Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a favourite with cruise ships, and a big draw for tourists looking for a mix of old and new. The Old Town, which is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List, is a curious hotchpotch of twisting cobblestone lanes and dramatic spires, framed with old-fashioned iron streetlamps and home to bustling mediaeval markets. The old-fashioned ambience of this beautiful part of the city is juxtaposed by the coffee shops with free Wi-Fi, perfect for a spot of people watching after wandering the Old Town.

Tallinn, Estonia by XisPics

Also part of the Old Town is the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin and the bell tower, which you can climb if you are up to ascending the steps. It’s well worth it if you do manage the climb; the view across the city is spectacular and it’s absolutely free.

Out of the Old Town, Tallinn has plenty to offer in the autumn. If it’s warm, a wander around the Japanese Garden at Kadriog Park is a must, or a visit to The Estonian Open Air Museum in the Rocca al Mare part of the city, where you’ll find a fascinating chunk of Estonian history complete with thatched cottages and traditional Estonian crafts. It’s also a good place for eating al fresco. If a bit of retail therapy is on the cards, Rocca al Mare also houses a huge shopping mall. Art lovers will love the Kumu Art Museum – don’t expect Old Masters though, as this gallery is more for the modern art connoisseur.

To get around the city and see as much as you can, it’s advisable to invest in a Tallinn Card that gives you access to all of the city’s public transport network; buses, trolleybuses or trams. The card also gives you free entry to many of the city’s attractions, including the Open Air Museum and Tallinn zoo.

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

Autumn and Edinburgh are the perfect combination, offering a period of calm between the frenetic Festival shenanigans and the joyful revelry of Hogmanay. The atmospheric streets of the city lend themselves perfectly to cooler, darker months, and the bounty of pubs and restaurants make Edinburgh the perfect hiding place if the clouds should burst.

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK by a_marga

Edinburgh has no fewer than five Michelin-starred restaurants if you want to indulge your foodie leanings, including Restaurant Martin Wishart in cosmopolitan Leith, which serves beautifully presented and exquisitely tasteful French cuisine… but the prices are eye-watering, so it’s definitely a treat.

When the weather is good, make the most of a walk to Arthur’s Seat and the amazing views across the city. For rainy days, there are galleries galore, or the offbeat shopping streets of Stockbridge, which are perfect for finding one-off boutiques, quirky shops and delis. Grassmarket, in the Old Town, is a great place for anyone looking for vintage clothes or individual fashion shops.

Edinburgh Castle has to be top of everyone’s tourist agenda, with its Stone of Destiny and the Scottish crown jewels to see. If you love your art, take your pick from the Scottish Galleries that offer everything from modern art to old masters.

Not into culture? You don’t have to be! You can play at being a spy and head up to the famous Camera Obscura – see what people are up to down below from the vantage point of the rooftop periscope, which was actually Edinburgh’s first ever official tourist attraction. The Edinburgh Pass will get you admission to the galleries, zoo and many other tours and attractions, from just £30, which is well worth it considering that admission to the Camera Obscura alone is £11.50. When you’ve filled yourself full of sightseeing and you just want to put your feet up with a coffee, the Elephant House is famous for being where J.K. Rowling wrote a rather famous first novel…

Stockholm, Sweden

Another must-see for any autumn tour of Europe worth its salt is Stockholm, ‘The Green and Blue City’. Stockholm is actually 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, a little like a Nordic version of Venice. Wherever you go in Stockholm you’re never too far away from water. Although Sweden starts to cool down after August, early autumn in Stockholm is beautiful; the lush green landscape changes to browns, reds and oranges, and although it can feel chilly, the skies are clear.

Stockholm, Sweden by Mark Doliner

If you’re looking for a culture-infused autumn city break, this one’s for you. Not only is the city packed with world-class museums and attractions, but they are mostly accessible on foot, so you can get around a fair few of them on an average short break. The Stockholm Card is amazing value for money and gives you free admission to 80 of the city’s top attractions, as well as free travel on all public transport.

