Cover: Caroline Warburton of Wild Scotland, Glenfinnan,

Scottish Highlands. © Robert Pogson / VisitScotland / Scottish

Viewpoint Main photography © Paul Tomkins, VisitScotland /
Scottish Viewpoint Photo credits: Lieve Boussauw, Chris Close,
Adam Elder, Peter Goldie, Colin Keldie / K4 Graphics, Robert
Pogson, Chris Robson, Iain Sarjeant, Glyn Satterley , Photo
Library / Britain on View / Simon Winnall Design: Graphic
Partners, Edinburgh.
Product No.: N11SMISP

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Published by VisitScotland, Edinburgh, EH6 6JH

Zievvenidlo G
VisitScotland is Scotland's national tourism body.
© VisitScotland™ 2010
Any reproduction of material in this publication is prohibited
without the prior consent of VisitScotland.
VisitScotland™ is committed to ensuring that Scotland's
natural environment, on which tourism so depends, is
conserved for the enjoyment of future generations.
The information provided in this publication is that which
VisitScotland has received and which, to the best of its
knowledge, was correct at the time of going to press.
VisitScotland accepts no liability for errors or omissions.
August 2010.

624 SCOTLAND Visit

[Link]
Scotland tourism
Which Scotland do you prefer? See historic towns like Stirling,
In winter, the Highland hills are You can attend the Snowdrop Scotland, where everything from
covered in a blanket of snow, as we Festival, which is organized in honor seafood (in Tarbert, on the banks of
warmly welcome the New Year with of this flower. And while autumn the Fyne estuary, in July) to malt
grand Hogmanay celebrations. covers the birch forests of Royal whiskey (in May and September, on
guarded by its castle, or be amazed by the magnificent Highland Summer brings a tide of festivals and
cultural events. During these dates,
Deeside, west of Aberdeen, or the big
tree country of Perthshire in
the banks of the Spey, in Moray) is
celebrated.
landscape in places like Glencoe or Torridon. Discover the picturesque tourists are often surprised by how
long the days are. You will notice the
spectacular hues, it also presents an
ideal occasion to celebrate seasonal Scotland offers many diverse
villages of the eastern lowlands, such as Pittenweem or Crail, on the prolongation of twilight (in Scots produce at events such as Scottish experiences throughout the year, from
the Up Helly Aa fire festival, held in
"gloaming") especially at times such Food Fortnight ( Scottish Food
Fife coast, or escape to the secluded white sand beaches of the as the Festival of St Magnus, which is Fortnight). Indeed, throughout the the Shetland Islands in the middle of
winter, to the Highland Games,
western isles, such as Iona, Islay, Harris and many others. Of course celebrated in Orkney around the
summer solstice.
different seasons of the year you will
find a variety of commemorative organized throughout the country
the experience will be different depending on the events of the gastronomy and typical during the summer. However,
something that does not vary and you
At the beginning of spring you will not
time of year you visit us. only find bluebells in the forests, but
SCOTCH^. BlevV/evidlo q vbes(r Violq.
drinks of
will always find is the warmest of
also welcomes.

1 The circle of Brodgar, in Orkney. 1 Treacherous Orchestra performance during the 1 View of the Cuillin Mountains from Elgol, on the Isle of Skye.
Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow.

1
Scotland's cultural spirit
To what does Scotland owe its unmistakable character? Although there
Scottish culture is also characterized well as the impressive Military Tattoo, The enjoyment of traditional Scottish
is a variety of distinctly Scottish elements, the truth is that none is by its openness to the outside. As an inevitably attract the world's attention, music in informal settings is available
example of this permeability we have but large cultural events of to everyone. Musical gatherings called
completely representative of the country. Scotland is rather a mixture of the Celtic Connections music festival international prestige are also ceilidhs are usually announced in
that is held every year in January in organized in other Scottish regions. advance, especially in smaller towns.
various ingredients that have been added to it over the centuries. The Glasgow, where both native talents For example, the Perth Arts Festival Ask at your accommodation or go to
and performers from other Celtic each May brings a wide selection of the nearest VisitScotland tourism and
nation celebrates its culture throughout the year with a lively program of cultures in Europe participate. The city music and other artistic expressions to information centre.
also becomes the bagpipe capital of this beautiful Scottish city on the Bars occasionally host spontaneous
festivals and performances of theatre, song, poetry, dance and much the world during Piping Live!, the banks of the Tay. The Braemar folk music sessions, and venues with
international bagpipe festival. Highland Games, held annually in music programming, such as
more. September, are the most famous due Hootananny in Inverness or Ghillie
Many major events, such as the to the attendance of the British royal Dhu in Edinburgh, make it easy to
Edinburgh International Festival, along family, although many more are enjoy the vibrancy of Scottish musical
with its film and literature festivals, as organized throughout Scotland. culture.

