Destinations
❮Main Menu
In the United Kingdom, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a conservation area, just below the status of a national park, that was selected for conservation because of its significant landscape value. In Scotland, these conservation areas are called National Scenic Areas. There are 40 such sites in Scotland, located in every region of the country and on its islands, and these areas are conserved in the hope that the natural beauty that they possess can be further enhanced. Below you will find a sampling of 20 important National Scenic Areas that you should see, with photographs accompanied by links to the nearest gateway city or area.
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.
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.
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.
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.
England is home to 33 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, from the North Pennines down to the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, and on this list are a number of popular tourist areas, such as The Cotswolds and the Chiltern Hills.
There are five Outstanding Natural Areas of Beauty in Wales, ranging from the Clwydian Hills in north Wales to the Wye Valley and Gower Peninsula in south Wales.
The fifteen beautiful national parks of the United Kingdom are very popular tourism draws, and it is estimated that over 100 million visitors from Britain and abroad flock to the parks each year.
Close
more details
