Scotland: Discover the European paradise for nature lovers!

Scotland: Discover the European paradise for nature lovers!

Scotland is increasingly seen as an attractive travel destination for nature lovers looking for impressive landscapes and untouched nature. This attractive alternative to New Zealand impresses with its accessibility and cheaper travel costs. In contrast to New Zealand, known for its high prices and long flight times, Scotland can be easily reached from Germany in around two hours by direct flight to Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Dramatic landscapes await travelers in the Scottish Highlands. Similarities between the Highlands and the spectacular lands of New Zealand cannot be overlooked. Glen Coe with its steep mountain slopes offers a breathtaking backdrop, while the Isle of Skye with the Quiraing and its spectacular rock formations makes hikers' hearts beat faster. Other impressive lakes such as Loch Ness, Loch Lomond and Loch Awe are popular destinations for nature lovers. Glenfinnan, known for its viaduct from the Harry Potter films, also attracts numerous visitors.

Diverse experiences in Scotland

However, Scotland not only offers magnificent nature, but also a rich culture. Cities like Edinburgh, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Glasgow, with its lively art and music scene, are cultural highlights. Edinburgh impresses with its medieval old town and the famous Edinburgh Castle. Inverness, known as the “Capital of the Highlands”, impresses with its charismatic charm on the River Ness.

Scottish pub culture provides a real encounter with Scottish identity. A visit to one of the many pubs offers insights into the hospitality of the locals and the lively music scene. Traveling in Scotland is particularly recommended from May to September, when temperatures are mild and the days become longer. For remote areas, it's best to book a rental car because while public transportation is scenic, it can also be less flexible.

Top sightings for travelers

A variety of sights are waiting to be discovered. The top 10 travelers shouldn't miss include:

• Glen Finnich Schlucht: Ein Geheimtipp im Umland von Loch Lomond, zugänglich über die A809, erfordert festes Schuhwerk.
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park: Gefragtes Wandergebiet mit hervorragender touristischer Infrastruktur.
• Glen Nevis und Ben Nevis: Heimat des höchsten Berges Großbritanniens, ideal für verschiedene Wandermöglichkeiten.
• Glenfinnan Viadukt: Berühmt aus den Harry-Potter-Filmen, ein Muss für Filmfans.
• Eilean Donan Castle: Die meistfotografierte Burg Schottlands, spektakulär an der A87 gelegen.
• Isle of Skye: Atemberaubende Landschaften und Wanderungen, besonders im Sommer beliebt.
• North Coast Route 500: Eine malerische 500 Meilen lange Küstenstraße durch die Highlands.
• Loch Ness: Bekannt für sein Monster, bietet Wandermöglichkeiten auf dem Southern Loch Ness Trail.
• Falkirk Wheel: Ein einzigartiges Schiffshebewerk mit Wasserspielplatz, überwindet 24 Meter Höhenunterschied.
• The Kelpies: Die größten Pferdeskulpturen der Welt im Helix Park, besonders abends beleuchtet.

There are numerous accommodation options available for travelers wishing to explore the Scottish Highlands, including B&Bs, guest houses, apartments and castle hotels. Early reservation is strongly recommended during high season. Although Scotland offers comparable natural experiences with its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, New Zealand remains unsurpassed when it comes to its unique features, such as volcanoes and Maori culture.

To ensure that travelers are as prepared as possible, it is advisable to pack insect repellent against the annoying midges from June to August. Scotland is a travel destination that delights with its diversity of nature, culture and warm hospitality.

For more information, visit the articles from Mercury and Hiking tracks.