Scotland

Despite its compact size, Scotland crams in a wealth of historical, cultural and natural treasures. With its rugged peaks, picturesque lochs, magical castles, wondrous wildlife, succulent seafood, celebrated whiskies and world-renowned golf courses, a luxury vacation to Scotland promises an abundance of the finer things in life.

Edinburgh is affectionately known as the Athens of the North thanks to its cultured past. The city blends into its hilly landscape with the fairytale Edinburgh Castle dominating the skyline. In the city, designer boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants mingle alongside fine art galleries and the medieval buildings of the Royal Mile. Visit during August, when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place.

The craggy peaks of the Scottish Highlands are a magnet for nature lovers. Golden eagles soar above jagged peaks, while steam trains chug past glittering lochs and dense woodland. Here, you can stay in a country manor and spend your days fishing and dining off the land. If you’re feeling active, head into the wilderness to hike or mountain bike through the desolate yet beautiful landscape.

While it might not always have the ideal climate, Scotland has an abundance of stunning beaches, particularly on the wild west coast and on its remote islands. Skye, the Orkney Islands and Small Isles boast a combination of sweeping white-sand beaches, spectacular wildlife and Stone Age ruins.

Of course, no visit to Scotland is complete without sampling its exquisite whiskies and playing a round of golf on some of the best courses in the world.