DIARY August Military Tattoo, Edinburgh See the full entertainment

August Fringe Festival, Edinburgh
January Celtic Connections, August Piping Live!, Glasgow program on page 19 – from
January Glasgow August-September Edinburgh International Festival
April Burns' Night September Braemar Gathering traditional music
Spirit of Speyside Whiskey October Bagpipes and violins
May Festival Scottish Pipe Band championship performances to Highland
by Glenfiddich, Blair Atholl
Championship
November St Andrew's Day
Games and the full range of
May-September Highland Games
December Edinburgh Winter Festival
December-January Hogmanay
festivals – or visit
June Royal Highland Show,
Edinburgh
July Hebridean Celtic Music [Link]
Festival, Isle of Lewis 3
1 Shot put during the Braemar 1 Whiskey expert Julie Trevisan-Hunter at the Scotch 1 Fiddle party during the Orkney Folk
meeting in Aberdeenshire. Whiskey Experience in Edinburgh. Music Festival.
4
 Panoramic view of Edinburgh's old town at dusk. -er

Edinburgh Castle is located at the heart of the docks and superb selection of high-end restaurants. You can also take a walk through

The great cities of Scotland: Edinburgh

nation's history, symbolized by the so-called Holyrood Park and enter another world by visiting the village of Duddingston, hidden
Honors of Scotland - the jewels of the Scottish behind the hill of Arthur's Seat. Here you will also find one of the oldest taverns in
Crown - as well as the famous Stone of Destiny, Scotland.
the former coronation throne of Scottish kings. The surrounding area also offers great attractions, including panoramic views of the
Edinburgh is a visual spectacle, with its battlements, spire towers, The historic center of Edinburgh, the so-called "Old
Town", is grouped around the top of the Royal Mile, the
Pentland Mountains overlooking the entire city, the neoclassical elegance of stately
homes such as Hopetoun House, and the natural beauty of the East Lothian coast.
cliffs and neoclassical columns. Contemplate from Edinburgh former main artery that connects the castle with the
Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Edinburgh's cultural life experiences its most delirious moment during the month of
August. The Edinburgh International Festival stands at the backbone of this great
Castle the bustle of a modern and cosmopolitan European capital, Although these two monuments head a long list of annual meeting of the arts of world prestige; Although the entertainment program
whose medieval and Georgian architectural heritage must have historic buildings, museums and art galleries, Edinburgh
is a very manageable city. It is easy to explore on foot
covers the entire year and the festive atmosphere is felt in the city at all times.
Inspiration and creativity have always been constant in Edinburgh, whose literary
been declared a World Heritage Site twice by UNESCO. Likewise, or via its excellent bus network.
Discover the renovated port of Leith, with its historic
heritage stretches back beyond the time of Walter Scott and includes internationally
renowned contemporary writers such as J. K. Rowling, creator of Harry Potter.
it has been named the first "world city of literature" by this same
international organization. Check out the entire
leisure program and places of interest in Scotland's capital, as well as advice on
accommodation, clubs, bars, restaurants and shops, on the website
[Link]
1 The 1 Traditional music session at the Royal Mile Britannia , 1 A street performer spits fire on the Royal Mile during ship of the Royal Family, anchored in Leith (Edinburgh).
1 Tavern in Edinburgh. Victoria the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Street, in the "Old Town".

5
Scotland's largest city, Glasgow, is a Mecca of style,
design and architecture; It is an open, elegant, dynamic As Britain's premier Victorian city, of historic modes of transportation that energetic musical scene, which
and vital city: a shopping paradise and one of the most Glasgow's architecture reflects its
distinctive personality. In the heart of
will remind the public of the links the
city formed with the rest of the world
extends uninterruptedly throughout the
year, is experienced in a wide variety
the city stands the imposing City of venues, from traditional taverns to
hospitable places you will ever know. Chambers, while the Kelvingrove Art
through its ships and locomotives.
As a commercial city, Glasgow has international auditoriums, through
Gallery & Museum houses interesting hardly any rivals in Britain. Shop in the music halls and stage spaces set up in
art collections that have been making elegant Princes Square, then continue old buildings in the city. Òran Mór, a
a huge contribution to Glasgow's along Sauchiehall Street, Buchanan venue with the most interesting
cultural life for over a century. An Street and the Merchant City district, musical programming, is a magnificent
unmistakable element of Glasgow which together form the city's 'style example of this type of renovation.
style is the work of Charles Rennie mile'. Glasgow's bars and restaurants have
Mackintosh, a native designer who led a clear cosmopolitan feel, with long-
the Scottish modernist movement. In a single week, Glasgow usually
witnesses more than 120 musical established establishments such as
The contemporary architecture of the performances, a figure that seems to the Art Nouveau Café Gandolfi and
new Riverside Museum, opening in more than justify the title of "Music Rogano, and a variety of highly
summer 2011, will house a collection City" awarded by UNESCO. This sophisticated new establishments.

Find out about all the current

leisure offerings, discover where
the best shops are located and
access all the secrets to enjoy the
night and the shows in Scotland's
7
largest city on the website [Link]

8
Stalker's Castle, located on an islet in the Laich estuary
(which is part of the Linnhe estuary), in Appin (Argyll).

Scotland: an adventure trip at your own pace Traveling around Scotland is very
simple. As well as dual carriageways
and main roads, there is an excellent
Glencoe.
Public transportation, with its
integrated train, ferry and bus
Travelers with their own transportation
have a wide variety of thematic
itineraries and signposted tourist
network of low-traffic rural roads, schedules, offers endless options. routes available. The Galloway
The great variety of experiences in urban and natural especially in the Borders region, in
Galloway, in Fife, in Angus, in
Along the train journey from Fort
William to Mallaig, for example, you
National Tourist Route takes in places
associated with Robert Burns, the
landscapes that characterizes Scotland invites you to explore Aberdeenshire and in Moray. will enjoy an unforgettable journey, as
well as wonderful views of the islands.
famous Scottish poet, as well as
historic monuments such as Threave
If you are staying in a city or do not
its entire geography. Without having to travel long distances, have your own transport, there are a Then take the ferry to Armadale on
Skye and a bus to destinations on the
Castle. Along your trip, find out about
special discounts available through
number of tour operators offering
from the lowlands to the mountains, from the eastern to the guided tours and day or multi-day island to admire the magnificence of
the Cuillin Mountains along the way.
programs such as Historic Scotland's
Explorer Pass, if you plan to visit
excursions through many of
western coast, you can enjoy impressive mountain Scotland's most beautiful landscapes. Return to Glasgow or Edinburgh via
the Skye Bridge and Inverness. A very
multiple historic monuments.
Wherever you go, keep an eye out for
It's a great way to see such beautiful
landscapes, bucolic lakes and valleys and a thousand places regions as Loch Lomond and enjoy simple but immensely rewarding
itinerary.
the brown thistle roadside signs that
point the way to all sorts of trails,
the rugged splendor of places like
to visit along the way. You can choose between castles, routes, sights and adventures.

