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Trip Report
A Scottish Adventure
A brief stint to Edinburgh and an escape to Skye
+ 5
EuropeUnited Kingdom8 days / January 2021
Highs & Lows
The view crossing from the mainland to Skye
We had the worst weather the island had seen in years
Itinerary Overview
Scotland has some of the most magical, dramatic and atmospheric scenery in the UK and should be on every traveller's bucket list. A single trip is not enough to explore a country that is home to such wonderful food, people and history. Scotland's landscape has inspired many a traveler over the years and other great movers and shakers: J. K. Rowling set Hogwarts in the Scottish highlands, Diana Gabaldon drew inspiration from Inverness and the Jacobites for her best-selling "Outlander," and a One of the best “Trainspotting” movies of the last century, starring Ewan McGregor, was based on the drug culture in Glasgow. Scotland is a place that will enchant you, surprise you and definitely inspire you. From the culture to the architecture, they will leave you speechless and every place you look at will leave you dazzled. The weather may be cold but it does not prevent you from making all the plans you want
Edinburgh Getting a breath of fresh air
1+A trip to Scotland is not complete without visiting or passing through the beautiful enchanting Gothic city of Edinburgh. Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful, mysterious and historical cities in all of Europe and the view of its castle in the centre and top of the city is a must see. Stay at St Christopher’s Hostel which is located in close to the Royal Mile (Edinburgh’s most famous street from the castle down into the centre of town). Any trip to Edinburgh has to include the following: walking along the royal mile admiring the gorgeous shops and taverns (a stop for a glass of whiskey is essential or even trying the famous and controversial deep fried mars bar), viewing the city from the castle, hiking up Arthur’s seat and visiting Holyrood Palace and finally the walking tour of Edinburgh’s history (especially at night) gives you real insight into such a wonderful city.
Skye Living out the Outlander fantasy
1+Skye is Scotland’s most famous Hebridean island and internationally known across the world for its beautiful and dramatic landscapes having been featured in films such as “Braveheart” and “Elizabeth” and in Harry Styles’ music video for “Sign of the times”. Easily accessible from the mainland of Scotland from Glasgow via train (one of the routes is the same one that takes Harry Potter to Hogwarts) or by car thanks to the new bridge. The Cowshed Hostel is recommended for travellers because of its location and affordability and is a great starting of point for your trip around Skye. For beautiful views definitely see the fairy pools, the Old Man of Storr and Castle Dunvegan. For good food and drinks have a bite to eat at The Three Chimneys and tour the Talisker distillery (Skye’s famous whiskey). But most importantly be prepared for all weathers - Skye is in Scotland after all!
Q & A
What would you have changed?
I would have tried to go to Edinburgh Fringe Festival! If you are planning to go to Edinburgh during the Fringe definitely book well in advance the whole city becomes so busy and accommodation is often very rare to find and super expensive but 100% try and go if you can.Anything go wrong during the trip?
For Skye the weather - we had the worst rain everyday although one of the local farmers told us it was the worst weather in fifteen yearsRestaurant recommendations?
The Three Chimneys had friendly and classic pub food and after long days outside it was the perfect warm way to end your day. But if you are after fine dining Skye might not be the place for you.Tips you would give a friend?
Try all the different food on offer whether it is a deep fried mars bar or divine haggis so I had no complaints. Definitely seek out the weird, wonderful and different here in Edinburgh!Packing tips?
Again be prepared for all weathers I saw heavy wind and rain on the same day as gorgeous sunshine. A rain jacket and change of clothes is a must.Transportation Tips?
Make the most of the landscape before Skye by getting the picturesque train from Glasgow and go over the Harry Potter bridge. Public transport on Skye is quite limited so it is worth researching before hand taxi companies or car rental companies or alternatively- bring a bike! I would definitely not bother with using public transport or taxis in Edinburgh itself except when absolutely necessary because the city itself is very small and you can walk just about everywhere.Any surprises?
Wildlife! There was so much more than I thought: otter, seals, dolphins and stags I wish I had brought a better camera and a pair of binoculars.Booking details?
Booking.com and Hostel world but as always sometimes it is better to book directly with the host.
Lodging
St Christopher’s Hostel. Clean, friendly and a great location.
The Cowshed. Friendly, good location and offered lots of helpful tips