For one of the best views of the city, head to the City Hall and take one of the scheduled guided tours. The view from the tower is worth the effort of the climb. If you’re in the city at the right time, and love vintage, there’s a vintage street market in Stockholm city every two weeks, and a classically designed hidden gem – the Birger Jarlspassagen – is a haven for designer label aficionados and luxury beauty emporia. Take in the picturesque Old Town too, where you can wander the streets hunting for photo opportunities.

For a taste of Swedish history, it’s almost obligatory to pay a visit to the Swedish Royal Palace in Gamla Stan, close to the Old Town. You might just catch a change of the guard! Take in some of the museums too – the amazing Vasa Museum with its preserved shipwreck, the Nordic Museum, which is a museum of cultural history by day and a centre for music and events by night, or the National Museum of Art.

City breaks in the autumn are perfect if you like to explore without trampling other tourists, or get into attractions without heaving queues. The heat is off and you can tour some of Europe’s loveliest cities at your leisure.

Written by Katharina Kraetzer, a blogger who loves to travel in Europe. This summer she will visit Italy and Slovenia.

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Glentress

I’ve heard that Ian Warby has called Glentress “the UK’s number-one mountain bike destination” and as the Cycling Tourist Club’s resident trail expert, he ought to know! Glentress is wonderful for bikers of all levels because it contains a wide variety of beginner trails, intermediate challenges, and even devilish “black runs” for those truly brave souls who like to pedal through some seriously rough stuff so there is something for everyone!

Glentress Forest, Scotland, UK by Estrnc

Fort William

Well, if this place is good enough for the annual Mountain Bike World Cup then I can certainly put my endorsement behind it! This one puts you smack bang in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. There aren’t as many beginner offerings here, but once you get your skill level up, you can’t go wrong with the breathtaking sights and challenges it offers you.

Kirroughtree

This one is in Southern Scotland and is a bit less mountainy as a result, being through forests and country primarily. Still, it contains a few of the UK’s longest biking trails and there are some extremely challenging trails here if you’re of the more advanced type. It also has some wonderful beginner and intermediate trails, although the advanced offerings are the main claim to fame.

On Kirroughtree 7stanes Black route, Scotland, UK by alx_chief

Dalbeattie

There are a couple of beginner and intermediate offerings in Dalbeattie, though I think most people who come here are the brave folks who want to try the Hardrock trail. And believe me, bravery is necessary! The surface of this trail is extremely rocky and even veteran mountain riders constantly make epic spills.

Newcastleton

Right on the border of Scotland and England, this one offers primarily shorter trails. The lack of longer trails may be a disappointment to some, but frankly, I think the absolutely stunning sights make this a worthy stop nonetheless. And really, while you can’t quite “go the distance” here as it were, you can still find plenty of ways to challenge yourself on their famous “Red Route” which is one of the narrowest biking trails in existence right on the side of a cliff!

Newcastleton, Scotland, UK by Mike

The UK offers a ton of exciting opportunities for mountain biking enthusiasts everywhere but I have to admit, some of my favourites are in Scotland. With a nice variety of terrain types, Scotland offers some of the most diverse ranges of mountain biking experiences of any region in the world. Just remember, it pays to have some insurance such as ProtectYourBubble.com mountain bike insurance in case you do have some sort of accident on your adventures!

Laura Ginn is a professional writer and blogger who has recently rediscovered her love of hitting the trails. She has attempted trails in wide variety of locations but constantly comes back to her love for the unique trail offerings in the UK.

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Around the city of Aberdeen

Head to the Granite City itself for a day or two and you’ll find yourself – and the kids – spoilt for choice in terms of things to do.

Kids can get hands-on with science at Satrosphere Science Centre, an interactive museum with changing exhibits featuring anything from planetarium shows to demo experiments. Barely ten minutes from Castlegate, this is a good option for a fleeting visit.

