Travel highlights Scotland

Borders of Scotland
Scottish Borders Between rolling hills and the River Tweed, the Borders are full of history with many abbeys and castles to visit, not to mention pretty towns such as Peebles, Jedburgh, Melrose and Kelso. Sir Walter Scott's home 'Abbotsford' is a marvellous place to visit, as is his last resting place in the ruins of Dryburgh Abbey. There are plenty of opportunities for walking (including the Southern Upland Way and St Cuthbert's Way), cycling, horse riding, fishing, golf, etc. Known as the leading short break destination in Scotland.

Dumfries & Galloway
The south west corner of Scotland has a beautiful coastline and many picturesque seaside villages along the Solway Firth. There are plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding, watersports and golf, not to mention numerous gardens to visit thanks to the relatively mild climate. Galloway has Britain's largest forest park which includes woodlands, moorland, mountains and lochs. Principal towns include: Dumfries (home to Robert Burns at one time), Kirkcudbright (the Artists' Town), Castle Douglas (the Food Town) and Wigtown (the Book Town). Many historic sites including picturesque Threave Castle, Caerlaverock Castle and Sweetheart Abbey.

Edinburgh
Edinburgh is simply stunning. It has a beautiful castle, the spires of the Old Town, a world-famous festival, the Princes Street Gardens and the Royal Mile.

Fort William & Lochaber
A popular tourist town in the shadow of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. In an area full of history and marvellous scenery where Rob Roy and Braveheart were filmed, this is a good place from which to explore West Highland Way and Glencoe. Skiing is available over the winter.

Glasgow
Scotland's largest city sits on the River Clyde. In previous years it has been designated European City of Culture and UK City of Architecture and Design. Home to numerous art galleries and museums including the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and The People's Palace. Also home to Charles Rennie Mackintosh in days gone by. Culturally buzzing like Edinburgh, it is now second only to London in terms of shopping experiences in the UK. Wide range of accommodation from budget to 5 star luxury.

Loch Lomond
The largest expanse of fresh water in Britain, easily accessible from Glasgow. Ideal for activities including boat trips, watersports, golf and walking (close to the West Highland Way). Historically associated with Rob Roy, now part of Scotland's first national park (The Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park).

Orkney
A few miles off the north-east tip of mainland Scotland is the group of islands known collectively as Orkney. Here you can visit prehistoric villages, ancient tombs, ruined palaces, standing stones, a wonderful old cathedral - the list goes on! As well as being rich in archaeological wonders, the islands have history to tell from this century too, when they were used by the British Navy during both World Wars. Access by plane and ferry.