1 Mellerstain, a mansion located in Berwickshire, in the Scottish Borders region. 1 The fishing port of St Monans, Fife. 1 The sandy beach of Traigh an Iar, on the Isle of Harris (Outer Hebrides). 1 Seals at Kildonan, on the Isle of Arran (Ayrshire).

9
CLASSIC SCOTLAND
The possibilities are limitless: majestic The possibilities for discovering Scotland are endless.
landscapes, castles, whiskey, golf, ceilidhs, Choose between the twelve marked national tourist routes or
islands and much more..., without overlooking our thematic itineraries. Below we offer you two examples.
the lively Scottish cities. Enjoy the most classic
Scotland on this unforgettable trip. Europe, this archipelago is a perfect destination Day 3
Day 1 for romantic trips: sparkling beaches, endless Visit one of its famous single malt whiskey distilleries,
Explore Edinburgh, with its magnificent cultural skies and spectacular sunsets. Head south to such as Ardbeg, Lagavulin or Laphroaig.
offering, and the city's old town, the so-called Tarbert on Harris and take the ferry to Uig on Return to the northern tip of the island passing the
"Old Town". The Museum of Edinburgh is Skye. Islay Woolen Mill.
packed with artefacts relating to the city's Day 9 Day 4
history. Here you will even find the drinking Skye, the Isle of Mist, is famous for its rugged Head to Port Askaig, passing through Finlaggan, the
fountain of the famous Greyfriars dog (Greyfriars Cuillin Mountains. To see them in their greatest former axis of the area of influence of Clan Donald, the
Bobby). splendor, head south from Uig, passing Portree, owners and lords of the islands. Several distilleries are
Day 2 the island's capital, and at Sligachan follow the located nearby, including Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain.
Head northeast towards St. Andrews, in the Fife A863 road. Take a minor road to Glen Brittle. At Take the ferry that will take you in no time to Jura, a
region, passing through the picturesque fishing the end of the road you will find a path that leads semi-virgin island where you will only find a road and a
villages of the so-called "East Neuk". On the to the foot of the Cuillins. The next day, near distillery.
way you will find busy fry shops (in Anstruther Broadford, take the B8063 towards Elgol for Day 5
and Pittenweem) and famous sweets in the more panoramic views. Take a boat ride if you Leave Islay for Kennacraig and then take the road
pastry shops of St. Andrews. Live the adventure want to see them up close. north towards Oban. You are in the heart of the region
on the Chain Walk trail in Elie, an exciting way to Day 10 that runs through the seafood route or "Seafood Trail."
discover the cliffs of this coast. Leave the islands over the Skye Bridge and Argyll's restaurants and hotels offer the best of the
Day 3 head south to pass by Eilean Donan Castle on fruits of these seas. From Oban, the gateway to the
Continue north passing through the cities of the Duich Estuary. It crosses the valley of the islands on the west coast, take the ferry to the Isle of
Dundee and Aberdeen until you reach the coast Great Glen in an easterly direction until it Mull.
of the Moray Estuary, with its picturesque fishing reaches Fort William; Continues through Day 6
villages and the beautiful landscapes offered by Glencoe and Rannoch Moor, one of the most Mull has many places of interest, including Duart
its rugged coastlines. Boat excursions are romantic and picturesque regions of Scotland. Castle, residence of the chiefs of the Maclean clan,
organized to watch dolphins and other species. Continue through Crianlarich to Lochearnhead which occupies a dominant position over the arm of
In Whitehills, near Banff, you will find a great and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National the sea called the "Sound of Mull". Head west along
seafood restaurant. Park. the Ross of Mull peninsula towards the island of Iona,
Days 4 and 5 Day 11 also called the "cradle of Scottish Christianity."
Continue along the coast until you reach From the Trossachs region, head to Glasgow, Day 7
Inverness and then north to Scrabster, from Scotland's largest city, with a great cultural It runs along the western side of Mull, with rocky
where you can extend the route for a minimum offering, plenty of shops and lively nightlife. Take coasts, passing through the Scridain and Na Keal
of four days by taking the ferry to Orkney. In this part in an authentic ceilidh , a traditional Scottish estuaries; He returns to Tobermory and leaves the
archipelago you can visit the Neolithic sites of gathering with music and dancing. island for Kilchoan, in Ardnamurchan. This rugged
Skara Brae and Maes Howe, as well as the
Cathedral of St. Magnus, in Kirkwall. Walk along CIRCUIT AROUND THE peninsula, almost an island, leads to Cape
Ardnamurchan, the westernmost point of the United
the cliffs of Marwick Head and see the colonies ISLANDS OF SCOTLAND Kingdom, except for its islands.
of seabirds, populated by guillemots and
razorbills. Then you can take a ferry to Shetland, Embark on a magical journey through Scotland's
where prehistoric monuments such as Mousa most romantic islands. In each one you will find
Broch are also plentiful, as well as seabird its own heritage and history, with rhythms of life
colonies as impressive as those in Orkney. marked by the coming and going of the ferries.
Thanks to the complete network of transfer
If you prefer not to extend the route, continue services, it is very easy to access them and the
west to explore the northern coast. Stay
overnight in Durness and visit Smoo Cave.
traveler is free to visit one after the other.
Day 1
On this page we have
Day 6
Head south and cross the Kylesku Bridge to
Ardrossan is the departure point to the Isle of
Arran. Visit Brodick Castle and enjoy the coastal
collected two possible
Lochinver, via the Drumbeg road. In Lochinver
you will find a typical empanada or “pies” shop
circuit of the island, also famous for its food
production. Follow the Arran food route and
itineraries, but there are
worthy of a prestigious award. Continue south
through the unspoilt countryside of Inverpolly
discover the flavors of the island.
Day 2
many more routes that you
and rejoin the main road to Ullapool. In a single
afternoon you can enjoy a short adventure on Head north towards Lochranza Castle, an
ancient fortress where King Robert I Bruce
can download on the website
the small mountain called Stac Polly.
Days 7 and 8
himself stayed. The Isle of Arran Distillery is
located nearby. In Lochranza you must take the
[Link]/es
At Ullapool, take the ferry to Stornoway in the ferry to Claonaig and continue to Kennacraig,
Outer Hebrides, then continue west to see the another fairly close town, to take the ferry to the
mysterious Calanais megalithic monument. A island of Islay.
true bastion of Gaelic culture on the edge of

