Scotland is often underestimated, but it has so much to offer. Visiting Scotland at least once is necessary to immerse yourself in the beautiful countryside and nature. The landscapes can only be fully appreciated when seeing the country for yourself. Beyond the greenery, Scotland offers an array of activities for people of all ages, making the country a suitable destination for families, couples or even solo travellers. However, there are some factors to consider when planning a trip to make the most of your time in Scotland.
Weather
It is important to note that the Scottish weather is unpredictable, regardless of the chosen season to visit. The country does operate differently depending on the season, with some tourist attractions only open during summer, but a range of festivities takes place year-round, so there are always activities to enjoy. It is common for Scotland to experience heaps of snow during the colder months, suiting the lively holiday celebrations, which is a wonderful time to visit if a winter wonderland sounds appealing. Visiting in spring or summer will offer longer days to explore, but be warned that it could still be continuously raining, so pack appropriately!
Transport
People assume that because Scotland is small compared to other countries in the world, it will be easy to get around. However, travel within Scotland still requires planning, and it is not always as simple as walking around. There are three main forms of transportation that might be suitable:
- Road trip – driving into Scotland or hiring a car for the trip
- Public transport – buses, trains and ferries
- Guided tours – booking a tour usually includes transportation
Each option has benefits and drawbacks; road trips offer more flexibility at an increased cost, public transportation can be more affordable but time-consuming and guided tours are effective at providing a structure to the trip, which might not suit people looking for flexibility. Thankfully, each option incorporates the stunning, scenic views of Scotland.
Accommodation
When planning a trip, accommodation should never be overlooked. Most of the day will be spent adventuring, but it is important to have a safe place for the night to be well-rested by the morning. Taking a trip to Scotland is the best time to wake up to picturesque surroundings, which can be achieved by choosing high-quality accommodation.
You can search for luxury lodges Aviemore to discover accommodation in Scotland and enjoy the wonderful experience of having your morning coffee overlooking the highlands.
Tours
Scotland provides rich history, natural landscape and a plethora of ventures and leisure for visitors to enjoy. It can be difficult to know where to begin with an itinerary, so a tour could be worth a thought. Tours are beneficial when visiting Scotland as they are informative and show visitors places that could otherwise be missed. Consider a tour to reduce stress over time management and explore landmarks like Loch Ness, the Kelpies, Forth Bridge and Edinburgh Castle.
Planning a trip to Scotland is possible at any time of the year, offering unique experiences depending on the ongoing events. Visiting the Celtic country is suitable for everyone, with the option to focus on culture or environment, whichever is most appealing. It is important to consider the weather, transport, accommodation and tours when planning to see Scotland to get the most out of the trip and enjoy the mountainous paradise.