A note from me, Sydney, about my Scotland travels…

Slàinte Mhath!

There is something about Scotland that captivates me. I keep returning to the highlands again and again, and each time I fall more in love.  And for that, I am going to write you this Scotland Travel Guide.

My first trip to Scotland vacation was a solo trip in February 2018, right after I spent a week driving around Iceland.  It was a whim decision (as so many are) and I decided to brave the winter.  The streets of Edinburgh enamored me, and I carried on to the highlands, taking the train to Inverness.

In Inverness, I stayed at a cozy little cottage house just outside of town, for a measly £60 a night, and in the morning the house mother came in and brought my breakfast to my room. 

She was so excited “Oooo ye, just ha’ to look outside, we’ve had a wee surprise o’ernight!” and she threw my curtains apart. 

The grounds were coated in bright white snow. 

The rest of my days were filled with exploring the faerie glens, and hidden forests around Rosemarkie and Fort Rose, and then off to the Isle of Skye.

My Second Trip

My second trip to Scotland was in October of 2021, with my British boyfriend.

We spent 3 weeks road-tripping through England and Scotland, starting in Devon, where he is from, and heading into the highlands and Glencoe area. We then continued driving all the way north to Thurso, and then taking another whim decision (are you seeing a pattern here?) and heading to the Isle of Orkney.

After that we drove a pretty incredible portion of the NC 500 and then sprinted down to Dover, to watch the most incredible full moonrise over the 350 feet high over the white cliffs.

October 2022 brought around the third trip for me to Scotland.

In a quick 5-day FAM trip to Edinburgh, we stayed at the Balmoral, then to Braemar where we stayed at the Fife Arms, then to Loch Lomond, and over the Ayreshire, where we spent an incredible evening at the Turnberry Resort.

Scotland is one of my top-selling destinations for clients, and I love being able to surprise first-time visitors with the rugged luxury provided in this corner of the world.

There is something for everyone in Scotland, whether it’s whisky, Outlander, hiking, or golf, it’s an incredible place with a fascinating and wild story.

I hope you are able to travel well with this Scotland Travel Guide, and if you ever need any help, shoot me an email, anytime. 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Scotland Travel Guide Basics

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL:

There really is no “bad” time to visit Scotland, depending on your travel goals.  Winter has a sort of ethereal beauty to it, and if you are lucky, you might be able to catch some snow! 

In Spring the heather blooms and the countryside is covered in beautiful shades of purple.

Summer has the best temperatures, however this means the midges and the tourists are out in full force. This will be the busiest season for travel in Scotland.

Autumn is my favorite time to visit, with changing leaves, dramatic weather, and fires burning in all the hearths. It is also a shoulder season, so there are fewer travelers and you will get to experience a more isolated trip than fighting in the big tourist areas.

CURRENCY:

Scotland uses the pound sterling, or Great British Pound (GBP) £

WEATHER:

The weather in Scotland is wildly unpredictable on a day-to-day scale. 

Rain is common (but that is why the grass is so green!) and packing in layers to accommodate the changing weather is essential. 

Winters are cold and summers can be warm, but you will always want to pack a raincoat and waterproof boots!

AVERAGE COST OF ACCOMMODATION:

Hostel: €30-75
3* Hotel: €100-200/night
4* Hotel: €250-400/night
5* Hotel: €500+ /Night

Homestays: Ranging anywhere from €200/night – €1700/night for 2 people

AVERAGE COST OF A MEAL:

The average meal in Scotland will cost around £20-£35 per person.

Scotland Travel Guide: Pro Travel Tips

Scotland is a wonderful trip to take at any point in your life and for any type of travel. 

