How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation – Travel + Leisure

With sweeping views featuring endless glens, majestic castles steeped in enriched history, pristine lochs, and snow-capped mountain peaks, there is no secret why Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Scotland is considered to be a showstopper when it comes to tourism in the Highlands. From the quaint small towns featuring centuries of history to the dazzling cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, the magic of Scotland can leave anybody spellbound with its beauty. It is also home to some of the best national parks in the entire UK along with being home to some of the most extraordinary wildlife and over 900 offshore islands. The poetic beauty of this naturally and historically rich land cannot be described in words and can only be felt when visited. In this article, we will talk about certain tips to experience luxury Scotland which you can bookmark as your ultimate vacation guide.

What is the Best Time to Visit Scotland? 

The best time to visit Scotland is in the season of spring, from late March to early May, and again in the season of fall between the months of September and November. You can expect a temperature range of 6°C to 15°C on average during the spring season. However, even in the spring season, you can expect snow on the Highland and Cairngorm mountains. The hottest time of the year is from June through August, and the more north you travel, the longer the days are in July and August. After the month of October, you can expect fewer crowds and stunning scenery featuring vibrant fall foliage. But many locations and tourist places shut down for winter in mid-October. Traveling in Scotland during the winter season, especially from the month of December to February, can be very challenging due to heavy snow. However, the breathtaking winter scenery can charm offbeat travelers. It is also noteworthy that the weather in Scotland is not reliable even during summer and hence you have to pack some essentials before the trip.

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What to Pack for Your Scotland Trip? 

Scotland is not a huge country, but its landscapes and terrains have different weather conditions in different seasons. Hence there is no single packing list for Scotland, but here are some of the most advisable things you can pack for your trip. 

• A pair of good walking boots to stroll around the natural landscapes while keeping your feet dry. 
• Waterproof clothing like an umbrella, a raincoat, a windcheater, and a pair of rain boots. 
• A fancy outfit for visiting all the sophisticated cocktail and whisky bars and attending a “ceilidh” during your visit. 
• Bring a charger and a converter along with your phone. If possible install Google Pay or Apple Pay for contactless transactions. 
• Enough warm clothing. Although it’s a no-brainer, just a reminder that Scotland can be pretty cold for people traveling from warmer regions. 

What are the Things You Should Do in Scotland? 

Here are some of the fun things you should do while in Scotland to have a truly Scottish experience.

• Check out Highland Coos, the fluffy Scottish breed of rustic cattle. They are iconic to Scotland and are known for their iconic longhorns and gorgeous shaggy coats. 
• Dance with a man wearing a kilt. Apart from being the national dress of Scotland, this men’s garment can make your photos Instagram-worthy! 
• Go for whisky bar hopping. When in Scotland check out the secret behind the jovial nature of Scottish people as there are over 300 whisky distilleries across the country. If you are not a whisky person there are also over 130 gin-producing breweries that you can check out. 
• Try haggis. This Scottish culinary delight is a savory pudding made out of oatmeal, onion, suet, spices, and salt mixed with sheep’s pluck and stock. There are also vegetarian versions of this iconic treat. 
• Check out the bagpipers across Scotland but try to stay away from them if you have a bad hangover.

Scotland welcomes visitors from all over the globe every year because of its enriching history and unparalleled beauty. This country is on every traveler’s bucket list. If you are reading this, chances are you already planning a trip to Scotland. Of course, you can plan your own trip using so many online resources. But there are many reasons why you should always rely on the experts when it comes to planning that special Scotland dream trip. When you trust the local travel experts to plan your Scotland trip, you can be rest assured to be guided to a world of unparalleled insights and fast knowledge of the country and what it has to offer. With the expert advice of local Scotland, travel specialists can give you everything- from all the hidden gems of Scotland to all the must-visit landmarks. So the next time you are wondering how to avoid rough roads and where to find local wildlife, always trust the experts.

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