1 Croft House Farmhouse Museum, near Boddam, Shetland Islands.

1
1
1
3
Angus berries, aromatic herbs and establishments have received awards If you're looking for quality bars and
vegetables from fertile fields and and have spread their fame beyond the restaurants in Scotland, keep an eye
orchards, and traditional ingredients, neighborhood or municipality where
out for the EatScotland badge. The
such as rolled oats, become the raw they are located. The mobile fish and
material with which culinary creativity chip van from Tobermory on the Isle of establishments
and authentically Scottish modern Mull serves its delicious products just Assessed under VisitScotland's
gastronomy is unleashed. steps from the dock where they have Dining Quality Assurance Scheme,
been unloaded. Guaranteed fresh fish. they display this symbol. Find out on
Haggis, Scotland's most famous dish,
often appears as a starter or side dish. Small farmers and livestock markets are the web
If you want to taste the delights of the also booming. These markets, initially [Link]
Scottish soup tradition, try "Cullen made up of a few stalls selling directly
skink", a fish soup made with smoked to consumers set up by local producers,
haddock and potatoes. With oat flakes, are gaining strong momentum
a staple of the traditional Scottish diet, throughout the country. Many Scottish
porridge, cookies or desserts such as towns now have markets held one
"cranachan" (made with toasted oat Saturday a month, while Edinburgh
flakes, honey, whiskey, cream and holds them every week.
berries) are prepared.
Scottish hospitality, however, is not
Other typical products of this land limited to good food. A country that
include cheeses such as "Lanark Blue" cultivates hospitality as one of its
and "Ross-shire Caboc", smoked fish, longest traditions, Scotland offers a
especially the Arbroath "Arbroath magnificent variety of accommodation
smokie", the raisin and spice cake of all kinds. Hotels founded long ago in
called "clootie dumpling", and the varied manor houses and castles head a long
pastries, such as the famous "buttery", list in which you will also find elegant
very similar to the French croissant . charming hotels, restaurants with
rooms, guest houses and bed &
In Scotland, traditional fast food is found breakfasts with a homemade pastry that
in fish and chip shops, the best of which follows the country's purest hospitality
offer the cheapest opportunity to taste tradition.
Scotland's fresh fish. Many of these
1
4
 1
ill -■. Tmmmm'— 5
Scotland has more than 550 golf
courses, including fourteen coastal Find out more about
courses within an 8km radius in East
Lothian, such as Gullane and
the more than 550 golf
Craigielaw courses. Championship
courses that have hosted several
courses, special
editions of the British Open, such as
those at St. Andrews, Turnberry,
passes and the best
Muirfield and Carnoustie all enjoy
international prestige, but many others
offers on the website
offer their own special attractions. On [Link]
this list, for example, we have parkland
-style courses, such as the famous m/es
Spey Valley golf course, with the
magnificent backdrop of the
Cairngorms. The variety of coastal
courses presented to the
knowledgeable golfer ranges from the
club
Machrihanish in Kintyre to the famous
Dornoch golf course. And among the
constant new additions to the list of golf
courses in Scotland, Castle Stuart
stands out, a magnificent club near
Inverness.
The Ayrshire coastline is renowned for
its classic lowland coastal golf courses.
The first British Golf Open was held at
Prestwick in 1860. Although this town
continues to enjoy prestige, many other
names have become famous since
then, such as the Belleisle golf course
in Ayr or the Shiskine club, one of the
hidden gems of the Isle of Arran.
Scottish summer, there is the possibility
of starting tours quite late in the
afternoon. All golf courses are
maintained in perfect condition and can
be used during most of the year.
The golf events calendar is always very
busy. The 2011 Walker Cup is being
held at the Royal Aberdeen club. The
Barclays Open Scotland will take place
in Loch Lomond in July. The Ryder Cup
will come to Gleneagles in its 2014
edition. These important
championships head a long list of
events at all levels that reflect the great
popularity of this sport in the country
where it was born.

