Donan castle, Scotland, UK by Andrew Urquhart / License: Creative Commons

At the start of 2013, The Office of National Statistics reported that international tourism to Scotland has risen to 2.3million. Also in 2011, over 6.9 million trips were made to Scotland by both domestic and international tourists according to a report by the Great Britain Tourism Survey. These figures are indicative of Scotland’s growing popularity among holidaymakers.

There is so much to do and see in Scotland. Due to a rising visibility in blockbuster films, Scotland has begun to attract visitors of all ages and from all over the world. If you are thinking about visiting Scotland here are some of the top attractions that the country has to offer:

Scottish Highlands and Northern Islands

The word ‘rugged’ takes on a new meaning when you visit the Scottish Highlands, believed by many to be the heart of Scotland’s craggy character. From Britain’s deepest lake in Loch Ness to its highest peak on Ben Nevis, the Scottish Highlands offers you visions of crumbling castles and heather covered moors. Recently, James Bond’s latest film “Skyfall” showed the Highlands, especially Glencoe, in all of their chiselled beauty to a worldwide audience. Fort William is a must see due to its centuries of history intermingled with the latest outdoor activities. Many claim that Fort William is the outdoor capital of the world and a walker’s paradise due to its scenic walks, mountain bike tracks, and challenging ski slopes. 2013 has also been declared as the Year of Natural Scotland and many special events have been organised to highlight Scotland’s natural beauty. Whiskey enthusiasts can find a range of traditional distilleries in the Scottish Highlands such as the Oban Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest producers of single malt Scotch whisky.

Glencoe, Scotland, UK by Thierry Gregorius / License: Creative Commons

Outer Hebrides

Wildlife enthusiasts will love the Outer Hebrides or Western Isles for the amazing number of eagles, whales and dolphins that can be found on the 119 islands, out of which only 5 can really be called inhabited. The HebCelt music festival on the Isle of Lewis in July, is one of the most popular summer attractions in the Outer Hebrides. This year’s line-up includes Van Morrison, The Travelling Band and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

Edinburgh and Glasgow

For history lovers, these two major Scottish cities offer visitors glimpses into Scotland’s turbulent history as well as containing fantastic shops, museums, art galleries and stunning architecture. Don’t miss the historic Edinburgh Castle and Glasgow’s wide range of shops in the city centre. In the summer, art and comedy fans can experience the Edinburgh Fringe Festival which features a wide range of acts as well as a cascading firework show and spectacular music from the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. In 2014, Glasgow will be the destination of choice amongst sports enthusiasts as the city will be host to the Commonwealth Games.

View of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK by dun_deagh / License: Creative Commons

Golf Holidays

Scotland is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, the Fife town of St. Andrews is commonly known as the Home of Golf. The old course built before 1574 is considered sacred by the true golfers. In 2014, Scotland will be an unmissable destination for golfers due to the prestigious Ryder Cup tournament at the PGA Centenary Golf Course at Gleneagles in Perthshire. There are many other famous golf courses to see in Scotland, including the exclusive Loch Lomond Golf Club.

Fiona writes for LHH Scotland, leading provider of luxury self-catering accommodation across Scotland.

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If you are going to rent your property out when you and your family can’t be there then it’s important to research the most popular places and the places that will bring you the best income. If you have a small budget then it will make it hard to purchase a property on the beachfront of a central tourist attraction so your budget is a big thing to take into account.

Grasmere, The Lake District, UK by Richard Barrett-Small

When you’re thinking about investing in a holiday home there are a number of things that you should take into account such as, where do people you know like to go on holiday?, would you prefer to be near a beach or a city?, will your property be close to pubs and entertainment?, will the property be preferred by young or older people? And will the property be easily accessible? There are many popular areas throughout Britain that become home to holiday makers every year; some of the most popular include, the Lake District, York, Kent, Isle of Wight, Yorkshire Dales and Moors, Snowdonia, Anglesey, the Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh. Of course there are many more popular destinations but, for a getaway, these are usually the first places that people will think of.

Because these areas are popular, the property can also be pretty expensive which can be a huge let down to buyers with a low budget. If you wish to buy a home in one of these areas but the budget won’t stretch then a nearby town or village is usually your best bet as although these are popular with the tourists that visit the main areas, the house prices are nowhere near as high. Although your property may not be in the centre of the tourist world you don’t want it to be too far away as this will be a put off for potential rentals. You should make sure your property is easy to get to via public or personal transport and it shouldn’t be more than a 15 minute drive from popular tourist spots – after all, how many people want to spend their holiday driving?

David Sprice shares his interest on Internet Cottages and what they have to offer as a holiday escape.

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If you are planning a vacation to Northern Scotland, make sure to set aside some time during your stay to view the Duncansby Stacks. Let this serve as your guide to touring the area, finding nearby attractions and choosing the best accommodations.

