Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park in west-central Scotland is centered around Loch Lomond, the largest lake on the island of Great Britain. Loch Lomond's munros (mountains) are among the most-climbed in Scotland and are very popular with hikers and trail walkers alike. The towering mountain Ben Lomond sits close to Loch Lomond's shores. The area to the east of Ben Lomond is known as The Trossachs, an area of wooded valleys, hillsides, and lakes known for its bountiful biodiversity. The Trossachs are considered a gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
The Lothians, home to Scotland`s capital city, Edinburgh, is a remarkable region. From historic properties to striking architecture, stunning scenery, fascinating wildlife, fine food, and other fun activities, Edinburgh never lacks excitement! Outside Edinburgh, experience sweeping landscapes of ancient battlefields, country houses, and castles.
Central Scotland covers the dramatic regions of Stirling and the Trossachs, Perthshire, and Fife. The mainland strip showcases the country's splendor. Central Scotland is replete with steely blue lochs reflecting soaring, fortress-like craggy peaks, and ancient woodlands, serving as the backdrop to some of the most important events in Scottish history.
There are over 900 islands in Scotland, and 89 of those islands are populated. The islands include the Hebrides in the west, the islands in the Firth of Clyde in the southeast, and the Northern Isles. You can visit most by air or ferry, and Skye by car! They are sure to be the highlight of your Scottish vacation.
The Scottish Highlands are the reality behind the captivating images conjured by most people when thinking of Scotland. It is a beautiful and inspiring region, full of timeless landscapes and absorbing history. The dreamy, unspoiled scenery gives rise to the region's reputation as the romantic heart of the nation.
Northeast Scotland is home to the `Granite City`, Aberdeen, and Grampian, as well as Angus and Dundee; a region with multifaceted appeal, home to more castles than anywhere in the UK, with a big, glitzy city strewn about by quaint fishing villages. Geographically diverse, the landscape is undulating farmland leading to lovely wooded glens and dramatic coastline.
Southern Scotland encompasses the areas of Dumfries and Galloway, the Scottish Borders, and Ayrshire and Arran; its rich and intriguing past is never more apparent than in the wealth of small towns, postcard perfect villages, and sleepy hamlets, all with varying landscapes where each corner exposes a dramatic sense of history awaiting exploration.
Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. An alpine moorland that stakes claim to five of the six highest mountains in the UK, the Cairngorms are a well-regarded winter vacation destination. It is also known for its walking, hiking, canoeing and climbing opportunities, and quaint hill towns.
Northumberland National Park is a very beautiful and geographically diverse area. In the north, near the Scottish border, you'll find the Cheviot Hills, granite hills whose valleys eventually meet Wark Forest, part of the largest man-made forest in Britain. Finally, at the park's southern end there is mighty Hadrian's Wall.
The Lake District National Park is the United Kingdom`s most-visited national park. Noteworthy lakes include Windermere and Ullswater, and gorgeous resort towns dot many of these lakes. The Lake District is also known for its literary tradition, inspiring such `Lake Poets` as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.