1
6
A group of walkers near Glen Clova, Angus. 1
-f“—Li"-—g---s-n0Td-lur"h" 7
If you practice hiking, you can climb Scotland is also a great place to travel puffins to seals. Several companies are
one of the 283 Scottish mountains by bike. In addition to national cycling licensed to carry out these boat
classified as "munros", which are more routes, there is a wide variety of bicycle excursions. From Oban, for example,
than 914 m high, a very widespread trails and areas reserved for mountain you can take a boat to the famous
activity among the Scots during their biking. The Nevis Range ski resort, Corryvreckan whirlpool on the northern
free time, many of whom wear the near Fort William, which hosts the UCI tip of the Isle of Mull. Look carefully
objective of promoting all existing Mountain Bike World Championships, because you may see cetaceans along
"munros". If you prefer a less effortful is renowned as an ideal place to the way. The canoe offers you another
excursion, Scotland offers a variety of practice this sport. very ecological way to get closer to the
waymarked walks, through forests, For many nature lovers, an important fauna.
along the coast, as well as ecological part of this experience involves
routes. encounters with Scotland's wildlife.
There are also several official trails that Even on short walks, such as at Glen
cover quite long distances. The most Muick in Royal Deeside, you are likely
famous is the West Highland Way, a to see deer, which are very common On this page you will find
154km trail that starts from the animals in the Highlands. It is also
outskirts of Glasgow and ends in Fort possible to spot golden eagles in the more than 1,000 hiking
William. The Southern Upland Way mountains of Scotland. In recent years, routes for all levels:
offers the longest route: 340km coast the eagle has caused a sensation after
to coast, between Cockburnspath in its reintroduction to the country. The [Link]/e
the east and Portpatrick in Galloway. Isle of Mull has special facilities for s
Obviously, these trails can be enjoyed watching this species, and Skye, even
in several stages or on day trips. near Portree, its capital, is another
The Scottish Ranger Service, in great area for this activity.
addition to forest reserve rangers, often The red kite is another successfully
organize hiking programs to fully enjoy reintroduced species. This bird can be
Scottish nature; an ideal way to get to seen in many parts of Scotland,
know the countryside and start a although there are special areas, such
conversation with other walkers in the as the red kite route, around Loch Ken,
area. Additionally, there are hiking in Galloway, with an observation and
holiday operators that will take you feeding post that guarantees
through less frequented areas. Another magnificent photos.
possibility would be to participate in Boat tours offer another way to enjoy
one of the hiking festivals held in the both the scenery and wildlife, from
country.
1
8
1
9
Music, dance, highlight day in the Scottish calendar of June 4-5
JANUARY horse riding activities. UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD CUP,
January 1 (and December 25) THE BA', Tel: +44 (0)1292 264179 [Link]- Fort William
Orkney Islands [Link] Mountain Bike World Cup: a
A truly historic football match, in which magnificent celebration of the sport in
fi April 28-May 1
around 400 players participate. the Highlands.
SHETLAND FOLK FESTIVAL
Tel: +44 (0)1856 872856 It presents you the best of folk music on Tel: +44 (0)131 555 3820
[Link] the planet. [Link]
January 1-31 Tel: +44 (0)1595 694757 fi June 12
TURNER IN JANUARY, Edinburgh [Link] ARDROSSAN HIGHLAND GAMES,
Annual exhibition where the watercolors fi April 28-May 2 Memorial Playing Fields, Ardrossan
of the painter William Turner are SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKEY Highland Games.
collected. [Link].u
FESTIVAL Whiskey festival that has
Tel: +44 (0)131 624 6200 k
more than 200 activities.
[Link]
Tel: +44 (0)7768 383500 *June 15-26
