs through the Fagaras Mountains which are part of the Transylvanian Alps. Host Jeremy Clarkson of the television show Top Gear claims that the Transfagarasan is the best road in the world.

This windy mountain road is filled with hairpin turns and challenging twists, so the maximum speed is 25 miles per hour. The road is only open from June to October because in the winter it is blocked by snow. On the way, you can even stop at the castle of Vlad III the Impaler, whom Bram Stoker based the character of Dracula on. You can also see Balea Lake, which is a glacier lake with cold, clear, icy water surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

The Transfagarasan Mountain Road, Romania by Cristian Bortes

These are just a few of the most amazing road trips throughout Europe, but there are many more. Next time you have a weekend or a few days to get away, grab the steering wheel, put some music on the stereo and get out there on the open road!

Before you head out on the open road and enjoy one of these amazing European road trips, be sure to get some cheap car insurance so that you are protected no matter what happens along the way.

The post Ready for Adventure: The Best Road Trips in Europe appeared first on Europe Explored.

With the following affordable and indeed unique backpacker hostels and the current cheap flights to Glasgow that are available, it doesn’t have to cost you and arm and a leg.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Laszlo Ilyes

Budget Backpackers, Edinburgh

Budget Backpackers is one of the most popular hostels in the UK, and for good reason. Not only is it located in the heart of Edinburgh, but its facilities and atmosphere are second to none. The hostel’s chill out room is colourful and inviting with comfy sofas, a widescreen TV and views of Edinburgh Castle. You can snag a dorm bed for as little as £7, while private twin rooms are still very cheap at £23.

Glasgow Youth Hostel, Glasgow

Glasgow Youth Hostel offers a beautiful mixture of traditional architecture and modern features, with a Victorian exterior and décor complimented by comfortable accommodation, internet access, entertainment facilities and a laundry. There are three large lounges for kicking back and socialising as well as a popular coffee shop. Expect to pay around £15 a night here.

Skye Backpackers, Kyleakin

This quaint hostel is nestled between the mountains and the ocean in the charming fishing village of Kyleakin, on the Isle of Skye. It offers quirky accommodation, clean and comfortable facilities, a large garden and cosy fireplace. Around the Kyleakin area you can go hiking in the mountains, visit local distilleries and breweries, explore castle ruins or simply relax with a good book in the peaceful garden. Dorm beds at Skye Backpackers start from £15 a night.

Loch Ossian Hostel, Corrour

Nature buffs and adventurers will love the serenity and remoteness of Loch Ossian Hostel in the Scottish Highlands. Positioned next to a picturesque loch in the middle of nowhere, this hostel is completely eco-friendly – so much so that the only way you can access it is by walking 2km from the Corrour railway station. Don’t expect the usual luxuries like showers or electrical applicances, but rather the luxuries of nature like breathtaking scenery and utter tranquillity. If you’re feeling particularly active, why not have a crack at joining the Ossian Hour Club by running around the loch in under an hour.

About the Author : Simon Byrne+ is a travel writer with a passion for exploring the unknown. From Piranha fishing in the waterways of Bolivia to exploring ancient tombs in Cambodia, Simon’s travels continue to take him to weird and wonderful places, uncovering unique experiences and fascinating local people.

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