• To make the most of your Scotland trip, I recommend planning well in advance and hiring a private driver.  This will allow you to experience Loch-side whisky distilleries, and enjoy the view of the countryside without worrying about the stress of driving a manual on the left side of the road.
• Expect any kind of weather, even in the summer! Layers and waterproof outer shells will be your best friend.
• If you do plan on self-driving, try and opt for an off-the-shoulder season experience. This way you will not be fighting other drivers on the single carriage lane roads (with traffic in both directions) in the highlands and islands, where conditions can be muddy, especially if you are not used to driving manual or on the left side of the road!
• While the NC500 is a fabulous road trip experience, make sure you book your accommodation VERY early, as it is limited on this route and books up fast!
• If you are traveling to other parts of Europe, you will need a different type of outlet to what is used in the UK. We recommend traveling with a world converter/adapter if this is the case for your trip!

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The Top Hotels in Scotland

EDINBURGH HOTELS

HIGHLAND HOTELS

The Fife Arms – Braemar

The Fife Arms is far more than a 19th-century landmark hotel; it is a living museum of Braemar history.

Every element has a story behind it – one of the 46 guest rooms pays tribute to Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote Treasure Island here; in a common area, abstract wall murals echo the flow of the Clunie River outside.

Timber and other materials in the newly built section are locally sourced, as are most of the fresh seafood and game, seasonal produce, and over 300 varieties of whisky.

Explore the extensive network of hill trails; get an acupressure massage; or visit nearby Balmoral Castle, which is open to the public from April through July.

EXCLUSIVE BOHO TRAVEL PERKS WHEN YOU USE MY LINK:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily Full Scottish Breakfast for two guests per bedroom
• $100USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Dean’s Angus McCoo Shortbread in a presentation tin
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

GOLF HOTELS

GlenEagles Resort – Perthshire

An iconic country estate, Gleneagles has been a luxury destination for nearly a century.

Located just an hour’s drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh airports, it offers the perfect five-star retreat for those looking for relaxation and adventure in every season. The 850-acre estate epitomizes Scotland’s rugged natural beauty with a glorious playground of pursuits.

Whether you visit to play three championship golf courses, try falconry with a Harris hawk, ride horses, play tennis, go off-roading, train gundogs, enjoy Michelin-starred dining, or relax in an award-winning spa, Gleneagles offers a world of unforgettable experiences.

EXCLUSIVE BOHO TRAVEL PERKS WHEN YOU USE MY LINK:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily full breakfast for two guests per bedroom
• $100USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit utilized during stay (excludes Restaurant Andrew Fairlie and In Room Dining, not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

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Scotland Travel Guide: EXPLORE SCOTLAND BY AREA

Scotland Travel Guide: INVERNESS & THE HIGHLANDS

Inverness is sort of the city most will refer to as the gateway to the highlands.  Inverness has a tiny airport, loads of pubs, and plenty to do in the area.

A few of my favorite nearby towns are Rosemarkie and Fortrose. From Inverness, you can head north to the Upper Highlands, west towards the Hebrides, or even make your way toward Aberdeen.

Things to do while you’re in Inverness

• Visit Culloden Moor
• Visit the Faerie Glen
• Visit Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness
• Take a LochNess Boat Tour

Scotland Travel Guide: ORKNEY

Orkney is without a doubt my favorite place I have visited in Scotland.  The air was fresh, it was less crowded than in other places, and the people were inviting.  Not to mention the local seafood is truly delightful.

Orkney has. a huge draw due to its rich history in the Neolithic era. Ancient Passage Tombs, Standing Stones, and of course the famous Skara Brae litter the island.

To get to Orkney you can ferry from Aberdeen or Thurso, or there is a small airport on the island. 

Pro Tip: Renting a Car is DEFINITELY the easiest way to get around Orkney!

Things to do on Orkney:

• Dive at Scapa Flow
• Explore Skara Brae
• Step back in time at the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar
• Visit passage and burial tombs like Maeshowe

Scotland Travel Guide: SKYE

The Isle of Skye is easily the most visited and adored island in Scotland.  That is because you can access it via car or bus, and it is truly stunning.

If you are a nature lover, Skye needs to be at the top of your Scotland bucket list undoubtedly.  Scores of hikes, unique rock formations, wonderful waterfalls, and of course, there’s nothing like a good whisky at the end of a long day of hiking.