f January 13-30 [Link] EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM
CELTIC CONNECTIONS, Glasgow FESTIVAL, Edinburgh
Traditional Celtic music festival. fi April 29-May 1 GIRVAN FOLK
FESTIVAL Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Tel: +44 (0)141 353 8000 Tel: +44 (0)131 228 4051
[Link] Concerts, ceilidhs , competitions and
sessions throughout the weekend. [Link]
f January 25 Tel: +44 (0)1560 321102 June 23-26
BURNS' NIGHT, throughout Scotland [Link] ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW, Edinburgh
Night that commemorates the birth of The highlight of the Scottish farming
April 30th
Scotland's national poet: Robert Burns. and farming calendar.
BELTANE FIRE FESTIVAL, Edinburgh
January 25 Great fire festival that celebrates the Tel: +44 (0)131 335 6200
UP HELLY AA, Shetland Islands Viking arrival of summer. [Link]
Fire Festival. [Link] fi June 25
Tel: +44 (0)1595 693434
MAY BRITISH PIPE BAND
[Link]
CHAMPIONSHIPS, Annan,
fi May-September HIGHLAND GAMES Dumfriesshire
FEBRUARY Around a hundred Highland games and British Pipe Band Championship.
February 14-March 19 gatherings are held in Scotland every Tel: +44 (0)141 221 5414
NEW TERRITORIES, Glasgow Scottish year, combining bagpipe music, athletic [Link]
International Performing Arts Festival. competitions and traditional Highland
June 25-July 8
Tel: +44 (0)141 357 5538 dance.
JEDBURGH CALLANTS FESTIVAL
[Link] [Link]
Festival of the Borders region with
February 17-27 May 19-29 theatrical performances on horseback.
GLASGOW FILM FESTIVAL PERTH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS 40th Tel: +44 (0)1835 863687
Film festival where films from all over anniversary of this festival of culture [Link]
the world are screened. and the arts that is celebrated every
Tel: +44 (0)141 332 6535 year. JULY
[Link] Tel: +44 (0)1738 621031
[Link] July 1-3
MARCH GAME CONSERVANCY SCOTTISH
May 21th FAIR, Scone Palace, Perthshire
f March 5-17 fi SCOTTISH PIPE BAND Fair highlighting the importance of
INVERNESS MUSIC FESTIVAL CHAMPIONSHIPS, Dumbarton Scottish game and other wildlife to the Scottish
Music festival where there is Pipe Band Championship. countryside.
competition in the sections of Tel: +44 (0)141 221 5414 [Link]
instrumental, vocal, declamation and [Link]
fi July 3-8
dance music. fi May 21-28 CEÒLAS MUSIC FESTIVAL, South
Tel: +44 (0)1463 716616 ISLAY FESTIVAL OF MALT AND Uist, Outer Hebrides Summer school of
[Link] MUSIC Music and whiskey festival on Gaelic music and dance.
March 16-20 the island of Islay. Tel: +44 (0)1496 [Link]
StANZA, St. Andrews 810254 [Link]
Scotland International Poetry Festival: A May 21-29
Song of Lyrics. DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY ARTS
[Link] FESTIVAL Arts festival.
*March 17-April 10 MAGNERS Tel: +44 (0)1387 260447
GLASGOW INTERNATIONAL [Link]
COMEDY FESTIVAL Comedians, fi May 26-29
theatre, cinema, children's ORKNEY FOLK FESTIVAL
performances and workshops. Orkney Folk Music Festival.
Tel: +44 (0)141 552 2070 Tel: +44 (0)1856 851638
[Link] [Link]
May 28-29
APRIL EMIRATES AIRLINES EDINBURGH
fi April 8-10 SEVENS, Murrayfield
ORKNEY CEILIDH WEEKEND Rugby tournament.
Weekend of ceilidhs and traditional [Link]
dance courses in Orkney.
Tel: +44 (0)1856 873534 JUNE
[Link]/otda
June 2-5
April 9th ANGUS GLENS WALKING FESTIVAL
MELROSE SEVENS Rugby
Widely awarded festival, with hiking
tournament.
routes for all tastes and levels
Tel: +44 (0)1896 822993
throughout its four days.
[Link]
Tel: +44 (0)1307 473168
April 9-25 [Link]/
EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL walkingfestival
SCIENCE FESTIVAL
The most amazing science for all ages. June 3-5
Tel: +44 (0)131 558 7666 GARDENING SCOTLAND, Edinburgh
[Link] Scotland's national festival celebrating
gardening and life in nature.
April 10-16 Tel: +44 (0)131 333 0969
ST. ANDREWS GOLF WEEK [Link]
Golf week in St. Andrews, the "cradle of
golf." June 4
[Link] TASTE OF GRAMPIAN, Inverurie Taste
the wide variety of quality produce that
April 15-16 the north-east of Scotland has to offer.
CORAL SCOTTISH GRAND [Link]
NATIONAL FESTIVAL, Ayr The

