Table of Contents
3. Visit a whisky distillery
Think Scotland, think whisky – and with over 100 active distilleries spread across five whisky-producing regions (Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside) you won’t lack for opportunities to learn more about the country’s national drink and biggest export, which is created from pure stream water and golden barley, before maturing in oak casks for at least three years. Various whisky festivals are held throughout the country each year, offering plenty of opportunities to find your dram of choice and to learn about the nuances of flavor that come through in each variety, with the region of production, its water and its peat having a huge impact on the final taste.
4. The Angus Coast
Forget the pink sand beaches of the Caribbean – they have those in Scotland too, you know! The Angus coastline, on the country’s east side, is tinged by pink sandstone – head to secluded Lunan Bay to enjoy these in a sheltered haven backed by sand dunes. This beach has the additional draw of being overlooked by the remains of a 12th century fortress called Red Castle, which was originally built for King William ( the Lion) of Scotland as a defence against Viking invaders. There’s a cave and an arch at the northern end of the beach; keep your eyes peeled as you make your way towards it – this bay has a reputation for being a good spot to find agates and gemstones among the beach-pebbles, especially after a storm.
