Having lived in the UK for about two years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to explore much of this beautiful country. And let me tell you, Scotland is hands down one of my favorite places. From the vibrant streets of Glasgow to the untamed beauty of the Highlands, I’ve fallen head over heels for this incredible part of the world. Over those two years, I had the chance to visit some of Scotland’s most iconic locations—Glasgow, Edinburgh, the Highlands, Fort William, Glencoe, Inverness, Loch Ness, and Loch Lomond. Here are some of the places I visited in Scotland and loved it!
Glasgow
My Scottish journey began in Glasgow, a city that instantly captivated me with its vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage. We stayed at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel, which was an absolute delight. Situated along the River Clyde, this hotel offered the perfect blend of modern luxury and serene beauty. Waking up to the views of the river and the hotel’s lush surroundings felt like the perfect start to each day. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the rooms were spacious and beautifully decorated, making it a wonderful retreat after a day of exploring.
Wandering the City Centre: The heart of Glasgow is its lively city centre. It’s a place where history, culture, and modernity collide, creating an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and inviting. I spent hours wandering through Buchanan Street, often called the “Style Mile” for its incredible shopping options. The architecture in this area is stunning, with Victorian and Edwardian buildings adding to the charm. I also found myself drawn to George Square, where you can sit and people-watch while surrounded by statues of Scotland’s historical figures. And of course, there were countless cafes and eateries where I could grab a coffee or a bite to eat, each offering a unique taste of Glasgow’s culinary scene.
Fun Finds in Glasgow:
- The Lighthouse: If you’re like me and love a good view, you’ve got to climb to the top of The Lighthouse. Not only is it a fantastic spot for some killer city views, but it’s also a great place to get your creative juices flowing. I found myself sketching ideas for my next travel adventure up there, inspired by the city’s vibrant energy.
Edinburgh: History, Whisky, and a Whole Lot of Art
Edinburgh is a city that knows how to weave a good tale. From its towering castle to the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, every corner of Edinburgh tells a story. And trust me, I made sure to soak up as much of it as I could.
Adventures in Edinburgh:
- Whisky Tour: When in Scotland, you can’t miss out on a whisky tour, and Edinburgh offers some of the best. I joined a guided tour that took me through the history, craft, and, of course, tasting of Scotland’s national drink. By the end of it, I was a whisky enthusiast with a newfound appreciation for the “water of life.” And yes, I even found a favorite—Lagavulin 16!
- The National Gallery: One rainy afternoon, I wandered into The National Gallery, and it turned into one of my favorite Edinburgh experiences. I spent hours getting lost in the masterpieces, and then, feeling inspired, I decided to do something a bit different—I took a break in the museum’s drawing area and tried my hand at sketching. It wasn’t a Picasso, but there was something incredibly satisfying about creating my own little piece of art right there.
- Elephant House Cafe: As a lifelong Harry Potter fan, I couldn’t resist visiting the place where J.K. Rowling started it all. Sitting by the window, sipping my coffee, and looking out at the Edinburgh skyline, I could almost feel the magic in the air. Who knows? Maybe I’ll start writing my own novel next!
But as much as I loved Edinburgh’s charm and history, the wild landscapes of the Highlands were calling, and I was ready for some adventure.
The Highlands
The Highlands are everything you imagine them to be—wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful. This is where Scotland’s soul truly shines, and I found myself returning to the Highlands time and time again.
Highland Highlights:
- Glen Etive Road: Picture this: a winding road that takes you deep into the heart of the Highlands, surrounded by towering mountains and endless skies. That’s Glen Etive Road. I felt like I was driving straight into a postcard (or a James Bond movie, since it was featured in Skyfall). It was one of those moments where I just had to pull over, breathe in the crisp air, and take it all in.
- Eilean Donan Castle: If you’re a fan of fairytales, this castle will make you believe in them. Perched on an island where three sea lochs meet, Eilean Donan Castle looks like it was plucked straight out of a storybook. Walking through its ancient halls and imagining the stories it could tell was an experience I’ll never forget.
A Cozy New Year’s in Fort William
Our Scottish adventure took a delightful turn on December 30, 2023, when we arrived in Fort William. Staying at the Premier Inn was a real treat, especially given its perfect location. Everything we needed was just a short stroll away. Mornings were particularly magical as we relaxed with a hot coffee in one hand and boiled eggs in the other, and ending the day with a pizza savoring the breathtaking views right from our spot. It was an unforgettable start to our days in this charming town.