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CALENDAR OF MAIN ACTIVITIES FOR 2011 SCOTLAND IS VERY WELL CONNECTED

July 7-10
BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN,
Loch Lomond
August 12-September 4
EDINBURGH
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
September, 10th
RAF LEUCHARS AIRSHOW,
near St. Andrews
November 30
ST ANDREW'S DAY
Scotland celebrates the day
Your
Great PGA golf championship.
Tel: +44 (0)141 887 2992
Three weeks that bring
together the best of opera,
Official military air show.
Tel: +44 (0)1334 839000
of Saint Andrew, its patron
saint. travel
guide
[Link].c theater, dance and classical [Link]
[Link] music from around the world. DECEMBER
September 15-18
Tel: +44 (0)131 473 2000
*July 9-10 WILLIAM HILL AYR GOLD Throughout December
[Link]
SCOTTISH VINTAGE VEHICLE CUP FESTIVAL, Ayr Race CHRISTMAS MARKETS
EXTRAVAGANZA, Glamis fi August 13 Course Horse Racing. All over Scotland you can find The trip to Scotland is
Castle Great vintage car show. WORLD PIPE BAND [Link] Christmas markets that are uncomplicated. From
Tel: +44 (0)1307 840393 CHAMPIONSHIPS, Glasgow
[Link] Green, Glasgow
fi September 23-25 perfect for some truly special Spain you have the
THE BELHAVEN BEST Christmas shopping.
The largest pipe band possibility to choose
f *July 13-16 DUNBAR TRADITIONAL
HEBRIDEAN CELTIC
championship in the world.
MUSIC FESTIVAL Traditional EDINBURGH'S HOGMANAY between several direct
Tel: +44 (0)141 221 5414
FESTIVAL Important Celtic
[Link]
music festival filled with Celebrate the New Year in the flights or with a
birthplace of Hogmanay.
music festival. Tel: +44 (0)1851 concerts, ceilidhs and other
[Link].
stopover at a European
621234 [Link] August 13-29 performances. Tel: +44
EDINBURGH (0)1368 863301 com airport, such as
July 25-30
INVERNESS TATTOO,
INTERNATIONAL [Link] December 31 London, Amsterdam,
FESTIVAL BOOK Paris, Frankfurt or
Inverness Military parades, September 23-October 2 THE THE FLAMBEAUX, Comrie
Edinburgh International Book
traditional dances and pipe Festival. WIGTOWN BOOK FESTIVAL Ancient and traditional Dublin.
bands. Ten-day festival in Scotland's torchlight procession to
Tel: +44 (0)131 718 5666
Tel: +44 (0)1463 242915 book capital. celebrate the New Year.
[Link]
[Link]
Tel: +44 (0)1988 403222 Tel: +44 (0)1764 652578 London is about an
August 18-21 [Link] hour's flight from
July 27-August 6 BLAIR CASTLE GLASGOW'S HOGMANAY
ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL HORSE
m
Glasgow welcomes the New
Edinburgh or Glasgow,
YOUTH FESTIVAL TRIALS AND COUNTRY Year with special guests in and the rest of the
Eleven days dedicated to OCTOBER
FAIR, Blair Atholl Three-day the central square of George main Scottish airports
music, dance and theater. international horse fair.
Tel: +44 (0)1224 213800
fi October 28-November 6 Square. (Prestwick, Aberdeen,
Tel: +44 (0)1796 481543 PERTHSHIRE AMBER - THE
[Link]
[Link] DOUGIE MACLEAN
[Link] Inverness and Dundee)
f July 29-31
fi August 25-27 FESTIVAL
m December 31 HOGMANAY have regular
The end of the year is
LOMOND FOLK FESTIVAL,
COWAL HIGHLAND Scottish and international
celebrated in most towns and
connections with
Balloch Park
[Link]
GATHERING, Dunoon acoustic music. cities in Scotland. London and other
Traditional Highland Games. [Link] fi [Link] British cities, such as
*July 29-August 7 Tel: +44 (0)1369 703206
EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL [Link] October 29 December 31 Manchester. Transport
JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL GLENFIDDICH PIPING STONEHAVEN FIREBALL between Scottish
[Link] SEPTEMBER CHAMPIONSHIPS, Blair Atholl FESTIVAL An authentic fire airports and city
.uk International Bagpipe festival to welcome the New
September 2-4 EDINBURGH Competition. Tel: +44 (0)1698 Year. centers is well
AUGUST MELA A mix of theatre, dance, 573536 [Link] [Link].c coordinated.
music, film, visual arts and [Link]
performances with multiple fi October 30
f August 5-27 The train journey from
artistic expressions. GLENFIDDICH FIDDLE * Provisional date.
EDINBURGH ROYAL
MILITARY TATTOO Tel: +44 (0)131 332 2888 CHAMPIONSHIPS, Blair Atholl fi Show with traditional or London to Edinburgh
International Violin
Famous military festival with [Link]
Competition.
bagpipe music. takes about four and a
great shows and Edinburgh fi September 3 Tel: +44 (0)1698 573536 The information provided in half hours, and to
Castle as a backdrop. this publication is that which
Tel: +44 (0)131 225 1188
BRAEMAR GATHERING [Link] Glasgow, five.
Traditional Highland Games. VisitScotland has received
[Link] Tel: +44 (0)1339 755377 31 October and which, to the best of its
August 5-28 [Link] SAMHUINN FESTIVAL, knowledge, was correct at the Travel in Scotland also
Edinburgh Celebration of the time of going to press. benefits from an
EDINBURGH FESTIVAL fi3-september 11 arrival of winter and the Celtic VisitScotland accepts no
FRINGE BLAS FESTIVAL: IN New Year. [Link] responsibility for any errors. extensive road
The largest arts festival in the CELEBRATION OF THE The festival program could network, excellent rail
world. HIGHLANDS undergo changes. We
Tel: +44 (0)131 226 0026
NOVEMBER links and a good bus
The Gaelic language and recommend that you check
[Link] music of the Scottish *November 24-December 25 the information before making service. In addition,
August 6-14 Highlands are celebrated in EDINBURGH'S CHRISTMAS the trip. there are good ferry
PITTENWEEM ARTS style at the Blas Festival. Edinburgh celebrates routes connecting to
FESTIVAL, Fife Arts Festival. Tel: +44 (0)1463 225559 Christmas with a month full of
Tel: +44 (0)1333 313903 [Link] celebrations full of light and Get the full the northern and
[Link].c color. western islands.
[Link] [Link].c schedule of events
om and festivals at You can calmly plan
[Link] your itinerary, knowing
[Link] that the schedules of
buses, trains, ferries
and domestic flights
are perfectly
coordinated, so that
the best of the country
is always within reach.

If you need more

information about
transport, visit
[Link]
m/es

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Scotland, Cqo ^eS 0 ^obsCr'ibete G/ FLIGHTS

Some of these services only [Link] Spanair
FERRIES
Brittany Ferries
nbevo bo/eti^ 'e Scotland operate during certain
seasons. Please contact
your travel agency or visit
Ibiza, Menorca, Murcia and
Palma to Edinburgh
Barcelona and
Madrid to Edinburgh
[Link]
Santander to Plymouth
Bilbao to Portsmouth
Alicante, Palma and [Link]-
'^eSCabn^e^to
What do you think about Every month you'll be the first to receive
the websites below for
detailed information on
schedules.
Tenerife to Glasgow
[Link]
Vueling
Barcelona to
[Link]

coming in March, the exclusive offers from Scotland, Ryanair Edinburgh

easyJet Alicante, Barcelona, Girona, [Link]
mysterious month, or in information on major festivals plus travel Alicante, Madrid and Palma Gran Canaria, Lanzarote,
October, the month of golden to Edinburgh Malaga, Palma and Tenerife
tips. Alicante, Ibiza, Malaga and to Edinburgh
tones? Check out our Palma to Glasgow
Subscribe at: Alicante, Girona, Gran
seasonal calendar, a great [Link] Canaria, Fuerteventura,
guide to organizing your next [Link] Lanzarote, Ibiza, Málaga,
trip, with specific tips for Murcia, Palma, Reus and
Tenerife to Glasgow
each month, such as what Prestwick
species of fauna you can [Link]
spot, or what gastronomic
delights are in season. Visit:
[Link]/es/
calendar