Portree is the main town on the Island, and from there, it is pretty easy to explore via car.  Even if you took the bus in, Jan’s Vans is walkable from downtown Portree, and you can pick up a rental car there.

Best things to do in Skye:

•  Hike to the Old Man of Storr
• Visit the Faerie Falls and Faerie Glen
• Visit Kilt Rock
• Hike the Quiraing
• Tour Dunvegan Castle, Head of Clan MacLeod
• Tour Talisker Whisky Distillery
• Visit Armadale Castle

Scotland Travel Guide: Solo Travel Tips:

Pack light!  Scotland is not the easiest place to get around, and with uneven footing, you will want to have light bags you can quickly take with you!

Share your itinerary with a friend!  I always share my trip plans with my mom and my boyfriend (when we aren’t traveling together) I also make sure they can both track me on Find My Friends!

Get travel insurance!  Honestly, you never know when something is going to happen, and in case of an emergency, it’s best to be covered.

Make friends with strangers, but always trust your gut.  If something feels off, it probably is.

TaBring a journal!  One of the most rewarding things about solo travel is the time to wholly enjoy yourself, so be sure to write those feelings down!

Scotland  Travel Guide…Digging Deeper

Language:

English, Scots, and Gaelic- It can be a bit challenging for Americans to understand some Scottish accents so be patient!

Safety:

Scotland is a very safe place to travel.  As always watch for pickpockets in busy tourist areas.  When you are driving watch for wildlife on the roads!

Shopping:

Card and Cash are accepted almost everywhere in Scotland.

Local Cuisine:

While Scottish food may be very similar to its English counterpart, there are many traditional Scottish foods you’ll have to try while in Scotland.  Haggis is among the most famous Scottish food, but Scottish porridge, neeps and tatties, and a full Scottish breakfast are all a win in my book.

Holidays & Events:

The highland games that happen every August are one of the most exciting festivals in Scotland.  There is also the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (where actor Sam Hueghan got his start) and Christmas in Edinburgh is truly spectacular.

 Logistics:

Scotland is very easy to navigate.  The further north you go, the less options there are to get around and the less roads.  The roads will also become smaller, and in many places, they are only one lane, two directions.

Getting Around:

The trains and busses connect most of Scotland.  Renting a car is also an option, but if you have a decent budget, a private driver is definitely the way to go.

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Travel Insurance

In light of the state of the world over the last couple of years – it’s needless to say that travel insurance has never been more important.

The only partner I personally recommend is Travel Insured International – with their Cancel for Any Reason and Optional Bed Rest Add-On.

Have a lot of trips planned?  Purchase their yearly travel insurance for the peace of mind you’re always covered.

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Scotland Travel Guide: The Best Tours in Scotland

Edinburgh Old Town Whisky Tasting

Iona, Mull, Skye & Orkney – 9-Day Small Group Tour

St. Andrew’s and the Fishing Villages of Fife from Edinburgh 

Secrets of the Royal Mile – Edinburgh 

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Scotland Travel Guide for Foodies

Haggis

Haggis is THE quintessential Scottish dish that embodies the spirit of Scotland’s culinary heritage. Traditionally made from a mixture of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, combined with onions, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, all encased in the animal’s stomach. Don’t be scared to give it a taste!

Scottish Porridge

Scottish porridge not only stands as a testament to the simplicity and heartiness of Scotland’s culinary traditions but it is also celebrated for its simplistic health benefits and comforting warmth. Made with just oats, water (or sometimes milk), and a pinch of salt, this staple breakfast dish is stirred with a spurtle, a traditional Scottish wooden stick, to achieve its characteristic creamy texture.

Neeps and Tatties

Neeps and Tatties, a classic Scottish duo, features mashed turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties), showcasing Scotland’s love for root vegetables. Simple yet flavorful, they’re often paired with haggis, especially during Burns Night celebrations, embodying the comfort and homeliness of Scottish cuisine.