Breakfast with a Snowfall Surprise:
Imagine this: you’re sitting down for a cozy breakfast—out of nowhere, snowflakes start to fall! That’s exactly what happened to us. We watched in awe as the snow turned the world outside into a winter wonderland while we enjoyed our meal. It was the perfect start to our New Year’s celebrations and a moment we’ll never forget. And let’s not forget the full English breakfast we enjoyed—it’s a classic for a reason!
Ring in the New Year in Style:
As the year wound down, we celebrated New Year’s 2023 with flair. We headed to a lively local restaurant for dinner, where we indulged in fantastic Indian food and toasted to new beginnings. We were pleasantly surprised to find an Indian restaurant right in the heart of Scotland. The food was unlike anything I’d tasted before in the UK—spicy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious, just the way I like it. The festive atmosphere and the mouthwatering dishes made the evening truly special.
Walks by River Loch Eil:
Fort William offered us plenty of ways to stay active and engaged. We started our mornings with invigorating jogs through the chilly air—nothing like a brisk run to get the blood pumping! Afterward, we’d grab a warm coffee and head to the waterside. There’s something incredibly soothing about sipping coffee while taking in the stunning views.
One of the absolute highlights was our woodland walks by Loch Eil. Picture this: snow-capped mountains reflecting in the serene waters, with each step revealing a new, breathtaking view. It felt like we were wandering through a real-life storybook. Trust us, these walks are the stuff of magical memories.
City Center:
Exploring Fort William’s city center was a joy for quick grocery shopping. We strolled through its charming streets, discovering quirky shops and picking up souvenirs that made for perfect keepsakes.
Definitely a Trip to Remember:
From the snow-dusted breakfast to the woodland adventures by Loch Eil, our time in Fort William was a delightful mix of relaxation and excitement. Each experience added a special touch to our Scottish journey, making it a trip we’ll always look back on with a smile.
Gems in Form Williams:
Ben Nevis Inn: There’s nothing like a day of exploring followed by a hearty meal, and Ben Nevis Inn delivered on both fronts. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this cozy inn became my go-to spot for unwinding after a day of adventures. With a roaring fire, great food, and the friendliest locals, it felt like a true Highland retreat.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint: Calling all Harry Potter fans! Watching the Jacobite Steam Train (aka the Hogwarts Express) chugging across the Glenfinnan Viaduct was pure magic. The view was straight out of a dream, with the train winding its way through the lush Highland landscape. I half-expected to see owls delivering letters as it passed by!
Glencoe
Glencoe is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left. Its towering peaks and deep valleys feel almost otherworldly, and I found myself completely mesmerized by its beauty. During my stay, I had the pleasure of spending a night at The Holly Tree Hotel, which was nothing short of magical.
Staying at The Holly Tree Hotel:
Nestled along the shores of Loch Linnhe, The Holly Tree Hotel was a true gem. The views from my room were breathtaking, with the loch stretching out before me, framed by the majestic mountains. The hotel itself was warm and welcoming, a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Waking up to the serene beauty of the loch, often shrouded in mist, was an experience I’ll never forget.
A Magical Walk Along the Shore:
One of my most memorable experiences in Glencoe was during a walk along the ocean shore near the hotel. The rain was light, adding a misty glow to the landscape, and the atmosphere was charged with a mix of tranquility and wild beauty. We could see a storm brewing in the sea at a distance, its dark clouds rolling in with a powerful intensity.
After our walk, we sat on the shore, mesmerized by the storm as it unfolded across the horizon. There was something both humbling and awe-inspiring about watching nature’s raw power from the safety of the shore. As we continued our stroll, we discovered a tiny, magical waterfall, hidden away like a secret waiting to be found. The sound of the water cascading down was soothing, and the whole scene felt like a fairytale.
To top it all off, as the rain began to ease, a rainbow appeared in the sky, arching over the loch in a beautiful display. It was a moment of pure magic, one that made me fall even more in love with Scotland.
Glencoe, with its dramatic landscapes and enchanting experiences, left an indelible mark on my heart. It’s a place where nature’s power and beauty are on full display, and I felt incredibly fortunate to have witnessed it.
Magic in Glencoe:
- Clachaig Inn: This historic inn, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, was like something out of a Highland tale. I spent my evenings here, enjoying traditional Scottish food and listening to live music that brought the valley’s stories to life. It was the perfect end to each day of exploration.
- Rannoch Moor: There’s something incredibly peaceful about walking across Rannoch Moor. The vast, open landscape, dotted with small lochs and surrounded by mountains, offered a sense of solitude and reflection. I felt completely at peace, connected with nature in a way that’s hard to describe.
A Week in Inverness: Embracing Slow Travel
In January 2024, we immersed ourselves in a week-long escape to Inverness, Scotland, choosing a cozy Airbnb as our home base. Our trip was all about embracing the concept of slow travel—taking time to savor each moment and experience the city at a leisurely pace.