Aberdeen Castlegate, Scotland, UK by Steve Tiesdell Legacy…

Older kids will love the gruesome stories and terrifying instruments of torture at the city’s Tolbooth Prison, a unexpectedly attractive 17th century building which is also free to enter. Or for some good old-fashioned seaside fun, get down to Aberdeen Beach, where the stately Victorian promenade will impress the grown-ups and the kids will be endlessly entertained by the rides at Codonas Amusement Park. There are also lots of cafés and restaurants along the seafront from the harbour to the Bridge of Don.

A little further out of Aberdeen lies a faraway land known as Storybrook Glen, an imaginative theme park for kids and fairytale fans everywhere. There are 28 acres of Royal Deeside woods and gardens to traverse, while spotting characters like Old MacDonald or braving the crossing to the Land of the Trolls.

Alternatively, take a picnic up to Doonies Farm out of the city towards Cove village, and enjoy the views overlooking the North Sea. Warm layers are a must on a family visit! The children can bring their own feeding supplies for the seventeen rare breeds of goats, cows and sheep within the farm, including the Norfolk Horn sheep and the vivid orange Tamworth Boar.

Aberdeen Beach, Scotland, UK by Bernt Rostad

Aberdeenshire attractions

Even if you’re here for a few weeks or looking to explore the countryside in depth, you won’t run out of places to visit!

Try the National Trust’s Crathes Castle if you have any history buffs in the party, as this is one of the most well-preserved estates in the country, with a stunning arrangement of gardens and nature trails in the surrounding area. For the more adventurous at heart, there’s also a ‘Go Ape!’ adventure course in the nearby forest at Banchory, where children can climb, scramble and take a zipline through the trees.

Crathes Castle, Scotland, UK by Oyoyoy

Head north to the coast and you’ll find MacDuff Marine Aquarium, a must-see for its showcase tank, which is more than 40,000 litres in capacity and allows visitors to see the kinds of creatures only usually glimpsed on deep-sea missions! Look out for feather stars, lobsters and bright anemones floating around the natural kelp reef.

Or just take the family for a ride on the Alford Valley Railway, a steam train which has been running on the narrow-gauge track to Haughton Park for over 150 years. You can take the 40 minute journey between April and September, chugging through the epic scenery of the Bennachie hills as you go.

Alford Valley Railway by Colin Smith

Aberdeen and its county are extremely well-stocked when it comes to children’s attractions; from farm parks to ancient castles, deep-sea exploration to tree-top adventures. Whether your kids are into science, nature, history or transport, there’s something to keep everyone happy in and around Aberdeen.

What’s your favourite Aberdeenshire attraction?

Ellen Holt lives with her family in Aberdeen. She writes about family travel for a digital marketing agency.

The post The Best Kid’s Attractions In And Around Aberdeen | Scotland, UK appeared first on Europe Explored.

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.

Castles have become a national emblem for Scotland and tourists flock from all around the world to discover the countries’ enchanted fortresses. If you’re considering exploring Scotland’s wonderful heritage you could make it that much more enchanted by enjoying a historic break in Scotland. Before you go, check out our 3 favourite castles located around Scotland.

Duart Castle

This castle is spectacularly located on a cliff top on the Isle of Mull overlooking Loch Linne, it has a wonderfully rich history dating back hundreds of years. It has been the home for the Maclean Clan for over 400 years and was used in many scenes of the movie Entrapment staring Catherine Zeta-Jones. The castle has been extended and historically restored over the past 100 years and is today looked after by Sir Lachlan Maclean. Visitors are able to enter the castle and explore its fascinating dungeons and state room.

Duart Castle, Scotland, UK by Philippe Giabbanelli

Cawdor Castle

This romantic castle is located just 5 miles from Nairn and was constructed in the 15^th century. The castle has a rather enchanted history as it is thought to have been built around a thorn tree which can still be seen today in the Castle’s dungeon. The Castle has a number of charming rooms including an extravagant drawing room and a tapestry bedroom. For those foodie fans, the castle’s original 19^th century kitchen and antique cooking implements are still intact today! The castle also has beautiful grounds to explore and is the perfect castle for couples looking for a romantic stroll.

