Unique attractions in Scotland you just have to visit!
While we may be slightly biased, we think that ALL of Scotland is Insta-worthy – from ancient castles complete with expansive gardens straight from a movie set, to magical stone circles and fairy tale forests, Scotland has just about everything you would ever want to see in your lifetime.
We will admit that when one of our followers asked us to share our top must-visit real-life attractions in Scotland we jumped at the request, and then spent a fair amount of time whittling down the list, which we’re proud to share with you today.
An Lochan Uaine (The Green Lochan) - Aviemore
Located in Glenmore Forest Park lies the iconic Green Loch.
Legend believes that the loch achieved its fascinating hue when Dòmhnall Mòr, the king of the pixies, washed his children’s clothes in its waters, turning it forever the colour of emeralds.
A more likely explanation is that the colour of the water is due to algae that are created as a process of the decomposing wood – but we’re all for the first version!
Regardless, this is a magical wonder that is well worth the visit.
Jupiter Artland – Edinburgh
Located a mere ten miles outside of the town of Edinburgh on the beautiful 80-acre Bonnington House estate lies the brainchild of Nicky and Robert Wilson (in partnership with a number of artists), Jupiter Artland.
The gardens have been transformed into a life-size sculpture park and art gallery with a magical journey and no set routes, which encourages the visitor to undertake an exploration of the creations at their leisure.
Whimsical and entertaining, visitors are in for a treat, as behind every hill and tree lies another breathtaking creation to explore.
Discover more, here.
The Pineapple – Loch Lomond and Trossachs
The Pineapple has amazed and bemused visitors for years. This intriguing building was built by The Earl of Dunmore in 1761 as a summerhouse where he could revel in the beautiful views out over his estate.
At the time the pineapple was one of Scotland’s most exotic foods – this was before the advent of the modern cold chain of course!
Nowadays The Pineapple is a haven for various breeds of wildlife, and the beautiful views still remain of course.
Take some time to explore the grounds and keep an eye out for some of the native wildlife, and possibly even catch a glimpse of the rare great crested newt, along with a host of other newts and frogs.
Find out more about The Pineapple, here.
Dawyck Botanic Garden - Peebles
One thing that we love the most about these gorgeous gardens is that it doesn’t matter which season you choose to visit, there is always something beautiful to experience.
Located on 65 acres of land deep in the Scottish Borders countryside, the Dawyck Botanic Garden offers garden terraces and woodland paths that feature local and exotic plants and is also home to one of Scotland’s most impressive collections of trees, some of which are the oldest and tallest in Great Britain.
Many of the plants seen at Dawyck are the very first examples collected and brought to Scotland.
Find out more, here.
Which one would you most like to visit when you’re in Scotland? Can’t choose? Then just place them all on the list! But don’t forget to set time aside to undertake one of our four world-renowned long walks!
We’ll see you on the hills soon, walkers!
The Walkers Club Team