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 HOTELS SERVICED APARTMENTS Pay attention to the symbols that 5 stars – Exceptional
indicate the more than one hundred 4 stars – Excellent
Scotland offers a wide range of hotels, Serviced apartments are rental 3 stars – Very good
from modern boutique hotels in city accommodation where certain official tourist offices distributed
2 stars – Good
centers to grand inns housed in stately services are available, such as throughout Scotland, where they will 1 star – Acceptable
homes. Special discounts may apply in cleaning, and where food and drinks offer you free information about each
low season (October to May); ask may also be offered. Meals and drinks region. They can also help you make BEFORE STARTING THE TRIP
before booking. Rates from £50 per are generally served in each last-minute accommodation
reservations and get tickets to tourist What time of year is the best to travel
person per night. apartment or in a restaurant or bar to Scotland? What is the weather
near the accommodation. attractions, as well as help you draw
GUEST HOUSES AND BED & up an itinerary or recommend the best usually like? Come prepared and
BREAKFAST HOSTELS maps and guides. Ask for advice on enjoy to the fullest. VisitBritain offices
ESTABLISHMENTS everything from cycling and walking around the world offer information
Lodges offer overnight about Scotland and the rest of the UK
Guest houses ( guest houses ) and accommodation and are usually found routes to finding the nearest bar, cafe
bed & breakfasts are similar or restaurant. With all the leisure to help you make the most of your
near main roads or in city centres. holiday.
establishments, located in cities, towns Rates are usually charged per room options that exist in Scotland, the
and rural areas, where you will also rather than per person. availability of first-hand local [Link]
find farmhouses. Generally run by their information is a real luxury. Let
own owners, these establishments UNIVERSITY APARTMENTS yourself be surprised by the secrets of
usually have a limited number of Colleges and universities offer their the region. See the full list of Scottish
rooms. Although the rooms do not students accommodation in university tourist offices on our website
always have attached bathrooms, they residences, which are made available [Link]/wheretofind
usually have at least one sink. Bed & to individuals, families and groups, us
breakfast accommodation can cost as with food included, on certain dates
little as £30 per person per night. outside the academic year (normally
INNS AND RESTAURANTS during the months of July and August).
WITH ROOMS HOSTELS
Since the palate usually occupies a Scotland has a large network of
very prominent place on vacation, hostels that belong to the SYHA (
Scotland has a wide variety of Scottish Youth Hostels Association )
accommodation specialized in its hostel association or to private or
gastronomic offer. independent organisations.
HISTORICAL CASTLES AND [Link]
RESIDENCES CARAVANS AND CAMPING
Scotland offers the possibility of
Lovers of camping, caravans and
staying in castles and historic
motorhomes will appreciate the wide
residences. You can choose from a
range of fully equipped campsites and
variety of establishments of the
caravan parks.
highest quality, with or without service.
You can rent a “Thistle” caravan
RENTAL ACCOMMODATION equipped with all the comforts, or bring
The range of rental accommodation ( your own caravan, motorhome or tent.
self-catering ) is very wide, from Rates vary depending on the season.
traditional country houses to modern FREE CAMPING
chalets or urban apartments. Rentals
are reserved in advance and are Camping is generally allowed in
usually weekly, starting and ending on remote locations, but you may want to
Saturday. try to ask permission before camping.
Likewise, you must respect the privacy
of other people and pay special
attention to the cleanliness and health
of the place where you settle.

^Scotland'
Scotland tourism
 Put rhombus to (s eSCoCesS.
e Esccia (imü 790 is/4s: different adas , odes - and has something to do with the eight whiskey Check our seasonal calendar,
distilleries that are grouped on this small island. If
fortunately they don't have to choose ena s/a ... • they dock at its docks, they will be able to sniff out offering monthly suggestions,
Scotland's greatest export. As a true fan of the west from festivals to products
coast, he encourages visitors to go off the beaten
track and into Scotland's more remote islands, such season on offer.
Donnie MacDonald helms Scotland's smallest ferry, as Colt, Tiree or Rom, which is walkable ■ per
which runs between Glenelg on the Scottish perfect for cycling tours or adventure walks. [Link]
And Skye? According to Donnie, it is an island full
mainland and Kylerhea on Skye. According to him,
of drama. "The Quiraing and Old Manor Storr are
"To cross a river, you use a bridge, to cross the sea,
impressive rock peaks , while the Cuilin Mountains are
you use the ferry." "It is a real adventure - you can
simply magical - with jagged peaks rising almost
even see seals swimming next to the boat," he
1000 meters above sea level."
noted. "The islands have a special rhythm and each
of them has its own character that distinguishes it:
Islay is especially calm and relaxed - perhaps

Information and reservations at your usual travel agency.

Consult our wide variety of programs in the Europe, destination Scotland catalogue. byTravelplan