The dramatic beauty of the Scottish landscape, the fascinating history of its clans and the architectural glories of its cities attract huge numbers of tourists year-round to this iconic corner of the UK. Although roads and ground transportation are well-maintained and comprehensive between major towns and cities, self-drive allows visitors to plan trips to remote northern coastal villages and the spectacular highlands and lochs according to their own agendas.
Most tourists arrive via Edinburgh International Airport, stay for a few days in the historic city with its magnificent castle and then head out to the border country or the ‘highlands and islands’ using
car hire in Edinburgh Airport. The border with England bisects the land from coast to coast for 96kms and is home to the four ruined ‘Border Abbeys’ as well as famous Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans to keep out marauding Scottish clans.
Lawlessness and banditry ruled along the border for many hundreds of years until the 18th century battles which saw British forces overrun the country, resulting in the Scottish Diaspora to the New World across the Atlantic. Often overlooked by visitors in a rush to get to
Edinburgh and the highlands, the region boasts friendly locals, glorious countryside and popular summer festivals as well as historic connections.
A further diversion before heading north is the southwestern region of Scotland, one-time home to the country’s famous poet, Robert Burns, from whose 18th century pen came the new year anthem Auld Lang Syne and the Ode to the Haggis, dedicated to Scotland’s national dish. Burns National Heritage Park pays homage to this patriotic son of Scotland, who is much loved even in modern times. Golf aficionados will be in heaven here, with over 60 courses to choose from, all easily accessible by hire car.
Officially, the Scottish highlands comprise the rugged northwestern and northern regions of the country, the ‘real’ Scotland for their fascinating clan history, traditional kilts and tartans, and the legendary Bonnie Prince Charlie. The focus of Scottish nationalism in the late 18th century, he didn’t live up to his reputation and promises of funds to fight the British, fleeing ‘over the sea to Skye’ and leaving his loyal clansmen to their fate.
The highlands are a land of national parks, castles, famous lochs, towering peaks, twisting mountain roads which become snow-covered in winter, unspoilt wildernesses, glens and lonely crags, beloved by hikers, birders, mountaineers, skiers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Small villages and towns dot the wild landscape, inviting visitors to stay awhile and soak up the atmosphere in pubs, local hotels and bed and breakfasts. Roads here are few, but touring this unique region by car, even in winter, is an unforgettable experience.
One of the main attractions of northeastern Scotland is its independent distilleries, reliant on the pure waters draining down from the Grampian Mountains for the world-famous Scottish single malt whiskies. The plains are farming country and the salmon fishing is the best on the planet. Aberdeen and Dundee are now North Sea oil-rich towns, with upscale hotels and restaurant and great shopping and nightlife. One of the beauties of driving in Scotland’s remote northern regions is the almost empty roads.
Scotland’s island archipelagos are easily reached by car ferry and have traditions and culture all of their own as well as medieval remnants of clan rule, ancient abbeys and tiny fishing villages. The three best-known groups are the Hebrides, the Orkneys and the Shetlands, set off the wild north and northeastern coastlines. The Hebrides are known for their glorious surfing beaches and fabulous scenery; the Orkneys for their iconic culture and archaeological sites; and the Shetlands in the far north for their knitwear, isolation and Viking heritage.
John writes about UK travel for
National car rental UK.