Cawdor castle, Scotland, UK by Mihael Grmek

Craigievar Castle

This fairytale-esque castle has been built in the famous baronial style that has long been associated with Scotland. This style of architecture dates back to the 16^th century and is likened to medieval times. The castle is located in the Aberdeenshire’s countryside, around 20 miles from Inverurie. Its towers, turrets and cupolas are equated to many Disney fairytale castles, including the castles slightly pink colouring – this makes it an attractive location for families to visit! Children are often thoroughly entertained by the castle’s family portraits and parents can admire the beautiful Jacobean woodwork and antique furniture.

Craigievar Castle, Scotland, UK by Nick Bramhall

Scotland has an endless array of enchanted castles to visit and most are happy to welcome visitors, some even let you stay the night! What are your favourite attractions in Scotland? Let us know in the comment section below.

The post The Top 3 Most Enchanted Castles in Scotland appeared first on Europe Explored.

Fingal’s Cave, Scotland, UK by Croila

The UK is a lovely country which has a constitutional monarchy, which consist 4 constituent countries. These are Wales, England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. All these groups collectively make up the United Kingdom. This is one the most industrialized parts of the world, with extensive big industries in various parts of the country. All the sectors of the economy are significantly experiencing a great boom and this has lead to an improved of living of both the citizen and the foreigners living in the country.

However, besides industrialization, real estate and tourism, seems to be another important part of the economy. Several thousands of tourists do use to visit the country annually, thereby bringing in millions of foreign currency into the economy. The city of London is the most popular and so far, the commercial center of the country. Apart from being the capital of England, the city, is also the most visited area in the UK.

Cheddar Gorge, UK by Arpingstone

There are lots of prominent tourist places in the city of London and other parts of the UK. Some of these places are historical, ancient edifice, while others are impressive, new modern structures. Some are natural; while others are man-made, but a visit to the country will give you the opportunity to experience the natural attractions of UK.

Natural attractions of UK:

1.) Fingal’s Cave, Scotland

Fingal’s Cave is located in Staffa Island, in Scotland. A tourist visit to United Kingdom is never completed without the Fingal’s Cave. This is a Cave that brings the sound of water flowing into the sea cave pipe.

2.) Cheddar Gorge, England

Cheddar is one of natures most remarkable in England. History has it, that this place has been a center of tourist attractions for several decades and the country has been able to manage and preserve its natural environment. Encroachment to its natural beauty has been prevented over the years and this is despite the high numbers of tourist visiting this rocky place every year. Rock climbing is better there than anywhere else and you may also need to climb up to the tower and get to know of the presence of nine thousand year old , England’s oldest skeleton.

Pistyll Rhaeadr, UK by Velela

3.) Pistyll Rhaeadr, Powys, Wales

This is believed to be the tallest fall in Wales, the literal translation of its name is “spring of the waterfall”. This natural wonder is situated just 4 miles from the Llanrhaedr-ym-Monchant and just below the fall, is an elegant cafe with the name, Tan-y-Pistyll. This is where, tourist and visitors to the site, can relax and have a wonder experience of the natural falls.

4.) Earls Court Exhibition Centre, London, England

Whenever you want to schedule a vacation trip to any country, it is usually a good option to include a visits to special Museum, in the country. This Exhibition centre is actually a whole row of several museums worth seeing. A visit to the place will give you the chance to have a glimpse of several artifacts of great historical values. This is actually, a science and arts museum, which was built and dedicated to the history of London.

Giant’s Causeway, Ireland by Jim

5.) The Giant’s Causeway, Ireland

This is Ireland most popular United Kingdom natural attraction. This is a Giant’s Causeway on the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. And it is actually a place with serene environment and unique natural beauty.