Full Scottish Breakfast

The full Scottish breakfast is a hearty feast, including eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and sometimes haggis, with tattie scones adding a distinct Scottish touch.

It’s a mouthful, I know. But it’s a meal that fuels the day, reflecting Scotland’s rich culinary heritage with its variety and robust flavors.

Scotch Whisky

I LOVE Scotch whisky.

While renowned globally, it is Scotland’s most celebrated spirit. Distinguished by its production within the country using malted barley or grain and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, it offers a complex range of flavors, from smoky and peaty to smooth and fruity. Be sure to grab a wee dram on your travels!

Gin

Gin. You either love it or you hate it. But have you ever tried Scottish Gin?

Distillers in the Scotland countryside have been getting super creative, using everything from the heather you see on the hills to the kelp in the chilly waters. It’s all about those unique, local botanicals that give Scottish gin its own kind of magic. Be sure to give it a taste before you leave.

Scotch Pies

These are a staple at football matches and a favorite quick snack across Scotland. Picture a small, double-crust pie filled with minced mutton or beef, seasoned just right. They’re designed to be eaten with one hand, making them the perfect on-the-go grub.

Overwhelmed by trying to plan a trip to Scotland?

Are you looking for help planning your dream getaway?  If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options on the internet or just don’t have the time to get into planning your dream trip – I really encourage you to check out my travel planning services! Learn more here, or submit an inquiry below!

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Scotland Travel Guide: Best Travel Tips

DRESS FOR THE WEATHER

My number one tip for this Scotland Travel Guide….I’ll say it once, I’ll say it 100 times –  when you are packing for Scotland PACK IN LAYERS.  It is crucial to your imminent survival.  Get my Scotland Packing List to help you out!

DON’T FORGET YOUR CAMERA

Scotland’s landscape provides some of the most stunning photography you will ever take.  The lighting is superb and the moody skies lend to really interesting shots.  Don’t forget your camera (or your drone) when you are planning your trip to Scotland!  I would be amiss to not include this in your Scotland Travel Guide.

TIPPING

Tipping in Scotland is not the same as it is in the US.  Usually just rounding up to the nearest whole number or nearest 5 is totally acceptable.

WALL PLUGS

Scotland and the rest of the UK use a wall type G.  This means you will need an adapter if traveling from anywhere not in the UK or Ireland.

HERE is one of my favorite universal power adapters.

DRINKING WATER

We’re all fans of ditching the plastic when we can, so pack your reusable water bottle, as the tap water in Scotland has a 99.89% pass rate (as of January 2023).

RIGHT TO ROAM

One of the most important things I can stress in this Scotland Travel Guide is the Land Reform Act of 2003.

This act essentially ensures that (with a few exceptions) you can pretty much go anywhere on land or water within Scotland. 

This is provided you use the right reasonably and responsibly. You have to stay a decent distance away from people’s homes, and you can’t go tramping through gardens or crops, and you can’t use motorized vehicles, but feel free to camp, walk, bike, and picnic at your heart’s content outside these rules.

GOLFING

The modern game of golf was invented in 15th century Scotland, and the Scots haven’t stopped since.  In 2022 the Open was held at St. Andrew’s Golf Course, and the country holds many world-renowned golf courses.

NC500

If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, consider renting yourself a classic car and driving the NC500. The views are stunning and the roads are wild, it’s truly an experience like none other.  No Scotland Travel Guide would be complete without mentioning this EPIC road trip, and soon it will have its own blog post, so stay tuned!

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Shop My Travel Essentials!

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ARE YOU PROTECTED??

Before you go I HIGHLY suggest purchasing travel insurance!  If 2020-2022 taught us anything, it’s that we know NOTHING!  Everything can change in a second.

Travel Insured is my preferred partner when it comes to protecting my trips!  Make sure to check out the Cancel for Any Reason & Bed Rest Options for extra coverage!

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