Edinburgh & the Lowlands
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is sometimes dubbed the Athens of the North. With its famous castle, cobbled streets and royal pageant, this lively and vibrant city is simply captivating. Away from the capital, Glasgow is a dynamic city to explore, while there are ancient castles, links golf courses to play, rivers to fish and old fishing ports to discover, seemingly at every turn.
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has long been thought of as one of the finest cities in the world. With its famous castle, quirky cobbled streets and royal pageant, this lively and vibrant city is somewhere anyone wanting to get a real taste of Scotland should go, and if you are lucky enough to be there in August, you can enjoy the fun and culture of the world’s largest festival. Along the Fife coast north of Edinburgh are the university town of St. Andrews and the atmospheric fishing ports of Crail and Anstruther, which together make a very enjoyable day trip from the capital.
The Scottish Borders are just as impressive as their capital city, with a rich history and phenomenal scenery, and there is plenty to explore and see from the pastoral beauty of the Tweed Valley to the mystical stone carvings of medieval Rosslyn Chapel. For those who fancy a spot of sport whilst on their holidays, Scotland has unrivalled golf courses, including Troon and St Andrews, and fly-fishing is also high on the agenda in this part of the world.
Across from Edinburgh, Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and this former industrial powerhouse has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years, becoming one of Europe’s cultural capitals, and anyone who has a yen for the designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh or who appreciates a bluff sense of humour should definitely make a point of staying a night or two. For those who like the odd tipple, this is the perfect destination for a whisky tour or two. With an inordinate number of distilleries in this region, it would be rude not to sample the local delicacy.
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Edinburgh, Scotland
The Balmoral is Edinburgh's 'Grande Dame', opened in 1902 it retains a wonderful old-world charm, but has been given a loving splash of luxury and style by Rocco Forte. With its attentive service, it is the go-to hotel in Edinburgh.
Gleneagles Townhouse
Edinburgh, Edinburgh & the Lowlands, United Kingdom
The new city outpost of Scotland’s iconic Gleneagles estate, Gleneagles Townhouse is an urban haven in the heart of historic Edinburgh city.
Intercontinental Edinburgh The George
Edinburgh, Scotland
Located in the heart of Edinburgh The George is a classic luxury hotel, seamlessly blending restored original Georgian features with comfortable, modern furnishings. Perfectly located, Edinburgh's famous sites are moments away.
Kimpton Charlotte Square
Edinburgh & the Lowlands, United Kingdom
The Kimpton Charlotte Square is located in the heart of Edinburgh close to all of the major sites. This cosmopolitan hotel in the heart of New Town combines historic Georgian touches with subtle contemporary touches and nods to Scottish heritage.
Belmond Royal Scotsman
Edinburgh, Scotland
Belmond Royal Scotsman is probably the finest luxury train in the world. Offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Scottish Highlands in style, a journey aboard Belmond Royal Scotsman will take you back to the romantic age of travel.
Blythswood Square Hotel
Glasgow, Scotland
Five-star Blythswood Square is a contemporary Glasgow spa hotel occupying a whole Georgian terrace on a quiet and leafy downtown square. With its buzzing vibe, superb location and pampering spa, Blythswood Square represents excellent value for money.