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Edinburgh Castle

Standing proudly above the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle is chock-full of exciting history and artefacts that will keep the family entertained for hours. Discover the oldest building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel, which survived demolition under the rule of King Robert the Bruce. Visit the cavernous stone vaults that held prisoners of war, including a five year-old boy captured in the Battle of Trafalgar. Or stare down the barrel of Mons Meg, a medieval supergun capable of firing 150kg cannonballs at enemies more than three miles away! With a legacy spanning hundreds of years, this is one castle you definitely haven’t experienced before now and it’s well worth a visit no matter what time of year it is. Even if you don’t venture inside, take the opportunity to observe the stunning views of Edinburgh down below the crag.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland, UK by Kevin Gibbons

Camera Obscura & the World of Illusions

Have your mind boggled by five floors of optical illusions, from amazing scientific marvels to the just-plain-weird-and-wonderful! Swap heads or facial features with your family, or make like Peter Pan and play games with your shadow. Stare into the magical eye pictures and see if you can find hidden images in seemingly random patterns, or make sparks fly and shock your friends in the Electric Room. There are even some sweets lying around if you’re peckish, but you may be a little surprised when you try to pick them up! Before you leave, make sure you head up to the Camera Obscura gallery where you can spy on life in the city down below, learn about the fascinating history of Edinburgh, and pick people up in your hands!

Ah Ha Ha Ha

Wandering down the Grassmarket, you may be surprised to notice a bright orange building complete with oversized Groucho nose, moustache and glasses. But it’s no joke…well, actually it is! Step inside the Ah Ha Ha Ha joke shop and feast your eyes upon its even more colourful and crazy interior. With a hilarious range of classic practical jokes, amateur and professional magic tricks, stage make-up, zany disguises and ready-made costumes, there’s guaranteed to be something that will make you laugh.

Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK by Lukas Koster

Gorgie City Farm

Find all your farmyard favourites at Gorgie City Farm, located near Haymarket railway station. This real working farm is open seven days a week and is great for children of all ages. Meet Fudge the Jersey Cow, and Red the pony (who’s just short of being a horse!) There are also plenty of sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, turkeys and ducks; and, in the Pet Lodge, you’ll find guinea pigs, rabbits, fish, tortoises and even a snake! If you want to learn about the animals, the farmyard staff can tell you all about their feathered, four-legged or scaly friends, including how to care for and feed them. If you’re lucky, you may get to stroke the animals or hold some of the smaller creatures.

Our Dynamic Earth

Ever wondered what dinosaurs would look like today if they hadn’t been wiped out by the meteorite? Or perhaps you’ve wanted to view the galaxy from on board a spaceship? Whatever questions you have about the incredible planet we inhabit, Our Dynamic Earth is the place to find the answers! Experience the sounds, smells and vibrations of an active volcano, brave an icy Polar expedition, step into a sticky tropical rainforest or opt for 4dventure with the 3D & 4D experience that brings you face to face with some of the planet’s most impressive animals. With so many interactive exhibits bringing nature to life around you, this museum is one of the most exhilarating places to learn about the world and is sure to be a hit with all the family!

Edinburgh Zoo

Located only three miles from the city centre, Edinburgh Zoo is bursting with wildlife that will keep the kids fascinated for hours! Meet the UK’s only giant pandas, Tian Tian and Yang Guang; get up close and personal with a mischievous capuchin monkey; admire the patterned fur and majestic manner of a beautiful Amur Leopard; or spy on the tiny but powerful leaf cutter ants as they carry slices of foliage back to their nest. There are plenty of daily talks and opportunities to feed certain animals if you’re looking for an interactive and educational experience. And if you’ve never met a penguin with a knighthood – now you can! Sir Nils Olav, the famous King Penguin, is a highly regarded member of the Norwegian Royal Guard and was gifted to the Zoo in 1913! This year Edinburgh Zoo celebrates its 100th birthday, so it’s the perfect time to pay a visit and get involved with all the fun.

Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland, UK by Nigel Swales

Museum of Childhood

Just because museums are educational it doesn’t mean they can’t be fun, and how can anyone resist the Museum of Childhood which is dedicated to the toys and games of our past? Relive those much-loved memories from days gone by as you explore the objects that once kept you entertained and observe the evolution of toys, from spinning tops to computer games – you’ll be surprised by how many are still in popular use today. And the enjoyment doesn’t stop there; there are over 10,000 children’s books, magazines and comics in the collection, including Treasure Island, the Beano, Bunty, and firm favourites from Enid Blyton; over 2,500 items in the clothing displays, from party wear to school uniform, hats and coats to jewellery and parasols; and a ‘home life’ collection containing all manner of objects geared at family life within the household, like rattles, sweets, medicines and photographs.

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Aberdeen Beach, Scotland, UK by Bernt Rostad

Whether you’re a city slicker or a wilderness wanderer, Aberdeenshire offers something for everyone. Read on for some tips on where to get started in this diverse and dazzling county.

City

It goes without saying that the city of Aberdeen is a great place to start your exploration of the region. Staying in Aberdeen gives you plenty of options for walking in the city and further afield.

To get to grips with the area, the circuit of Aberdeen centre takes you through the highlights of the Granite City. Many of the town’s most impressive stone buildings can be seen on the short circuit, starting at Castlegate at the east end of Union Street, turning onto Broad Street and past the striking Marischal College. From there, cross the street and walk under the arch of St Nicholas House to Provost Skene’s house and onto Flourmill Lane and Schoolhill, eventually coming to Robert Gordon University, the Art Gallery, the War Memorial, His Majesty’s Theatre and the Central Library building.

Turning left along Union Terrace affords fantastic views over the city, before turning back towards Union Street and the elegant houses of Golden Square and Bon Accord Square.

The sea around Aberdeen, Scotland, UK by Bruce McAdam

Sea

There are countless coastal walks to choose from in Aberdeenshire, all of varying length and difficulty. In the northernmost parts of the region, Banff and Buchan offers plenty of low impact ambles which are full of great shoreline vistas. For a small challenge offering big rewards, try the 3 – 4 hour walk from St Combs to Rattray Head, taking in the vast sand dunes and long beach which stretches all the way to Peterhead, with the Strathbeg Nature Reserve in close proximity.

Land

Inland, great walking country is in abundance, with rolling rivers and hills of heather perfectly complementing a number of interesting historical landmarks. A number of popular routes exist on the hill ridge of Bennachie in the district of Gordon, with its recognisable peak and hill-top iron-age fort. Slightly further afield, Glenlivet offers spectacular and wild scenery, not to mention many opportunities to sample a wee dram of the region’s famous whiskey.

Highland cattle by backpackphotography

Mountain

Aberdeenshire and the Highlands are home to the biggest range of high mountains in the Britain, stretching across the largest National Park in the country. The Cairngorms stretch for miles, encompassing vast areas of wilderness, ancient forests, stunning landscapes and an array of native wildlife. The best known part of the national park is home to the Cairn Gorm Mountain itself, famous for being the snowiest part of Britain. For those who want to keep their feet closer to the ground, the lower slopes boast Caledonian pinewoods and clear lochs, including Loch an Eilein, home to a ruined island castle.

What are your favourite nature walks in Aberdeenshire?

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But a Royal Mile is not just a set of streets, rather a multitude of tourist attractions, many of which are true treasures of Scottish history. And, a must see places for any visitor.

Museums, historic buildings, statues and more make the Royal Mile such a desired place for any tourist to go to.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland, UK by Boon Low

Below I list 6 of the must see museums of the Royal Mile.

The Peoples Story Museum

The Peoples Story Museum is a celebration of the lives of the people of Edinburgh in the 18th century. Located beside the historic Cannongate the museum, through various expositions showcases the everyday lives of the citizens of Edinburgh. You can visit a recreated bookbinders workshop, kitchen, see a classroom and a creche from those times, a traditional living room and more.

What’s really fascinating about the museum is the detail in which everything has been recreated. Sometimes when wandering between various exhibitions you can really feel as if you were there, in those times.

