Beyond the tartan and bagpipes, the Scottish landscape is a tapestry of heather and highlands in shades of green, of misted lochs and long white beaches that curl about the bottom of crags and cliffs, bounding the blue of the sea. In any season, but particularly in the long light of the summer months, the land is a breathtaking movement of raw beauty and sky.
What to See
Scotland is known for its moors and highlands, but it also boasts some of the world's most intriguing multicultural cities, including Glasgow and Edinburgh, the latter of which is home to numerous festivals in the summer months. Take the time to stroll through the Edinburgh Festival, an enormous arts fest featuring over five hundred "Fringe" performers (dancers, musicians, poets, street and performance artists) who will be wheeling their way through the colorful crowds.
Looking for a place to hold hands in the dark? Catch a thought-provoking movie at the Edinburgh Independent Film Festival! If you're more of a small town couple, be sure to check out the Galloway region, home to the country's liveliest hamlets and villages, complete with cliff-top walks, beaches, and exotic gardens.
As you tour through the countryside, take the time to bird- and animal-watch a bit along the way, catching glimpses of barred hawks, golden eagles, and red deer with crimson-tinged coats. There are also numerous possibilities for marine wildlife watching, with minke whale, dolphins, and porpoises being common to the Scottish seas. If you're lucky, you might even see majestic black and white orca whales cleaving their way through the shining waters at sundown.
This gorgeously rugged nation is also renowned for its many ruined churches, castles, and abbeys which dot the emptiness of the hillsides. In addition, you'll find the occasional farmhouse or the not-so-occasional whiskey distillery. There are a number of truly ancient Neolithic stone monuments in and about the Scottish hills and vales, as well, some of which have never been mapped or surveyed, and are only known to the spirited local population.
Additionally, Scotland is reknowned for its world-class links golf courses! From the historical "big name" courses that regularly host the British Open, such as St. Andrews Old Course, Carnoustie, and Royal Trune, to lesser known (but still quite beautiful) inland public courses, golfers of any ability can find a wonderful spot to catch a round. Nearly all courses are open to guests, whether private or public (at least on the weekdays), and offer club rentals. The availability of motorized carts is limited, however, so be prepared for a good walk!
Scottish Cuisine
While the Scots are perhaps best known for haggis (sheep's stomach stuffed with blood, meat, and barley), there are a number of less adventurous and extremely tasty options available for travelers. Tattie (or potato) scones are mashed potatoes, formed into pancakes and double-fried, and are quite delicious. Likewise, square-slice sausage is a local delicacy. In its most basic form, this dish is an extremely rich slice of sausage, which goes perfectly with eggs and coffee for a robust morning breakfast.
You might also try mutton pies, a thick, buttery pastry with savory mutton filling, or, for those with a sweet tooth, a deep-fried mars bar. The latter might sound excessive, but rest assured that your mouth will thank you for your culinary courage.
When to Visit
For entry to Scotland, youÂll need only your passport - no visa required! April through September see the height of the Scottish touring season. May, June, and September are considered the best months to visit, as they see the balmiest weather and manageable numbers of tourists. If you don't mind competing for lodging and dining, the months of July and August can also be spectacular, if a bit wet. They are also the months in which you're most likely to stumble upon a local celebration of traditional foods or a music festival.
Regardless of the time of year, your honeymoon in Scotland will be unforgettably romantic. With its heathered moors, sea-cliffs, ruined castles, whiskeys, and colorful local population, a Scottish honeymoon destination might be the perfect choice for the spot in which to spend your first few weeks of married life.