One of the highlights of our stay was exploring the local grocery stores. We delighted in discovering fresh, local ingredients and stocking up on goodies to prepare our own delicious Indian meals. Cooking in our Airbnb’s kitchen became a cherished routine, allowing us to create comforting dishes that brought a taste of home to our Scottish adventure.
Café Hopping and City Center Exploration:
Each day, we wandered through Inverness’s charming city center, popping into quaint cafes that dotted the streets. These little gems offered the perfect respite for a hot coffee or a warm scone. We also made a point to explore the city’s vibrant center, with its unique shops and friendly local vendors.
Souvenir Shopping and River Strolls:
A big part of our journey involved hunting for the perfect souvenirs to remember our trip by. We enjoyed browsing through eclectic shops and local markets, finding unique keepsakes that captured the essence of Inverness.
Walking along the River Ness was another daily highlight. The riverside paths provided a peaceful retreat where we could unwind and appreciate the tranquil beauty of the flowing water. On some days, we even dipped our toes into the chilly river, finding joy in the simple pleasure of being close to nature.
Observing Daily Life and findings:
Inverness is a city that embraces its local culture, and we loved watching the daily rhythms of life unfold. From strolling locals with their dogs to spontaneous street performances, there was always something to observe. We also had the pleasure of encountering Scottish music in various corners of the city, each tune adding a melodic backdrop to our leisurely explorations.
We spent hours exploring the local bookstores, getting lost in the pages of hidden literary gems. The charm of these quaint shops made it easy to lose track of time. Back at our cozy accommodation, we continued the creative vibe by spending our evenings painting. There was something incredibly soothing about putting brush to canvas while surrounded by the serene beauty of Fort William. It was the perfect blend of inspiration and relaxation, making our stay even more special. Inverness quickly became one of my favorite spots in Scotland, it definitely needs a separate blog post of its own. 😛
Hidden Gems in Inverness:
- Leakey’s Bookshop: If you’re a book lover like me, you’ll fall head over heels for Leakey’s. Housed in an old Gaelic church, this bookshop is a treasure trove of second-hand books and rare finds. I could have spent hours (and more than a few pounds) browsing the shelves, soaking in the cozy, literary atmosphere.
- Cafe 1: This delightful cafe in the heart of Inverness served up some of the best Scottish dishes I had on my entire trip. The food was fantastic, made with locally sourced ingredients, and the ambiance was warm and welcoming. It was the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring.
Loch Ness: On the Trail of the Legendary Monster
No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to Loch Ness. Whether you’re a believer in the Loch Ness Monster or just love a good mystery, this loch has a special kind of magic.
Nessie Hunting at Loch Ness:
- Fiddler’s Restaurant and Bar: After a long day of scanning the waters for any sign of Nessie, Fiddler’s was the perfect place to unwind. The food was incredible, with traditional Scottish dishes that were both comforting and delicious. And their whisky selection? Let’s just say I found more than a few new favorites.
- Dores Beach: One of my favorite ways to end the day was with a quiet stroll along Dores Beach. The pebbled shoreline offered stunning views of Loch Ness, and I couldn’t help but pause to take in the peaceful beauty of the place. Who knows, maybe Nessie was watching from beneath the surface!
Loch Lomond:
Loch Lomond is one of those places that just makes you feel at peace. The calm waters, lush green hills, and tranquil atmosphere were the perfect way to end my journey through Scotland.
Relaxing at Loch Lomond:
- The Oak Tree Inn: My stay at The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha was nothing short of perfect. The inn’s homemade ice cream was an unexpected delight, and the view of the loch from the beer garden was simply breathtaking. It was the ideal spot to relax, reflect, and savor the beauty of Scotland one last time.
- Rowardennan Walk: One of my favorite memories of Loch Lomond is walking along the shore from Rowardennan. The trail was peaceful, offering stunning views of the loch and the surrounding mountains. It was the perfect way to connect with nature and soak in the last moments of my Scottish adventure.
Scotland, You Have My Heart
After living in the UK for two years, I’ve explored quite a lot, but Scotland has truly captured my heart. From the bustling streets of Glasgow and Edinburgh to the wild beauty of the Highlands, Scotland is a place that will forever hold a special place in my memories. Each visit was filled with unique experiences, from tasting whisky in Edinburgh to slow soulful days in Inverness. Scotland’s landscapes, culture, and people have a way of getting under your skin—in the best way possible.
So, if you ever find yourself in the UK, make sure Scotland is on your list. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with it just as I did. Detailed itinerary to help you plan your trip to Scotland coming soon! Stay Tuned!
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