History of Duncansby Stacks

Most British residents believe that the northernmost location in Britain is the coastal location known as John o’ Groats. John o’ Groats is a popular tourism destination and has been one for decades. However, it is wrongfully coined as the northernmost spot in Britain. In reality, the title belongs to Duncansby Head.

A view of Duncansby Stacks / BillC

Just off the coast from Duncansby Head lies several rock formations that jut out of the water and provide incredible views. The mystical atmosphere has led many to believe that this area is the basis for Mordor, the mythical land in Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although it is not nearly as popular as John o’ Groats when it comes to visiting tourists, those in the know appreciate the Duncansby Stacks as the northernmost tip of the nation.

Travelling to the Area

There is no denying that this destination in Scotland is off the beaten track. Most visitors arrive by car to Duncansby Stacks. The journey from Edinburgh is nearly 300 miles, so keep in mind that you will almost certainly have some extensive travel coming from further south in England or even Wales. Although there are no direct trains, buses or flights that bring to Duncansby Stacks or the surrounding settlements, there is extensive public transport throughout much of the Scottish Highlands. International Visitors should fly into the Inverness Airport for the nearest location.

Visitor’s Information

In order to visit the Duncansby Stacks, you will first need to visit John o’ Groats. From there, a small road winds along the coast for just over a mile. You can drive or take the local bus until you arrive at Duncansby Head. From here a short walk is required to get a view of the stacks, and the path is clearly signposted the whole way. There is no admission fee associated with visiting Duncansby Stacks.

Nearby Attractions

There are a large number of attractions throughout the Scottish Highlands for visitors to explore. The Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most popular in the region and was featured in several feature films such as Highlander and The World is Not Enough. Other interesting attractions include hiking along famed paths like the West Highland Way or the Great Glen Way. Just a few miles from Duncansby Stacks is the Castle of Mey, a beautiful structure that was once home to the late Queen Mother. If you are looking for the attractions of a large city, the nearest option is Inverness. Here you will find the Inverness Castle, the Old High Church and the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

A view of Great Glen Way / Draco2008

Accommodation Options

Accommodations in the area around Duncansby Stacks are quite limited. There are just one or two small guesthouses within a mile or two, although there are a number more within driving distance. Some great holiday ideas for visiting this region include camping in the summer or finding villas to rent that offer privacy, exclusivity and surprisingly affordable prices outside of the busiest summer months.

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One of the most amazing attractions in the area is the Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach in Scotland. The waterfall drops more than 150 feet into the gorge and an incredible bridge spans it all. There are viewing platforms to better see the remarkable waters and it is a popular spot in the area.

If you are planning a trip to the Scottish Highlands and in particular the area around Ullapool, be sure to include the Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach during your trip. This guide will provide information on the site, nearby accommodation options and other exciting attractions in the region.

A view of the magnificient, Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls / Wojsyl

Travelling In and Around the Destination

Travellers who plan to come to Scotland to see the Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach should plan to travel first to the small village of Ullapool. Ullapool is just ten miles from the gorge and is a beautiful destination in the Scottish Highlands. Most travellers will arrive by car to the area which is recommended as this area of the United Kingdom is quite spread out. If you plan to rely on public transportation, however, your best choice is to take the regional bus from Inverness. The journey will cost just £12 each way and the trip is made at least once each day.

History of Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls

While it is unclear when the falls were first discovered by humans in Scotland, it has been proven that people were writing about the incredible scenic attraction as early as the 17th century. It wasn’t until the middle of the 19th century, however, until the architect John Fowler built the first suspension bridge for viewing the falls and for crossing the Droma River that the attraction was visited by the masses. Today that same bridge that crosses over the gorge and is an impressive structure.

Visitor’s Information

The Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach is a completely unmanned attraction. There is no staff onsite regularly which means visitors should take personal responsibility when touring the area and pay close attention to all signs. The area is open daily throughout the year, but it is recommended that you only visit during daylight hours. The falls will be most impressive after heavy rains, and they are best avoided during a drought. Admission is just £1 per person to be left in an honesty box on site.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors to the Scottish Highlands will have no shortage of attractions to visit after touring the Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach. In nearby Ullapool some of the most popular attractions include the Ullapool Museum as well as taking a boat tour in warmer weather. Attractions throughout the area include the impressive Eilean Donan Castle and hikes on famous paths like the Speyside Way and the West Highland Way.

Eilean Donan Castle fairly near to Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach / lenivor…

Accommodation Options in the Area

If you are looking for accommodation options as close as possible to the Corrieshalloch Gorge and Falls of Measach, your best options are the small inns and guesthouses in the village of Ullapool. There are also several pubs and inns that accept overnight guests throughout the Cairngorms National Park. For something more private, you might enjoy the Scottish apartments in the city of Inverness. Rental apartments give visitors a way to truly see the city from a local perspective. With a private kitchen, this kind of accommodation can often be cheaper than staying in a hotel.

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