Where to start? What to do? Here are just a few ideas for short breaks in Scotland.
In the north of Scotland, Aberdeenshire is not only blessed with rolling hills, a dramatic coastline, rural villages with castles and distilleries, tranquil lochs, and beautiful glens, but with the largest national park in Britain – the Cairngorms National Park, renowned for its spectacular landscapes. An ideal choice of hotel might be The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa just outside Aberdeen. As well as golf breaks this luxury hotel will organise a range leisure pursuits include golf, fishing, archery, horseback riding, and clay pigeon shooting – all perfect activities to enjoy during short breaks in Scotland .
Short break surfing holidays are popular on Scotland's North West coast. There are many beaches to choose to surf from which will suit beginners, expert surfers and kite-surfers alike. High flyers can enjoy gliding lessons or appreciate the spectacular Scottish scenery from the dizzy heights of a hot air balloon across the Grampians.
At the other end of Scotland on the south east coast you'll find a mountain bikers paradise and Galloway's Dark Sky Forest project is a must for astronomers of all ages. Large woodlands are features of southern Scotland which, as far as mountain bikers are concerned, is the perfect biking destinations. Wildlife boat tours and glass bottom boat excursions make a great day out and you can enjoy a boat trip to see the Ailsa Craig bird and seal colony. For slightly more genteel activity, wander through some of the finest gardens near Knockinaam Lodge. Trump Turnberry, Loch Green Hotel and Knockinaam make perfect bases for short breaks in South East Scotland.
In Scotland's central belt which runs from Glasgow in the west to Edinburgh in the east there is much to choose from for short city breaks. Glasgow boasts the new Science Museum, the Hydro Concert venue, the wonderful Glasgow Art Gallery & Museum set in leafy Kelvingrove Park, stylish shopping in the city centre and large shopping malls on the outskirts close to Glasgow International airport. Nestled in Glasgow's west end is One Devonshire Gardens, a superb 5 star hotel which would be the perfect base for any short break in Glasgow.
Over in the east coast you'll find Scotland' capital city, dominated by Edinburgh Castle and surrounded by fascinating architecture of Edinburgh's New Town and the Old Town, both quite different in design and atmosphere – and perfect for walking. For more energetic walks, Arthur's Sea, the dramatic volcanic structure in the centre of the city, offers a range of challenging walks up to the peak where you will be rewarded with stunning views out across the city. Short Breaks in Edinburgh are very popular and the wide range of museums, galleries, coffee bars and smart restaurant plus streets of stylish shopping keep tourists coming back again and again.
Whatever you want from a short vacation you can be sure of finding the perfect short break and the right kind of accommodation in Scotland.
Martin Wynn
