If you have ever planned a trip to Scotland, you probably were recommended a trip to the highlands! While, the descriptions, that deem the highlands comparable to paradise are completely valid, and it is something which you can’t miss, have you sometimes contemplated traversing a path relatively less advertised, which one might dare call, “less touristy” but equally mesmerising? The lesser-known but equally mesmerizing path in Scotland you can traverse through is the coastline! There are over 900 islands in Scotland, out of which only 118 are inhabited! Here are some of them that you can consider visiting!
Shetland is an archipelago, which is considered the Northernmost part of the United Kingdom. Though relatively remote, and requiring a bit of travel, this island is extremely fascinating. It is an island, steeped in fascinating histories, dating back to the prehistoric ages and gives a rustic, old-world vibe. However, it is one of the most mesmerizing, serene and beautiful landscapes you can ever experience! If you are in the mood for a break from city life, then Shetland should be on your list of places to visit! To enliven your experience, watch Shetland, featuring Douglas Henshall before you go, as that will make your experience of the island more interesting!
This tiny but beautiful coastal island is an hour away from Glasgow. It has a mesmerizing riverside, where you can sit and enjoy ice cream from nearby stalls. If you are someone who loves leisure, then this is the place to go. Surrounded by seagulls, and a quiet but cute town road, full of shops and quaint houses and easy to access, this is a lovely island to walk around. It even has a few historic buildings, which you can explore!
If you are going to Edinburgh, and have an extra day to spare, do consider taking a bus and making a trip to the East Neuk villages. The East Neuk Villages encompass a series of islands, one of which is St. Monan’s Island. This is an island with a spectacular view, and albeit compact, contains many beautiful cute quaint cafes, for you to sit and grab a bite when you get hungry from looking at the sea! It is mesmerizing! There is also a garden, which requires Wellington boots to wade through, as well as the St. Monan’s Church, a windmill and a castle! Sounds like a lovely day, isn’t it?
Further down the East Neuk coastline, is another magnificent island, which will simply blow your mind! First, walk around the island, full of beautiful and quaint houses. You can go explore the local museum which tells the history of Crail. Afterwards, grab a lovely snack from the local bakery (the millionaire shortbread cake is highly recommended) and enjoy it by the sea. This is probably one of the most beautiful sites, and once you sit there, it is impossible to get up. You will find yourself completely enraptured with the beauty, which can make you lose track of time! Make sure to take your music, and books there, so that you can spend some leisurely time! If you are lucky- you can catch sight of seals at the sea! Finally, before you leave, do wander through the market, and get some cute souvenirs from there, as a memoir of your trip!
So when are you planning to visit?
