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5 things you can only do in Scotland

Photo credit: Land on the beach in Barra - Getty Images
Photo credit: Land on the beach in Barra - Getty Images

It's known around the world for its whisky, tartan and bagpipes, and Scotland is an absolute treat for a staycation, where you can explore its dramatic scenery, amazing wildlife and picturesque villages.

BROWSE HOLIDAYS TO SCOTLAND

Luckily for you, we're here to show you just how wonderful this UK beauty spot is by bringing you the superb things you can only experience in Scotland.

With staycations becoming a huge part of how we travel due to the pandemic and more eco-conscious living, we couldn't help but highlight this breathtaking corner of Britain. In fact, we're so in love with Scotland that we've created an array of exclusive breaks, just for Country Living readers.

In 2022, you can experience the magic of the Highlands with a ride on the Royal Scotsman, discover the art of upcycling at a stunning Scottish stately home, sail around the most scenic islands on a luxury yacht and more!

Feast your eyes on the incredible things you can only do in Scotland and be inspired to choose Scotland for your 2022 staycation.

1. Ride the Glenfinnan Viaduct like Harry Potter

Florida and Hertfordshire have the fancy studio tours and rides but Scotland has the real-life Hogwarts Express in the form of the Jacobite steam train, one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

Photo credit: -Marjolein- - Getty Images
Photo credit: -Marjolein- - Getty Images

The train, which you can experience during a four-day tour in summer 2022 runs from Fort William to Mallaig, crossing the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct and running through rugged mountains and past stunning lochs.

2. Land on the beach at Barra

The world's only scheduled beach landing is located right here on this Outer Hebrides island, where you'll get to tick an incredible flight landing off your bucket list. You'll land between tides on the beautifully white, sandy beach Traigh Mhor, a runway like no other.

Photo credit: steve_is_on_holiday - Getty Images
Photo credit: steve_is_on_holiday - Getty Images

When a take-off or landing isn't expected, you can stroll this unique airport runway to admire Barra's Caribbean-esque sands - but be sure to check that the airport sock isn't flying as this is when public access isn't permitted.

3. Meet Highland cows

These icons of Scotland are cute, photogenic and very hairy. Highland cows, or coos, are often seen lazing and grazing all over the country. You'll spot them in picturesque locations like the Cairngorms National Park, Stirling Castle or during a rail trip through the Highlands.

Photo credit: Sander Meertins - Getty Images
Photo credit: Sander Meertins - Getty Images

While Highlands cows are exported to the likes of America and Australia, there are around 15,000 of the animals in the UK - and even the Queen ordered the Highland cattle to be kept at Balmoral Castle. Look out for Highland cows on one of our exclusive holidays departing throughout 2022.

4. Spot marine life on the UK's first whale trail

Scotland's Hebridean Whale Trail, the first initiative of its kind in the UK, is a must for wildlife fans, with its 30 unique sites across the west coast where you can look out across the sea and watch for whales and dolphins.

Photo credit: Wild & Free - Getty Images
Photo credit: Wild & Free - Getty Images

The wildlife spotting trail includes lighthouses in the Isle of Lewis, Isle of Scalpay and the mainland, as well as beaches in the Highlands, the Isle of Harris and Ullapool.

5. Take off from the water with the UK's only seaplane airline

Now this is one way to see Scotland! Seaplanes might be common in the Maldives but you don't have to venture to the Indian Ocean to experience one for yourself, as there's a seaplane airline operating in Loch Lomond.

Photo credit: jvoisey - Getty Images
Photo credit: jvoisey - Getty Images

Loch Lomond Seaplanes will pick you up from the shores of the loch for a tour of the breathtaking national park as you take in the famous mountains, glens and lochs.


Want to explore Scotland's beauty in summer 2022? Check out Country Living's incredible trips to Scotland.

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