Location: 163 Canongate, Royal Mile

Writers’ Museum

A museum dedicated to the work of Scotland’s great literature figures. The museum features an exciting collection of manuscripts, publications, first editions and even portraits of famous Scottish writers.

Location: Lady Stair’s House, Lawnmarket

Mary King’s Close

A museum not for the faint of heart. This 1600s built network of underground streets and passages is one of the darkest secrets of the city. Various tales surround the close, some saying that this has been the place where the sick where brought in to die during the great plaque of 1600s. Others claim that the place is haunted. All in all, it is not a place for the faint of heart.

Location: 2 Warriston’s Close, Edinburgh

Museum of Childhood

This is a place where you can feel a child again. Located MK of the Royal Mile, the Museum of Childhood is filled with toys from the past. Discover what children used to play with MK years ago, and perhaps even find the kind of toys that you used to play with as a child (I did!).

Location: 42 High Street

Museum of Edinburgh

If you want to discover the history of the city and find out how it develop over the years, then you must head down to the Museum of Edinburgh.

As the name suggests, this museum is all about the city. View old plans, artifacts, glassware and more.

Location: 142 Canongate

Our Dynamic Earth

Probably the most exciting of all museums on the Royal Mile, Our Dynamic Earth is a fully interactive museum presenting the history of our planet, from it’s formation to today and beyond.

Go back in time to witness the beginning of the universe and slowly move through times with this set of interactive displays and presentations. The museum also features two cinema shows, one in total 3D (and it’s great!).

Location: Very end of the Royal Mile, right at the Palace of the Holyrood.

About the Author: Thomas is a travel writer and accommodation specialist working for Staycity Edinburgh, the leading serviced apartments provider in the city.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Hermann Kaser

Scotland

It’s hardly surprising that Scotland is still the number one Mecca for real lovers of golf. With an incredible number of courses, there are many different types of golfing holiday to be had in Scotland, from the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity to something more accessible and friendly. Of course St Andrews is the first place many people think of, and for good reason, for the facilities are second to none, the scenery breathtaking, and the town itself is a charming one to spend time in while you’re here.

England

England has for a long time been a major player within the golfing world, with literally thousands of golfing clubs operating up and down the country. Lower Stondon in Bedfordshire is a popular choice, and an accessible one you can relax and enjoy yourself in. Sheringham in Norfolk is another excellent option, an 18 hole course set on a stunning coastal location. Cromer is another top pick for golfing in England, a pretty seaside town a stone’s throw from Norwich.

Ireland

Ireland has had a huge role to play within the history of golf, having made an enormous contribution to organising it on a competitive level. The golfing resorts here are truly exclusive, so if you’re in the market for top-notch facilities and a spot of luxury here and there look no further. The K Club acted as setting for the Ryder Cup in 2006, while the magnificent spot at Killeen Castle was host to the Solheim Cup in 2011.

Spain

Spain is the way to go if you’re looking for golfing on mainland Europe, as the only place on the continent to host the Ryder Cup. The Valderrama Club is a much loved choice, set in the exclusive resort of Sotogrande. One of the natural advantages to booking a golfing holiday in Spain is that you get the Spanish climate and culture thrown into the mix. From the gorgeous beaches to the picturesque towns, not to mention the amazing hospitality you’ll enjoy on site, this is certainly a premier option.

Portugal

Portugal is another excellent place to enjoy a golfing holiday in Europe. The Praia d’el Rey resort is home to a fantastic, well maintained golf course, set in an unbeatable location with the Atlantic spreading forth off the coast. Portuguese culture is another irresistible ingredient on a holiday here, with the warm climate making for some of the best local food and drink produce you’ll find anywhere in Europe.

Wherever you choose for a golfing holiday in Europe, you can expect excellent services as well as fun places to visit in the surrounding areas. Just remember it doesn’t all have to be about golf!

My name is Nisha I work as the editor for Holiday365. I have been representing the business for the last 2 years now. Feel free to visit our site for more information on holiday parks.

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