Move Over Mundane with These 8 Unique Experiences in Scotland

Bags full of history spread across the walls of ancient castles, the charm of bizarre structures, endless natural beauty of the vast green lands, islands and rivers, the innumerable pages of Scottish literature, a glass of fine whisky and an exquisite taste of the cosy tweed and tartan ⁠— some of the most amazing things to indulge in on your Scotland vacation.

Experienced it all, you say? It’s time to dive beyond into the unusual!

Here are the 8 most unique experiences you should look out for on your next Scottish rendezvous.

1. Walk to the Island of St. Ninian’s

Yes, you read that right! You can literally walk to the St. Ninian’s Isle, a tied island that is connected to the Shetland Mainland in Scotland through the largest tombolo in the UK. This natural sand causeway rises above sea-level during summers, making it accessible to the curious travellers. The exotic views, pristine blue waters and plenty of seabirds, puffins and other birds make this place a perfect choice for a day trip.

2. Sample Scotland’s Finest Drinks on a Distillery Day Tour in Edinburgh

While enjoying a glass of fine liquor in a restaurant makes for an amusing time, experiencing the art of brewing these classics from a proximity ranks definitely a notch higher. Sign up for a day tour of a local distillery in Edinburgh to learn about the different processes and techniques used in the production of Scottish malt whisky, craft gin and craft beer. The length and content of the tours differ from distillery to distillery. The suggested choice would be the one that combines all of it into a single day tour. The usual options on such a tour include the likes of Glenturret Distillery in Stirlingshire to sample the famous Grouse brand, Trossachs Distillery for McQueen Gin, Edinburgh Gin Distillery for more Gin (of course!), and Allanwater Brewery in Bridge of Allan for the finest of beer. Oh, don’t worry about your ride back to the hotel. That’s covered as well!

3. Wander Through the Creative Playground of Jupiter Artland

Move over the quintessential art galleries and head to this one-of-a-kind contemporary sculpture park and art space, that displays some of the most alluring masterpieces. What attracts the art lovers to this space, you may ask? It’s the out-of-the-box twist to the creations! With elaborate yet minimalistic set ups, the artists have produced extraordinary combinations of illusion and reality through their work. Head to this creative space and absorb the artistic beauty. Oh! You may also attend classes, workshops and events, if you like.

4. Experience Some Movie Magic on a Train Ride Through  Glenfinnan Viaduct​

Remember the Hogwarts Express running on a picturesque bridge overlooking the hills, in the iconic ‘Harry Potter’ movies? Yes, the one where the dementors stop the train in the Prisoner of Azkaban (there’s nothing called as ‘too much trivia’)!

The scenes of the movie and other films and television series like Ring of Bright Water, Monarch of the Glen and Charlotte Gray were shot at this iconic bridge in Scotland called Glenfinnan Viaduct, located on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire. You can also sign up for a ride on a Jacobite steam train that goes about 84 miles on a round trip. The most impressive part of the ride? You get to see stunning views of Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel from the bridge, and that of Fort William, the shores of Loch Eil, Loch Morar (the deepest freshwater loch) and also Mallaig (from where you can continue the ferry journey to the Isle of Skye) while on the way.

5. Land on a Beach @ Barra

Imagine flying high up in the sky and enjoying the picturesque views, cut to, your flight lands up on a beach! No, this isn’t a scene out from a movie. All of this can actually happen! Take a flight to Barra, an island in the Outer Hebrides, and get to land on the Traigh Mhor Beach instead of a conventional airport. Be ready to get wooed by the amazing views of the sea and the greenery around. No wonder the place has been regarded as the world’s most scenic landing location.

6.  Experience the Magic of Live Storytelling @ Scottish Storytelling Centre

While there’s so much of history to explore in Scotland through its castles and museums, getting to know the country through its stories is a whole lot better. Be a part of a live storytelling session at the world’s first and one-of-its-kind contemporary space at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh. It’s here where you can acquaint yourself to the deeply woven cultural fabric of the country. Wait, there’s more! You can also enjoy the likes of theatre and musical performances, exhibitions, workshops, events and festivals.

7.   Learn about Scottish History with a Tinge of Gallows Humour @ Edinburgh Dungeon

Got a knack for horror and history? Head to the Edinburgh Dungeon, an underground tourist attraction in the heart of Scotland’s capital city. This interesting entertainment venue takes you through Edinburgh’s 500 years of history through live shows, having actors perform the infamous characters like that of The Green Lady Elizabeth Elphinstone, Agnes Finnie and Sawney Bean in a theatrical setting. There are also interactive horror rides with special effects that are both scary and exciting. Indeed, a fun way to get through your history lessons!

8.  Soar above the Scottish Hills on a Hot-Air Balloon & a Microlight Aircraft

The perfect way to marvel at the mesmerizing view of the Scottish hills is not just through a hike or a watchtower. Make things a whole lot easier and save up on your travelling time by going for a hot-air balloon ride instead. The bird’s eye-view from up in the air is marvellous! You can also get the tour customised and plan a romantic date for your beloved. Fancy taking in the surreal views of tiny Scottish villages, hills, famous lochs and highlands with a dose of adrenaline rush? Go for a microlight aircraft adventure and experience the thrill of flying in an open-cockpit.

The experiences are many and the fun is limitless in Scotland! So, what are you waiting for?

Book Your Holiday in Scotland Now!