Scotland - Useful information for your trip

Scotland is a region that is part of the United Kingdom, located in the northern part of Great Britain and covering about one third of the total area of the island.

Scotland is famous for green fields and grey skies: local flora and fauna indeed offer some unique species. In fact, Scotland boasts some rare animals that are not present in the rest of Europe, such as the Rum mouse, the Soay sheep, a wild Scottish sheep and the red deer. In order to safeguard and preserve this rareness, several national parks and protected areas have been established. Cairngorms National Park hosts a wide variety of landscapes, which include mountains, rainforests and evocative lakes. It is also the home of some endangered animals. In addition, in the park it is possible to practice adventurous open-air activities. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park was the first national park, the perfect habitat for Scottish wildlife, thanks to its green mountains and its forests.

Scotland is also popular for its fascinating castles, which still retain the compelling stories of ancient people and lost loves. The town of Aberdeen hosts a route along which it is possible to discover the mysteries of 17 unmissable fortresses. Loch Ness and its castle are famous for the legend of the world-famous monster hiding in the waters. Beyond  medieval architecture, Scotland also boasts luxurious palaces and mansions Victorian time, and an eclectic style of modern architecture. Scotland is indeed a land of legends and mysteries, but also offers modern vibrant cities, such as Edinburgh and Glasgow, full of culture and nightlife.

Geographically, it is lapped by the Atlantic ocean on the north-west, the North Sea on the east and on the south it borders England. Its territory can be divided into three macro-areas: the Highlands, a mountainous region with ragged coasts because of fjords, and covered by moors. The Central Lowlands, on the other hand, is a rift valley which includes the rivers Tay, Forth and Clyde. Finally, there are the Southern Uplands, another mountain region with lower peaks compared to the Highlands. The weather is subject to the influence of the oceanic streams, that form some low pressure points, where the precipitations are abundant all year long. The summer is also cool and windy.

Also art and local handicraft are interesting aspects to be discovered on a tailormade tour: in Scotland many local objects are still produced with traditional methods, from jewelry to clothes. Each village has its own local tradition, something that will amaze you during your trip.